?Chapter 1123:


    Assuming a mask of concern, she raised her voice in mock distress, asking, “Who are these hooligans causing such chaos? Someone, please assist Harlee!”


    Liliana’s act was wless, betraying no hint of deception—a performance worthy of praise.


    But Harlee wasn’t fooled. She shot Liliana a knowing look, her smirk carrying an edge of icy contempt.


    Under the weight of Harlee’s piercing gaze, Liliana averted her eyes, unease wing at herposure. Why did Harlee’s stare always make her feel as if every secret was exposed, every lie uncovered?


    Nearby, Tonya, who had observed the scene with mild amusement, turned to Rhys with a teasing grin.


    “So, still thinking about stepping in?”


    It was then that Rhys realized Harlee truly needed no help.


    A faint blush crept across his face—a reaction reserved for Harlee alone. Responding to Tonya’s teasing with silence, he fished out a lollipop, unwrapped it, and indulged in the candy while watching the spectacle.


    Desperation spurred the goons into a reckless assault.


    Harlee moved like water, evading effortlessly.


    Her hand found a stray piece of bamboo, which she swiftly snapped into a shorter stick and wielded with masterful skill.


    The goons’ next attack was met with Harlee’s low spin and a precise strike, sending them stumbling back.


    Her movements flowed seamlessly, each action a testament to her expertise.


    From afar, Rhys observed, his teeth gently grazing the stick of his lollipop. The seamless precision of Harlee’s movements, the torque of her hips, and the authoritative control with which she handled the bamboo mesmerized himpletely. Unconsciously, his hand rested against his chest, as though attempting to steady the erratic pounding of his heart.


    At the same time, Tonya had returned to the car, deeply absorbed in her mobile game. If she’d noticed the look on Rhys’ face, she would have undoubtedly teased him again. One after another, the goons crumpled.


    Harlee’s final strike left them sprawled, utterly incapacitated.


    Withposed resolve, Harlee strode through the crowd, her piercing gaze fixed on Liliana. Upon reaching Liliana, she leaned in and whispered icily, “I’ll address these two issues with you in due time. There’s no hurry.”


    “Two issues?” Liliana froze, her eyes widening in shock.


    How was it possible? How had Harlee uncovered the truth so quickly? It defied belief—Harlee couldn’t possibly be that astute. Liliana clung to the thought, trying to calm her racing mind, but when she met Harlee’s unyielding eyes, her confidence crumbled, and she found herself unable to voice a single denial.


    Clenching her fists tightly, Liliana forced out a mockingugh before turning to leave, her hurried steps betraying her inner turmoil.


    Harlee’s warning wasn’t an empty threat. She had to enlist Waylon’s help immediately.


    The crowd gradually dispersed, leaving Harlee and Tiffany alone in the deserted square. Tiffany, her eyes puffy from crying, clung to Harlee’s arm and rested her head on Harlee’s shoulder like a frightened child, as though afraid Harlee might disappear.


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