Chapter 117

Debra was taken aback. Andrew’s question struck her at precisely the right moment. If Juan simply took her away, the Potter family's reputation would be tarnished. Andrew would naturally intervene; otherwise, it would be said that the Potters feared Juan. By defending her, Andrew preserved her dignity and demonstrated the Potter family's lack of fear.

However, refusing to go with Juan would create enemies of the Nichols and Potter families. Juan would lose face, and as his wife, Debra would forfeit future support from the Nichols. If Melody learned of this, she would not support Debra, who would have disgraced the Nichols. The Potter family would gain a new enemy, distancing themselves from Debra, who had misjudged the situation.

Although Andrew’s words sounded like a question, there was only one answer. She had to go with Juan. This way, both families could maintain peace, and she would secure their future protection. A chill ran down Debra's spine. Andrew's thinking was both meticulous and terrifying.

After a moment of silence, Debra said, “Thank you, Mr. Andrew Potter. It’s late, and I’ll leave with Juan now. The trouble today was my fault, and I will apologize properly another day.” Andrew lowered her eyes, then after a moment raised his hand. The bodyguards stepped aside. Juan tightened his grip on Debra’s arm and turned to leave. Debra noticed Juan’s men waiting outside. Had she stayed, they might have stormed the hall without hesitation. She dared not consider the consequences. These two figures who dominated Seamar City were truly unfathomable.

“Brother! You just let him go like that?”

“I gave her a choice,” Andrew said, his smile fading.

Jordan frowned. “I know. But if she chose not to leave…”

“If she chose not to leave, we would protect her, even at the cost of offending Juan,” Andrew replied.

Jordan was stunned. Those words didn't sound like his brother, who always prioritized self-interest.

Debra was pulled roughly into the car by Juan. She felt as if her hand bones might shatter. She frowned disapprovingly. “Juan! Are you out of your mind? Even if Shelia fainted, you didn’t have to lose your temper like this.”

Juan slammed on the brakes, causing Debra to hit the sun visor. As far as she remembered, Juan had never lost his composure like this before. Sheila’s fainting had seemingly driven him mad, or perhaps it was Andrew’s words that had angered him.

“I never knew you were so capable,” Juan said, suddenly grabbing her neck. His eyes were red with anger. Debra gritted her teeth, not crying out in pain, but Juan seemed out of control, gripping her tightly.

“Juan!”

Debra’s breathing grew difficult, and her hands weakly fell to her sides.