Chapter 1012



From the edge of his vision, the owner noticed Kallie wearing Jake’s coat, and the realization hit him like a thunderbolt. Regret was useless now. He had mistaken her for a mere lover of someone else, never expecting she was connected to Jake. But wasn’t Jake known to be unattached? Could the woman be Kallie herself? That seemed unlikely. Why would Kallie venture into such a modest place only to be harassed by these men? The owner couldn’t afford to ponder these riddles any longer. He shuffled toward Kallie, bowing deeply as he said, “Miss, I was foolish for offending you. I’m deeply sorry for my grievous error. Thankfully, you’ve come to no harm. You’re free to punish or rebuke me. Just please, spare my life.”

Kallie, swathed in Jake’s coat, was visibly shaken. She stared down at the weeping owner before her with nothing but revulsion and fury in her eyes. Given their conduct today, it was evident these men were no strangers to wrongdoing. Countless innocent women were likely victimized by them. Such men were nothing but a cancer on society. Yet, Jake had mentioned earlier that he owned the establishment. If she decided to report this to the police and they ended up closing the establishment, wouldn’t that have repercussions for Jake as well?

Kallie disregarded the weeping owner nearby and made her way toward Jake.

“Sir, I owe you my thanks for your timely assistance today. Despite being personally involved, I’m willing to overlook this incident because of your intervention.” Jake stared back at her, his face a picture of astonishment.

“Kallie, are you sure about what you’re suggesting?”

Biting her lower lip, Kallie felt she had no choice. If not for Jake’s intervention, she would have faced dire consequences today. She didn’t want to add to Jake’s burdens. Deciding to take a stand, she showed her resolve. Despite her words, she was confident that Jake wouldn’t let these criminals operate in his place.

Noticing Kallie’s determined look, Jake inhaled sharply. Previously, he had suspected she was feigning amnesia. But at that instant, he was convinced she really had lost her memory. She would never willingly put herself at risk or compromise her dignity—not with her usual fiery spirit.

With a look of mixed emotions, Jake asked, “Are you truly unable to recall your identity?”

Kallie nodded earnestly.

“I genuinely can’t remember. I apologize for the inconvenience today. Could we exchange contact information? Once I recover my memories or locate my family, I’ll be sure to express my gratitude properly.” She reached out her hand.

Jake looked into her eyes, his dark gaze filled with unreadable depths. In a swift, unexpected move, he clutched her wrist tightly.

Kallie’s heart skipped a beat. Before she could twist away, Jake pulled her toward him. His chiseled face loomed close, filling her vision alarmingly.

Reacting instinctively, Kallie tried to retreat, but the cold wall abruptly stopped her, trapping her between it and his presence.

“Ouch,” she blurted out, unable to hold back a sharp yelp of pain. She raised her eyes, only to be caught in Jake’s intense, scrutinizing stare, feeling a mix of intimidation and bashfulness surge through her.

.

.

.