Page 84 of A Million Shades Of Love and Betrayal

"Taking him to court is merciful compared to what I could do," I continued, my tone unwavering. "Would you rather I let my brother alert the mafia and debt collectors in Vegas of Ethan's location? They'd be happy to deal with him in ways you can't even imagine."

Ava gasped, her hand flying to her mouth, while Cheryl's eyes widened in horror. They hadn't expected this. They thought they could appeal to my better nature, but they underestimated the fury that burned within me.

"But I chose to take the legal route," I said, leaning forward. "I chose to give Ethan a chance to face justice in a court of law, rather than the streets. You should be grateful for that. But make no mistake- my mercy has its limits."

"You can't be serious," Cheryl whispered, her voice barely audible. "The mafia? Debt collectors? That's... that's monstrous."

I let out another cold laugh. "And what do you call what Ethan did to me? Blackmail, deceit, manipulation. He tried to ruin my life, and now you expect me to show him compassion?"

Ava shook her head, tears brimming in her eyes. "Please, Yasmin. We beg you. Ethan doesn't deserve this. He's made mistakes, but he's still a person. Can't you find it in your heart to let this go?"

"Let it go?" I echoed, my voice rising again. "After everything he’s done? No. He needs to face the consequences of his actions. And if you truly care about him, you'll let him do that. He needs to learn, to understand the gravity of what he's done. What if he does this to someone else?"

Ava and Cheryl exchanged a worried glance. Ava took a deep breath before she spoke again, "We understand that, Yasmin. But he's family to us. We can't just abandon him."

I leaned back in my chair, my expression unmoving. "Where was all this energy when you told me you were ready to jump the sinking ship?"

Cheryl's eyes welled up with tears. "It's just so hard to see him like this. He's desperate."

I nodded, feeling a flicker of sympathy though I didn't show it. "I know it's hard. But think about it – continuing to support him despite everything he's done is only enabling his behavior. Cut ties with Ethan. Distance yourselves from him and his toxic behavior if it's too much for you to handle. Though I suspect it’s the public humiliation that makes you feel this way. And whatever you do, never approach me or my family again. If you do, I won't hesitate to sue you for harassment. This is your only warning."

Ava and Cheryl looked at each other, then back at me. "You can't do that?"

"But I can, it only takes one phone call to retrieve the footage from the gala."

"Alright, Yasmin," Ava said quietly. "We'll do as you ask."

As they turned to leave, I offered one final piece of advice. "You should head straight home and check on Ethan. He should have been served the papers by now, and he'll be furious."

-56-

Rafael

The evening air was cool as I exited my car onto the bustling city sidewalk. The neon lights of the bar flickered invitingly, but I had no interest in the crowd tonight. I was here for a specific reason, and I didn’t want any distractions. Ignoring the admiring glances and flirtatious smiles from the women loitering near the entrance, I pushed open the door and walked in.

The bar was alive with energy. Laughter, chatter, and the clinking of glasses filled the air. But I tuned it all out, focusing on my destination: the VIP section at the back. Roman and Khalid were already there, lounging comfortably on the plush leather seats, their expressions brightening as they saw me approach.

"Rafael! About time you got here," Roman greeted me warmly, standing up to grab my hand and pull me over. Khalid followed suit, pulling me into a brief, brotherly hug.

"Good to see you guys," I replied, smiling. I waved over to the VIP bartender and ordered a whiskey neat. I needed something strong tonight.

"So, how's Yasmin holding up?" Khalid asked, his voice tinged with concern. "Especially with the trial just two days away."

I took a slow sip of my drink, savoring the warmth of the whiskey as it slid down my throat. "She's doing great. She's better than I expected her to be. She's been so happy and positive lately. I think she's looking forward to seeing Ethan get what he deserves."

Roman raised an eyebrow. "You're not worried at all?"

I shook my head. "Not in the slightest. Yasmin's ready for this. She’s been through so much, and this trial is another step in putting it all behind her. Plus, she’s got the best legal team money can buy. Ethan doesn’t stand a chance."

Khalid chuckled. "She is tougher than most people give her credit for."

"You have no idea," I said, a proud smile spreading across my face. "She’s been amazing. Besides, she’s not alone in this. She has all of us supporting her."

Roman nodded thoughtfully. "It's good to hear that. Ethan's a real piece of work. I'm glad Yasmin is ready to see him go down."

We sat in comfortable silence for a moment, each lost in our thoughts. The bartender brought another round of drinks, and we toasted Yasmin's strength and resilience.

"So, how are you handling all of this?" Roman asked, breaking the silence. "It can't be easy, seeing her go through something like this."

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