The Heiress Nobody Saw Coming

Chapter 664 They Must Take Control of Their Futures Themselves

Natalie stepped forward and stood by the table, speaking to the others. "The people here aren't as simple or pure as they seem.

"You've seen it for yourselves. Getting here isn't easy. If we can't hold them down, we won't just fail to save the girls-we won't be able to leave in one piece either.

"So, things may get physical later. You've seen these weapons. They're for suppressing violent protests. We may get injured, but no one will die.

"If anyone is scared, you can hide upstairs on the second floor now."

"I'm not scared, Ms. Natalie," Connie said first. "We've been here before. I know how it goes. I'm not afraid."

"Me neither," Zane quickly chimed in. "Ms. Natalie, I'm a grown man. I can't be less brave than Connie."

Natalie looked at Sophia, who nodded firmly. "Nat, I'm not afraid either. I want to do something meaningful, and I now know that this is it."

If Sophia wasn't afraid, Zachary wouldn't be either. He smiled and held Sophia's hand. "I'll protect her, Mrs. Holden. You don't have to worry."

Marcus stood up and moved behind Natalie. "Nat, you know what I'm capable of. I won't hold you back."

Natalie smiled. "Good. I'm not worried about Elijah either."

"This place is called Ashford Vale, located deep in Coalmarsh. Almost everyone here was born, raised, and will die here. They're ignorant but united. They'll sacrifice their wives, daughters, and sisters, but when it comes to their own interests as men, they won't concede an inch.

"When we first came here, we tried to talk it out, but it didn't work. We had to fight and use force to subdue them. Only then did we slowly manage to make progress.

"You've seen the children here. They're kind and innocent, but the same can't be said for the adults.

now. If we yield even once, we give them leverage. We have to maintain the upper hand here and make them submit. This is not for their sake, and not to help them escape poverty. This is

remember-protect yourselves. Don't get hurt." "We understand." Connie raised her hand. "Ms. Walker, we've got this." Zane raised his hand too. "Ms. Walker, don't worry. I've never lost a fight." Zachary nodded. "Mrs. Holden, rest assured. I'll protect Sophia and do my part." As for Marcus and Elijah, Natalie didn't need to say a word. The two of them were more than capable-not only in defending themselves but likely also

why we use weapons-to suppress them swiftly and cleanly. If we can avoid hurting them,

no need to

hand. "Nat, is

"Yes. Feeling

am," Marcus

young woman, and even though she had people with her, she had to travel long distances and face unreasonable, hostile

Maybe that was why she felt such deep empathy for girls like them-and why she was so

know what I'm doing. I only act when I

I just feel for you." Marcus held her hand tight. "From now on, I'll

"With us working together, we'll only get stronger."

him came Lynette, Sue, and Ann, along with

had brought

Just about every household representative was present.

for

wide smile as he stepped

you wanted to talk. We know now that these three girls want to

Cole. Since you called us here, are you planning to agree to

said, ignoring Maverick and turning to the girl. Lynette stepped forward, pulled out

this?" Maverick asked,

spoke up. "Father. Sue, Ann, and I are cutting all ties with our

we are no longer considered your daughters. From this day forward, we shall