Chapter 1540:
“Human trafficking is rampant,” Nate cut in coldly. “And the Riverveille police have been disgracefully silent. Do you think you can shirk your duties just because you’re far from the capital? You’ve worked hard to reach your position. Don’t throw it all away now.”
Confronted with Nate’s veiled warning, Police Chief Bart Perry felt icy tendrils of dread crawl down his spine. The implication was unmistakable.
Tonight, authorities had uncovered a criminal network operating within Bart’s jurisdiction—a transgression far beyond mere oversight or incompetence. If his superiors deemed him negligent in his duties, his professional future would crumble to dust.
The weight of this realization sent waves of terror through Bart, visible in his widened eyes. Dabbing at the perspiration on his brow, he stammered, “Mr. Hopkins, I give you my word, I’ll conduct a thorough investigation into tonight’s events and provide results that meet your expectations.”
Nate offered no response, merely tightening his lips into a thin line before turning and walking away with Corrine cradled in his arms.
As they made their way through the crowd, officers instinctively parted, their gazes following them. After the pair disappeared from view, the assembled officers turned to Bart with questioning looks.
“Sir, who is that man, exactly?”
Given their chief’s deferential behavior toward him, it was clear this man commanded significant influence.
Bart inhaled deeply, slowly regaining his composure. He straightened his necktie with practiced fingers, lifting his chin slightly, and fixed his subordinates with an icy stare. “Do not inquire about matters beyond your concern.”
He then strode toward the deck, his pace interrupted when his foot caught on something, causing him to falter. Lifting his shoe, he glanced downward—and recoiled in horror.
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It wasn’t a pebble, but a bloodstained tooth.
Bart’s mind flashed back to Nate’s devastating kick to the gang leader’s face, and his expression darkened.
Indeed, this was a man one would be wise to avoid crossing.
“Bring them all in for comprehensive questioning!” Bart commanded. “Ensure this criminal organization is completely rooted out and dismantled!”
“Yes, sir!”
Half an hour later, the scene shifted to the secluded villa perched atop Flat Top Mountain. A physician had thoroughly examined Corrine and found no concerning issues. However, the doctor remembered Nate’s ominous warning—that failing to identify any problems might invite unwelcome consequences.
After a moment’s hesitation, the physician lifted the stethoscope again. “Miss Holland, please allow me to conduct one final examination.”
Corrine exhaled with resignation. “I’m perfectly fine, truly. You’re all free to go now.”
“But…” The doctor’s voice betrayed unmistakable anxiety.
“Please don’t worry,” Corrine quickly reassured him. “No one will hold you responsible.”
Relief washed over the physician’s face at her promise. As the medical team gathered their equipment, the attending physician pressed a business card into Corrine’s hand. “Miss Holland, should you experience any discomfort, contact me without delay.”
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