The meeting took place at a hotel in the city center of Yrinas.The economy of Yrinas was not well-developed. The government heavily targeted their primary source of income. Thus, the wealth did not bring any benefits to the common folks.Many roads in Yrinas had potholes. Although the highway had deteriorated, no one repaired it. Moreover, there were random toll booths in various places.In general, the city was in a chaotic state.When Ethan arrived, Ashton and his men were already waiting. After a rough journey, displeasure was evident on Ethan's face.As soon as he entered the room, Ashton noticed Ethan was not in a good mood and frowned. Gordon had realized it, too.Gordon approached Ethan with a fawning expression. "Hey, man. What's wrong with you?"Ethan glared at Gordon, irritation written all over his face."What have you been up to all these years? Don't you know how to make a proper arrangement? Why did you choose this godforsaken place?" he questioned.His words le
Ethan tapped his fingers on the table, demanding, "Let's split it 40-60. I'll take 60% and 40% for you!""I get 40% and you'll have 60%? So, you'll handle the distribution while I'm in charge of the channels?" Ashton asked with a frown.Yet, Ethan raised his index finger and wagged it."No, no. The only thing I'll provide is my team. They'll teach your men how to manufacture the drugs. As for everything else, it's your responsibility."Ashton's frown deepened upon hearing that. "Mr. Lynch, are you saying you're only giving us the formula? And I have to take care of the materials, labs, clientele, and others?"You're in the same business, Mr. Lynch. You should understand how risky this is. What I mentioned earlier are just minor issues."There's a high possibility that there will be casualties. The Celestrian police are strict about this."I'll be honest with you. I've been facing problems recently. My goods got looted, and a lot of my men were hurt."How am I supposed to pay th
Ethan and Silas left the hotel. After getting into the car, Ethan asked the latter, "Could Ashton be Benjamin's dad's illegitimate son?""No idea. Even though they look alike, I don't think they're brothers. As you said, Ashton is like a knockoff version," answered Silas.He added, "Look at how pretentious he was with his long shirt and rosary beads. If Benjamin were anything like that, Victoria definitely wouldn't fall for him."But I'm not sure. I'll make a call and find out.""Benjamin is just as pretentious. The two of them are as bad as each other. Who are you calling?"Silas replied, "Yves."Ethan quickly stopped him. "What does Yves know? I'll make the call. Let me ask Vicky."Silas cast a sympathetic look at Ethan upon hearing that. Yet, the former immediately exposed him, saying, "Just go ahead and call Victoria if you want to."While they were talking, Ethan had already taken out his phone. He proceeded to dial Victoria's number, but no one answered."Could it be tha
Benjamin and Ethan worked together, tackling the situation simultaneously.Soon, Ashton found out that people in Lostaria and Mysonna knew about what Ethan had. He was furious and lashed out at Gordon."Boss, you really can't blame me for this. I wanted to stick with him 24/7 and fulfill the duties of a gracious host," answered Gordon.He continued, "But he simply wouldn't have it. You've seen Mr. Lynch's temper. He's a madman."When he asked me to get lost, I didn't dare to stay any longer. But I did ask if we could negotiate the split further."He said as long as we have something that intrigues him, he'd consider it. He's been searching for that woman lately."Horkville wasn't far from Yrinas. Moreover, Gordon was a local big shot. He could easily bring Victoria to Yrinas.But Gordon was a coward.Benjamin spent money without restraint. Formidable bodyguards armed with guns also surrounded him. He was worried about potential mishaps."If you keep dragging this out, he'll me
At that moment, Victoria had already regained consciousness. First, she texted Benjamin to let him know she was safe. Then, she sat by the window with Wendy.She had spent the last two days lying in bed. After a bumpy ride, Victoria couldn't stand lying down any longer.There were low wooden houses outside, and the road was made of concrete.They saw half-naked men walking around. Moreover, all of them had guns holstered at their waists.In the distance, there were trees. The house was hidden among the densely packed trees."Victoria, this should be their main base, right?"Victoria immediately shot a warning glance at Wendy. The latter understood. She covered her mouth and gently hit herself."Sorry! It's supposed to be Mrs. Harper. Look at all these men. They're short and chubby."They're even exposing their bellies. It's truly an eyesore."However, Victoria was not interested in that topic.Seeing that Victoria was ignoring her, Wendy remarked dejectedly, "It's all trees
The room had an attached bathroom.Wendy and Victoria entered together. In the bathroom, there was a bathtub.Right then, the tub was being filled with water.Wendy leaned closer to Victoria, whispering, "I can see Mr. Jones is ruthless. But didn't they say he's emotionally stable?"He acted like a madman earlier. Is there a problem with your information source?"Wendy let her imagination flow as she continued, "He looks so much like Benjamin. Even their dressing style is the same. I'm sure this isn't a coincidence."Could he be Benjamin's brother? Perhaps he's the abandoned illegitimate son?"He resents Benjamin for his social status, and that's why he wants revenge. But he also admires Benjamin, so he imitates his behaviors and habits."Wendy was an avid romance novel reader. Hence, she did it methodically when it came to analyzing the plot.Victoria pondered on it. She recalled what Ashton had said and how he had acted earlier.He indeed showed signs of both admiration and
Ethan wore a flashy pink suit. He appeared like a playboy trying to charm married women.Victoria was at a loss for words at how foolish he looked.On the other hand, Wendy burst into laughter. Then, like a country bumpkin, she mocked, "Mrs. Harper, look at him. He's all decked out in pink!"Ethan's handsome face turned grim instantly."Keep quiet if you can't say nice things. If not, I'll rip out your tongue!" he threatened.Wendy hurriedly covered her mouth with both hands and shook her head in fear.Reacting swiftly, Victoria stepped in front of her. "I don't know who you are! Are you the one who ordered them to bring me here? Release me from this place immediately!"Wendy removed her hands from her mouth, adding fuel to the fire. "Mrs. Harper only has eyes for Mr. Harper! She'll never be interested in any other man with him around!"Fearlessly, she finished speaking. Then, she covered her mouth again and hid behind Victoria.Seeing that, the two men Ashton sent to lead Eth
Ashton chuckled. "You have both the formula and the personnel. If I allow you to take her, you might break your word and team up with others."If so, wouldn't my efforts be in vain? I'd even gain another enemy. That woman's man is not to be messed with, either."It's risky to be in our line of work. We can't afford to offend those who have a bit of power."Ethan scoffed in response. "So, you don't trust me. Why work with me when you don't even have fundamental trust?""I can give you that woman, Mr. Lynch. After all, she's a gift we've gone to great lengths to prepare for you."Ashton expressed his thoughts eloquently. However, he overlooked the chilling, murderous intent that flashed in Ethan's eyes when he referred to Victoria as a gift."You can see her anytime you want, Mr. Lynch. You can even stay here for an extended period," Ashton continued."But until we reach an agreement, you can't take her away. As far as I know, her man is looking for her everywhere. It won't be saf