Jennifer’s nonchalant tone bore a hint of mockery. With the online community tearing into Kaze in the last few days, Hudson Investment Firm also felt the wrath of the public. Jennifer held it against Kaze, and with an opportunity presenting itself, she taunted him. Brushing her sarcastic remark off, Kaze said with a smile, “You sure are eager, Ms. Barwise. I will soon meet your needs.” “You! You’re such a perv, Lee!” On the other end of the line, Jennifer turned red, thinking that Kaze hit on her. “Go to hell!” Jennifer hung up in embarrassment and anger. “This woman is all about the drama.” Kaze shook his head, knowing that Jennifer took things the wrong way. Nevertheless, he did not have time to waste on her. Kaze got into the car and gave Faye a call. “K-Kaze…” Faye’s trembling voice came on the line. Kaze said aloofly, “Do you have everything?” “Yes,” Faye responded right away. “Take the documents and meet me at Desmond’s studio.” Kaze then ended t
Desmond shuddered when Kaze’s piercing gaze fell on him. His several experiences with Kaze had been rather traumatic. Nevertheless, Desmond quickly pulled himself together and sneered. “Do you really think I’m scared of you, Kaze? I dare you to hit me.” He gave Kaze a dirty look before turning to his agent, Emma. “Show the loser what I can do.” Emma nodded and waved at a staff member. Soon, a group of journalists with microphones swarmed into the hall. “You agreed to an interview, at last, Lil Dee. What are your thoughts on donating one billion dollars after the heavy storm hit the city?” “I heard many major labels are looking to make you their spokesperson. Can you share any details with us?” Desmond was popular. The press circled Desmond like sharks. As his agent handled crowd control, Desmond said out loud with a smile, “I might not be a local, but my studio is here. I donated one billion dollars to rebuild the city. “Some local businessmen or chairmen do not e
“Are you alright, Dad?” Hart’s sudden blood spill threw the Lyfes into a panic. Furrowing his brows, Kaze went up to check on him and said, “His anger got the best of him. He coughed up blood, but his chest appeared clear now. It’s probably a good idea to take him to the hospital.“Take your dad there now, Daphne.” “Alright.” Daphne wiped her tears and helped Hart to the hospital with assistance from Rove’s staff.The commotion caught the press’ attention. “Huh? Is that Mr. Hart Lyfe from Rove? Why did he spit out blood?” The cameras clicked away. It was huge news. Standing afar, Kingston scoffed and taunted. “He’s just sadfishing. Where was he when Rove set Paladia Moose up and stole our store? What’s the point of pretending to be sick now? “This is a nice story to report on. The chairman of Rove coughed out blood to gain sympathy. Hahaha.” Desmond laughed maniacally. The Lyfes were furious. “Stop with the accusations, Hacks. When did Rove ever steal your stor
Kaze pulled out his phone and called Conan to come over with backup. Kingston scoffed in disdain. “Who are you bluffing? Conan doesn’t scare me even if he arrives with his dad.” With Desmond backing him up, Kingston was not afraid of anybody. Nevertheless, Kaze’s attitude did not sit well with Kingston. “Look, Lil Dee. Lee still doesn’t take you seriously.” Kingston cocked his head back and stirred things up. Pulling a long face, Desmond said chillingly, “You’re knee-deep in trouble, but you are still clueless, Kaze. Get in your head why you are here today. You are here to save yourself and your wife’s family. “You better get on your knees now if you don’t want to die.” It had been two days since Kaze attacked him, and Desmond turned the Internet against Kaze. Even Lilyrose Commerce Guild, an institution his wife worked at, and Rove were involved. Desmond heard that the members of Lilyrose Commerce Guild caused a scene at the guild, leaving Darcy rather overwhelmed
Kaze’s words echoed across the hall. A heavy silence hung in the air, broken only by his voice. The press was stunned, their gazes fervent. That was quite an expose from Kaze. They looked at Kaze, like a dog to a bone. Some even wondered if they should contact Kaze in private to get the inside scoop. That piece of news could earn them a top spot in the media circle.Many journalists would not come across this sort of headliner in a lifetime. Desmond’s staff grimaced. Their livelihood depended on him. Desmond was very generous to his employees. If Kaze ruined Desmond, the employees might not find another generous employer like Desmond again. “Shut up, Kaze!” “It’s bold of you to say that Lil Dee made a fraudulent donation, loser. Do you have proof?” “Trust us when we say we’ll sue you for slander. I hope life sucks for you behind bars.” “Don’t listen to the loser. It’s true influencers always claim to make donations when they don’t, but not Desmond. The loser
Desmond’s staff was relieved. They started hitting Kaze with a tirade of abuse. Kingston watched the drama and mocked, “Is that all you got, Lee?“You’re a loser. Bluffing is the only thing you have up your sleeve.“Do you think you can contact the Red Foundation to send you proof? Who do you think you are? “I know Mr. Nanas of the Red Foundation. Should I call him over to hit you?” Kingston held Kaze in contempt. The Red Foundation was a nationally recognized charity. While Kaze held sway in Lilyrose, he could not possibly stand against the Red Foundation. Kaze looked askance at Kingston and said with a pretentious smile, “You probably can’t even get Greg here. You can keep asking for it. I don’t mind sending you to prison with him.” News of Greg’s arrest had not been spread yet. Kingston and Desmond had no idea that Greg was finished. “What are you saying, Lee?” Kingston was visibly upset. “Ms. Holan from the Red Foundation’s Lilyrose branch is here, Lil Dee.”
