Chapter 11 - THE HOUSE WHERE THE BOYS WERE HELD
The police traced Daniel's movements through vehicle records and witness information.
A rural property outside the city became the focus of the search.
Investigators moved quickly.
Elena waited at the estate.
Cole remained beside her.
Neither spoke much.
At 2:36 a.m., Marcus received a call.
His expression changed.
Then he looked at Cole.
“They found them.”
Elena stood.
“Are they alive?”
Marcus nodded.
“Yes.”
Her knees nearly gave way.
Cole caught her.
“They're safe?”
“Both boys are conscious. Paramedics are checking them.”
Elena began crying.
Cole held her.
For a moment, he couldn't speak.
When the children arrived at the hospital, Elena ran toward Eli.
“Baby!”
He threw himself into her arms.
“Mommy!”
She hugged him so tightly he squeaked.
“Too tight!”
She laughed through tears.
“Sorry.”
Noah stood nearby.
Cole knelt in front of him.
“Son.”
Noah began crying.
“Daddy, I was scared.”
Cole pulled him close.
“I know.”
Noah whispered:
“Mr. Cross said you wouldn't come.”
Cole's eyes filled.
He held his son tighter.
“I will always come for you.”
Eli looked at them.
Then stepped closer.
“Can we all hug?”
Elena laughed through tears.
Cole opened his arm.
The four of them held one another in the hospital corridor.
May you like
And for the first time, Cole Mercer felt something stronger than revenge.
Relief.
