Chris had a sullen expression on his face as he exited the premises of the Carter family villa. He was waiting to get a cab to drive him out of the estate when the vibration and sound of his cellphone ringing in his pocket attracted his attention.
He casually dipped his hand inside his pocket to pull out the cellphone, still sulking about the scenario that occurred inside the Carter villa. However, his thoughts instantly switched as soon as he glanced at the number calling him.Chris’s gaze narrowed as he intently fixed his eyes on the phone screen. This was the last number he expected to call him at this time.The phone number was an exclusive private number that belonged to only one person and Chris didn’t need to guess who that person was since it was none other than his master and the man who raised him from childhood, James Wade.Without further delay, he picked up the call. “I thought we agreed that you were never going to contact me." He confronted the caller as soon as he placed the phone in his ear. His voice was now very cold.‘I don't remember saying that I would never call. I just told you not to expect my call,” James retorted wittingly.Chris was unable to provide an argument because James' words were indeed true.“Why are you calling me now?.....I can't help but feel very uncomfortable about having a conversation with you at the moment." Chris queried straightforwardly.“You catch on real quick boy.” James laughed before he continued speaking. “I heard the White family finally approach you," James asked.Chris' eyes widened in shock. He wasn't surprised that James had already found out about his encounter with Elias which occurred a few hours ago. After all, James was the leader of the world's most formidable private mercenary organization.However, he was flustered that he was unable to sense anyone spying on him“It seems like my skills have become a bit rusty that I couldn't tell that you have been spying on me," he remarked.“No, I wasn’t spying on you. It would have been a pointless effort anyway. I was able to find out about it only because your father contacted me.” James confessed.Chris received another shock as soon as he heard James' response. His eyes furrowed deeply forming a deep frown on his face and he questioned James in a hoarse voice.“What did you just say?!..... Don't tell me that you two have been in contact all along? ”“Calm down, boy. I know what you're thinking but I can assure you that it's nothing like that. “ James hurriedly explained knowing fully well that Chris would be feeling outraged at the moment.“What were you expecting?” Chris snapped impatiently. “I’m in Brooklyn now. I'll send you an address so come find me. I'll explain everything to you when you get here.”“Fine, I'll be there right away and you better have a reasonable explanation prepared.” Chris deadpanned before hanging up the call.Currently, he was in a state of disbelief and confused about why both his master and father were in contact.No, that wasn't the important question at this point. Chris was much more curious about understanding how Charles White, his father and current patriarch of the white family knew about his relationship with James. The white family might be very influential but Olympus was also a very classified organization which was impossible to infiltrate.Chris was starting to think that he had been fooled all along.After being thrown out of the White family at the age of fifteen and being homeless, It was James who had taken him in and prevented him from living on the streets. Hence, he didn't want to start entertaining thoughts of being betrayed by the man that had literally raised, trained, educated and treated him like a son.He took a cab after getting the text from James that contained the address.*******It took Chris no longer than thirty minutes to arrive at his destination which was a luxurious restaurant. As soon as he entered the building he caught sight of a familiar figure sitting at a secluded table inside the restaurant.Without hesitation, he walked towards the table and occupied one of the empty seats at the table.“Start talking now.” Chris demanded in a commanding tone.“Impudent brat! Shouldn't you at least greet your master who traveled a long distance for the sake of his unfilial student?'' James muttered, his voice filled with sadness.“I'm really not in the mood for such pleasantries. You know how much I hate the White family so stop messing around with me.”"That's why I was surprised you refused to go back. Isn't this a good opportunity for you to take everything they own?"A ugly frown appeared on Chris' face. He was disgusted by the idea of being a member of the White family again.”I have no interest in the affairs of that family and neither do I want to meddle in it.”James chuckled and placed a slice of the steak he had ordered in his mouth and chewed the meat before giving a response to Chris. “Apparently, it turns out that Charles has never thought the same and hopes that you return back to the family.”