Chapter 497
“It was an innovation contest for security control systems,” Alicia replied. “Caden took first place. His design was purchased three years ago by the world’s largest bank, and it’s never failed. You, someone who buys locks for protection, really think you can outsmart a lock maker?”
Corey’s eyes darkened, a storm brewing beneath his calm exterior. Caden’s ceaseless innovation was the reason for his repeated defeats. “So, did Caden teach you?” he asked.
A voice cut through the tension. “Does she even need to be taught? Want to find out who took second place in that competition?”
Corey looked up to see Gerry striding toward him, a flamboyant figure in bright colors, resembling a beetle. He produced a baseball bat, the solid wood striking a menacing thwack against his palm.
Corey’s eyes narrowed. “Mr. Hopkins, are you really planning to start a fight on my turf?”
Gerry laughed mockingly. “Do you even need to ask? What else do you think I brought this bat for? To use it as a walking stick?”
Alicia interjected sharply. “Corey, don’t even think about calling the police. All power in your office has been cut off. No one is coming to save you.”
Corey shook his head in disbelief. “Do people still resort to such tactics in a law-abiding society?”
“You’ve committed a few dirty deeds yourself,” Alicia replied calmly. “What’s wrong with using force? A seasoned businessman like you isn’t scared of a small altercation, right?”
Corey fixed his cold gaze on Alicia. She was determined to teach him a lesson. But could they handle him? Gerry, always up for a good time, seemed unlikely to be a match. A smirk crept across Corey’s face as he rolled up his sleeves. “If it comes to a fight, you might not be my match.”
“Is that so?” Gerry asked, whistling indifferently.
At that moment, Jasmine emerged, flanked by strong men in matching uniforms—clearly hired security. Corey recognized Jasmine instantly: Warrington’s top female bodyguard, renowned for her Special Forces-level combat skills.
As Jasmine entered, Yolanda recoiled, accidentally knocking something over. All eyes turned to her. Her face flushed, and she hid her hands behind her back.
Gerry sauntered over, casually propping a leg on a chair to block Yolanda’s escape. “Hey, Yolanda, what are you hiding?” he asked, his tone deceptively polite. His mockery was palpable.
Yolanda, aware of their strained relationship, gritted her teeth. “I’m not hiding anything.”
Gerry smirked. “I don’t hit women. However, you really need to cooperate and show me what’s in your hands.”
Yolanda’s resolve hardened. “I told you, I don’t have anything! Get out of my way!”
In a swift move, Gerry snatched her phone. He’d intercepted her call for help just in time. He switched it off and pocketed it. “You don’t have to worry. You’re not the target today. Just sit back and enjoy the show.”