: 83 +8 Pearls The enormous display showed various " games " -races between humans and crocodiles , people being used as shooting targets , gambling , and even life - and - death struggles with tigers . The scenes were gruesome , and Clara was terrified . " You know why the father turned to violence ? " Howard asked , his voice calm and measured . " It's because his son is kind. The father's abandonment of his family shows how selfish he is . With debts piling up and the threat of death looming without money , do you think someone that selfish wouldn't take desperate measures ? " He noticed her fear and studied her closely . Her beautiful face , her eyes clear and innocent , and her small , tight lips - something about her stirred something within him . " I don't want the project any longer . Goodbye , Mr. Xander ," Clara managed , using all her strength to get the words out . She stepped back , but her legs felt stiff and made it hard to move . " There's no need for a fruitless endeavor . You might have lost , but you could still win . " Howard closed the distance between them , leaning in close to whisper in her ear , " Let's play a game . If you win , you won't just get the project , but also ... " A sly smile formed on his lips , the feeling of his breath on her skin sending a shiver down her spine . She turned to him with a flicker of unsureness in her gaze . " You hate betting with other people's lives , but your own life is yours to gamble . Pick one of the games on the screen . If you win , I'll keep my word . " He waited patiently for her decision . Clara glanced at the various " life and death " games displayed on the screen again . " Alright , I'll make a bet ." If she could win ... " You're decisive ! " He applauded her , then led her toward the arena where the " life and death " games took place . After winding through several corridors , they reached a massive underground arena . The audience in the stands buzzed as they placed bets on who would survive . The participants were close to death and there out of desperation for cash . " Choose whichever game you want . Rest assured , everyone in the stands is alright , as they won't know your identity . They're all wealthy heirs , playboys , or business elites - all with something to hide - so they won't spill any secrets about this place ." Anyone who entered had to go through extensive screening and hand over leverage before being allowed inside . The place was completely concealed from the outside world . Howard's explanation had made her realize how dangerous he truly was with a mind far more twisted 1/2 11:53 Sat , Oct 18 M ... She looked around the arena . The games included people being fixed as targets and shot at , and tiger fights that offered no escape . The only option she had was the crocodile race - she could swim . Her hand instinctively reached for her silver needles - only three remained . " Crocodiles , " Clara said , meeting Howard's calm gaze . She wasn't sure if three silver needles would suffice for her to win . Crocodiles were tough , with thick hides . " Take her to the ' crocodile ' competition , " he ordered his lackeys . " Push everyone else back and let her go first . " " Yes , sir ! " the lackey responded and led her off . Not long after , another lackey approached him and reported , " Mr. Xander , Michael is here ." Send Gifts ( 11 ) Discover our latest featured short drama reel. Watch now and enjoy the story!