“When did you make contact with my father and why did you keep it away from me until now?” Chris questioned interrogatively, staring intently at James.“Have you ever wondered why I specifically approached you?!.... As a top high ranking member of Olympus you clearly know that we don't easily bring in outsiders but I did so anyway," James stated and sipped his wine this time around.“What are you insinuating?” Chris asked.“What I'm telling you is that I did everything because your father begged me to do so. His position in the White family was unstable at that time and getting rid of his weakness was the only way to protect you.” James casually revealed in a casual manner. “Although, I still wouldn't have done it even if he begged me a thousand times over but my conscience couldn't let me abandon you on the streets. Still, it doesn't change the fact that your father cared about you more than you know.”Chris was astounded and his body felt stiff as if a bucket of cold water was poured all over him.All these years he held a deep grudge for the White family, especially his father, only to finally realize that he had misjudged a lot of things.The shadow of a figure suddenly covered the table while Chris was still lost in his deep thoughts. He looked up at the face standing next to the table and was surprised to find Elias. “You, what are you doing here?"“I invited him to come over,” James responded even before Elias could speak. “ Christian, You have to return back to the White household because your father needs you the most now.” he added, trying to cajole Chris in order to urge him to chase his mind.At this point, Chris was very hesitant to give a response because he just couldn't return to Washington DC where the White estate was situated and abandon Eva, his wife. It was difficult to ask her to come along with him because he hadn't thought of a way to explain he was a member of the White Family.Aside from that, there were still other problems that needed serious consideration.This was truly a dilemma,“I can’t go back now even if I wanted to." Chris said."And why is that?...There shouldn't be anything stopping you."Chris rolled his eyes at James. "Whose idea was it that I got married in the first place?...Are you expecting to abandon my wife and just disappear without an explanation?""And I clearly remembered how much you were against the idea at that time but I guess you've finally grown some affection for that child." James teased. "It seems like I lost the bet with Catherine."Chris shrugged. "It happens.""Bring her along then." James suggested straightforwardly."You make it sound like it's supposed to be easy. How do you propose I explain to her?. Moreover, she might be put in danger if she joins the White family now.""Secondly, I haven't fully recovered from that injury. I'm still being targeted so I'll also put myself in danger since I would also be exposed if I return to the White family now."Chris stated as he wasn't willing to risk his safety and that of Eva for the sake of helping the White family."Master Chris, I understand your worries and I shall relay them to the Patriarch. This matter isn't beyond the control of the White family so I'm sure that we can come up with a solution by the end of the day."It was evening by the time Chris returned back to the small colonial house he lived in with Eva and her parents included. This place was where he lived but was not so homey because the atmosphere was always engulfed with tension. Since neither of Eva’s parents have liked him very much. As soon as Chris walked into the living room he was greeted with the loud raging voice of Kate, his mother-in-law “You idiots. How dare you have the guts to come to this place, huh? Do you realize the unfavorable predicament you pushed this family into just because you had to offend the patriarch? "Leave now because you are not welcome in this house." Kate and Bruce were unable to attend the family new year gathering because Ben had a doctor's appointment to treat Ben’s paralyzed leg.However, the relatives who were present at the party had already given them a call and told them about the ruckus that Chris had caused at the party. They both confirmed the validity of this news when Eva returned back
The next morning, Chris received a text message from James. He got out of bed and went to carry out his chores and made breakfast before he left the house while driving his old electric scooter. His destination was the same restaurant he had gone to meet James the previous day. Upon his arrival, he found James seated at the same table but this time around he wasn't alone. Seated next to James was a young man who looked to be in his mid twenties. “You're late.” James queried as Chris sat right in front of him. “Unlike someone who always has everything prepared for him every morning, I on the other hand had chores that must be attended to.” Chris retorted with a sarcastic smile. “I never knew your life had become so miserable. Who would have imagined that a warlord like yourself would become a houseboy?” James remarked and sipped the coffee in front of him. “Tell me about it.” Chris said nonchalantly and pointed at the young man sitting next to James. “Who is he?” “This is Etha
