In Erudia, a private jet landed at North Hampton Airport, where all international flights experienced an eight-hour delay because of it.
At the private passageway were five men in suits and leather shoes, standing as straight as a javelin.
Every now and then, they would raise their wrist to look at the time, for a big shot was coming to town.
The upper-class society of North Hampton had learned about his arrival, but no one had the capability to get an inch closer to the private passageway.
Even the richest man in North Hampton who came to pay homage was chased away.
Finally, there were movements coming from the passageway.
“God of War!!!” the mass cried out, their eyes filled with awe and veneration at the sight of the undefeatable legend of Erudia.
He, who was dubbed the God of War, was the one and only five-star war God in the history of Erudia.
Once, he’d inflicted a crushing defeat on the strongest battalions in eighteen countries. He was an overbearing and formidable man.
He who overwhelmed the world with his unparalleled power had even created the Five Great Wars Regiment, Cavalry Regiment, and many more.
…
Setting foot on his homeland, Levi Garrison was overcome with emotions.
Once upon a time, he used to be an orphan who was abandoned on the streets of North Hampton and then adopted by the Garrison family.
However, the Garrison family had never been fond of him.
His adoptive parents, who had a tendency to beat and scold him, treated him like an outsider.
As for the outsiders, they treated him as a nobody.
But he didn’t care a stiver. He had always been proud of his surname since he was a child, and he strived to bring glory to this family when he grew older.
At last, Levi had established Levi Group, the largest dark horse in North Hampton’s business community.
With billions of assets, it ranked among the forefront of North Hampton, pushing the declining Garrison family to the top.
However, not only did the Garrison family showed no signs of appreciation, they even harbored dissatisfaction towards him. Jealous of his success, they regarded him as a thorn in their flesh and coveted Levi Group.
No matter his wealth and power, unless they were in control, he was just an outsider in the Garrison family’s eyes.
Eventually, on Levi’s wedding night, the Garrison family plotted a frame-up against him by getting him drunk before tossing him onto his sister-in-law’s bed. They wanted to create the illusion that he was doing something untoward to her and was caught in bed by his brother and adoptive parents.
That night, the Garrison family had brutally broken his limbs and left him on the road like a wild dog.
Not only was he handicapped, but he also had to take the flak for something he didn’t commit.
From an upstart in the business world, he had become the target of disdain overnight.
And the next day, he had been punished for several crimes and sentenced to six years in prison.
He could never forget the ruthless and sinister faces of everyone in the Garrison family and the ridicule of his friends, classmates, and business partners.
More so, he could never forget the disappointment on his newly wedded wife, Zoey’s face.
He had regarded the Garrison family as his home and devoted himself to the family.
Yet, they treated him like trash.
It felt as if a knife was being twisted in his heart every time he thought about this.
How he hated the Garrison family!
But who would have thought that Levi had been secretly transferred away from prison to join the military?
In a few years, he dominated the military world and became the one and only five-star God of War.
Now that he came back, the Garrison family ought to stay on their toes.
“How’s it going, Azure Dragon?” Levi asked.
Azure Dragon, the commander of the Five Great Wars Regiment, took a step forward and said respectfully, “Sir, I’m afraid your wife, Ms. Zoey Lopez will remarry at ten o’clock tonight!”
Ever since Zoey’s husband was sent to prison on their wedding night, she had been living like a widow.
Only God knew how much pressure she was put under.
And right now, the person Levi couldn’t wait to see the most was Zoey.
After a moment of hesitation, Azure Dragon continued, “To add on, Sir, the Garrison family is holding a successful listing celebration banquet at the Crystal Palace Hotel tonight! Many people had invited the God of War just now, including the Garrison family, but I didn’t accept nor refuse directly.”
“What time?” Levi asked tersely.
“Eight o’clock, Sir.”
“Okay. Tell the Garrison family I will attend the banquet!”
Since the time for the two events didn’t clash, Levi gladly accepted the invitation.
The celebration banquet for the public listing of Garrison Group was held at North Hampton’s Crystal Palace Hotel.
With the help of Levi Group, they had become a rich and powerful family in one fell swoop.
The hall was bustling with noise and excitement, and sounds of glasses clinking could be heard ringing in the air every now and then.
“God bless the Garrison family,” said Joseph, the head of the Garrison family. “The younger generations are the stars among men. Garrison Group is now listed and has become an upstart in North Hampton!”
Joseph’s three sons and daughter welcomed their guests with bright smiles on their faces.
The younger generation of the Garrison family was all the smugger and prouder because, after today, the Garrison family would become a powerful family, and they would become one of the top rich kids.
Most of the guests who attended today’s banquet were from the top circle in North Hampton.
“Garrison, do you know what happened today?! Your celebration party is nothing compared to that.” They were gossiping about the major event that had happened today.
“Yeah! I heard that a big shot has arrived in North Hampton!”
“The richest man in North Hampton wanted to meet him but was shooed away. Apparently, he’s not qualified enough!”
“So? Jesse Nielsen had been waiting for five hours in advance at the airport!”
Joseph nodded. “Yes, I know about that too. I even sent someone to invite this big shot to the celebration party!”
“No way! Why would this big shot attend such a party?”
No one believed it.
In fact, as an upstart, Joseph was just trying his luck.
“Dad!” shouted Jaycob, the second eldest son of the Garrison family could be seen running over. “The big shot has accepted our invitation to attend our celebration banquet! He’s on the way!”
“Jesus! God has indeed blessed the Garrison family!”
Everyone in the Garrison family could barely conceal their delight as this was their chance to reach the sky in a single bound.
The grandchildren of the Garrison family gathered together, sunshine flooding their souls.
