“Are you telling us that Mr. Heartano doesn’t mind that you attacked him and would be delivering the contract to you himself? Do you take Mr. Heartano or us for fools?“You can count yourself lucky if Mr. Heartano lets you off the hook. You should stop daydreaming about the impossible.” Naix sneered. “I nearly forgot. “Kaze even threatened Mr. Heartano at the Royal Familia Hotel, saying that he’d leave Mrs. Heartano without a son if Mr. Heartano didn’t show up outside Gwake Corporation on his knees with the contract before three. “Oh, I’m so scared.“Mr. Heartano’s family runs one of the three biggest multinational organizations in Geranium City. Yet, Kaze had the nerve to intimidate him. It’s absurd.“Does he think he’s all that just because he won a few fights?” Naix laughed maniacally while the senior executives and directors looked at Kaze as if the latter was a clown. Kaze must be out of his mind. He was delusional. Kaze sure took bragging to a whole new level.
Jude clearly intended to use the wager as an opportunity to break Kaze’s limb, not only to appease Kiefer but also to get back at him for his past behavior. Besides, the incident should not deter Kaze from treating Faith. Jude was always looking for ways to turn a situation to his advantage and come out on top. Kaze looked at Jude with a pretentious smile. Just as Jude was about to get annoyed, he nodded. “Fine. We can go along with the wager.” “Ha. We should wait until three—” Jude smirked. “Wham!” The door to the meeting room was opened from the outside, interrupting Jude from talking. The president’s assistant showed up and reported confusedly, “I have a call from the lobby receptionist that a Mr. Heartano from Geranium City is outside the building on his knees, pleading to see you and Mr. Lee, Ms. Gwake.” “What?” The meeting room broke out in a clamor. As if on cue, the second hand of Jude’s Rolex ticked precisely to three o'clock.“What? Mr. Heartano is outsi
The group of men and women gathered around a poised lady.Despite her bearing, the lady gave off an intimidating presence from her harsh facial lines and piercing gaze. A young man kneeled by the lady’s feet, his arm hanging limply, and his face bruised. He shuddered on his knees with a mix of resentment and fear. Jude and everybody else were shocked. They recognized who the lady was. It was Miya. She was Kiefer’s mother, the lady of the Heartano household.The young man by her feet must be Kiefer. With Miya looking grim, Naix laughed in delight and drew close to Kaze and Buffy. He said with a menacing smile, “You’re dead meat, Kaze! “Do you actually think that Mr. Heartano would be here to hand you the contract and apologize? “Don’t be delusional!“Mrs. Heartano is clearly angry with her son because he couldn’t take care of a riffraff like you.“Even so, she’s here to stand up for her son.“We are safe since we can hand you, the culprit, over.” Jude and the comp
Thinking about it, Jude was convinced that Miya was nice because he was about to become the Viper’s Den South River State Branch chief. Miya must be here to apologize upon learning that her son upset his daughter. Given Miya’s business interest in Riverbank, she needed to know that Riverbank was the Viper’s Den’s turf despite her family’s influence. The Heartanos were in Jude’s territory as guests. With that in mind, Jude felt like he was on cloud nine. He burst out laughing and said, “You’re too kind, Mrs. Heartano. We’ve done business together before, and I’m sure there will be many more opportunities in the future.“It’s our honor to have you visit the company.” Feigning ignorance, Jude asked, “What brings you here today, Mrs. Heartano?“If anyone from Gwake Corporation has upset you in any way, please let me know. “I will address the issue to your satisfaction. “I will start with breaking his limbs,” Jude said angrily. Many directors and executives, including Naix
Despite her son’s suffering, Miya remained indifferent throughout. She behaved as if Kiefer was not her son. Miya said sternly, “Apologize to Ms. Gwake now. “Consider yourself dead if Ms. Gwake isn’t happy with your apology. “I have your coffin ready.” The group behind Miya spread out, and several burly men approached, lugging a coffin. The coffin was dropped to the ground with a loud thud. Jude and the others were in disbelief. While others watched in shock, Kiefer wiggled to straighten his back, despite his limp arm, and bowed to Buffy. “I’m sorry, Ms. Gwake. I was blind. “I shouldn’t have humiliated you in public or asked for sexual favors.“I was dumb and cocky. I was out of my mind. “Please see it in your heart to forgive me!” “Bam! Bam! Bam!” Kiefer smashed his head on the floor again and again. His forehead made solid contact with the hard ground each time. Soon, Kiefer was bleeding profusely out of his head, and blood smeared his handsome face. He c
Had Kaze not kept Miya in check, she would have been more aggressive and overbearing than her son. Kiefer was just a chip off the old block. Miya only kept her head down after Kaze put her in her place repeatedly. Hence, Miya was just playing the victim, showing everybody that Kaze could do anything to her son. However, by expressing remorse, Miya hoped Kaze would show mercy to her son and not kill him. Jude and the others took things the other way, though. They initially assumed that Miya had made a big scene and pushed her son to kneel to build up to a major confrontation. Now, they were confused. Even if it was just an act, Miya did not have to go to lengths to punish her son. They had to wonder if Miya had indeed brought her son along to apologize. Plus, Miya’s tearful eyes were rather convincing. In that case, Kaze and Buffy sure were lucky. It appeared that Miya did not intend to hold Buffy and Kaze accountable for the incident before. Kaze was just a hic
