Take her away.

The atmosphere was charged with a mix of fear and uncertainty as Ella tried to gauge the sincerity of Paul's words. She cocked her head, her eyes narrowing as she tried to process why he was saying so. Was this some kind of trick?

His smirk didn't vanish entirely, adding an unsettling edge to his supposed offer of freedom. Ella's breathing was shallow and quick, her mind racing with suspicion and wariness.

"Why are you releasing me all of a sudden?" she asked skeptically, not letting her guard down.

Paul shrugged, his smile never wavering. "Maybe I've developed a conscience. Maybe I just want to see you happy. Who knows?"

Ella's mind raced as she tried to make sense of it all, her frown deepening.

"Hahaha… I am kidding." Paul waved his hand dismissively. "I am getting my money back with interest," he revealed.