Chapter 148

Christina took a deep breath, regaining her composure. “Mr. Madden Senior, even as East Side’s crime lord, if you harm me, Harvey will demand justice.” She couldn't imagine Tony completely disregarding the Weller family's influence. However, Tony scoffed. “Harvey? That man owes me millions. Justice? He’d be begging for mercy the moment he sees me!”

The men in the room erupted in mocking laughter. “Harvey? A cowardly joke!” one jeered. Another sneered, “Ms. Stevens, you’re a stunning woman, but sticking with Harvey? You’re wasting your beauty. You’d be far better off with Mr. Madden Senior. He’d ensure the Stevens family reaches new heights.” Another chimed in, “Honestly, Harvey’s only afloat because his father still holds some sway. Otherwise, he’d have been banished from Jayrodale long ago!”

Christina’s anger flared. She couldn't believe the arrogance of these East Side thugs, openly belittling the Weller family. Yet, doubts gnawed at her. Jayrodale Bank’s manager had hinted at Harvey's deep debt, and now Tony echoed the same. A single accusation could be dismissed, but hearing it from multiple sources unsettled her.

“Mr. Madden Senior, since your men are so bold, will you allow me to call Harvey now?” Christina challenged, believing only Harvey could subdue these thugs.

Tony laughed. “Go ahead. I’m not in a hurry.”

His confidence only heightened Christina’s unease, but she refused to believe Harvey was as worthless as they claimed. The Wellers were a prominent Jayrodale family, after all. She dialed his number repeatedly, but received no answer. Frowning, she tried again. Harvey always answered her calls; she wouldn't give up so easily. Again, voicemail.

Tony sneered. “Don’t waste your time. That coward’s probably hiding from me. You’ve got a better chance of winning the lottery than getting him to appear here.”

Christina’s face paled with anxiety. “I’ll give you one last chance—call Andrew to come here, and you’ll be safe,” Tony demanded coldly. “Otherwise, my men will have their way with you.”

The room filled with Tony’s cruel laughter, and for the first time, fear consumed Christina. She bit her lip and shook her head. “Mr. Madden Senior, I won’t.”

Tony slammed his hand on his chair, his grin replaced by cold fury. “Fine. Let’s see what lasts longer—your stubbornness or my whip.” He ordered his men, “Strike her, but avoid her face and legs. We’ll want to have some fun later.”

A thin whip cracked across Christina’s back, leaving a visible blood mark through her dress. Tears welled in her eyes, but she bit her lip, refusing to make a sound.

“Quite tough, aren’t you? Let’s see how long that lasts. Keep going!” Tony shouted.

The whip struck again and again until blood soaked her dress. The pain became unbearable, and Christina finally broke, crying out, “Just kill me if you’ve got the guts!”