Chapter 176

Under the bamboo grove, in a small cabin, Elliot and Jackson entered. Sebastian sat inside, sipping tea. Jackson stepped forward. "Mr. Giovanni."

Sebastian set down his teacup, his cold gaze sweeping over Jackson. Landyn Hayes, standing behind Jackson, felt the look like a blast of freezing air and lowered his eyes. The man's presence was suffocating. This was Stephanie's brother? With such a man backing her, Landyn knew the Harts and Chris were finished. They had no idea what they were facing.

Sebastian spoke calmly, his words sharp: "You're asking Stefi to repay you?"

Landyn swallowed, a chill seeping into his bones. Jackson's stomach dropped. "Of course not, Mr. Giovanni. I wouldn't dare."

Jackson cleared his throat. "I was worried the ring might cause a misunderstanding. I only came to retrieve it. Since Miss Giovanni lost it, it's no big deal. As long as you don't misunderstand."

He'd never ask Stephanie for repayment. Judging by Sebastian's attitude, Jackson knew pushing further would be unwise.

Landyn couldn't believe what he was hearing. Sebastian was the King of Arms from Fiorenza's underworld. No wonder Jackson, who never bowed to anyone, was acting so submissive.

Sebastian's voice was low, almost lazy. "So, to be clear, this was a misunderstanding? You have zero interest in my sister?"

Jackson's chest tightened. His scalp prickled. "Yes, absolutely zero interest! I have no interest in Ms. Giovanni whatsoever." Even a hint otherwise would result in a bloodbath. "I swear, Mr. Giovanni. This was all a misunderstanding."

Jackson regretted his actions. He should have helped Stephanie when the Harts and Chris attacked her. Perhaps then, Sebastian would owe him a favor. Back then, Stephanie seemed insignificant, easily manipulated. Who knew?

Sebastian lit a cigarette, took a drag, and tossed the pack to Jackson. Jackson caught it. He pulled out a cigarette, lit it, attempting to ease the tension. Before he could speak, Sebastian's icy glare silenced him.

Jackson coughed awkwardly and changed the subject. "Lilian's locked up at home. She won't bother Miss Giovanni again."

There were protective brothers, and then there was this. Jackson couldn't believe anyone could be this obsessed with their sister. He didn't believe it was simply sibling love. Regardless, it wasn't his concern. As long as Sebastian was happy, Jackson would cooperate.

Sebastian gave him another icy stare. "You're sure everything's handled?"

"Absolutely. And if you're still worried, I can have Lilian jailed right now."

Landyn's eye twitched. Even Elliot looked at Jackson with disdain.

Sebastian took another drag, then glanced at Elliot. Elliot stepped forward. "That's all for today, Mr. Hodge. We'll be in touch if needed."

Jackson started to speak, but Elliot smoothly interrupted. "Mr. Giovanni has heard enough."

As Jackson left, he kept glancing at Sebastian, hoping to glean something from his expression. Sebastian remained inscrutable—too calm, too deep.

On the way out, Jackson asked Elliot, "Mr. Grant, does Mr. Giovanni still suspect something's going on?"