As the minutes tickled by, Jun Hao's once-proud demeanor crumbled. The young master, known for his arrogance and self-assurance, was reduced to a trembling shell of his former self. His eyes, once bright with defiance, now darted about the room in constant fear, searching for threats in every shadow.
Meilin's tactics were a testament to the Blackwoods' philosophy on interrogation and punishment. They had long ago realized that while physical wounds heal, leaving only scars as reminders, psychological trauma could linger for a lifetime. The mind, once broken, often struggled to fully reassemble itself, leaving jagged edges and dark corners that would haunt the victim long after the ordeal had ended.
This approach served multiple purposes for the Blackwoods. It allowed them to extract information or compliance without leaving visible evidence of torture, which could be politically inconvenient. Moreover, those who underwent this treatment often emerged as shadows of their former selves, serving as walking warnings to others who might consider crossing the family. One might think that this punishment was too severe for Jun Hao considering he was Zhao Jingshen's family, but Rosie had toned it down to a level where Jun Hao still maintained his will and consciousness, only suffering severe pain in his head. She had a way to make him come back if he repented over time, and if not, well...
As Jun Hao's quiet sobs echoed in the dim room, Rosie allowed herself a small, satisfied smile. The young master's transformation was complete – another testament to the power of the mind over the body, and to the Blackwoods' mastery of the darkest corners of human psychology.
She had not handled any family activity for a long time and she was proud to realise that she's still got it.
Zhao Jingshen watched from the shadows, a mix of awe and unease on his face. He didn't immediately reveal himself to Jun Hao and was standing in the dark corner of the room. This was Rosie Blackwood in her element—ruthless, calculated, and utterly terrifying. This was the girl whose reputation has sent grown men trembling in their boots, and this was the Rosie Blackwood he had heard of.
"Big brother!" Jun Hao finally cried out, noticing his cousin for the first time. "Please, you have to help me! This... this monster—"
"Monster?" Meilin cut in, her voice sharp as a blade. She had allowed him to maintain his sense of reason, and she was happy that everything was exactly the way she wants it. "The only monster here is you, Jun Hao, A predator who preys on the vulnerable." She turned to Zhao Jingshen. "What do you think? Should I show mercy to a man who shows none to others or should I land the final blow?"
Zhao Jingshen met Jun Hao's pleading gaze, his expression hardening. "Sorry, cousin. But she's the boss here. And frankly? You had this coming. I warned you that your behavior would catch up with you one day... See how you've turned your mother into something else by making her believe she is a failure because of how you turned out." Zhao Jingshen let out a sigh. Of course he felt pity for Jun Hao, but he felt that someone ought to teach his unruly cousin how to live like a human, he trusted Jiang Meilin to not destroy him beyond repair, although he somehow blamed himself for ignoring his cousin and his dangerous behaviours. He was ashamed.
Jun Hao's face crumpled, tears streaming down his cheeks. "Please," he whimpered. "I'll do anything. Just... just don't hurt me again."
Jiang Meilin's boot came down on Jun Hao's groin, applying just enough pressure to make him gasp. "Listen carefully, you pathetic excuse for a human being. Here's what you're going to do. Tomorrow, you will visit Lin Yue in the hospital. You will offer a full, sincere apology. You will provide monetary compensation for her medical bills and emotional distress. And then? You will turn yourself in to the police and confess to every vile thing you've done."
She leaned in close, her voice dropping to a whisper. "And if you don't? If I hear even a whisper that you've failed to comply? I'll be back. And next time, I won't be so gentle." "She paused and continued, of course I've also taken measures to ensure that you never hurt another girl again…"
With that, she stepped back, leaving Jun Hao a sobbing mess on his bed.
"We're done here," she announced to Zhao Jingshen as she dusted her palms. "Let's go."
They exited the way they came, scaling down the side of the house and making their way back to the car in silence. It wasn't until they were safely inside, doors locked and engine running, that Zhao Jingshen spoke.
"That was... intense," he said, his voice a mix of admiration and desire.
Jiang Meilin turned to him, her adrenaline still pumping. "Too much for you, pretty boy?" Without waiting for his response, she continued "Don't worry, he's not going to remember our little visit. I took measures."
Zhao Jingshen was in awe of her prowess "Oh! I'm not worried." He surged forward, capturing her lips in a searing kiss. Jiang Meilin was shocked momentarily and responded immediately, her hands fisting in his hoodie, pulling him closer. The kiss was all heat and passion, days of tension finally finding release.
When they finally broke apart, both were breathing heavily. Zhao Jingshen rested his forehead against Jiang Meilin's, a soft laugh escaping him.
"You are incredible," he murmured. "Terrifying, yes. But incredible."
Jiang Meilin smirked, running a finger along his jaw. "And don't you forget it... The night is still young, what else would you like us to do?"
Zhao Jingshen remained silent, his mind already set on a course of action. Her reckless, free-spirited nature captivated him. "Rosie..." he murmured.
She turned her head, meeting his gaze as he leaned back in the driver's seat. When he didn't continue, she prompted, "What?" He shook his head slightly. "It's nothing... I just wanted to savor the sound of your name... Reminds me that you're real"
As they melted into the darkness of the night, Meilin felt that familiar surge of satisfaction coursing through her body.