Chapter 196 Payback is imminent

Laura's composure slipped for the briefest of moments before the mask reasserted itself. "You...how dare you show your face to me, you wretched little--" "Careful, now," Mariama chided, holding up a hand to silence her. "We wouldn't want to say anything untoward, would we?" She began to circle Laura, her movements slow and deliberate, like a predator sizing up its prey. "I must admit, I'm impressed you took the bait so readily. Though I suppose greed has always been one of your more...defining traits." Laura's eyes flashed with fury, but she held her tongue, clearly weighing her options. Mariama could practically see the calculations whirring behind those cold, cunning eyes. "What is this about, Mariama?" Laura demanded at last, her voice tight with barely restrained venom. "If you think you can intimidate me with these pathetic mind games--" "Mind games?" Mariama arched an eyebrow, allowing a slow, cruel smile to spread across her lips. "Oh no, Laura. This is far more...visceral