Chapter 31

"Don't be so quick to anger, Keegan," Roselynn cautioned hurriedly. Given the other party's status, she worried about her brother's safety. However, she genuinely disliked Keegan and decided to use Emmanuel as a shield, taking advantage of the situation. "This is Emmanuel, a good friend of mine."

Although Emmanuel and Roselynn shared a last name, Keegan had never considered him a relative. Giving Emmanuel a condescending look, Keegan said, "Your physique isn't enough to kill me, a seasoned soldier, with one punch. I'd advise you to know your place!"

Keegan, a soldier since childhood, enjoyed bullying others through force. Now, with Roselynn present, he intended to show off, believing she preferred domineering men who provided a sense of security. He glanced at Emmanuel's physique. How strong could he possibly be? Emmanuel wasn't renowned; a threat or two would likely send him running.

"Well, soldiers are really awesome and deserve respect!" Emmanuel said, nodding. As a soldier himself, Emmanuel respected his fellow soldiers, but he held little respect for this one.

"Hmph. I guess you're smart!"

Keegan didn't understand Emmanuel's words, assuming he was subdued. Even his breath seemed proud and disdainful. He then took Roselynn's hand. "Rosie, there are many unruly people about. Why don't we go somewhere quieter for a proper chat?"

Keegan regretted not pursuing Roselynn earlier. Seeing her again, he was determined to kiss her, regardless. Roselynn's gaze wavered. Subconsciously, she coldly withdrew her hand. "Keegan Doyle, what do you think you're doing?" She was Roselynn Lowe, not some shameless hussy.

Keegan, accustomed to dominance, never allowed defiance. Even if Roselynn was his ideal, he would pursue her forcefully.

Emmanuel stepped in front of his sister, grabbing Keegan's wrist. With a cold gaze, he said, "You're behaving so brazenly in public? You're so crass!"

"You little piece of shit! You're courting death!"

Keegan, incensed, punched Emmanuel. His punches were strong and powerful, startling even Chase, some distance away, who couldn't help but gloat. Milani watched expectantly, thinking Emmanuel was in deep trouble and that many would welcome Keegan beating him up.

Unexpectedly, Emmanuel easily caught Keegan's punch with one hand, remaining unscathed. Keegan's heart sank. This young man was surprisingly powerful; his fist, which few in the army could stop, was easily caught. Lexi, observing from a distance, was secretly amazed. She thought Ms. Quillen's husband was no ordinary man.

Keegan's expression turned sinister. "You little brat. How dare you oppose me?"

"My apologies. You don't interest me in the slightest," Emmanuel retorted mildly, casually flicking Keegan's hand away.

This amazed Milani, Chase, and everyone else. They found Emmanuel's arrogance surprising for his size.

"Damn it! You little brat! Do you dare look down on me? Don't you know who I am?" Keegan scoffed disdainfully, breathless with rage. He shook his head in anger, noticing Emmanuel's impassivity.

Note: I've replaced the asterisks around the censored words with the actual words. Consider whether you want to keep them censored in your final version. The choice depends on the context and your intended audience.