Chapter 175
Chapter 175:
Outside, Yelena and Brody emerged into the crisp night air, the fresh breeze a stark contrast to the suffocating, smoky haze of the casino.
“That was brutal,” Brody admitted, his voice tinged with guilt. “Yelena, I’m sorry for dragging you into this mess. I didn’t think Jacob would be such a nightmare p>
He had attempted to gather intel beforehand, but the details were murky at best. Left with little choice, he decided to scope out Jacob’s usual stomping grounds himself.
Little did he know that being a new face in Jacob’s domain was like walking into a lion’s den blindfolded—an open invitation for trouble.
Jacob’s reputation was as dark as his temper, and messing with him was a surefire way to make himself a target.
“No worries. Did you manage to dig up anything?” Yelena asked, her voice steady but curious.
“Not much yet. He’s been laying low, and I haven’t seen anyone contacting him in days. But I’ve got someone keeping an eye on it,” Brody replied.
“Good. Just stay on your toes,” Yelena advised, her tone firm. Tonight’s run-in had only confirmed what she already suspected—Jacob wielded influence, and she didn’t want her friends caught in the crossfire.
“Will do. Let’s head back for now,” Brody said, nodding.
But just as they turned to leave, Yelena caught sight of two shadowy figures tailing them. Her instincts kicked in immediately.
She had a strong hunch Jacob wasn’t about to let them walk away unchallenged.
Without betraying any concern, she suggested casually, “It’s still early. How about we grab a bite first p>
Brody seemed confused, but then quickly caught on to her plan. “Yeah, sounds like a great idea p>
They made their way to a lively street food stall, the scent of grilled meat and spices wafting through the cool night air. The place was bustling with locals, laughter and conversation blending into a vibrant symphony. Yelena’s stomach let out a soft growl, betraying her hunger despite her composed demeanor.
ɯoɔ.slǝʌou˥ɐƃ uo sǝɐsǝɹ lɐıɔıɟɟo
After the ordeal with Jacob, her appetite had returned in full force, and a hearty meal felt like the perfect remedy.
As they settled in, Yelena ordered an array of dishes, mostly skewered barbecue. It had been ages since she’d indulged, and she was ready to savor every bite.
The two men trailing them smirked as they saw Yelena and Brody take a seat. Without hesitation, they swaggered over.
These weren’t just random toughs—they were local thugs notorious for squeezing protection money out of the area’s vendors.
The food stall owners recognized them immediately, their cheerful expressions fading into weary frustration. These goons were a persistent plague on their livelihoods.
One of the thugs leaned in close, his voice dripping with mock authority. “Alright, you two. Be smart and hand over the cash. Don’t make this harder than it needs to be p>
Yelena leaned back in her chair, a sly sneer curling her lips. “What’s the matter? Can’t stomach a loss? Have you no shame? First, you gamble away your money, and now you’re trying to bully the winner into handing it back p>
“Cut the crap and cough it up, or you’re not leaving here in one piece.” One of the thugs stepped closer, his face twisting into an ugly scowl.
Meanwhile, elsewhere in the city, Austin was reluctantly tagging along with John, who had convinced him to step out for a late-night bite.