The Rise of Mackin Jones

Chapter 22

In the days following Victor’s open defiance at the family meeting, Mackin knew that the clock was ticking. His vision for the Mackin family’s future—a legitimate business empire built on trust, not blood—was already under threat. He had expected resistance, but not so soon.

Victor and his allies were moving faster than anticipated, and Mackin had to act.

The first indication of trouble came in the form of a phone call from Lambo. Mackin had just finished a series of meetings with his legal team, discussing plans to restructure some of the family’s more questionable ventures, when Lambo’s name appeared on his phone screen.

"Lambo," Mackin said, answering the call, "what’s the situation?"

"We’ve got a problem," Lambo replied, his voice tense. "Victor’s been meeting with some of the old guard. Word is, they’re planning something big. They’re not happy about the changes you’re making, and they’re going to push back."

Mackin’s grip tightened on the phone. "How serious is this?"

"Serious enough," Lambo said grimly. "They’re gathering support from outside the family too—people who’ve had ties to the Mackin empire for years. If they get enough backing, they could challenge your leadership."

Mackin’s jaw clenched. He had known that trying to dismantle the criminal aspects of the family’s empire wouldn’t be easy, but he hadn’t expected the backlash to come so quickly. Victor was dangerous—not because he was particularly intelligent, but because he was ruthless and had nothing to lose. If he couldn’t rule the family his way, he would burn it to the ground.

"I want names," Mackin said coldly. "I want to know who’s siding with Victor. We’ll deal with them one by one."

"I’m already working on it," Lambo replied. "But you need to be careful, Mackin. Victor’s not just playing politics anymore. He’s making moves—dangerous moves. And if he gets enough people on his side, it could turn into a war."

Mackin was tensed as he stared out the window of his office, the city skyline stretching out before him like a vast kingdom. "If Victor wants a war, he’ll get one. But it’ll be on my terms, not his."

There was a moment of silence on the line before Lambo responded, his voice low and measured. "Understood. But remember, this family has seen enough bloodshed. If we can avoid a full-blown war, we should. You’re trying to turn the Mackin legacy into something better. Don’t let Victor drag you down to his level."

Mackin nodded, even though Lambo couldn’t see him. "I know. I don’t intend to get into a street fight with Victor. But he’s forcing my hand. If he keeps pushing, I won’t have a choice."

Lambo sighed on the other end of the line. "I’ll keep you updated on any new developments. And Mackin—be careful. This isn’t just about the family anymore. Victor’s pulling in favours from outside. He’s got connections, and if he plays his cards right, he could cause real damage."

Mackin’s jaw clenched, the weight of Lambo’s words sinking in. "Thanks, Lambo. I’ll handle it."

After ending the call, Mackin paced his office, his mind racing with strategies. He had always known that trying to legitimise the Mackin empire would be a dangerous endeavour. The family had spent decades building a reputation through corruption, violence, and manipulation. Turning that legacy into something clean would be no small feat.

But Mackin had never shied away from a challenge.

His thoughts were interrupted by a knock at the door. He turned to see Lana standing in the doorway, her face pale and anxious. She had been staying at the estate ever since their tentative reconciliation, but things between them had been strained. Mackin had been too consumed with the growing threat from Victor to properly address their relationship.

"Lana," Mackin said, softening his tone. "What is it?"

She stepped into the office, wiping her hands nervously. "I heard about the meeting with Victor. It didn’t go well, did it?"

Mackin shook his head, leaning against his desk. "No. Victor’s rallying support against me. He wants to take back control of the family, and he’s willing to fight for it."

Lana’s expression darkened with worry. "He won’t stop, Mackin. Victor’s always been ambitious, but now he’s desperate. He’ll do whatever it takes."

Mackin crossed his arms, his gaze steady. "I know. But I’m not backing down. I can’t."

Lana bit her lip, her voice trembling slightly. "I’m scared, Mackin. This family... it’s been through so much. I don’t want to lose you again."

Mackin’s heart softened at the vulnerability in her voice. For all their complicated history, he knew that Lana still cared for him deeply. She had made mistakes—grave ones—but she was trying to make amends, and he couldn’t deny that part of him still cared for her too.

He stepped closer, reaching out to gently touch her arm. "You won’t lose me, Lana. Not again. But this fight isn’t over yet. Victor’s coming for me, and I have to be ready."

Lana’s eyes glistened with unshed tears as she nodded. "Just... be careful. Please."

Mackin gave her a small, reassuring smile. "I will."

But even as he said the words, he knew that the road ahead would be fraught with danger. The battle for the Mackin family was just beginning, and if Victor had his way, it wouldn’t end without blood.