Chapter 55: Take this as your first and last warning

The bullet struck the floor, just inches from the man's leg. He jerked, terror flashing in his bloodshot eyes as he scrambled back.

"I'll tell everything!" he screamed, his voice cracking with fear.

Every eye in the room bore into him as he frantically searched for an escape.

Then, with a shaking hand, he pointed—straight at Rita.

"It's her!" he blurted out. "She paid me to do it!"

Gasps rippled through the room.

Rita's heart plummeted, her throat tightening as every gaze turned to her.

"H-He's lying!" she snapped, her voice shrill as she fumbled for control. "You threatened him, Kalix, and now he's saying whatever you want to hear!"

She squared her shoulders, her expression twisting into indignation.

"I won't let you degrade me like this," she hissed, defiance flaring in her eyes.