Chapter 21

Andrew was nowhere to be seen. Christina looked around anxiously.

"Since you're not involved, get lost, you coward," Baldy snarled, kicking Shawn aside. He turned his attention to Christina. "Ms. Stevens, Mr. Garner has his eye on that property. You're coming with us to sign it over."

Shawn crawled away, mumbling, "Thank you...for your mercy...thank you, Mr. Garner." Internally, he cursed his terrible luck. Jayrodale's four districts were each controlled by a ruthless crime lord. Dylan ruled the southern area, commanding hundreds of loyal thugs. The Fields family was insignificant in comparison.

"Shawn, they're taking Christie! Do something!" Irene pleaded desperately.

Leroy joined her, begging, "Shawn, I know you can figure this out. You're the Fields family heir. Don't you have connections?"

Shawn's face darkened. "I can't do anything. When Mr. Garner wants something...you'd better hand it over."

Irene turned on him, furious. "Shawn, are you even human? You act so high and mighty, but you're nothing but a spineless coward!"

Shawn, already beaten and now insulted, spat venomously, "Irene, you blind old hag. You deserve this! Your whole family deserves it! I only got close to your family to get Christina in bed. I couldn't care less about you idiots."

"H-h-how dare you…" Irene stammered, fuming.

Leroy shouted, "Shawn, you're despicable!"

Shawn laughed coldly. "Insult me all you want. Let's see how you protect Christina now. Once Mr. Garner gets his hands on her, she's done for." His words sent chills down their spines.

Baldy grew impatient. "Ms. Stevens, let's go. We're not known for being gentle."

Christina tried to hide her fear, maintaining a composed expression. "I'm not going anywhere, and I'm not giving up the property," she stated firmly.

Baldy chuckled, reaching for her chin. "I like feisty women. After Mr. Garner's done with you, my boys and I will take our turn." His crude words made everyone's skin crawl.

"You're disgusting!" Christina snapped, slapping him hard across the face.

The sudden action stunned the group into silence.

Shawn trembled, muttering, "It's over. She hit one of Mr. Garner's men. Not even God can save her now."

Irene desperately approached Baldy, pleading, "Please, I'll give you money. Don't hurt Christie...take me instead!"

"Shut up, you old hag. I'd rather die than touch you," Baldy snarled, slapping Irene so hard she flew backward. His eyes burned with rage as he focused on Christina.

"You little bitch, you'll regret not playing nice," he growled menacingly.

Christina stepped back, her face pale, bluffing, "I've already called the cops."

Baldy's cruel smile widened. "By the time they show up, we'll have had our fun with you a hundred times over, you stuck-up tease." He raised his hand to strike her beautiful face.

Many onlookers turned away, unable to watch. It seemed the beautiful CEO was about to face a terrible fate at the hands of these thugs.