Chapter 265

Stella Johnson leaned into Charles Hart's embrace, tears spilling uncontrollably. The pressure and bitterness she'd kept bottled up these past days finally broke free. Wrapped in his arms, warmth and safety she'd long missed started to seep back in. "I'm okay, really... it's just the kid got scared," she choked out. Charles gently stroked her hair, voice low and steady. "Don’t panic. I’m here. From now on, no one’s gonna lay a hand on you or the kid again." Then he straightened, his gaze turning razor-sharp as it swept the crowd around them. "What you did today—you won't walk away from it so easily. I've already contacted my lawyers. You’re all getting sued. Actions have consequences, and you’re about to be held accountable." Faces immediately drained of color. Clearly not expecting things to escalate, a few started pleading. "Mr. Hart, we were wrong—really! Please forgive us this one time. We won’t mess around again." But Charles didn’t flinch. His tone was ice-cold. "Bit late for reg