Chapter 438
Dexter had never regretted his decision to auction off the map more than he did now. If he had known, he would have returned it to its owner, Stephan. That would have saved him all this trouble. Alas, no one can predict the future.
He took a deep breath and tried to stay calm. Then, turning toward his wife and daughter, he whispered, "I'll distract them. You two should run while I have their attention. Go get help. Try to find someone to come for me."
Myra shook her head. Despite her nervousness, she declared firmly, "No, I want to stay here with you. As your wife, I'll stick with you no matter what!"
Kayla gripped her pockets and said immediately, "Mom, Dad, I'm quick. I'll go get help!"
"Okay. Be careful. If things don't go as planned, find a hiding place far away. Don't show yourself unless it's safe!" Myra urged. Myra doted on Kayla. After the Walsh family's bankruptcy, they couldn't provide Kayla with a lavish lifestyle, making her feel even more indebted to them.
Kayla nodded, her lips pursed in an impatient, annoyed expression. She'd rather leave and get as far away as possible—besides, she had the real map. If anyone discovered that, it would be over.
Dexter and Myra didn't notice Kayla's disdain. They recomposed themselves and began negotiating with the men. Kayla, however, gradually slipped away into the night.
The man orchestrating everything was Mason Lloyd, a gangster and leader of the group. Mason had committed countless crimes; he'd do anything for pay. Dexter had never encountered anyone like Mason before; he could only react instinctively.
"I don't have the map—I swear! You have the wrong guy!" he exclaimed, attempting to leave with Myra.
The thugs laughed, casually blocking their path.
Mason stepped forward, pressing his cigarette into Dexter's arm. Dexter cried out in pain as a blister formed.
Myra couldn't bear to watch her husband suffer. In a fit of rage, she pushed Mason, yelling, "This is against the law! Step back—all of you!"
Mason fell, momentarily stunned, before regaining his composure. His fury intensified. One of his lackeys rushed forward, obsequiously asking, "How would you like to punish them, boss? Just say the word."
"Beat them up. Give them hell!" Mason barked, jumping to his feet. His subordinates, though he looked ridiculous, immediately began beating Dexter and Myra.
"What are you doing? Don't touch my wife! Hit me instead!" Dexter shouted, shielding Myra with his body. Despite this, she was injured; kicked heavily, her hair tousled, panting.
Dexter was in worse shape, his face bruised, spitting out blood. At least two ribs were broken; his clothes were torn.
"Let me ask you again. Where is the map?" Mason lit another cigarette, kicking Dexter aside and yanking Myra up by the hair, blowing smoke in her face.