The hall later became quiet as everyone was anticipating on Marcus to give a speech.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, esteemed members of this remarkable conglomerate, I stand before you tonight not merely as a newcomer, but as a bearer of legacy and evolution. " Hearing the voice Maxwell was certain it was the Marcus he knew, but he still wasn't so sure, he can't help himself but doubt it, it seems impossible, no it can be him."As the newly revealed heir to this distinguished empire, I am both honored and humbled by the weight of responsibility that accompanies this legacy." He continued."The tapestry of this business, woven by the collective toil and vision of those who came before me, stands as a testament to the pinnacle of excellence we have achieved. Tonight, I stand at the threshold of a new era, one characterized by the fusion of tradition and innovation, a chapter I am ardently committed to scribing with each of you. Let us, collectively, inscribe a tale that transcends the bounds of tradition and propels us into a future where our achievements know no bounds. Thank you."The crowd clapped, before Marcus walked away, after which Hannah arrived."You're back" Maxwell said."Yeah, and it looks like I missed the introduction of the new heir, goddamn it""Actually he looks familiar""Familiar?" Hannah asked."Yes Hannah, he looks alot like Marcus"Hannah burst into laughter after hearing the joke told by her fiance."Are you serious, we both know that is impossible" she said while still laughing."It's not funny Hannah, and I'm serious about it, plus they both bear the same name" Marcus said.Hannah still finds it hard to believe what Maxwell was telling her, there is no way Marcus could be the one, it's impossible, he's an orphan for that matter, how would he have propelled himself into being the heir of the richest family in the world overnight, even the house cleaners here are ten times richer than that church rat Marcus.But then Maxwell pointed Marcus for her to take a look, but she couldn't see him properly from the croud, Richard was busy introducing Marcus to some of the important member of the empire.All Hannah could see was his back, so couldn't decide if it was really Marcus so she just concluded."Come on babe, it isn't him, this guy is way more handsome and a little bit taller than him, stop thinking of Marcus okay, he's in the past and you are my present" she locked her lips on Maxwell's so he could get his mind over it, and hell did it work, her magic works all the time.Marcus's eyes then turned at the wrong time and direction, as he saw his ex and her partner kissing passionately, he tightened his teeth and clenched his fist, anger cursing through his veins. 'what are they both doing here?' he asked himself.But then Richard noticed his sudden expression and intervene. "What's wrong Marcus?""Who are they to this conglomerate?" Marcus asked, but now calm."Oh, that's Maxwell Luther. He is in charge of managing one of our industry, the H&M fashion industry, you familiar with him, not a surprise Maxwell is indeed very popular in Starling City.""Oh really" Marcus replied."Should I introduce you to him?" Richard asked."No that's not needed at least not now" Marcus said."Alright, enjoy the party I'll have to go check on something" Richard said before leaving.A wide sinister smile enveloped on Marcus's lips, fate has brought his enemies below his feet, like an ant crawling in the pat of an elephant, and he would crush them so badly that they won't be able to get up, the law of karma has started playing it's role.Marcus then left, he didn't want them to see him, he was sure they haven't noticed him, otherwise Hannah would have approached him by now.Marcus walked outside of the party, he moved around the compound, analysing it's vast design, he then turned around looking at the gigantic mansion, he dipped his hands in his pocket and then a confident smile escaped his lips."It's beautiful right?" The voice of Richard sounded from the Conner, as Marcus turned to look at him.He smiled then replied "yeah it is"Richard then walked close to him, he then taped Marcus's shoulder saying "don't worry, you'll get used to it"Marcus looked at him, smiled then focused back on the mansion."How does it feel Uncle. How does it feel to be rich and powerful, with all these wealthy how do you relate with the poor and ordinary people" Marcus asked, his voice sounding a bit lost."The truth is Marcus, weather you are rich or poor we all have the same life, the same feelings, the same emotions. I've lived a rich life and I've lived a poor life, and I choose rich all the time. You know why?""Why?" Marcus asked."We live in a society where no one cares about you if you're poor, poverty can make you loose everything, it makes love fades, it makes even the most perfect relationship vunreble. But when you are rich, everyone comes close to you, you earn respect, your love ones loves you more. But all at the