Others might not understand Ben’s character, but the assistant certainly did. Ben was calm, detached, and distrustful. He was the type to stick to a decision once made. This was the first time the assistant had seen someone actually make him reconsider. Jamie couldn’t help but feel a little embarrassed by the weight of that realization.They took a cab to the old district. The moment they stepped out of the car, the distant sounds of shouting made it clear why Ben hadn’t wanted her to come.It’s your fault my mom is gravely ill! Pay up!Block their way! Don’t let them escape! These folks want to tear down our homes and leave us with nowhere to go, only to buy us off with a few measly pennies!A mob of people surrounded a small group who clearly had no means to defend themselves.The crowd brandished sticks and shovels, looking like an angry mob ready to revolt. But this time, their actions didn’t seem to be rooted in justice.One middle-aged man in the center, drenched in sweat, pleaded with them. Please, we’re not here to hurt anyone! We just want to rebuild the homes. We’ve already said you can choose a newly built house if you’re willing, and compensation will be provided! Compensation? What a joke! Who wants your filthy money? someone shouted, and the insult set off a wave of angry voices.Sensing the situation spiraling out of control, Jamie turned to the assistant. Things are getting worse. Where are the reinforcements you called for? Get them here now!They’re not here yet, the assistant said, growing increasingly anxious. We have to wait a little longer. sᴇaʀᴄh thᴇ (F)indNƟvᴇl.ɴet website on Gøøglᴇ to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.There were only two of them against a mob and charging in now would be suicide.He wasn’t worried for himself, but Jamie was a different story. If something happened to her, the assistant had no doubt Ben would have his head served on a platter. Grabbing her arm, he tried to reason with her. You can’t go in there. They’re outnumbering us by far.Jamie hesitated, glancing at the mob’s menacing faces. Reluctantly, she held back.But as time ticked by with no backup in sight, her concern mounted.The tension peaked when someone in the mob suggested dragging the middle-aged man back with them and tying him up. Jamie couldn’t stand by and watch. That’s kidnapping! These people are completely ignoring morality and the law. This has to stop!Before the assistant could hold her back, she stepped forward, her phone in hand, ready to dial 911.Stop this right now! If you kidnap him, I’ll call the police! she shouted, holding her phone high for all to see.Jamie wasn’t acting recklessly. She maintained a cautious distance, standing where she could easily retreat if the mob turned violent.One man raised an eyebrow andgrowled, Who’s this nosywomanGet lost, or we’ll tie you up too! He waved his fist threateningly in her direction. Jamie’s face hardened. You’re committing a crime in broad daylight. Aren’t you afraid of the consequences?Afraid? Why should I be? If anyone should be afraid, it’s these filthy rich people who caused my mom to have a heart attack. She’s still unconscious. Who’s going to give me justice, huh? That doesn’t justify-Shut up! the man barked, cutting her off. His eyes roamed over her in a way that made Jamie’s skin crawl, his gazelewd and malicious. You’re not bad-looking. You’re sticking up for these people, so you must be one of them, huh? Part of their company? Revulsion churned in Jamie’s stomach, but she kept her composure.Who I am doesn’t matter. Let him go immediately, she demanded, her voice cold and unwavering.Her commanding tone angered the man further. His face twisted as he charged toward her, spitting, You’re giving me orders now, huh? Stupid woman!