?Chapter 489:


    So when he heard she was seeking his help this time, he knew he couldn’t let the opportunity slip away.


    Charlie spent a long moment admiring Rachel, his gaze darkening with unchecked desire.


    He didn’t act immediately. Instead, he chose to set the mood, deliberately prolonging the moment. Without rushing, he stepped into the bathroom for a shower.


    When he returned, Rachel was still unconscious.


    Moving toward her, his fingers reached for her cor, his movements slow and deliberate.


    One by one, he undid the buttons. The first. The second. The third…


    As the blouse loosened, the white camisole beneath was revealed.


    His eyes burned with a crazed hunger, his restraint hanging by a thread. Just as he was about to give inpletely, he lunged toward her—only for her to suddenly move.


    But she wasn’t waking up naturally. A sharp pain coursed through her body, pulling her out of unconsciousness.


    The alcohol had taken a toll on her stomach, worsening her condition and adding to her difort. Her mind remained foggy, but the intense pain forced her back to reality.


    Her heavy eyelids lifted, and as her vision cleared, she took in her surroundings. The unfamiliar room. The hotel bed. And Charlie—far too close.


    Everything clicked in an instant.


    “Let go of me,” she shouted.


    Even through the pain, her voice rang clear, her sharp gaze freezing cold.


    Feel the thrill at g aln  ov el s .


    Charlie stiffened, his hands stopping midair as he stared at her in shock.


    “You… you’re awake?”


    “I won’t repeat myself. Let. Go.” Rachel’s tone was like ice, her re cutting through him like a de.


    Charlie’s expression darkened, his initial surprise giving way to something more sinister.


    “Rachel, let’s not forget—you’re the one who came to me, asking for help.”


    “That doesn’t mean I’vee to throw away my dignity,” she shot back. “I’ll warn you just once—if you cross me, you won’t be able to handle the consequences.”


    Charlie’s sneer was filled with contempt as he towered over Rachel.


    “Shouting won’t help. No one can hear you here. I suggest you cooperate unless you prefer the consequences.”


    His words hung heavy in the air as he menacingly reached out to grab her by the throat.


    Rachel’s breath caught, panic setting in as she struggled for air, unable to voice her distress.


    Desperation took over, and her eyes darted around,nding on a vase nearby. With a swift movement borne of sheer survival instinct, she grabbed it and swung.


    The vase shattered against Charlie’s forehead with a resounding crash, startling him into a momentary daze.


    Confusion turned to horror as he felt warm blood trickle down his face. His hand met his forehead,ing away stained with red, his eyes widening in disbelief.


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