As Caleb Autumn stepped into the room, the other jewelry merchants turned their attention to him, their faces lighting up with forced smiles."Mr. Autumn," a merchant named Harold greeted, bowing slightly. "What an honor to see you here.""Indeed, it is," Caleb replied, his smile not reaching his eyes. "The pleasure is mine, Harold."Another merchant, Marjorie, stepped forward, her voice sugar-coated with flattery. "Caleb, you grace us with your presence. We were just admiring your latest collection at the exhibition."Caleb's eyes flicked to her, a hint of amusement in his gaze. "Ah, yes. The collection. I do hope it met your high standards, Marjorie.""It was exquisite," she assured him, her cheeks coloring slightly.As the merchants continued to exchange pleasantries, Caleb's sharp eyes scanned their faces, noting the underlying tension in their expressions. He could see through their facade, recognizing their betrayal.“Mr. Autumn, if I may, we were just about to discuss the futur
Caleb took a deep breath. "First, we establish a consortium, with representatives from the Blaine family, the Autumn family, and the Dominion City Council. This consortium will oversee the management and distribution of the import channels, ensuring that all parties benefit."The room buzzed with murmurs. This was an unexpected move, but it showed Caleb’s willingness to cooperate and maintain control.Miles smiled and without answering turned to the merchants. "You will have the opportunity to bid for access through the consortium. This ensures transparency and fairness."Caleb frowned and Nigel could not help but chuckle at Miles's speech. He knew deep down Miles just squashed any hope for them to get an exclusive right to the channel. And yet he plans to hear them out. Nigel could not help but be impressed by the young man's charisma.Miles turned to the gentleman. "Agreed. Now, let's work out the details."As the discussions began in earnest, Jonathan watched with a sense of awe. M
The O'Brien family stood at the threshold of the grand hall, their faces a mix of frustration and resignation. Conan O'Brien, his jaw set in defiance, glared at his father, Xavier."Conan, it's over," Xavier said, his voice low and firm. "The Blaine family is out of reach. Any plans of marriage now would be a lie. Let it go home.""I won't," Conan snapped. "I so close, Father. I won't just give up.""Damn it, Conan?" Xavier's eyes flashed with anger. "Your plan won't change the fact that the Blaines see us as beneath them. You have to be realistic."Conan clenched his fists, his eyes burning with determination. "Realistic? Or just cowardly?""Watch your tone," Xavier warned. "This isn't about cowardice. It's about knowing our place. The Blaines have made their choice."Conan's face twisted with bitterness. "So, what? I just walk away? Pretend like the money doesn't matter?""Yes," Xavier said, his voice softening slightly. "For your own good, son. Sometimes, we have to accept our limi
"Because, Miles," Nigel said, his voice dropping to a near whisper, "together, we can achieve far more than we ever could alone. You have the vision, the drive, and the position. I have the connections, the influence, and the resources. It's a perfect synergy."Miles considered Nigel's words carefully. The offer was tempting, but he knew better than to trust blindly. "And what do you get out of this?""A stronger Dominion City, one where our influence is unchallenged," Nigel replied. "And, of course, a partnership with one of the most promising leaders this city has seen in years."Miles sat back, weighing his options. "Alright, Nigel. Let's say I agree to this partnership. What are the terms?"Nigel's smile returned, warmer this time. "We work together to consolidate power within the consortium. We ensure that our interests are aligned and that we support each other in our endeavors. In return, we share the spoils of our success.""And if I refuse?" Miles asked, his tone challenging.
Miles swirled his wine glass thoughtfully, looking across the table at Nigel. "So, Nigel, I've been considering the structure of our partnership. What if the consortium became a subsidiary of Jettex Industrial Limited?"Nigel leaned back, his eyes narrowing slightly. "A subsidiary? That's a significant shift, Miles. What exactly are you proposing?"Miles smiled, setting his glass down. "Think about it. By making the consortium a subsidiary, we could streamline operations, ensure more efficient management, and consolidate our resources. It would give us a strategic advantage."Nigel tapped his fingers on the table, considering Miles' words. "You're suggesting that Jettex takes the lead, essentially absorbing the consortium under its umbrella. What's in it for you?"Miles spread his hands. "A stronger, more unified front. We both benefit from the stability and growth potential. Plus, with your leadership, the consortium could reach new heights."Nigel raised an eyebrow. "And how do you
Miles tiptoed inside the house, gently shutting the door. The wall clock indicated that it was far into the night. Quietly, he entered the kitchen and discovered his wife Lola standing by the counter, drinking a glass of water. "Miles whispered to Lola, hoping not to surprise her." Lola turned around, a tired smile lighting up her face. "Miles, you're finally home."Miles wrapped his arms around her, planting a gentle kiss on her forehead. "I missed you."She snuggled into his chest, sighing. "I missed you too. It's been a long day."Miles pulled back, concern etching his features. "Rough day at work?"Lola nodded, her eyes heavy with exhaustion. "You could say that. My boss was relentless, and the workload was insane. I don't even want to think about it."Miles pressed his lips to her temple. "Then don't think about it. How about I make us a nice dinner? You go relax in the living room."Lola chuckled softly. "You? Cooking? This I've got to see."Miles feigned a hurt expression. "H
The following week, as Miles prepared for the banquet, Lola watched him with a mixture of concern and pride."Are you sure about this, Miles?" she asked, her voice soft. "Attending the Autumn family's banquet is a big step."Miles adjusted his tie, meeting her gaze in the mirror. "I'm sure, Lola. This partnership with the Autumn could be the key to solidifying a good position in Dominion City. I need allies, and this is my chance."Lola nodded, her eyes filled with worry. "Just be careful. The Autumns are powerful, and their influence runs deep.""I know," Miles said, turning to face her. "But we have to take risks if we want to succeed. And with you by my side, I know we can handle whatever comes our way."Lola smiled, wrapping her arms around him. "We'll get through this together. Just promise me you'll be cautious.""I promise," Miles said, kissing her forehead. "Now, I need to get ready. I have a banquet to attend."# Valeria strode into the Dominion City Council office, her heel
Miles drove his car through the impressive entrance of the Autumn estate, admiring the luxury that enveloped him. Upon parking in the assigned spot, he observed a luxurious, high-end car pulling in next to him, exuding signs of wealth and privilege. Rachael, Nigel’s niece, emerged with an attitude of pride and contempt. Her friend, equally haughty, followed closely behind.The security guard approached them with a polite nod. "Good evening, Ms. Rachael. Welcome to Mr. Marcus's birthday celebration."Rachael didn't acknowledge the greeting. Instead, she eyed Miles's car with a look of pure disgust. "Who allowed that piece of junk onto the estate?" she snapped, pointing accusatorily at the security guard.The guard shifted uncomfortably. "Mr. Miles is here to celebrate Mr. Marcus's birthday as well, Ms. Rachael."Rachael's eyes narrowed as she turned to scrutinize Miles, who was adjusting his tie and smoothing down his suit jacket. The suit, while not flashy, was neat and respectable.