Chapter 27: Glimmer of Hope
Lara was drenched in sweat, trembling with fear, and her voice was hoarse from screaming, though no sound seemed to escape her lips anymore. She had screamed until her throat burned, but it was pointless—no help was coming. All she could hear were the cheers, laughter, and sickening excitement of the men who treated the women like objects, choosing them as though they were commodities in an auction.
As her turn neared, Lara's heart pounded so hard it felt like it might burst. Her eyes darted around the room, searching for any sign of escape, but she was completely trapped. Bound and powerless, all she could do was watch in horror as her name was finally called out.
The man who had spoken earlier—the drug-dealing businessman referred to as the secret transaction VIP—was the one to claim her. His interest in her was evident, his gaze predatory as he scrutinized her from head to toe.
Before finalizing his decision, the man raised a question, his voice dripping with curiosity. "Why is this one not a minor? She looks more... mature than the others."
The host, unbothered by the question, chuckled and responded. "Ah, yes! She's special. Our men caught her snooping around the area, asking questions about Pastor Jun. We suspect she might be connected to our opposition in the elections. Consider her a rare catch!"
The explanation seemed to delight the businessman even more. He leaned closer, his eyes trailing over Lara's trembling form. His smile turned into a lewd grin as he took in her flawless skin and the curves of her figure. "Well, well," he muttered, his voice oozing with malice. "I think I'll enjoy this one."
Lara's stomach churned at his words, and tears welled in her eyes. Her body screamed for her to run, to fight, but she was completely immobilized. The reality of her situation weighed heavily on her as she realized that the people in this room, including Pastor Jun, saw her as nothing more than a prize—a tool to use and discard.
Someone... anyone... please help me, she thought desperately as the businessman gestured for her to be brought closer.
The men forcibly dragged their chosen women aside, treating them as though they were nothing more than commodities to be distributed. Laughter and crude remarks filled the room as the men, clearly thrilled, discussed their plans for their "prizes" once they brought them home.