Today was important for all the employees at Pegasus Enterprise because the new chairman was arriving for the first time today. As a result, every security officer was resolved to make sure everything was in order. The security guard had a shocked expression on his face when he saw what happened. As soon as he saw the bleeding car driver he recognized him as the son of Pegasus Enterprise general manager, Mark Collins “Sir Mark, are you alright?” in a concerned tone the guards hurriedly rushed to help Mark get back to his feet. “Where the hell have you idiot been?” Mark groaned while covering his bleeding nose. Being scolded by Mark made The security guard frown. He fixed his furious gaze at Chris, seeing how poorly dressed he was in cheap outfits gave the security officer the free pass to look down on him and shouted, “What do you think you’re doing? How dare you cause a ruckus on Pegasus Enterprise ground?! Apologize to sir, Mark right this instant?” “Shouldn't you be asking me
The security guards were taken aback by Elliot’s action and wondered if he had gone senile. Although they hadn't met the chairman yet but they believed he couldn't be Chris who was dressed as a poor beggar.“Mr. Brown, I think you're mistaken. This person isn't the chairman. He's just a hoodlum causing trouble in our company and we were just about to chase him out.” The head of security tried to explain.A frown immediately appeared on Elliot’s face. He raised back up and kicked the head of the security guards on his knees. “Fool! How dare you call the Chairman a hoodlum. Do you wish to die! Is this how you morons have been running this company all along?” He yelled.All the security officers instantly froze in shock as if a bucket of cold water had just been dropped on them. Was this person truly the chairman? The same person whom they were about to beat up.It was a situation that was hard to believe but seeing Elliot’s reaction they all couldn't help but believe that he was speaking
Initially, they had assumed that the company now belonged to the Brown family since they were sending a member of their family to manage the operation of the company. However, it turns out that wasn't the case and it made them even began to wonder about Chris identity.“Mr. Brown, you are mistaken. This is person surely can't be the chairman.” Anthony said with a scoff and continued speaking. “He is just a lowly scum that trespassed into our compound and dated to assault our employees. I'll ……”Anthony was unable to complete his sentence before he was slapped across the face by Elliot..“You are such a dumb imbecile! Like father like son. We don't need fools like you work in this company. If there's any thrash that needs to be thrown out it's both you and your son!” Elliot shouted and turned to look at security officers. “Get rid of them and make sure that they don't ever step foot into this company again.” He declared without mercy.Anthony felt like a bucket of cold water was dropped
Elliot swallowed the saliva in his mouth. The longer the conversation becomes the more Chris seems more scary. It had only been a day but it was easy for him to gather enough background information about him. Chris took his cellphone and placed it on the desk. “Have a look at it!” Hesitantly, Elliot moved closer to the desk to pick up the phone. Another bombshell was dropped on him as soon as he read the contents on the phone. “Sir, this…..this is.” “Yes, they are a series of evidence of the recent embezzlement that some of your older cousins have committed in the past few years. I'm sure that you also have a bigger dream and it would be easy to bring down many of your competitors with that evidence in your hand.” “However, it's not for free. I know they must have given you a private mission to keep a close watch on me. It is not possible to keep a mole next to me so I am going to give you a chance to choose who you wish to serve from this moment onward.” Elliot was flustered a
The Carters owned several fancy, modern homes in some of Brooklyn’s exquisite areas and several members of the family had occupied these homes. Unlike these people, Eva and her parents lived in much older buildings and farther away. As a result, it always took Eva a longer period of time to commute to work everyday compared to her other relatives who lived closer to the business district. Seeing that Eva was ignoring him with an aloof expression, Eric was infuriated and became more aggressive.“Tsk…You should just quit if you no longer have any interest in working anymore. Personally, I would prefer that you wouldn't step foot inside this company ever again. Your family has become a terrible stigma to the reputation of our family so it's best we just get rid of you.” “I suggest that it's best if you stay at home taking care of your crippled father and play housewife to that loser. Leave management of the company to the rest of us. Don't worry, you'll keep receiving your annuals d
