Chapter 82 - Hour 82

I screamed and then I screamed again. The frustration inside me needed to be let out. I was collapsing with both relief and gratefulness.

I had found him. He was safe.

"They are calling the police. What are you doing on the floor, Daria? Untie them!" said Cara, rushing back into the room. "We have to leave before Ryan comes here."

I could not move.

This is the wrong time to relieve your stress, Daria. Get up, get up.

I tried to stand but my knees gave way again.

The flood of suppressed emotions had hit me too hard.

You have to stay strong, Daria. Just for a few more hours.

I bit my tongue hard and clenched my fists.

A few more tries later, I was on my feet and walking towards Zayd. Cara had almost completely untied Liana.

First, I pulled the tape off his mouth. He winced at the sudden pain but smiled at me. We said nothing and I began to untie his hands. Cara helped me by untying his feet.

"Just how many freaking knots have they put?" Cara muttered.

It took us a few minutes but Zayd was finally free of all bindings.

Our eyes met. We still hadn't spoken a word. I did not know what to say.

"H–Hi," I said, finally. "Are you all right?"

"Hi." He chuckled. "I don't know what to say."