Still, Jude had seen worse. To smooth things over, he let out a nonchalant smile and turned to Buffy. “Mr. Heartano is sincere with his apology, Buffy. “As your father, I’m putting an end to this matter and forgiving Mr. Heartano.“What do you think?” Instead of responding to Judy, Buffy looked in Kaze’s direction. Though Buffy had no idea what was going on, she was sure about one thing. Miya and Kiefer were at Gwake Corporation, likely due to Kaze. It dawned on Buffy why Kaze was so certain Kiefer would show up outside Gwake Corporation on his knees at three o’clock sharp. Buffy said nothing, effectively putting the decision-making to Kaze. “It could be a lot better.” Kaze said to Jude crudely, “You weren’t the one publicly insulted and demanded of sexual favors. “What right do you have to forgive on behalf of Buffy?” Jude grimaced hard. Anger, resentment, humiliation, and confusion washed over him. Though baffled, the company staff believed Kaze was playing wit
Kiefer shuddered and looked up. He said with a crying face, “I should kneel outside Gwake Corporation with St. Mary’s agency rights before three.” “At least you remember.” Kaze extended his arm. “Did you bring the contract?” Kiefer turned to look at his mother pleadingly. Miya retrieved a stack of papers from her subordinate and drew close. “Mr. Lee, St. Mary’s belongs to you. Just say the word, and the agency contract is yours. “You could’ve called if you wanted the contract. I’d have delivered the paperwork to you. “You didn’t have to go all the way to the Royal Familia Hotel.” Miya presented the document, her head hanging low. She spoke ingratiatingly with a big smile. Silence hung heavy in the air. “Um…” “Uh, what did Mrs. Heartano say?” “What does she mean?” Gwake Corporation employees, including Jude, were dumbfounded. Kaze took the contract and said without looking up, “They didn’t hear you. Why don’t you repeat yourself?” Miya straightened her head a
Dwight approached with a smile. He looked at Edmund earnestly. “I am Dwight McCorney. I have heard good things about you. I finally got to meet the man of the hour. “It’s an honor to meet you, Mr. Witterson.” Dwight was starstruck. Edmund was embarrassed by Dwight’s behavior. He could not believe that Dwight was a member of the Viper’s Den. Nevertheless, Dwight seemed genuine in expressing his thrill. Edmund became curious about him. He turned around to look at Kaze, who was the polar opposite of Dwight. Kaze stood there, holding his ground. He stood up to greet Edmund and nothing else. He appeared to be refined, unlike Dwight, who was brash. Dwight had no idea that his behavior had upset Edmund. Edmund looked at Dwight in disdain. However, Dwight was a member of the Viper’s Den. It was best for Edmund to keep his comments to himself. Without a word, Edmund stared at the pair. Ryan stepped in to smooth things over. “What are you doing? We have a guest here.
Since Kaze would not change these people’s minds, he was better off doing what he wanted to do. “This vase must be valuable. I got to give it to Mr. Witterson. A display in the living room is worth so much.” Dwight had never seen so much luxury in one room. He had been to the museum, but the displays were nothing like he had ever seen before. The rich had the means to splurge. “Do you think this is pure gold?” Dwight turned to a gold statue. The design was to die for. The purity of color made it hard to doubt its authenticity. “I’m not too sure, but I guess most of the ornaments here are real.”Kaze watched as Dwight gasped in awe. Nevertheless, his behavior would clear any suspicion on Kaze. It could be a good thing. “I knew Mr. Witterson was rich. His businesses are doing well. “But I didn’t expect this sort of lifestyle. The gold must be worth a million dollars. “If I were this wealthy, I would not spend it on decoration.” Dwight rambled on, his eyes stuck t
“I’m not familiar with the area. We’ll have to look around,” Dwight said behind the wheel. He looked for restaurants while driving. It was early, and many restaurants were not open for business. They circled the block and finally uncovered a small breakfast bar. They ordered some food, filled their bellies, and got back into the car. “Mr. Witterson said that he wouldn’t meet you. Why does he want to see you now?” Dwight was curious. Something must have happened last night. Otherwise, Edmund would not suddenly grant an audience to Kaze. “I don’t know. I had some drinks last night, and now he probably made time.” Kaze felt better after breakfast. He did not think much of the situation. Things would carry on as planned regardless of what the Wittersons or the Siegfrieds had to say.This was exactly what Kaze hoped for. Dwight remained in the dark. He drove to the city’s most exclusive area for the rich. It was all greenery in this part of town. The road was wider, an
After a brief hesitation, Kaze followed Rosie. The room turned out to be Rosie’s. Though not a big room, it was crammed with all kinds of junk. The place looked cluttered. Rosie approached the vanity table and grabbed the comb to comb her hair. She turned to look at Kaze. “You said a lot of stuff last night. Do you remember any of it?” Rosie spoke like they had been friends for years. It was just small talk. “What did I say? I don’t really remember. You made a lovely drink, but man, it really kicked in.” Kaze put a cigarette to his lips, but he did not light it. Instead, he spotted a chair to sit down on. “Well, it’s pointless to talk about it if you can’t remember.” Rosie was pleased to hear that. At least, Kaze had no idea that she had gotten him drunk. “Don’t leave me hanging.” Kaze looked peeved. “Are you off the clock?” Kaze asked. “Yes. I work odd hours. It’s time for me to sleep now.” Rosie stared at Kaze. “I shouldn’t keep you from resting.”