end, it's just you, no one really cares"Richard's words explains everything, it was infact the truth, his words were as though it explains Marcus's life's story."What about family, you've got any?" Marcus asked."Well I do have a wife and a son""Then where are they?""You see at that time I wasn't where I was, I haven't met the Blackwoods, I was just a bartender and my wife left me because I was broke, she ran away with my son and left a note on the table, I tried looking for her but to no avail, this is why I hate being poor Marcus, there is a big difference" Richard said, the pain evidence in his eyes, even though he was trying to hide it."I'm so sorry about that" Marcus said with concern."It's okay, so what about you, any wife, girlfriend?""Same thing with you Uncle Richard, she betrayed me, she left me for a richer guy, upon all I did for her."The pain was fresh in Marcus's face, and Richard could see it, he gnash his teeth in anger."So now that you have all the money in the world, will you go back to her? Will you win her back?" His question left an anticipation in the air."Win her back? That's never gonna happen Uncle, she never truly loved me, that's why she left me for another guy." Marcus said his thirst for vengeance still visible in his eyes."The choice is always yours Marcus, but don't get too hard on yourself" Richard adviced."Thanks uncle Richard""Do you care for some drink?" Richard asked widening his eye."Nah, I don't do alcohol" "Then we'll go for non alcohol""Alright""Come over here Sam" Richard called out to Sam, he had been around Marcus all along, even Marcus wasn't even aware, and he smiled how professional Sam is with his job, he never gets his eyes of him.Sam answered to Richard, as he was sent to order for a wine, Richard's favourite non alcoholic wine. The screaming eagle, one of the most expensive wine ever made.In less than an hour Sam returned with the wine on a small fancy tray, allong with two glasses."Toast on your new life" Richard said as he poured for both of them and they both made a toast.The party was soon ove
"What's wrong with you Marcus, you think your little act of bravery now makes you at the same level with Maxwell? He's…""Shut the hell up Hannah, you have no right to tell me what to do, and who told you I was trying to compare myself with your so-called boyfriend?" Marcus cut Hannah's word, making her look at him in shock, indeed he has changed."How dare you raise your voice on my fiance!" Said a defensive Maxwell."You mean your fiance who's a public figure? Oh pardon my manners" Marcus taunted."Let's just go inside babe, he's lost his mind" Hannah said as she pulled Maxwell inside the building, feeling embarrassed.Marcus watched in smile as they went in, he dipped his hands in his pocket and made a relieved smile before turning back to his car. Sam, on seeing him, quickly opened the door as he walked in before the car zoomed off.***Maxwell and Hannah were greeted respectfully by the staff, as they both ent
Maxwell hesitated outside the bathroom door, his conscience heavy with regret. Softly knocking, he called, "Hannah, can we talk? I didn't mean to hurt you; I just let my frustration get the best of me. I hate seeing you upset, and I want to make things right between us. Please, let me apologize properly."After a moment, the door creaked open, revealing Hannah's teary-eyed gaze. She sniffled, looking both hurt and defensive. "Maxwell, you can't just say things like that. It hurts, you know?"Maxwell took a step closer, his expression remorseful. "I know, and I'm truly sorry. I never meant to hurt you. I was frustrated, and I let it out on you. It was wrong, and I regret it."Hannah folded her arms, still visibly upset. "Regret doesn't change what you said."He nodded, acknowledging her pain. "You're right. I should never have told you to shut up. I respect you, and you deserve better."Silence lingered for a moment before Hannah sighed, relenting a bit. "It's just... I don't want to f
Maxwell sat at his desk, his face a mask of frustration and rage. It's been four days and the new boss has refused to reply to his texts. He even requested for the project approval but it was declined for no reason. He was all alone today, Hannah didn't come with him today, for some reason he's now extra cautious about whatever he does, not to get in trouble.Maxwell scrolled through the computer in his front, checking the informations from other companies owned by the Blackwoods, and their project offers were already accepted and even begun. So why's his different, why is it only in the H&M industry? Something isn't right, it's as though for a particular reason the new head boss is targeting on their company. In the middle of his thoughts the door was knocked."Who is it? I'm busy" he asked."Sir it's me Henry" Henry replied."Not now Henry, I'm not in the mood for work" Maxwell said with a frown.‘Sure you're not. You're always not in the mood for work' Henry mocked within himself.
