The Ex-Con Who Conquered the World novel Chapter 116

"Mr. Reed, it really was Mr. Sterling who wrecked the place during his drunken rampage. I saw it myself—it was terrifying," the waiter said.

Another quickly chimed in, "I was there, too. I tried to stop him, but I couldn't hold him back. He almost hit me with something he threw!"

Finally, a calm-faced security guard stepped forward. "Sir, I responded immediately after receiving the alarm. My team and I found this man in the private dining room, smashing everything in sight. It took three of us to restrain him. The damage could have been much worse."

With each account, Evan's heart sank deeper, plunging into an icy abyss.

Ethan's expression darkened as he turned his piercing gaze on Evan. His voice was frigid. "Well, Evan? The evidence and witnesses are all here. Still trying to deny it? Does your family have a death wish?"

Evan's legs gave way, and he collapsed to the floor.

His face turned ashen, stricken with despair and bitter realization.

The faint sounds of breaking glass and clatter he'd heard earlier—when he was first taken to the lounge—suddenly made terrible sense.

He had been framed.

But how could he possibly defend himself? Claim he'd only been pretending to be drunk and never caused any disturbance? Who would believe that?

Drizzlewood Retreat had all the witnesses and physical evidence. Ethan came from the powerful Reed family. Between a Sterling and a Reed, whose word would carry weight?

So, even knowing he'd been set up, Evan could only grit his teeth and accept it.

Yet, a sliver of desperate defiance remained. "Mr. Reed, I've never wronged you... I don't understand why..." he whispered hoarsely.

Ethan responded with a cold snort, already turning to leave. His final words echoed in the ruined room. "Just pay the bill in full. Every last cent. Until you do, you're not going anywhere."

That was right, he didn't cross Ethan. But he crossed Stefan.

Evan stared blankly at Ethan's retreating back, feeling like a complete fool—pathetic and laughable.

He had genuinely believed Ethan visited the Peak Chamber for his sake, fantasizing about currying favor and securing benefits for his family business. It had all been a mirage.

But why? Why would Ethan go to such lengths to target him?

If he hadn't offended Ethan directly, then who had he angered so deeply that would move a man like Ethan to act?

The thought sent a chill down his spine.

Whoever it was must be a figure of immense influence.

*****

Chuck returned home in high spirits, full of praise for Evan. Finding no one particularly receptive, he eventually retired to his room, exhausted from the day's drinking.

Stefan went upstairs to his own room. He planned to rest briefly before showering later.

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