Chapter 574
Chapter 574:
Richard, observing her reddened and swollen cheeks, allowed a cold smile to creep across his face.
“If I send you back like this, Ryan might start asking questions p>
He turned to his men with a curious glance.
“What’s the quickest way to reduce swelling p>
One of his subordinates quickly offered, “Ice works best p>
Richard considered this for a moment before nodding.
“Ah, then bring some ice to help Miss Powell recover p>
Upon hearing this, Maisie’s body trembled anew, her eyes widening in terror.
Moments later, a basin of ice water was brought in, clearly prepared in advance. Several of Richard’s men restrained Maisie and plunged her head into the frigid water.
Maisie fought with all her might, but she was no match for their overpowering strength. Just as she was about to lose consciousness, they pulled her back to the surface.
As Maisie gasped for air, it took her a while to catch her breath, and she coughed weakly.
She slumped on the ground, her once graceful demeanor completely shattered.
Richard looked down at her with a cold, detached gaze and said, “Consider this a warning. If it happens again, you know the price for defying my orders p>
Maisie trembled with fear, her face reflecting pure dread.
It hit her that Richard was not someone to be taken lightly.
With a hint of defiance, she said, “Richard, we’re in this together now. If you still want my help, you need to treat me as an equal and show some respect. You can’t keep treating me like this p>
Richard’s lips curled into a sardonic smile.
“Maisie, are you dreaming? That’s a pipe dream. At best, you’re just a pawn in my game. As long as you’re useful, keep in line. If you step out of bounds again, I won’t hesitate to throw you back into that dark cell to rot p>
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Maisie’s face drained of color, and she shook her head helplessly, her voice caught in her throat.
Richard gave her one last, icy glance and left her with a chilling final word.
“I’m dead serious p>
He turned away with a casual wave, saying, “Take Miss Powell back, and handle her carefully. After all, the baby she is carrying is our ace in the hole against Ryan p>
Maisie shuddered once more as Richard’s men roughly hauled her up.
This time, she kept her mouth shut.
The encounter left her with a stark realization of Richard’s chilling power.
She could toe the line with Richard, but she knew better than to cross it. And Richard’s line? That was Jenessa.
The mere thought of Jenessa made jealousy flare up in Maisie’s chest. Why did Jenessa always have a squad of protectors?
Maisie’s eyes fell, brimming with resentful fire, but she kept her feelings hidden as she slunk away in shame.
In the days that followed, Jenessa continued her routine at the studio as usual.
One day, her assistant, who had bravely shown up despite feeling unwell, handed her an invitation.
“Boss, I’m so sorry, but I forgot to remind you about the charity auction tonight that we committed to attending. I’ve been swamped lately and completely spaced on reminding you p>
Jenessa took the invitation with a nod.
“No worries at all. We have some stunning new evening gowns at the studio, and it’s a great chance to show off our work. I can whip up a quick hair and makeup look p>
She noticed her assistant’s wan complexion and gave her a concerned look.
“Remember, I told you to rest if you’re feeling unwell. Go home early today and see a doctor tomorrow. I’ll approve your leave p>
Her assistant’s eyes widened in gratitude.
“But I should be with you at the auction p>