CHAPTER HUNDRED AND THIRTY-TWO

Richard's POV

The thug leader stood before me, his bravado fading fast. He glanced around, looking for a way out.

I smirked. “What’s the matter, tough guy? Lost your nerve?”

“Back off, man!” he shouted, but his voice cracked.

“Not a chance,” I said, stepping closer. “You messed with the wrong family.”

He swung at me, but his punch was slow and desperate. I dodged it easily and landed a solid right hook to his jaw. He stumbled back, clutching his face.

“Is that all you got?” I taunted. “I expected more from the big bad thug.”

He tried to rush me again, but I was ready. I grabbed his arm, twisted it behind his back, and slammed him into the wall.

“Let’s make this simple,” I said, my voice low and menacing. “You leave Amelia and her family alone, or I’ll break every bone in your body.”

“Okay, okay!” he gasped, struggling to breathe. “Just let me go!”

“Do you promise?” I tightened my grip, making him wince in pain.

“Yes! I promise!” he shouted, his voice panicked.

I released