Joseph's display of power not only reassured the bar owner but also left a strong impression on everyone around. The other patrons, who had been holding their breath and watching from the start, couldn't help but admire Joseph's confidence and strength. He was not only someone who knew how to protect himself but also someone willing to take responsibility for his actions."This... the damages must be quite a lot... around two million..." the bar owner stammered."Whatever the amount, I'll cover it," Joseph replied. "I understand—the tables and chairs are broken, and the other customers were disturbed. This will affect your revenue. I'll transfer the money to you right away, so you don't have to worry. I'm also genuinely sorry for the trouble."Joseph bowed slightly, showing his sincerity in the apology. The bar owner, who had begun to suspect that Joseph was no ordinary person, immediately changed his attitude. Money was one thing, but building a relationship with someone like Joseph
Joseph got into the car, his mind still buzzing from the confrontation with David and his friends. But he quickly pushed those thoughts aside. He had a more pressing matter to deal with immediately. Joseph reached for his phone, scrolled through his contacts to Charlotte's number, and without hesitation, texted her to meet."Charlotte, we need to talk. Meet me at Dolce cafe tomorrow. You pick the time, I'll be there."Joseph didn't have to wait long; within minutes, his phone buzzed with a reply. Charlotte agreed swiftly, which slightly surprised him, but also relieved him."Okay, let's meet at 10 AM tomorrow. I also need to clarify things with you."Joseph stared at the message on his screen, feeling a mix of conflict pass through his mind. This meeting wouldn't be easy, but he knew it was necessary. Whatever the outcome, Joseph was ready to face whatever came.He pocketed his phone, started the car, and drove home. On the way, thoughts of the upcoming conversation with Charlotte cir
As Joseph turned to go inside, Norman called him back, his voice hesitant and anxious. “Joseph… do you feel like you’ve been distancing yourself from me lately? Is there something wrong between us?”Joseph stopped, turned, and looked at Norman, surprised by the question. “No, not at all, Norman,” Joseph replied, his voice soft yet firm. “Nothing has changed between us. It’s just that there’s been a lot going on, and I don’t want you to worry further.”Norman was silent for a moment, but he seemed not fully convinced. He stepped closer to Joseph, quickly scanning his arm where small scratches and bruises were visible, then asked with a tone full of suspicion. “You… you’ve been fighting with someone, haven’t you?”Joseph, although prepared for any question, paused slightly at Norman’s inquiry. “No, it’s nothing,” Joseph quickly said, but his hands involuntarily pulled his sleeve up further, hiding the bruised skin.Norman observed Joseph closely, not missing that small gesture. “You say
Joseph stood up, pocketed his phone, and walked out of the cafe. A sense of emptiness filled him, as if all hope had been extinguished. He knew he had to accept the reality that Charlotte had chosen not to have anything more to do with him. And with that, he had to move on without her.Inside, Joseph's hope of resolving everything amicably with Charlotte faded away. She had decided not to show up, and that meant she didn't want to find a way to resolve their issues. Joseph knew he had no choice but to move forward without her.Time passed, and Joseph's life gradually returned to its regular rhythm, though something incomplete lingered after the missed appointment. But he didn't allow himself to dwell on it too much. There were other things to do, and most importantly, he needed to be ready for Mr. William's return.The day Mr. William was discharged finally arrived. The family gathered at the hospital, the atmosphere tense yet filled with anticipation. Mr. William, still weak but some
Just as he set the phone down, it buzzed with a new message. Joseph opened his phone and saw a message from Amile, a close friend of his."Joseph, be careful. Things are getting more complicated. Stay alert and don't let anything throw you off balance."Joseph sighed, his eyes deep in thought as he looked at the screen.He stood up, walked to the window, and looked out, his gaze more determined than ever. Tonight's party at Mr. William's house was arranged with a rare opulence and grandeur. From the grand hall to the outdoor garden, everything was elaborately decorated, the sparkling lights reflecting through large glass panels creating a glamorous yet calculated atmosphere. Guests began arriving, luxury cars lined up the driveway to the mansion, influential figures in business stepping out with confidence and pride.In his private room, Joseph stood before the mirror, intently looking at his reflection. The perfectly tailored black suit hugged his body, highlighting his elegance and
Joseph responded with a gentle smile, mirroring Coco's nod. Coco entered the main hall, and her presence quickly attracted the attention of everyone around. The guests, familiar with the faces of high society, couldn't help but stop and admire Coco's refined beauty and charm. In her teal dress, she exuded a noble air while still maintaining a youthful and modern look. Immediately, praises were heard from all around.“Joseph and Coco truly make a perfect couple,” an elderly guest whispered to someone nearby. “Look at them, they really are well-matched.”“Indeed, Joseph is so elegant, and Coco is utterly beautiful and graceful. They seem to be made for each other,” another added, their eyes following every step they took.The praise didn’t stop there. The arrival of Amile and Jayce also drew attention. Amile, with her confident and savvy demeanor, easily made a good impression on the guests. And Jayce, with his confident smile and sharp eyes, always knew how to stand out at any party.“
Jayce, continuing to converse and respond to compliments with a polite demeanor, was keenly aware of his own agenda. Each word, each gesture of Jayce was meticulously calculated, hoping to create a perfect image in everyone’s eyes. He knew that success at this event would help solidify his position, and he was ready to do anything to achieve that, even faking smiles and humility.In the opulent yet tense atmosphere, the ongoing compliments and comparisons served as a backdrop for the underlying battle between Joseph and Jayce. Each with their own style and strategy, but both with the same goal: to secure the top position, or at least to protect what they had.Jayce stood in the center of the hall, his gaze sweeping over the crowd with absolute confidence and control. As the superficial conversation dragged on, Jayce decided it was time to stop. With a friendly yet sharp smile, he raised his glass, creating a gentle clink that drew everyone's attention."Ladies and gentlemen, I think w
"Of course, Mr. Watts," Joseph replied, trying to keep his voice calm.Joseph quickly exchanged glances with Amile, a silent signal for her to be alert. If anything unusual happened while he was away, Amile would immediately inform him. Amile, always perceptive, immediately understood Joseph's intent. She was arm in arm with Jayce, raising a glass to toast with those around her. Her eyes quickly swept over Joseph, and with a subtle nod, she tacitly agreed.Joseph looked back at Amile once more before turning to Mr. Watts and leading him out of the banquet hall. He guided Mr. Watts through the expansive hallways of the mansion, towards the quieter and more secluded rear grounds where they could talk."Joseph, do you know how pleased I am to see you and Coco together?" Mr. Watts began as they stepped out into the open space. "I have always hoped that my daughter would find a dependable and ambitious man like you."Joseph offered a slight smile, but his vigilance did not wane. "Thank you