Otto’s body tensed as he took a step forward, all the while keeping a safe distance from Noah. "What are you trying to do?"
Was Noah about to strike out like a cornered mouse? Despite Otto’s ability to defend himself, the situation still sent a chill down his spine.
Noah sank the blade further into his palm. The intensified pain nearly consumed him, washing away the unwelcome desire that had gripped him. His pale face glowed with a sharp, cold light. "Do you want me to enter the abyss and serve Duskfall like a slave just like you?"
Otto's mouth twitched. The implications of Noah's words were not lost on him. "Is it not possible? Do you think you can take on Duskfall single-handedly?”
"I might not be able to, but I refuse to be their puppet. If we can cooperate, then we're friends. If you refuse and wish to destroy me, know that I'll drag you all down to hell together with me. I've already contacted the media. Should I fail to leave the cafe unscathed, if I'm found dead or even injured, the media will instantly call upon the police and bury you in a landslide of public outrage."
Otto's corporation, already tangled in illegal activities, served as Duskfall's sole legitimate revenue stream. If these affairs were to be thoroughly investigated, the fallout would be catastrophic. Noah's gambit was a dangerous game of self-sacrifice, enduring a thousand wounds to inflict a fraction of that pain onto his enemy. If they would not let him off easy, he would be sure they lost a few limbs too.
Otto's eyes widened as he reassessed the young man before him, his expression a blend of shock and bewilderment. It was clear now that not only he but also his father had grossly underestimated Noah.
Noah's palm had been pierced almost all the way through. The act of cutting one's own flesh was not something an ordinary person could do. They had to be cruel enough to themselves, possess strong willpower, and know clearly what they wanted. Through boldly and openly snatching a woman from Joseph and almost succeeding, Noah demonstrated both ability and courage.
Xavia peered out the window and saw a swarm of reporters outside, their cameras aimed right at the cafe. She hastily closed the curtains. The panic was evident in her voice as she asked, "What do we do? They can't see me like this. Kenneth will surely abandon me!"
Her only ace was her upcoming marriage. She had carefully orchestrated every move and could not afford any disruption at this vital juncture. Her plans to become a princess, join the royal family, and demean Chloe were all laid out. She aimed to prove to Joseph that she had far better options than him. But before she had even barely begun that life, Noah was threatening to ruin it.
‘If he is to die, he should die alone. No! Chloe and this bastard should die together!’ Xavia thought.
Otto massaged his temples, clearly annoyed. "Quiet down. We're safe for now. Nobody outside has discovered us yet."
"I don't care how but you must find a way to hide me. We can’t afford to be spotted by anyone."
Otto took a moment to survey the chaotic room, his eyes drawn to the grisly bloodstains on the floor. He had grossly underestimated Noah, mistaking his reserve for weakness. This error in judgment weighed heavily on him.
Seeing Otto lost in thought, Xavia's anxiety gave way to urgent pleading. "I know there's an antidote for this drug. We have to give it to him. Delaying any further is pointless!"
Reluctance flickered in Otto's eyes, but he knew he had no other choice. Carrying on was far too perilous. He retrieved a packet of powder from his pocket, mixed it with some coffee, and slid the cup toward Noah. "Here's the antidote."
Thankfully, he had brought it with him. Otherwise, this brat might have continued his resistance.
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