“Ugh…” Gasps filled the hall of Desmond’s workplace. The press and Desmond’s staff were shocked. The executive of the Red Foundation treated Kaze with utmost respect. Faye even delivered proof of Desmond’s fraudulent donation. Um… It was impossible. Kaze waved his arm. “I can’t be bothered to read through the file. Just distribute the document to everybody.” “Of course.” Faye nodded with respect and shared the papers with the press. The journalists took the file skeptically. Soon, a wave of emotions hit them. “Lil Dee didn’t even donate a dime.” “Why did 300 million dollars come from Lilyrose Commerce Guild’s account?” “Did he really fake a donation?” A commotion stirred among the journalists. Desmond’s staff turned ashen, and some even fell to the ground in fright. It was over. Desmond was upset. At a closer inspection, his legs were shaking too. “H-How did you get the Red Foundation to turn in the evidence, Kaze?” Desmond glared at Kaze, his
“But Mr. Hobbs, Kaze is just using the media to his advantage.” Desmond said in distress, “The press wants a headliner. They work in the media and have the resources. It will take a lot of money to settle them down.” “Then, spend a lot of money to set them straight. We are all in it for the money.” Samson said menacingly, “Just do what you are told. Make the press stand with us to crush Kaze. “If Kaze wants to dig his grave, we might as well ruin him once and for all.” As expected from a veteran in the business. Samson was able to get a grip on himself during the time crunch and figured out a way to turn the tables on Kaze. He gave Desmond careful instructions. Desmond went from being flustered to gaining confidence and composure. In the hall, some journalists pulled out their laptops to pen out an article. No one wanted to pass up reporting on the big news. They edited the headline and article, making the news piece as eye-catching as possible. Desmond put away
Darcy frowned and said, “Grandaunt, we don’t need to be afraid of Aiden Krad’s dirty tricks. As a matter of fact, I dealt with the banks and their repayments last night. “Sky Ocean Corporation is fully prepared for the upcoming auction. All our funds are being diverted and we will receive them today…” “Shut up!” Phoenix shouted to cut Darcy off. Her eyes were sharp and fierce as she said, “You are more ignorant than I thought. The bank repayments are nothing! “I heard that the auction committee raised the deposit to ten billion. You can’t even afford to qualify for that, yet you dream of opposing the Krad family? You are delusional! “I don’t want to repeat myself. Call Aiden Krad right now and drop out of the auction!” The deposit alone was ten billion?!” Agnes and Hector, who were hiding behind the crowd, were shocked by the astronomical amount. “Darcy, what are you doing standing there? Make the call!” Noticing Darcy’s silence, Agnes finally lost her patience and de
“Hmph! You’re trying to hide it? How long do you think you can keep this up?” Joan crossed her arms and scoffed. “Everyone in Riverbank knows that you’ve offended the Krads and are being sanctioned right now. “The bank cut off your loans and the suppliers refused to work with you. Sky Ocean Corporation is in a huge financial crisis and might be facing bankruptcy!” Darcy frowned. “Joan, Sky Ocean Corporation’s financial status is none of your business.” “Yeah, but it’s Madam Quint’s business!” Joan scoffed. “Darcy, don’t you forget that you are the branch head of the Quints and your duty is to make money for the family. “Madam Quint came all the way here to Riverbank from Ridgesouth because she is representing the family to inspect your work! Yet look what you've done! Why don’t you look in the mirror and see who you are? How dare you offend Aiden Krad and oppose the Krads? You’re ignorant! “One word from them and Sky Ocean Corporation is facing bankruptcy! Don’t forget th
“Thank you, Ms. Quint!” Tess and the others were overjoyed. Darcy was the main reason why they did not resign or lash out at the old lady when they were slapped. Darcy treated the employees like family and even after Aiden’s intentional sabotage, only a few resigned from the company. “Where are they?” Darcy asked Pamela. “The main meeting room.” Darcy nodded and went straight to the meeting room. Kaze, on the other hand, pondered. He glanced at Tess and the others who went behind the counter to retrieve their phones and then said to Darcy, “You go ahead, I’ll be right there.” Darcy hummed a reply and went off with Pamela. When they arrived at the entrance, they saw Phoenix and the others from the Quints, sitting around the table like they owned the place. The executives of Sky Ocean Corporation were serving water to them like they were waiters. The other branch heads of the family ordered the executives around, giving them a hard time. “A small company with no man
“Aiden Krad? Why is a man like you threatening a woman? You call that capable?” Kaze took the phone and said, “Tomorrow at the auction, I will make you kneel and beg in front of me.” “Kaze Lee?” Aiden was taken aback for a moment before he realized he was speaking to Kaze. “How dare you speak to me like that? You must have a death wish.” “Fuck off.” Kaze hung up the phone immediately. “Don’t worry about that.” As he handed the phone to Darcy, he tapped her shoulder and said, “Tomorrow, Aiden Krad won’t even have the tears to shed.” Darcy might or might not have listened to Kaze. Her brows remained furrowed along the way back. She got a few calls during the journey but she did not answer them all. Kaze’s phone rang a few times as well. One was from Agnes, but since he did not know what his mother-in-law was up to, he refused to answer. When they almost reached Sky Ocean Corporation, Darcy slowly regained her composure and senses. “Ring!” Darcy’s phone rang