After leaving Pegasus Enterprise,Chris went around town running some simple errands so he returned back to the Carter residence at night. As soon as he walked into the house, he saw his mother-in-law, Kate seated on the sofa with a bag of chips in her hands while his father-in-law was busy watching the TV. “Where the hell have you been all day? I have been starving and have resorted to munching a bag of chips. Is this how you plan to get rid of me?” Kate challenged Chris in an impatient tone, her expression disgruntled in irritation. “I'm really sorry, mom. I didn't mean to take so long before coming back but I had so many important matters to take care of.” “Save it!” Kate snapped, waving her hand at Chris' face. “I don't wish to hear the silly excuses you have. Besides, what Kind of business could a bum like you possibly have to deal with outside. Are you trying to starve us to death? No wonder everyone calls you a good for nothing when you can even properly take care of a si
As Chris drove toward the Carter family’s new residence, the tension in the car was palpable. Chris’s jaw was set, his thoughts churning. He knew where they lived—it wasn’t hard to find—but confronting them so directly was a calculated risk.When he arrived, the mansion loomed in quiet grandeur, its façade belying the chaos within. Benjamin Carter himself opened the door, his expression shifting from surprise to unease as he recognized Chris.“You…,” Benjamin began cautiously, surprised to see Chris alone at their house. The last time Chris paid a visit to the Carter ended up becoming a tragic incident for the Carters. “What brings you here?”Chris didn’t respond, brushing past him into the house. Benjamin, caught off guard, quickly closed the door and followed him into the living room.Elliot lingered near the entrance, his posture relaxed but vigilant. Benjamin was surprised to see Elliot as well. “Mr…Mr Brown….” He stuttered, casting him a wary glance, noticing the subtle differen
Chris knew that his peaceful life with Eva would surely be disrupted. He could put Eva and her loved ones in a lot of danger. Moreover, leaving now, with Eva dealing with the Carter situation, felt equally impossible as he didn't want to leave her unprotected.“Sir?” Ethan’s voice broke through his thoughts. “What are your orders?”Chris hesitated, his voice betraying the conflict he felt. “Stay on this and keep me updated. I need to think.”“Understood, sir,” Ethan said, his tone respectful. “And for what it’s worth, I know how much sir, James means to you. We’ll do everything we can to bring him back.”Chris ended the call and sat in silence for a long moment. The thought of James—strong, unyielding James—being captured felt like a punch to the gut. But the thought of leaving Eva behind, especially now, felt just as wrong. He was at a crossroads, and no matter which path he chose, the stakes were unbearably high.---Eva, meanwhile, sat at her desk, trying to focus on the tasks in
Chris kept his focus on the road, but his thoughts repeatedly drifted to Eva seated beside him. Her gaze was distant, her fingers nervously fiddling with the strap of her handbag. He could tell the morning's encounter with the Carters was weighing heavily on her.After a few moments of silence, Chris spoke, his voice calm and steady. “Eva, I know it’s a lot to process, but you don’t have to keep it all bottled up. Talk to me.”Eva sighed and shifted in her seat. “It’s just… they showed up out of nowhere. Again. It’s exhausting, Chris. I keep wondering why now, why after all these years?”Chris glanced at her briefly before returning his eyes to the road. “People like the Carters often realize the value of what they’ve lost only when it’s too late. But you don’t owe them anything, Eva. Not an explanation, not a second chance—nothing.”Eva shook her head, frustration creeping into her tone. “It’s not that simple. They’re still my family, even if they’ve hurt me. And now with them grovel
Benjamin quickly intervened, his tone desperate. “Please, Eva, don’t let his foolish words ruin this. I’m truly sorry for everything. I know I failed you, and I failed Bruce. We should have stood by you instead of casting you out. Please, give us a chance to make things right.”“I don't think everyone agrees with the motive of apologizing for your wrongdoings so I can't believe that your apologies are sincere.” Bruce remarked.Benjamin turned to Eric, his expression hardening. “Eric,” he said, his voice stern. “You owe them an apology.”Eric's usually confident demeanor was gone, replaced by a nervous energy that made him look small and uncertain. Benjamin turned to him, his expression hardening.Eric’s eyes darted between Eva, Kate, and Bruce. “I—”“Now,” Benjamin commanded.Eric swallowed hard, his gaze finally landing on Eva. “I’m sorry,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper.Eva’s eyes narrowed. “Sorry? For what, exactly?”“For everything,” Eric said, his voice shaking. “For
