My Substitute CEO Bride (Nash Calicraft) novel Chapter 2179

"Since that's the case, let me show you my strength!" Benedict shouted, beginning his ascent up the mountain with his bare hands.

Step by step, he made his way toward the summit.

As expected, the mountain was incredibly high, and it was nearly impossible for an average person to sustain the climb for even half an hour.

Predictably, Benedict fell repeatedly, only to rise and start again each time.

"It's not over yet!" he yelled, even as his energy drained away.

Despite his exhaustion, he refused to give up. Gradually, the mountain did not seem as insurmountable.

He kept pushing forward, his hands and feet now completely raw and bleeding. Still, he did not stop. He gritted his teeth and continued to climb.

Unfortunately, he fell again.

Previously, he had managed to use his true energy as a cushion, avoiding severe injuries. This time was different. Having reached a higher point, his strength and energy were utterly depleted, leaving him unable to protect himself with true energy.

This fall ultimately broke his leg.

Perhaps the injuries within the barrier felt different. Benedict experienced excruciating pain, and thoughts of giving up flooded his mind.

A voice whispered persistently, "Just go back the way you came. No one will blame you. You've done your best."

"Shut up! Shut up!" Benedict slapped himself and stood up again tremblingly. "I can do it!" he declared, limping his way up once more.

The outcome was predictable. He barely made it halfway before falling again.

"Give up. You've tried so hard already. It's enough. No one expects you to do this."

"Shut... up," Benedict muttered, barely conscious as he rose once more.