Chapter 80 - One Slap and a Sinister Plot

"What, you don't dare?"

Gibson's challenge hung in the air, heavy with implication. His eyes remained fixed on the jade ring on my finger, and something about his recognition of it made my skin crawl.

I stepped forward, my decision made. "There's no need for a formal match."

Gibson's eyebrows rose slightly. "No? Think you're too good for the ring?"

"I think this is unnecessary," I replied calmly. "We both have better things to do tonight."

A cruel smile spread across his face. "Scared, are you? I expected more from someone wearing—"

"Mr. Gibson," I interrupted, keeping my voice level. "Let's end this now."

Gibson's face darkened. He took several measured steps toward me, stopping close enough that I could smell the mint on his breath. "You don't get to dictate terms here, boy. This is my domain."

Jaxon shifted nervously behind me. I could feel Aurora's tension radiating like heat.