Chapter 1243

Wanda, Britney, Hoxton, Jimmy, and Janice stood scattered around, their expressions tense with fear. Their eyes darted between each other and Matthew, a mix of panic and hesitant hope written on their faces. Matthew sat motionless, his expression blank, as he stared at the five of them. He could tell they still did not fully trust his words, but he did not care. If anything, their fear was an advantage—it would keep them in line. Since he decided to keep them around, he needed to establish control. Letting them stay without setting boundaries would only lead to trouble. Nodding slightly, he finally said, "At least you're smart enough to know where you stand." "I knew it..." Wanda thought, her heart sank as her fear deepened. She silently vowed to never, under any circumstances, endure that horrifying punishment. The other four did not look any better, their faces pale as they stared at Matthew in terrified silence. A sudden gust of wind rocked the boat, making it sway on the water