I clenched my fists and walked onto the stage, forcing my face to stay calm. “I’m here today to apologize to Dr. Nivianne Sloane. What I said before online was a misunderstanding. I’m sorry for the damage I caused.”
The whole hall erupted.
“The nerve of her, smearing a doctor’s name like that.”
“So it was all a lie? I knew she just wanted attention.”
“Poor Dr. Sloane, having to endure this kind of slander.”
“Imagine the shame—dragging herself up here just to beg forgiveness.”
“Wilbert must be furious. No wonder he replaced her.”
People whispered, pointed, accused me of smearing her name. I didn’t explain. I couldn’t. I just wanted to get it over with and leave.
But as I stepped off the stage, Nivianne’s syrupy voice followed me. “Anika, I left something in the car. Can you fetch it for me?”
“No,” I said flatly. “Ask the waiter.”
She put on that fake pout and clung to Wilbert’s arm. “But I trust Anika more. Only she can handle my things.”
Wilbert stroked her hand and looked at me with that same commanding stare. I already knew what it meant. Refuse, and I’d pay for it later.
So I turned and walked out.
.....
The air outside felt heavier than the hall. I barely made it to the car before the roar of an engine cut through the night. A car screeched to a stop right in front of me, and before I could even take a step back, the door flew open.
A man in black rushed at me, his eyes cold and hateful. My heart dropped into my stomach. I tried to run, but he yanked my hair back so hard I nearly fell. His hand cracked across my face, the sting sending my vision sideways.
“Who are you?!” My voice cracked and I tasted blood in my mouth. “There are cameras everywhere. Do you really dare to touch me here?”
The man in black only sneered. His eyes were cold and empty. “I’m the one sent to teach you a lesson. You offended Miss Sloane. Just being touched is too easy for you. You should be dead.”
He yanked my hair and smashed my head into the car window.
“Ahhh!”
Glass shattered and I felt warm blood sliding down my face. He slammed me again and again until the window was painted red with my blood. My head spun and I couldn’t even fight back because he was too strong.