Even in Darkness She Chose to Rise (Tatiana and Jasper) novel Chapter 123

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123 The Reckoning

“What are you planning to do?” the question hung in the air, tense and charged.

“I want my money back,” she replied firmly.

“And then?” he pressed further.

Her brows knitted together, a flicker of uncertainty crossing her eyes. “And then? What else could there be?”

Jasper remained silent, waiting expectantly.

“Send them to the police,” she said after a pause. “Extortion is a crime.”

Jasper studied her closely, his gaze fixed on her clear, earnest eyes. She truly meant what she said, completely unaware of the darkness lurking in these circles. The cruelty here was boundless, yet her only thought was to involve the authorities.

How could someone be so naive?

“Is that really all you want?” he asked, his voice low.

Tatiana’s confusion deepened. “What else is there to do?” she replied honestly.

Since they were young, Tatiana had followed Jasper everywhere, her world revolving entirely around him. She had little exposure to the outside world, and while others her age grew reckless, she remained pure, loyal, and devoted.

Jasper finally looked away. “Fine. Give her the money back.”

The men, relieved, thought the matter was settled. They quickly handed over the three thousand dollars plus.

Tatiana’s concern for her grandmother surged, and she hurried off without hesitation.

“Wait. Are you really going like that?” a voice called after her.

She glanced down and realized her outfit was indeed inappropriate for the situation. “I’ll change,” she said softly.

But time was precious.

Before she could move, a warm jacket was draped over her shoulders, still carrying the heat of its previous wearer. “Go check on her first,” came the quiet instruction.

Tatiana bit her lip, didn’t protest, slipped into the jacket, and rushed out to find her grandmother.

—

Jasper didn’t follow. The old woman disliked him, and he didn’t want to cause her any more distress. Besides, he had other matters demanding his attention.

As Tatiana left, the atmosphere shifted. Jasper’s eyes darkened, and his gaze settled on the remaining men. The room seemed to contract, the air thickening with menace. The men suddenly realized they hadn’t escaped punishment after all.

He rose, calmly unbuttoned his cuffs, and picked up a baseball bat resting nearby. Soon, one large vase after another was brought in and lined up across the room.