Chapter 959

Nathaniel gasped for breath, trying to ease the excruciating pain in his back. His voice strained as he spoke, "I didn't… take Uncle Frank's key, I didn't trespass on the top floor. I didn't… steal anything…" "You're still trying to deny it!" Romello's paddle struck Nathaniel's back five more times with relentless force, denying him any chance to catch his breath. Under the blood-soaked shirt, the areas that were not bleeding were bruised, and every part of Nathaniel's back was injured. With each blow, the paddle reopened swollen wounds, painting his back crimson. Nathaniel groaned, his back finally giving in, his arm trembling uncontrollably as he tried to support himself with one hand. "Romello, I really… didn't…" Nathaniel's words faltered, his voice barely audible amidst the agony. Marius stood by the pillar, his heart filled with dread, unable to bear witnessing Nathaniel's bloody back. Gabrielle could not hold back her tears, her heart aching with sympathy.