The Price of Betrayal novel Chapter 6

But Jack just stood there, frozen.

When he finally met my eyes, the color drained from his face.

His arms went slack, dropping Tyler to the ground with a thud.

"Daddy, that hurt!" Tyler wailed from the pavement.

Ashley rushed to comfort him. "It's okay, baby. Daddy's just angry at the bad people who hurt you."

The parents nodded eagerly.

"Look how pale he is - must be furious!"

"Of course! A man might fool around, but he'll never let anyone disrespect his real family."

"That homewrecker really crossed the line this time."

"Everyone record this! She's about to get what she deserves!"

The crowd buzzed with anticipation, waiting for Jack's next move.

But he just stood there, paralyzed.

Ashley noticed his hesitation. Her smile turned knowing.

"Darling, I understand. She's your little mistake. I get it. But if you deal with her now and promise to end it, all is forgiven."

"Go ahead. Show everyone where your loyalty lies."

Ashley was so sure of her position, certain Jack would choose her.

But Jack remained frozen, staring at me like he'd seen a ghost.

No one spotted the sweat beading on his forehead.

That's when Emma stepped forward, tugging Jack's sleeve.

Her innocent eyes looked up at him, confused. "Daddy, why is that boy calling you his daddy too?"

Before Jack could answer, Tyler shoved her hard.

"Stop calling him that, you stupid brat!"

"I guess I didn't hurt you enough earlier."

"He's MY dad! I'll kill you for trying to steal him!" Tyler raised his fist again.

Something in Jack snapped. He grabbed Tyler and threw him aside. "Don't touch her!"

Tyler crashed onto the pavement.

His elbow scraped raw against the concrete, drawing blood.

His screams pierced the air.

Ashley rushed to him, then whirled on Jack. "Have you lost your mind?"

"What did our son do wrong? You'd hurt him for that little bastard?"

"What spell does this whore have on you?"

But Jack ignored her. He knelt beside Emma. "Sweetheart, are you hurt?"

Emma, who used to adore her father, shrank back in fear.

She buried herself in my arms, watching him like a wounded animal.