“Moses has been around the scene for quite some time, and he has worked in the network for many years. He is pretty reputable in the city. Do you want to see him?” Caleb asked with respect. “The director of Lilyrose TV Station?” Without looking up, Kaze replied, “He can enter.” Soon, a middle-aged man with a balding spot cautiously followed Caleb into the office. “Mr. Mayor, this is Mr. McKentucky from Lilyrose TV Station,” Caleb said. Moses realized the new mayor was exactly as rumored when he laid eyes on Kaze. The mayor was younger than he imagined. “Hello, Mr. Mayor. Just call me Moses,” Moses said while drawing close with a nod. Kaze greeted back aloofly and asked, “Caleb said you are briefing me on a business report. Is it related to the award for exemplary journalism?” “Huh?” Though taken aback, Moses quickly replied, “That’s right, Mr. Mayor. Sherry Zauer is the candidate we chose to represent Lilyrose TV Station. She’s the host of the financial channel.“A
“K-Kaze?” Sherry suspected that she was seeing things. She was hallucinating from either overindulgence or fatigue. Sherry did not expect to see Kaze there. The mayor’s office held the core power in the city, and it was also the most prestigious place.Kaze was a loser. The last place he belonged was the mayor’s office. Sherry shook his head and took a couple of steps for a closer look. She was shocked. The man standing behind the desk was indeed Kaze. Sherry was stunned. Thanks to Sherry’s great effort to spread rumors for the past two days, Kaze had become the subject of ridicule and criticism in the city. The way Sherry saw it, Kaze should be holing up at home or considering leaving the city. However, the man stood overtly in the mayor’s office. With her head spinning, Sherry pointed at Kaze and yelled angrily, “What are you doing here, loser? “This is not a place for a vile scumbag like you.” Sherry’s words echoed in the office. Caleb, Moses, and oth
Moses was frightened. Sherry was an idiot to land them both in hot water. It was clear that the mayor was not pleased with the local network. Moses wiped the cold sweat off his forehead and said awkwardly, “M-Mr. Mayor, I don’t understand Sherry’s sudden outburst.“Our network has the utmost respect for you. We don’t mean to offend you.” While talking, he glanced at Kaze, who carried a blank face, and kicked Sherry to the ground. Sherry fell on her bottom, her hair ruffled. Moses gave her a couple of boots. “Argh! It hurts, Daddy! Don’t hit me!” Sherry cried out in pain while rolling on the ground. “What are you talking about? I’m not your daddy.” Moses nearly wet his pants. He grabbed a chunk of Sherry’s hair and pulled her up to slap her face repeatedly. “I’m not related to you at all. Don’t act like we’re close.“I’ll kill you if you continue to make false claims.” Moses did not hold back from hitting Sherry. The bad blood between Kaze and Sherry was a
It hit Moses that the person Sherry had poured all means to destroy was Kaze. Despite Moses’ pleading, Kaze stood firm on his stance. Kaze said ruthlessly, “Instead of sacking her, you send your well-used plaything to me.“You sure think little of me, Mr. McKentucky.” “Thud!” Moses fell back to the ground, the sparkle in his eyes dimming. He knew he was done for. It was clear to him that Kaze would not let him get away with it. Most importantly, Moses had nothing to say about it. Kaze’s words rang true. Without looking at Moses, Kaze told Caleb indifferently, “It’s time to purge the local network from top to bottom. “Lilyrose TV Station represents Lilyrose. Yet, it is a place of corruption.” “Of course, sir.” Caleb shuddered. Since Caleb introduced Moses to Kaze, he was to blame for what had happened. He knew that he had lost trust with the mayor. Caleb needed to earn Kaze’s trust back. Hence, he summoned his employee. “Send out a circular detailing Mo
The journalists’ words sealed Zenny’s and Sherry’s fate, and not in a good way. In less than half an hour, Zenny’s attack on Sherry went viral online. That was when the truth came to light. In an attempt to acquire Shangrila Group, Sherry colluded with Zenny to paint Kaze and Winnie’s relationship as improper. It was a shameless act. The public condemned Sherry and Zenny. Utterly disgraced, Sherry and Zenny became public enemy number one. The next day, Lilyrose TV Station issued a public apology and statement to Kaze and Darcy’s family which included the termination of Moses and Sherry. Since then, Moses and Sherry disappeared from the city. Rumor had it that Sherry was spotted in a high-end club in Sunrise City, entertaining her usual clientele of the rich and powerful. A contrast to her previous inclination, Sherry had to parade around with a smile on her face now. Winnie, the victim of the very publicized scandal, came forward courageously and filed for divorc
“Four Ocean Commerce Guild is looking to procure me as their high-level member and wants to do an observation on me,” Darcy said. Lilyrose was just a tiny market to conquer. Quartet Group and Sky Ocean Corporation were bound to expand to Sunrise City and the entire nation. The businesses were bound to cross paths with Four Ocean Commerce Guild to make an entry into Sunrise City. Four Ocean Commerce Guild happened to contact Darcy to take her in as a member. Darcy wanted to grab the opportunity to establish a positive relationship with the guild. Sensing Kaze’s reluctance, Darcy said, “You’re going with me, Kaze. I have made plans with the representatives of Four Ocean Commerce Guild.“Expanding your network will help with your career.” Kaze’s high tolerance for alcohol was not the only reason Darcy was bringing him along. She wanted him to engage with the representatives of Four Ocean Commerce Guild and lay the groundwork for his networking. Picking up the concern in Da