"How many times have I warned you not to call me a thing? I thought we'd settled this some days ago?" Marcus said with a serious face."What do you think you are doing here? Dressed in a borrowed suit, have you also come here looking for a job the same way you came to H&M? you begger!" Maxwell blasted him with insults.The guards immediately set out to interfere, but Marcus immediately signaled them not to, otherwise by now Maxwell would be crawling home without a limb."What are you doing here Maxwell? What'd you want?" Marcus asked with a calm expression."I should be the one asking you that, what on earth do you think you are doing in the Blackwood's mansion of all places, have you no shame walking in a place that is worth ten times more than your life?" Maxwell taunted."What's wrong with me being here? Am I not as human as everyone else? Or does that make you surprised?" “Don't ever compare yourself with others, y
Maxwell drove into his compound, his house was a fancy duplex, with white paint. He stepped out of his car, his mood was sore, he didn't even reply to the greetings of his security guards. He opened the door, stepping into the sitting room, it was a vision of luxury, the kind that would only be found in a wealthy home, fresh flowers adorned at every corner. Hannah was comfortably seated on one of the couches, she crossed her legs, held a glass of wine and was watching a movie on the large television.She immediately noticed Maxwell's presence, and his sore face, "you're back horny, how's work" she welcomed him, as she went to give him a warm hug, although he didn't hug her back, he only grunted."Work isn't fine at all Hannah” he breathed heavily. “Everything isn't okay!" he yelled, walking to take a seat on the couch."What do you mean?” She dropped her wine on the center table. “What happened?" She asked with concern."It's that stupid ex of yours" "Marcus?" She was puzzled."Who
As Sam was approaching them, Marcus immediately sighted him and gestured to him not to interfere.'What the hell' Sam couldn't bear it. Why on earth would Marcus tell him not to interfere, it was his job to protect him. How dare they insult Marcus when he was indirectly the owner of this place. But an instruction was an instruction, he had to obey."Are you sure you can afford to pay up for the damage sir?" The retail worker asked, raising a brow, honestly Marcus doesn't look like someone who could be able to afford such an expensive item."Go on answer the question or I'll call the police immediately." Hannah said."Sure I can." Marcus remained calm, which was troubling for Hannah and Maxwell, could he really be able to afford to pay such an expensive watch? No. Of course not, not the Marcus they knew, he is just an ordinary cameraman he couldn't even pay up his house rent."Alright sir, how are you going to pay? Cash, transfer or with your debit card?" The worker asked."Are you ser
Hannah's scream catches the attention of everyone in the mall. Everyone looked around to see what was going on. Marcus, Sam, and the manager exchanged a glance filled with concern and urgency. Without hesitation, they dashed towards the source of the commotion, their hearts pounding with adrenaline-fueled anticipation.Suddenly, a car crashes through the front doors of the mall, sending glass and metal flying everywhere. The car comes to a stop in the middle of the mall, and the driver jumps out, brandishing a weapon. It's clear that this is a robbery attempt, and Hannah is in danger. There were four robbers, and immediately one of them grabbed Hannah's purse. "Hey give it back." Maxwell tired to act brave, but the robber pointed a gun at his head. "Shut the fu** up. Or I'll blow out your brain!""Please don't hurt me." Maxwell pleaded."Now everyone, put your hands in the air, and get down." The leader of the gang ordered."We have to do something Sam." Marcus whispered as they bot
