Chapter 340

The women trembled at his words, their bodies instinctively recoiling. The memory of that whip's cruel bite was still fresh in their minds.

Damian Castillo stepped forward, his polished shoes clicking against the concrete floor.

His icy gaze swept over Evelyn Carter with clinical detachment. "Impressive. Ten minutes flat. You're faster than most."

Evelyn met his stare with equal frost, her voice cutting through the damp basement air. "Release us now, or I'll burn this entire operation to the ground."

Damian's laughter echoed off the walls as he slowly clapped. He couldn't deny her exotic beauty - those sharp cheekbones and piercing eyes would fetch a premium price. A rare flower indeed, but one with dangerous thorns.

"Dream on, sweetheart."

With a snap of his fingers, his enforcers moved in.

Then chaos erupted as a panicked underling burst through the door. "Boss! We're surrounded!"

Damian's face darkened. "Explain."

"It's the Kingsleys! Their private security has us locked down!"

The blood drained from Damian's face. "The Kingsley dynasty? We've never crossed paths. Why now?"

The subordinate shook violently. "They brought tactical teams, boss. Professional operators."

Damian's fist connected with the wall. "Goddamn it! There's only one reason they'd come after us."

His calculating gaze landed on Evelyn, realization dawning.

Her lips curled into a cold smile. "Oh, and the FBI's here too. Human trafficking carries a twenty-year minimum. Enjoy your new home."

Whispers of hope spread through the captive women.

Damian's knuckles turned white. "You think some suits with badges scare me? No one takes what's mine."

He barked orders. "Move them to the secondary location. Now!"

Another runner arrived, breathless. "Too late! The Kingsleys breached the perimeter. They're demanding their heiress."

Murmurs spread through Damian's crew. "Piss off the Kingsleys and we're finished in this city."

Damian paced like a caged animal. "Kingsley heiress? Point her out!"

He turned to the women. "Which one of you is Evelyn Kingsley? Speak up and walk free."

Silence.

Then Evelyn's voice cut through. "Everyone leaves. Now."

All eyes turned to her. Damian's expression shifted to sickening sweetness. "Ms. Kingsley, my deepest apologies for this... misunderstanding."