Jarrod added, "Check the surveillance and find the car's location immediately."

“Got it," Alec said, promptly directing the company's IT department to track down Nicole's car. He quickly relayed the last known location to Jarrod.

At the same time, Alec examined the surveillance footage from the villa. Confirming Nicole had not headed toward the sanatorium, he promptly informed Jarrod.

Arriving at the car's last known location, Jarrod discovered an abandoned factory. The place was eerily quiet, with no signs of life.

The area around was just as empty, devoid of any vehicles.

Jarrod retrieved a flashlight from his car and entered the factory, Lighting his way.

The building was completely dark, and Jarrod thoroughly searched every corner but found no one.

Just as he was about to exit, something caught under his foot near the door. Looking down, he spotted one of Nicole's earrings, a small golden flower, and recognized it instantly.

He picked it up, staring at it intently, sensing it might be a clue left by Nicole.

Holding the earring tightly, Jarrod headed back to his car and instructed Alec, “Initiate a citywide search for Nicole. Don't stop until we find her."

Alec paused momentarily before asking, “What's happened to her?"

“She's been kidnapped," Jarrod responded somberly.

The severity of the situation weighed heavily on Jarrod. Who could have enticed Nicole into such a trap? Baffled by the possible motives, he drove to the office to collaborate with Alec and the team in tracking down any leads.

Nicole had been unconscious for a considerable period. When she regained consciousness, she found herself shrouded in pitch darkness, unable to see.

She attempted to loosen her bindings, but the restraints were too tight, making it impossible to escape without help.

Then, she heard the sound of faint footsteps drawing near.

Nicole immediately stilled, feigning unconsciousness. She felt someone shake her, and the sack she was confined in was opened, allowing her to breathe the outside air.

A coarse voice asked, "Is this her?"

"Yes, sir. Her blood is sweet. Perfect for our needs," a younger woman answered.

"Good. When do we start?" the chief asked.