The Villainess Needs a Hug (Ivy Windsor) novel Chapter 322

“They’ve still got quite a few people with them–carrying pickaxes, shovels, and sticks–heading your way. You’d better be careful.”

Warren’s anger flared as he listened to his subordinate’s report.

He’d been leading anti–trafficking operations for years and had seen all kinds of rural bullies and local thugs. But this was a first: even with so many police officers in the village, these people still had the nerve to act out so brazenly.

“Miss Windsor, don’t worry. As long as we’re here, you’ll be safe. I promise,” Warren assured Ivy, then immediately grabbed his satellite phone to call his superiors and request backup.

Originally, they’d hoped to keep things quiet–just slip in, rescue the victims, and leave without causing a scene.

But now, with the situation rapidly escalating, it was clear subtlety was no longer an option. They’d have to go all–in, call in the SWAT teams, the National

Guard–whatever it took to bring this mob under control.

After a brief rest, the group pressed deeper into the mountains.

Unfortunately, as dusk fell and the shadows stretched longer, they still hadn’t found any sign of the cave they were searching for.

The sun was sinking fast, and the temperature on the shaded side of the mountain dropped sharply.

For safety’s sake, Jamison and Warren discussed their options and decided to head back, planning to try a different route in the morning.

By the time they finally struggled out of the mountains, it was nightfall–pitch black

all around.

Yet down at the foot of the mountain, a blaze of lights awaited them.

Torches flickered. Flashlights bobbed. Dozens of villagers stood ready, clutching tools and makeshift weapons, their faces tense and determined–like some medieval mob preparing to storm a castle.

To Warren’s dismay, the backup he’d requested still hadn’t arrived.

Jamison was about to ask Derek if his team had made it through, but then he saw Derek answering his phone. Derek’s face turned grim. “Mr. Jamison, the road intol the village has been dug up. Our people have to make their way on foot–it’ll take a

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while.”

Warren received the same update.

The road was blocked. No vehicles could get through. Reinforcements would be walking, and that would take precious time.

“Mr. Ludwig, Miss Windsor, don’t worry. They’re sending a helicopter. It’ll be here. soon,” Warren said quietly after finishing his call, lowering his voice for Ivy and Jamison.

With air support on the way, and more than twenty officers still with them, they could hold out for a while.

Jamison’s expression was grim and tense. Instinctively, he stepped in front of Ivy, shielding her from the villagers‘ view.

But the crowd had already identified her.

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