Aiden’s words carried obvious threats. His tone sounded like a bloodthirsty monster warning its prey. The arrogance and confidence that originated from his family were on full display during the conversation. It was as though Darcy must step away and let him take the land or else it would defy the laws of nature. “I don’t fucking care if your family is pissed.” Darcy spat out a rare vulgar word, showing neither respect nor courtesy to the man. “We’ll see what happens at the auction tomorrow.” “Ms. Quint, it seems like you are determined to oppose me and the Krads.” Aiden’s voice turned cold as he added, “If you continue down this path, you will only be my enemy. What I have done until now is nothing but child’s play. If you really become an enemy of my family, then…” A quick pause later, his voice turned sinister, and said, “Believe me, you will regret it.” “You’re threatening me?” Darcy scoffed in disdain. Aiden explained, “I am merely stating a fact. I know you are
“It’s like a fish in water, a tiger in the woods. To the Steelclaw Guild, at least in Riverbank, no one can stop them if they want to leave.” Kaze nodded, agreeing to Leron’s explanation. He quickly put the thought of pursuit aside. The Steelclaw Guild had been around for many years and its existence and strong influence became answers to many questions. “Let’s go back to Riverbank,” Kaze said to Darcy. Darcy looked hesitant. She carefully looked around and asked, “We’re just going back like that? Should we call the bodyguards or something?” She was terrified about what just happened and she still had not completely calmed down. She became aware of her surroundings and cautious of the people who appeared before her, assuming that they were people with malicious intentions. Kaze knew that she was under high pressure and anxiety for the past two days, especially after what happened. Siberian’s assassination attempt only made her condition worse. It all started with Aiden’
Leron said, “The Eight Tigers named themselves that just to look good. As a matter of fact, the four who died a while ago were just recruited to fill in the numbers. “As for the top four tigers such as Siberian, each of them has their own characteristics and traits. Siberian is responsible for the assassination and is one of the strongest and fastest members of the organization. “I believed Mr. Lee just experienced it first-hand.” Kaze narrowed his eyes. “So Siberian is after me?” He then pulled his phone out to dial a number. “Kaze, my brother, what can I do for you?” A while later, South’s voice came from the phone. Rumors about Casius dying at Kaze’s hands had been circulating around these days, but most of the common citizens did not believe it. No one believed a useless live-in husband could do something that atrocious. However, South believed otherwise because he saw what Kaze could do with his own eyes. It explained why he kept his arrogance and confidence of
It was the familiar sound of a handgun equipped with a silencer. Kaze breathed a sigh of relief. Leron had arrived! He had been tailing them, secretly protecting them from the shadows. Right after the first shot, two more shots sounded. It was Leron’s signature triangle shot, used to block a target from escaping. The old killer initially charged at Kaze from the left but he quickly did a side flip, twisting his body in a freaky manner, and escaped from the trajectory of the triangle shot. All three shots missed—two shots hit the wall, and one hit the ground. The impact chipped off a small part of the wall and ground, leaving behind deep holes. “Huh? Interesting.” Even Kaze was surprised by the old killer’s response. The killer was not just good at assassination, but his body was also agile and extraordinarily nimble. Leron had been following Kaze for a while now and participated in multiple fights. Other than Kaze himself, he had never seen anyone who could do
“Whoosh!” The swift swing of the dagger left a huge cut on Kaze’s shirt at the abdomen. The old man had switched his stance to kneeling on one knee. The pain in his eyes had been replaced by frosty murderous intent, with a hint of shock and resentment as if he did not expect Kaze to dodge the lethal blow. “Old man, you’re a wicked one.” Kaze was also shocked. He looked down at his collar T-shirt and the wide opening at his stomach. The chilling wind on his skin sent chills down his spine. A split second later he would be gutted on the spot. “Swoosh!” After missing the ambush, the old man jumped like a nimble fox for a follow-up attack. This time, he switched his target from Kaze to Darcy. The dagger in his hand glared coldly as it thrusted toward Kaze’s chest. He was shocked that Kaze was able to dodge his lethal blow. He also realized Kaze was a tough opponent, so he switched to an easier one—Darcy. He acted like a gambler who had lost everything. With nothing