As the sun began to rise over the city, casting a golden glow on the streets, Clara and her team stood outside the docks, their breaths still heavy from the fight. With Magnus apprehended and his henchmen scattered, the sense of victory was palpable.“Is it really over?” Mara asked, her eyes reflecting the morning light.“Feels like it,” Clara replied, a cautious smile creeping onto her face. “We’ve fought too hard for this to slip away now.”Marcus stepped forward, pulling out his phone to call the authorities. “They’ll want to take Magnus into custody. This time, he won’t be able to wriggle his way out of it.”As the police sirens wailed in the distance, a mixture of relief and anticipation washed over the group. Clara could hardly believe how far they had come since they had first banded together to confront the darkness in their city.In the following days, word spread about Magnus's defeat and the disbandment of his criminal network. The community began to breathe a sigh of relie
Together, they had become a force to be reckoned with, as they shared a collective nod, a silent agreement that they were all in this together. Marcus carefully jimmied the lock open. The door creaked as it swung inward, revealing a dimly lit corridor lined with rusted machinery and crates.“Stay quiet,” Marcus whispered, leading the way with Clara right behind him. They moved in a tight formation, with Mara and Eli covering the rear.As they ventured deeper into the warehouse, the sounds of muffled voices began to filter through the walls. Clara’s heart raced—this was it. They were getting closer to the action.“Let’s split up,” Marcus suggested, peeking around a corner. “Mara, you take the left side. Clara, you and Eli cover the right. We’ll converge at the main room in the center.”“Got it,” Clara replied, feeling a rush of adrenaline. She and Eli moved stealthily down the right corridor, keeping low and watching for any signs of movement.The voices grew louder as they approached
As they shared a collective nod, a silent agreement that they were all in this together, Marcus carefully jimmied the lock open. The door creaked as it swung inward, revealing a dimly lit corridor lined with rusted machinery and crates.“Stay quiet,” Marcus whispered, leading the way with Clara right behind him. They moved in a tight formation, with Mara and Eli covering the rear.As they ventured deeper into the warehouse, the sounds of muffled voices began to filter through the walls. Clara’s heart raced—this was it. They were getting closer to the action.“Let’s split up,” Marcus suggested, peeking around a corner. “Mara, you take the left side. Clara, you and Eli cover the right. We’ll converge at the main room in the center.”“Got it,” Clara replied, feeling a rush of adrenaline. She and Eli moved stealthily down the right corridor, keeping low and watching for any signs of movement.The voices grew louder as they approached the main room. Clara exchanged a determined glance with
.“Are we really done with Magnus?” Eli asked, stretching as he joined Clara, his face still a mix of exhaustion and disbelief.“Only for now,” Clara replied, glancing at Marcus and Mara, who were going over the plans for their next move. “But it feels good to know we stood up to him. He won’t be back anytime soon.”Marcus looked up, a thoughtful expression on his face. “We need to regroup and figure out what’s next. Magnus may be in custody, but we know he has allies. We can’t let our guard down.”Mara nodded in agreement. “And we need to find out what else he was planning. There’s got to be more to it than just controlling the city through fear.”“Right,” Clara said, her mind racing with the possibilities. “Let’s start by gathering any information we can. We need to dig deeper into his operations.”As the day unfolded, they began strategizing. Clara took charge, flipping through notes and files they had collected over time. “We need to hit his connections hard. If we can disrupt the
Eli groaned but pushed himself up, adrenaline surging through him despite the throbbing pain in his ribs. “I’m good,” he gasped, his eyes darting to the downed guard. “Let’s finish this!”“Good,” Marcus said, his breath steadying as he turned back to the entrance, where the chaos was still unfolding. “Clara, stick close to me. Eli, take the rear. We need to find a way to secure this place before Magnus decides to make an appearance.”“Right!” Clara replied, determination etched on her face. Together, they charged further into the heart of the factory, the sound of the fireworks still booming outside, providing a cacophony that masked their movements.As they navigated through the maze of machinery and crates, the atmosphere grew thicker with tension. Clara’s instincts kicked in, and she felt a sense of urgency pushing her forward. They needed to find Magnus and stop him before he could mobilize his men.“Where do you think he is?” Mara whispered, glancing around at the shadows that lo