“Get out! Get out now!” With Darcy staying put in the car, the sidekick kicked the door harder. The Maserati door was dented with several shoe prints. All the while, the man with the sunglasses stood there aloofly. Darcy was heartbroken for her car because this was the first car Kaze had ever given to her. She looked around. By then, many passersby stopped to watch the commotion. Although the group looked mean, she believed they would not do anything to her in broad daylight. She rolled down her window and said, “Stop kicking the car. I’ll get out now.”Samuel Lockson, the sidekick, scoffed and moved back two steps. Darcy opened the door and got out of the car. “Wow. This woman is hot, and she’s rich too. Look at the million-dollar car she drives.” “Don’t you know her? She’s the chairman of Sky Ocean Corporation, Darcy Quint. She rear-ended the car.” Darcy was well-known in Lilyrose. Sherry’s false claims in the last two days had become the talk of the town. Man
Darcy was surprised. She heard of the Sunrise Glitters, a wealthy and powerful family equivalent to the Lees. Leigh’s father was the trustee of Four Ocean Commerce Guild. The guild intended to take her in as a member too. Talk about a twist of fate. Nevertheless, those close to Darcy would know she was a woman of principle. She would not let the whole thing go because of Leigh’s relationship to Four Ocean Commerce Guild. “Hello, Mr. Glitter. Did you make me rear-end you?” Since Leigh was clearly trying to take advantage of her, Darcy did not reach her hand out for the handshake. Instead, she grilled him courteously. Leigh pursed his lips, withdrew his arm, and said with a smile, “You can say that, gorgeous. I want to know you.“Don’t you think a romance that begins from a car crash is romantic like in soap operas?” “Romantic like in soap operas?” The absurdity of the man rubbed Darcy the wrong way. “You’re breaking the traffic law with no regard for human lives.
As they arrived, they saw a dozen expensive cars parked outside. The customer base was relatively stable as the establishment was targeted at the upper class. The people lining up at the club were young men and women of ordinary background. All were allowed inside Absolute Zero with an entrance fee. Since this would be a chance for ordinary people to meet and interact with the upper-class elites, they cherished it and tried their best to look good. Even movie producers and scriptwriters came to the club, seeking investments or a role in movie production. It was a shortcut to reach out to the upper crust after all. Yet they were just a bunch of fresh graduates with no resources and connections, so the club was their only chance at achieving something great. Dwight would never understand how rare the opportunity was, as he was narrow-sighted. He had never experienced power and wealth before, so he lacked the understanding of how things worked in society. “I never thought
With that in mind, Dwight checked his outfit. His black leather jacket brought out his height and wild side. He then observed Kaze. The latter was dressed casually. Dwight was worried that they would not be allowed into Absolute Zero because of their attire. Nevertheless, he could not let slip that he had never been to Absolute Zero. Without a word, Dwight led Kaze down the apartment building. Kaze could pick up on Dwight’s nerves. While in the elevator, Dwight could not stop straightening out his clothes. It was clear that he was nervous. Even so, Kaze said nothing and pretended not to notice. They got into the car and drove to an alley. The area was not huge, but there were stands selling street food. “The food is great here. Since it’s early, we can grab a bite.” Dwight was not being tight with money. As their destination was a bar, there was no need to get a proper meal. “I’ll get a skewer then.” Kaze did not have much of an appetite anyway. “Okay. I’ll or
“You’re the guest. I should be hosting you, but I don’t seem to be doing a good job.” Dwight knew he had to do better. “It’s okay. I don’t have much to do. It’s just a delivery anyway.” Kaze bought a lot of stuff online. All they had to do was wait for the delivery. Once the items arrived, they could head out. Dwight talked about taking him to a bar under the Viper’s Den’s umbrella. It was a great opportunity for Kaze to check out the scene. He had heard that the Wittersons were tied to all the Viper’s Den’s business operations.Kaze would not meet Edmund and Morris in person, but he would grasp all information related to them. Then, Kaze would stir things up between them and sit back while reaping the benefits. Kaze had it all planned out. He simply had to take his time in playing the long game. Nevertheless, it was important for him to remain discreet. At the very least, he should not show them what he was made of. It was easy to execute his plan when everybody