Benjamin hesitated, taking in the luxurious yet understated decor that surrounded them. This was Chris’s doing—he could see it in every detail. The man had built a fortress, a sanctuary for Eva and her family.They were foolish to not have recognized his talent and worth all these years that had him living amongst them.“I came to apologize,” Benjamin said, his voice steady despite the storm of emotions inside him. “To you, to your family. And... to make things right.”Kate let out a bitter laugh. “Make things right? That’s rich, coming from you. Do you think showing up here with an apology is enough to undo everything you’ve done?”“I don’t,” Benjamin admitted, his gaze dropping to the floor. “But I had to try. I know I don’t deserve your forgiveness, but I need you to hear me out.”Eva folded her arms, studying him with a cold, calculating gaze. “Then speak.”Benjamin could see that it was impossible to get through Eva judging by the cold stare in her eyes. He stepped forward. “Bruc
As the night deepened, Eric and the two representatives sat in their car, the weight of their desperation growing heavier with each passing moment. They had hoped that Eva would still come out of the building as they didn't want to admit that she could be living in such an expensive mansion.However, it finally dawned upon them that Eva wasn't coming out after waiting for several hours. Eric felt bitter as it pained him to see that Eva was living the life of luxury….. the kind he always dreamed about.The Carter's drove back home in subtle silence and even though nothing was said the other representative could feel Eric burning rage but the main problem was thinking about how Benjamin would react when he heard the news of their discovery.****The Morning sunlight streamed through the windows of the luxurious mansion, casting a golden glow over the spacious interiors. Eva had just finished her breakfast and was preparing to leave for work when she noticed something unusual. From the l
Eva returned home that evening, her mind clouded with thoughts of the Carters' audacious behavior earlier that day. The memory of Eric's arrogant tone and his entitlement grated on her nerves, but she was determined not to let it ruin her evening. She stepped into the warm, inviting ambiance of the mansion, finding Chris seated in the living room, a glass of wine in hand and an air of calm about him.“Welcome back,” Chris greeted, his voice soft as he looked up at her. His sharp eyes immediately noted the tension in her posture. “Rough day?”Eva exhaled and sat down beside him, kicking off her heels. “You could say that,” she replied, leaning back against the plush cushions. “The Carters were at Cross Corporation again today.”Chris’s hand tightened slightly around his glass, though he kept his expression neutral. “What did they want this time?”“They were begging for a meeting,” Eva said, shaking her head. “I refused to see them, but they didn’t leave. They waited in the reception ar
As the Carters waited in the reception area of Cross Corporation, the tension in the air was palpable. Time seemed to crawl as they sat in near silence, the occasional murmur of distant phone calls and the soft hum of the building’s air conditioning system providing little comfort. Eric, his hands clenched into tight fists, could hardly sit still. The humiliation of being here—forced to beg for forgiveness from Eva, a woman who had once been part of their family, yet now was their greatest obstacle—was eating away at him. Every minute that ticked by felt like an eternity. The receptionist, efficient and unfazed by their presence, had told them that Eva was unavailable. That alone was enough to set Eric’s nerves on edge. Alan, the other representative accompanying him, tried to keep the peace, suggesting they wait patiently. “This is our only shot, Eric,” he said quietly. “We can't afford to make things worse.” But Eric was past the point of patience. The weight of their family's ru
The incident at the Carter residence had left a trail of rumors and whispers that had quickly spread through the high society of Brooklyn. Every elite family, once rivals or allies of the Carters, now speculated about the cause of the downfall. But no one dared to point fingers at the one responsible, especially not at Chris, the lowly son-in-law. After all, who would ever suspect a man living under another family’s roof? Yet, beneath the surface, Chris was the mastermind behind the fall of two once-proud families—the Ambroses and the Carters.Days had passed since the fall of the Carter family, and their reputation, once untouchable, was now a shadow of its former self. Their vast wealth had been seized by the banks, leaving them with nothing more than a dilapidated Victorian house to call home. Benjamin, the patriarch of the Carter family, sat in the small living room of their new residence, surrounded by his relatives. The room was filled with heavy silence, as each person seemed l