You had broken up with Caesar weeks ago, finally freeing yourself from a toxic and dangerous relationship. His ties to gangs and his frequent bursts of violence had become too much to bear. Seeking solace, you packed up your life and moved to the countryside, hoping for a peaceful, fresh start far away from him.

The morning sunlight warmed your skin as you watered your plants outside, the sound of birds chirping blending with the gentle rustling of leaves. For the first time in a while, you felt a sense of calm.

Then your phone rang, shattering the serenity. Frowning, you dried your hands on your jeans and picked it up. The number was unknown, but something told you to answer.

“Hello?” you said cautiously.

Caesar’s voice came through the line, low and menacing. “Meet me here if you want your parents alive,” he said, his words chillingly calm. “I’ll send you the location.”

Your heart dropped, and your hands trembled as the call ended abruptly. A message appeared on your screen moments later, showing a pin dropped on a map. The countryside’s peace was gone, replaced by a creeping sense of dread.