As the group approached the factory, the moonlight cast eerie shadows over the crumbling walls. They could see the faint outline of guards patrolling the perimeter, their silhouettes shifting in the dim light. Clara felt her heart race, every instinct in her body screaming that they were heading into danger. Yet, beneath that fear was a resolute determination to confront Magnus and end this once and for all.“Okay, remember the plan,” Marcus whispered, his voice steady despite the tension. “Mara and Eli, you’ll set off the fireworks on the east side while Clara and I create a distraction on the north entrance.”“Got it,” Mara replied, glancing at Eli, who nodded in agreement.As they moved into position, Clara could feel the weight of the moment bearing down on her. She glanced at Marcus, who was scanning the area with a focused intensity. “Are you ready for this?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.“I have to be,” he replied, determination flashing in his eyes. “For everyon
“I still can’t believe Magnus is out there,” Clara said, pacing the small room, her brow furrowed with concern. “He’s not the type to back down easily.”Marcus leaned against the wall, arms crossed, his jaw set in determination. “He’ll come back. We need to prepare for whatever he’s planning. We can’t underestimate him again.”Mara, sitting on a makeshift bench, rubbed her temples, still feeling the tension from the fight. “What if he tries to retaliate against us personally? He knows who we are now.”Eli, leaning against the table, chimed in. “We need to gather intel on his operations. If we know where he’s hiding or what he’s planning, we can strike first.”“Good idea,” Marcus replied, his mind racing with possibilities. “But how do we find him? He has a network, and we’re just a small team.”Just then, Clara’s phone buzzed, breaking the tension in the air. She glanced at the screen, her expression shifting from concern to curiosity. “It’s a text from a contact I haven’t heard from
With the remaining henchmen falling one by one, it became clear that the tide was turning. The cacophony of chaos seemed to intensify, but Marcus’s focus sharpened on Magnus, who was now cornered against the wall, his bravado fading.“Looks like your little party is crashing down, Magnus,” Marcus taunted, stepping closer, his fists clenched.Magnus glared, anger burning in his eyes. “You think this is over? You have no idea what you’re dealing with!”“Maybe not, but I know what I’m going to do next,” Marcus said, his voice low and threatening. He motioned to Eli, who nodded and moved to flank Magnus.Suddenly, Magnus lunged toward a nearby table, grabbing a glass bottle and swinging it at Marcus. The glass shattered against the wall just inches from Marcus’s head.“Careful!” Marcus shouted, ducking just in time.Mara, ever vigilant, charged forward again, this time aiming a solid punch directly at Magnus’s jaw. The force of her hit sent him staggering backward. “You won’t get away thi
The days that followed the ambush were a blur of activity for Marcus, Mara, Clara, and Eli. Each moment was filled with tension, anticipation, and the weight of what lay ahead. They meticulously planned their counterattack against Magnus and his henchmen, determined to turn the tables and regain control of their lives.The small, dimly lit warehouse they had chosen as their temporary headquarters buzzed with energy as they gathered around a large table cluttered with maps, photos, and notes. Marcus pointed at a large map of the city spread out before them.“Alright, here’s the plan,” he began, his voice steady and authoritative. “We know that Magnus operates out of several locations, but we believe he’s using this old warehouse on the outskirts of town as his base of operations.”Clara leaned closer, her finger tracing a route on the map. “If we can get the jump on them here, we can cut off any escape routes they might have. It’s a perfect setup for an ambush.”“Exactly,” Marcus agree