Chapter 2
In the darkness, without saying a word, the manager lifted her high–heeled foot and kicked me hard in the stomach.]
The pain made me curl up instantly, my gut churning.
“That’s for spending my man’s money!“]
“That’s for seducing him!“]
1
She was shrieking, her voice twisted with jealousy and rage.[]
She looked down at me and ordered the two thugs: “Beat her. Beat her within an inch of her life!“[]
The security guards were obviously her cronies. Without hesitation, they started raining punches and kicks on me.
I gritted my teeth, swallowing every cry and groan.]]
It felt like my bones were being shattered piece by piece, my organs shifted out of place.
Her screaming continued: “Who do you think you are? You’re nothing but a pathetic side piece!“]]
“I told you I’m his sister! Call Dante if you don’t believe me–let me talk to him!“]]
I tried desperately to explain, but the woman ignored me completely. Finally, when I was dizzy and seeing spots, she raised her hand to stop them.[]
She planted her high heel on my shoulder and smiled down at me:]]
“You better pay for that meal today, plus another $100K.”
“That’s what you get for seducing my man and spending his money.“]]
“I’m not scared of killing someone. Dante can clean up any mess for me.“]]
I was curled up in agony, barely able to whisper: “That’s my own money. I told you–just ask him if you don’t believe me.“[]
Her expression darkened. She kicked me again, and the two guards immediately understood, resuming their assault.[]
I knew that no matter what I said, she wouldn’t listen. If this kept up, I might actually die here.]
After they beat me until I coughed up blood. I used the last of my strength to fumble for my phone on the floor.]
“Stop… I’ll. I’ll pay.”
Satisfied with my surrender, she signaled the guards to stop and crouched down to pat my swollen face.
“See? Wouldn’t it have been easier to just do this from the start? Had to learn the hard way“}
*$200K Not a penny less.“[]
Chapter 2
I lay on the cold floor, gasping for breath, my lungs burning.[]
I ignored her and called my best friend, Celeste.]]
She picked up quickly.[]
“Celeste, bring $200K to my brother’s restaurant.“]]
“I need it now.“[]
Celeste paused, sensing something was wrong.[]
“Poet? What’s going on? Your voice sounds…“[]
“Don’t ask questions. Just hurry.” I cut her off and hung up.
When Zoey heard “$200K,” her eyes lit up with greedy excitement.]
She probably thought I was so scared I was offering extra to make this go away.[]
She looked utterly smug and spat at me.[]
“Smart bitch.“]
