No More Waiting, She Chooses Love

"Ernest, how do you reckon we should settle this?"

Brown lounged back in his chair, a sly smirk playing on his lips as he addressed Ernest.

It was clear as day that Brown had his own plans on how to toy with Ernest; this whole act was just him having a bit of fun at someone else's expense. Ernest remained cool as a cucumber, "However you want to settle it, works for me."

I had to hand it to Ernest; the guy was solid as a rock. Whether it was Henrik or Brown stirring up trouble, he faced it all without batting an eyelid.

"So, we're at odds because of this little game, aren't we?" Brown casually spun a colorful billiard ball in his hand as he spoke.

Ernest stayed silent, prompting Brown to turn his attention to me, "How about you and I play a game? If you win, I'll grant you a request, including letting Ernest off the hook."

He had been itching to challenge me to a game since our first meeting, and it seemed his obsession hadn't waned.

I couldn't fathom why he was so set on playing against me. I hadn't competed professionally or left anyone feeling embarrassed in defeat.

"Why do you want to play against me?" I voiced my confusion.

"Because I want to see if you're as good as they say. You played flawlessly in the tournament last week," Brown's challenge was clear.

Here I was on his turf, and whether I liked it or not, he had ways to make me play. So, I might as well accept.

in the eye,

didn't directly ask him to spare Ernest, as his indifference

course, my word is my bond," he agreed

"And if you lose? What

down hard,

Clap, clap!

No wonder you've got men falling over

gesture from him, a

"Here? Really?" I frowned.

problem with that?" Brown asked, amusement

place reeks. The ambiance is mess with my

all wrong

throw off my aim," I

ΛΟ

set

I knew Brown wouldn't dare harm me. I was valuable to someone behind the scenes who wanted me

we'll move to my billiard room," Brown conceded and led

to inspect Conrad's wounds, then ordered his men, "Get a doc to patch