As Kevin and Lionel savored their tea in the expansive garden, their moment of shared victory was interrupted by the sudden ringing of the doorbell. The sound echoed through the mansion, breaking the tranquil ambiance of their celebration. A few moments later, a butler appeared, bowing slightly before delivering the news."Sir, there are two police officers at the door. They wish to speak with Mr. Kevin Lang," the butler reported, his tone respectful but tinged with curiosity.Kevin's brow furrowed in surprise. "What do they want?" he asked, a hint of irritation creeping into his voice.The butler shook his head. "They didn't specify, sir. They only mentioned that they need to speak with you."Kevin exchanged a quick glance with Lionel, whose face had hardened with concern. "I'll meet them in the living room," Kevin said, standing up and brushing invisible dust from his suit.Lionel's voice followed him, firm and commanding. "Kevin, don’t tell me you have any issues with the police."
Lionel sighed deeply, the weight of their schemes settling heavily on his shoulders. He looked at Kevin, his eyes sharp with a mixture of concern and resolve. "Good. The last thing we need right now is to be tangled up with the police."Kevin nodded confidently, though the tension in his jaw betrayed a lingering worry. "This is a false accusation, Father. Rest assured, I have no connection to any of this. Someone is trying to divert our focus, but it won't work."Lionel gave a curt nod, his expression softening slightly as he placed a reassuring hand on Kevin's shoulder. "I believe you. Just ensure that nothing more comes of this. We can't afford any missteps."Kevin smiled, though it was more a determined grimace. "Don't worry, Father. I'll handle it."Lionel watched his son for a moment longer, then turned and walked away, his mind already shifting to the next part of their plan. Kevin stood there for a moment, taking a deep breath and steadying himself. He needed to stay focused.A
Calvin received Christina's message and smiled faintly. He was about to reply when a staff member emerged from an office, addressing Calvin and his lawyer, who were seated in the waiting area of the Health Department. "Your turn, Mr. Hudson."Calvin slipped his phone into his pocket and, along with his lawyer, stood and followed the staff member into the room. Inside, a group of officials from the health department awaited them, including Cynthia Dellaware. The atmosphere was tense and formal."Good morning, Mr. Hudson," Cynthia began, her tone professional but with a hint of regret. "We have reviewed your resubmitted application for the alternative medicine clinic. I'm afraid we have to inform you that your application has been denied again."Calvin's eyes widened in shock. He exchanged a quick glance with his lawyer before stepping forward. "But why?" he asked, unable to keep the frustration out of his voice. "My practice adheres to all regulations for herbal and energy-based treatm
Calvin and his lawyer, Samuel Reed, left the Department of Health office, their expressions a mixture of frustration and determination. As they got into Calvin's car, Samuel immediately opened his laptop, his fingers flying over the keys. Calvin started the car and pulled into traffic, his mind racing with the possibilities of who could be behind the repeated rejections of his license.After several minutes of silence, Samuel looked up from his laptop, his face grim. "Mr. Hudson, your suspicion was right," he said, his voice serious.Calvin glanced over at him, his heart pounding. "What exactly did you find, Samuel?"Samuel turned the laptop towards Calvin, showing him a list of names. "Lionel Lang is on the advisory board of the Department of Health. He’s one of the key figures who didn't approve your license renewal."Calvin’s grip on the steering wheel tightened, his knuckles turning white. "Lionel Lang," he muttered, the name dripping with contempt. "I knew they were involved, but
Calvin drove home, his thoughts a whirlwind of plans and possibilities. Samuel returned to his office to continue working on the case. As Calvin entered his house, he immediately headed to the small desk in the living room where he kept his mail.Just as he began sifting through the pile of envelopes, Lizzie appeared in the doorway holding a fancy envelope. "Are you looking for this?" she asked with a teasing smile.Calvin looked up and chuckled. "Ah, Lizzie, you beat me to it. You always seem to know what I'm looking for."Lizzie handed him the envelope, her eyes twinkling with curiosity. "The invitation arrived this morning. I thought it looked important, so I set it aside for you."Calvin took the envelope and smiled warmly at his sister. "Thank you, Lizzie. You're right, this is very important."Lizzie nodded, her expression turning serious. "I bet there will be a lot of influential people at the event. This could be a great opportunity for you, Calvin."Calvin opened the envelope
Calvin and Christina finally arrived at the grand hall where the classical music concert was to be held. The building was elegantly adorned, reflecting the sophistication of the event. As they approached the entrance, they could see a large banner announcing Albert Finch as the main sponsor, highlighting the evening's performers, all graduates from the prestigious music school he had founded. Despite his military background, Albert Finch had a profound love for classical music, a passion that was well-known among his peers.One of the evening's featured performers was his nephew, Dante Finch, a prodigious talent who had already garnered much acclaim. Calvin showed their invitations to the receptionist, who then escorted them inside with a polite nod. The ambiance of the hall was both grand and welcoming, filled with the soft murmur of guests mingling and the gentle strains of a string quartet playing in the background.As Calvin and Christina entered the main reception area, Albert Fi
The classical music concert progressed smoothly, with the performers delivering a mesmerizing performance that captivated the audience. The rich tones of violins, the deep resonance of cellos, and the harmonious blend of woodwinds and brass created an atmosphere that transported everyone to another world. Calvin found himself thoroughly enjoying the evening, the music providing a temporary escape from his troubles.The performance of Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 was particularly moving, its powerful 'Ode to Joy' stirring emotions and a sense of unity within the audience. As the final notes of the first half echoed through the hall, the lights brightened, signaling the intermission. Guests began to mingle, heading towards the cocktail area to refresh themselves before the performance resumed.Calvin saw this as an opportunity to speak with Albert about the issues he was facing. He turned to Christina, who nodded encouragingly, understanding his need to seek help. "Go talk to him, Cal," s
Lionel laughed heartily at Calvin's words, his eyes glinting with cruel amusement. "Regret underestimating you? I won't regret anything. You’re a nobody, and I can crush you under my shoe like the insect you are."Christina, sensing the situation escalating, stepped in quickly. She took Calvin's arm, her voice soothing yet firm. "Calvin, don't waste your time on people who aren't worth it. Let's go."Albert, noticing the rising tension, also intervened. "Lionel, I must insist that you show respect. While you are a guest of honor here, so is Calvin. Without Calvin, I might not have been able to organize this event or even stand here healthy tonight."Lionel and Kevin exchanged smug glances but didn't push further. They had achieved their goal of mocking Calvin and felt content. Lionel shrugged, his smile condescending. "Very well, Albert. We'll drop it for now. Enjoy the rest of your evening."As they walked away, Christina whispered to Calvin, "Don't let them get to you. They’re just