Kaze rose to his feet and took something out of his bag. Putting on his jacket, he was on his way out. Dwight was out of his room, too. He left his room for a glass of water and waited for Kaze to get out of the room after his nap. Dwight had a drink in the kitchen. He took an apple and chomped on it. Looking at the fruit on the table, Dwight grabbed a plate to arrange it neatly.He took out his phone to pass the time while waiting for Kaze. Kaze emerged from the room and saw Dwight. “You’re up at last. You’ve slept half the day away. Are you still tired? I can wait if you need to catch some sleep.” Dwight kept Herman’s memo to look after Kaze. “A little. I didn’t get any sleep last night. I was waiting to get on the plane.” Kaze took the red-eye flight yesterday. Dwight allowed time for Kaze to rest, knowing his travel schedule. “I know. Did you manage to get some good sleep? If you haven’t, you can go back to bed. I can grab some food for you.” Dwight’s plan
“Your main responsibility is to entertain Kaze. You will be rewarded for good work,” Herman said. Dwight nodded incessantly. “Thank you for thinking of me, Herman. I won’t forget this.” “I’d be grateful so long as you stay out of trouble. “Just focus on what you should do and take good care of Kaze.” Herman worried that Dwight might get ahead of himself and forget his primary duties. Dwight’s priority was Kaze’s well-being. The whole thing would be over if Dwight kept to himself and served Kaze until he was gone. There would be a problem if something were to happen. Without Edmund’s instructions, Herman would never have assigned a job to Dwight. It could be a good thing, though. At least, a job might keep him on the straight and narrow. “Relax. You can count on me,” Dwight said with glee.That was a nice surprise. Dwight did not see it coming. It was just incredible. Herman still could not shake off his worry. However, he had said his piece. It was pointless t
Herman’s smile vanished. His red, irritated skin was playing up. Due to alcohol in his system, Herman could not see straight. He had to grit his teeth to hold back the urge to retch. Herman was not one to drink. Yet, he would have to go through Edmund’s loyalty test every time, and he was reaching a boiling point. However, he understood that he needed to suck it up to gain Edmund’s trust. “You must be Herman. Mr. Witterson. Should I take the things to your car, or should I deliver them to your home?” asked a uniformed server who approached. “Put them in the car and get me a designated driver,” Herman replied. He headed to the lobby while propping himself against the wall. “Okay. There will be a driver out front, ready for your service.” The server tried to help Herman up, but was declined. Herman saw the cartons of alcohol and cigarettes in the lobby. Edmund had always been generous in giving out stuff like this. “These are from Mr. Witterson. You’re lucky to work for
“Kaze can pull the punches for sure. I mean, he has the Butterworth branch chief’s trust for a reason. “There has to be something for him to win the branch chief’s approval.” Edmund doubted there was depth to Kaze. After all, Edmund decided whether to take on a person based on their abilities. It made no sense to pay attention to losers, as he would hold them in contempt. Edmund had been impressed with Herman, who excelled in strategies and management. That was why Edmund bumped Herman up and made sure he stayed on top. “Got it.” Herman nodded and had one foot out the door. “Don’t be in a hurry to leave. There’s one more thing.” Edmund pointed at the table. Herman approached and stood on bent knees. Pleased with Herman’s submission, Edmund passed him a wine glass. Herman took the drink humbly before looking carefully at Edmund, awaiting his orders. “The wine was just airlifted from abroad. I can vouch for the taste. If you’re looking to sip on the finest, yo
Time went by, and a towering man in a suit showed up outside the door. Picking up on the noise inside the room, he knocked on the door. It was hard to tell whether the person inside could hear the knocking, so the man waited outside. The door was opened, and a woman, her face flawless with makeup, popped her head out and saw him. She cocked her head back at Edmund. “You have a guest, Mr. Witterson.” “Let him in,” Edmund instructed. He then leaned in to take the drink from the girl next to him with his mouth. The other girls cheered him on. The group was lost in their fun. The man, who entered the room, stood by the sofa respectfully. He kept his head down, his gaze staying low at the bottles of alcohol spread across the table. It was a bit of a wait before the man approached at Edmund’s order. “Tell me about Dwight.”While listening to the girls’ singing, Edmund turned to Herman. Herman rushed over as soon as Edmund called. He won a lot of money at poker toda
In this particular circumstance, Morris had to play it safe so that things would not get out of hand. The last thing he wanted was to be dragged into the mess. At least, he finally saw the Wittersons’ true colors. Morris’ friendly advice was met with disrespect and insult. However, the Wittersons were a force of nature, and Morris was not about to take them head-on. Despite his frustration, Morris had to walk away. Well, Edmund would soon face his downfall at the height of his power, and Morris would be there to enjoy the ride. Still, it did not sit well with Morris to have a young fella walk all over him. It had crossed his mind to keep the Wittersons in check, but there was only so much he could do. Morris had to be the one to back away as the Wittersons grew haughty. Morris believed there was more to Kaze’s visit to Westeros. Nothing major happened in Westeros recently. At least, there was nothing worth the other branch’s attention. However, a representative of the