Chapter 85

Even from across two tables, I could feel the murderous aura radiating from Ethan. We hadn’t spent much time together, but I knew he was ruthless and wouldn't hesitate to be brutal, even with women.

Sure enough, Ethan wrenched Irene's hand away and grabbed her by the neck. His grip was strong; Irene's brows furrowed, her body lurching as if she might gag. "He's going to kill her," Marlon whispered.

I quickly stood, gesturing toward Ethan. "Don't hurt her," I said. "I'll pay you more. Just get some information." I wasn't sure he understood the gesture, but the money signal was clear. His nature as a top-notch killer with a taste for wealth ensured he immediately released Irene.

If this were anyone else, they'd be shouting insults or fleeing. But after a brief coughing fit, Irene seemed unafraid, even more fascinated by Ethan. "You really are ruthless," she said, leaning close. "Would you really have the heart to kill me?" She blew gently on his ear. The men she'd been with simply obeyed; this wild man intrigued her. The near-death experience had been thrilling.

I twitched, thinking, Is she asking for trouble? Yasir had appeared behind me, muttering, "This woman's insane! She'd rather have a bodyguard than a hot guy like me. She's not even scared she'll be killed!" I knew his jealousy, but instead of calling him out, I said, "Could you take a couple of intimate shots for them?"

"Why?" Yasir froze. He resented Irene's interest in Ethan and didn't understand my request. "No evidence, no leverage," I replied, smiling and raising an eyebrow. "How else can we make her cooperate?"

Yasir thought a moment, then nodded. Without another word, he moved toward Ethan and Irene.

As soon as Yasir left, Marlon laughed. "Looks like Yasir's no match for you," he said. "I was worried you might lose, but I guess I was paranoid." I didn't respond. In the past, I'd always been at a disadvantage, trying to please Hayden. But now, I wouldn't hold back for anyone.

Ethan had been working long enough to understand Yasir's intentions when he saw him approaching with his phone. He didn't push Irene away; instead, he leaned back, inviting her into his arms. Sensing the invitation, Irene grinned, tracing the line of his chest, then gently tapping his chin. Hmph, men are all the same, she thought, They pretend not to care, but their bodies always give them away. "Hey, handsome," she whispered, "how about taking me away tonight?"

Irene blew a soft breath against Ethan's ear. Most men would be under her spell, but Ethan remained still. Undeterred, she smiled and kissed his neck.

Seeing this, Yasir clenched his teeth. Damn woman, he thought, She ignored me but throws herself at that bodyguard. She must be blind. He glared at his phone, recording everything. Ethan didn't push Irene away because he wanted Yasir to get the footage.

Unaware, Irene thought her charm had worked. "Take me away, huh?" she repeated. But Ethan lost patience. With a shove, he pushed her away. "I told you, get lost," he said.

Irene froze, her sultry look replaced by a venomous glare. "What did you say?" Yasir, having saved the video, stepped forward, enjoying the drama. "He said you're done for."

Irene's expression darkened as she saw Yasir. "You?"

"What's the problem?" Yasir asked, waving his phone smugly. "I wonder what your husband would think of this video of you flirting with another man!" He’d heard Markin earlier; it flowed naturally now.

Irene realized her trap. Her face paled; she stood, eyes burning with fury. "Who the hell are you two? What do you want?"

Marlon and I exchanged a glance. We walked toward her. "Ms. Yates, don't be hasty," I said, smiling politely. "We just want a little chat."

She eyed me in surprise, seemingly not recognizing me. "What do you want?" I realized she'd likely left Parker Group before I arrived, making this easier.

"I want to know who ordered you to tamper with Martin's contract," I said coldly, emphasizing each word.

Her rage vanished, replaced by confusion. "What...what are you talking about? I don't understand," she stammered, her eyes shifting nervously. Then, regaining some composure, she raised her voice. "I left Parker Group a long time ago. You should talk to my replacement."

"Your replacement knows nothing. If I don't ask you, I don't know who else to turn to," I replied, smiling.

"That's your problem," Irene said, grabbing her bag to leave.

Yasir stepped forward, blocking her. "She didn't say you could leave."

I watched with amusement. He was enthusiastic. Perhaps the cruise ship business would suit him.

"Tell us about the contract, and we'll let you go," I said, flashing a casual smile. "If not, that video goes to your husband, family, friends, and colleagues…"

Irene's face drained of color, but she remained silent. Ethan then placed a hand on Irene's lower back. His voice was cold: "Speak."

Irene, unused to such pressure, trembled. I was about to intervene when Marlon grabbed my wrist, stopping me.