Chapter 340

"I've already alerted the authorities! They'll be here any minute!" Olivia Sinclair declared, her voice steel-edged. "If you value your freedom, you'd better vanish before they catch you in the act!"

The thug's face twisted into a vicious scowl. "You dare threaten me? Forget the money—I'm taking you both now! Let's see if those cops arrive fast enough to save you!"

With a predatory grin, he advanced, the blade in his hand catching the flickering alley light as he closed in on the two women.

Lila Sinclair and Olivia recoiled, their movements stiff with terror.

"Stay behind me, Mrs. Sinclair. I won't let him touch you," Lila commanded, her voice steady despite the adrenaline coursing through her. She stepped forward, shielding Olivia with her body.

The thug hesitated, momentarily stunned by her defiance, before raising his knife with a snarl.

Acting fast, Lila lunged, seizing his wrist. "Run, Mrs. Sinclair! Now!" she shouted, her muscles straining against his strength.

Olivia stood frozen, her voice trembling. "I can't leave you here, Lila!"

"Go!" Lila's plea was sharp with desperation.

The thug's free hand lashed out, striking Lila across the face with a brutal slap.

The sound echoed through the alley. Lila staggered, her vision blurring as she fought to stay upright.

"Lila!" Olivia cried, her voice cracking with panic.

Gritting her teeth, Lila shook off the dizziness. A trickle of blood seeped from her split lip, but she forced a weak smile. "I'm fine."

Her words were a lie. Her cheek throbbed, already swelling, but she refused to show weakness.

Seeing her vulnerability, the thug turned his attention to Olivia, his steps deliberate and menacing.

Ignoring the pain, Lila darted between them again. "You're not getting near her!" she spat, her voice shaking but resolute.

"Move, bitch!" the thug roared, lunging to shove her aside.

But Lila dug in her heels and shoved back with unexpected force, sending him stumbling.

The thug regained his balance, his face contorted with rage. With a furious cry, he raised the knife and charged, the blade arcing toward her.

Instinctively, Lila raised her arm, bracing for the impact—