“Can you give me something for the pain?” Clemont had a low tolerance for pain. Standing on the stairway, Morris heard his voice and sighed. Clemont could do no good in his eyes. “Keep an eye on him. He’s not allowed to leave the house for the time being.” Morris believed the incident was more than meets the eye. Yet, Clemont was tricked into going to Absolute Zero and starting shit. There was no telling whether the Wittersons or someone else was behind it. Morris let out a sigh and returned to the study. He sent the butler to the storage room to fetch a few valuable antiques. These items were collected years ago, and they cost a fortune. Morris’ intention was to be on good terms with the Wittersons. There was no need to be at war with them. He had to do it for the interest of the Viper’s Den and his family. Morris was all about looking at the bigger picture. Otherwise, he would not have put up with all the bullshit before. Edmund would not let him off the ho
“Are you trying to kill your son?” Clara intervened. “You’re ruining him by spoiling him. If you want things to continue as they were, you can kiss him goodbye forever,” Morris said. Clara was lost for words. She knew better, but she just could not stop herself. Clemont had her heart. Clara could not stand to see him hurt. She was distressed. However, she knew that Morris would not get over the matter without beating Clemont up. She had to step in. “Hit him!” Morris was too old to do anything laborious. However, the kid would not go anywhere in life without a good beating. Despite starting trouble, he sure was arrogant to admit that he was wrong. “I see the errors of my ways.” Clemont apologized in time to avoid the punishment. He managed to escape all repercussions by doing so. Plus, his mother would plead on his behalf. The whole thing would usually get brushed aside. Though it was more serious in this instance, Clemont still believed that Morris would not hur
Morris was in his study, wiping a plaque of commandments that was covered in dust. Due to his commitment to the Viper’s Den, he had neglected his family for years and left his son in his wife’s care. Morris regretted doing so. Unaware of the impending danger, Clemont enjoyed drinks with his friends. They were having fun, playing drinking games. Losing the game, Clemont downed a glass of liquor. Things could get far and exciting in a game. It was then that the door swung open. Clemont’s driver entered the room. “Young Master Siegfried, the master is waiting for you at home,” the driver said, noting the complexity of the situation. The only thing on his mind was to take Clemont away. Tipsy from the drinks, Clemont waved his arm. “Let him wait. What’s the rush to get home?” Clemont’s friends were shocked. Nothing scared Clemont like his father. However, Clemont toughened up for once. “Young Master Siegfried, why don’t you call it a night?” “Yeah. I’m sur
“What’s that supposed to mean? When have I ever made a mistake?” Morris heard nothing of that sort. It could only mean that his people had done nothing wrong. However, Edmund could not possibly get aggressive on the phone. Something must have happened, and he simply had no idea. Morris felt unsettled like something big was about to happen. “You seem to be lax when managing your people. You don’t seem to know what goes on around your house.“Is your age getting to you? Is that why you can’t handle most of the work? If you can’t get your own house in order, how will you ever manage the Viper’s Den Westeros Branch?” Edmund called to say his piece. It was his way to make Morris step down. Though it was likely that Morris would resign, Edmund could at least make things unpleasant for him. “What’s that supposed to mean?” Morris was completely in the dark, but Edmund must hold some secret to act so cocky. Despite his troubled feelings, Morris kept his cool and calmly aske
Since it was a rare opportunity, Edmund had to settle the score with them properly. He knew opportunities like this were hard to come by so he had to seize them well. “I understand. I will take care of the guest,” Rosie said. She was glad that her information was useful to her boss. After Edmund hung up the phone, Rosie then looked at the unconscious Kaze. “You are indeed more useful than I thought. Hardly anyone has ever managed to impress Edmund.” She did not feel sorry for Kaze, believing that everything happened as it was meant to. She knew that to climb higher, she had to please her superior. With the Wittersons on the rise, now was the perfect time for her to pledge her loyalty to Edmund. When the Wittersons truly took over the Westeros Branch, she would become one of the most powerful people in the city, second only to them. She was looking forward to that day. Since Kaze was fast asleep and no arrangements could be made, Rosie went out to call her men and