Levi’s brother, Bryan, and sister-in-law, Victoria, smiled. “Well, it all starts with Levi’s imprisonment that the Garrison family is at where we are today…”
“Right, speaking about Levi, do you guys know today’s the day that kid gets out of prison?!” somebody asked abruptly.
“Really? Isn’t that bad luck? Why did he have to be released on such a big day?!”
“Please, please, please don’t come back! He’s the Garrison family’s biggest disgrace!”
Victoria’s lips tugged into a sneer. “Speaking of which, Levi is the crowning glory of the Garrison family’s status today.”
“That’s what he’s supposed to do!” Bryan said. “He should contribute to the Garrison family for raising him, an orphan! His multi-billion Levi Group means nothing. To put it bluntly, he’s just a dog raised by the Garrison family!”
Someone gave a chortle. “As a matter of fact, I’ve been interested in Levi’s wife for a long time now. She’s still widowed, and I’m so going to marry her!”
The man’s remark caused gales of laughter.
“Everyone, stop what you’re doing. I have an important announcement to make,” Joseph said and went on to announce that the big shot was coming.
A thunderous applause was heard.
But when the applause had died down, there was still someone clapping.
The sound was loud and clear, approaching from afar.
On the red carpet, a man came clapping, looking bold and energetic.
His stride gave off a majestic and imposing aura, which made the mass hold their breaths.
“It’s Levi!” Bryan and Victoria exclaimed.
Suddenly, all eyes were riveted on him.
“I forgot this little brat got out of jail today!” Levi’s adoptive parents spoke in unison.
Ignoring the astonished gazes darted at his way, Levi walked step by step towards Joseph.
“A little bird told me that the company is now listed. How are you feeling, Joseph? Are you happy?”
Levi flashed him a meaningful smile.
“How dare you show up here, you insolent brat! And what did you just call me?” Joseph’s fury sprang to life.
“Who let him in? Didn’t you know he just got out of prison? How inauspicious!”
Bryan rose to his feet. “What the hell are you doing here, Levi?”
Levi sized him up. “Why can’t I be here?”
“Well, for starters, you’re an orphan! The Garrison family has raised you, but you were ambitious and ungrateful. You had inordinate ambitions for your sister-in-law, and you wanted to take possession of the Garrison family! You’d even tried to kill your parents when things go south! Have you no conscience? Do you have any sense of morality left in your heart?”
“You’ve lost your reputation in North Hampton, and everyone knows that. Have you no shame to have the brass neck to come round here?”
Thank you Supreme Grandmaster, we were expecting 20 chapters you promised but there are only 11 today, are there more coming our way? Thanks in advance for your hard work, it's truly appreciated.
“What a pity that we’ve lost two of our men. They are innocent,” Mr. Quinton sighed.
Levi shook his head helplessly. “Well, the business world is akin to a battlefield. Six years ago, I’d encountered an unexpected disaster and had nearly died!”
“We need to uncover the mastermind behind this scheme. We won’t let the perpetrators off easily!” Mr. Quinton bellowed out, in rage.
That night, at home, Zoey was terribly worried about Iris.
If everything were true, Iris would be sent to jail.
Right then, Harry arrived with the others.
“Haha! Zoey, you and the trash are fine? We’d heard that something had happened to Morris Group, so we’d thought that you’d been arrested.” Henry chortled.
Both Shaun and Melanie were smiling. “Seeing as how Morris Group is done for, Zoey’s company will be closed down too. Zoey, what is your plan?”
“Are you going to return to the Lopez family?” Fabian teased.
“I…” Zoey seemed helpless.
Her company was in trouble and would be acquired soon.
Harry grinned. “Zoey, calm down. I am here to strike a business deal with you.”
Zoey was confused. “Huh? What business deal?”
“About buying out your company. I plan to acquire your company at two million!” Harry replied.
“Two million?” Zoey was incredulous.
Even if Morris Group were to stop investing in my company, it’ll still be estimated at around one to two billion.
It’s impossible for someone to acquire it at a mere two million.
This is so absurd.
“Haha! Zoey, aren’t you aware of your circumstances? Once Morris Group goes bankrupt, your company will be largely affected. By then, you won’t even get two hundred grand, let alone two million.”
“Yes. Moreover, if you sell your company to Grandpa, you’ll still be able to work at Lopez Group,” Shaun and Harry sneered.
“Hey!” Zoey exclaimed furiously.
They’re merely here to add insult to the injury!
“Zoey, I’ll give you two days to consider my offer. Don’t delay it any further, or you’ll be sure to receive less than two million.”
“Besides, I’ve also heard that you’re striking a deal with a company in Keerea. Let me handle that, alright?” Harry offered icily.
After the Lopez family took their departure, Levi consoled Zoey, “Don’t worry, honey. Everything will be fine.”
Three days passed in a flash, and the special task force was about to announce the results of their investigation the next day.
That same night, Ron, Xawery, and Wildan were celebrating at the club.
“Haha! I’ve heard that Keith refused to allow anyone to see the evidence,” Ron chuckled.
“Yes. Keith’s an incorruptible police officer. He wouldn’t allow anyone to interfere with his decision!”
“We just have to wait for the results to be announced tomorrow. By then, Morris Group and their upgraded technology will belong to us! Hahaha…” Xawery was so excited that he was about to sing out loud.
He placed his arms around Wildan’s shoulders and started singing along with him.
Bang!
Momentarily, someone kicked the door to their VIP room open.
Over a dozen police officers rushed into the room.
Ron and the other men were stunned.
Someone stepped into the room, flanked by the surrounding men.
He took out his ID and announced, “Keith York, captain of the special task force!”
“Mr. York, your reputation precedes you!” Ron and the others smiled in greeting.
They had no idea why Keith had showed up so abruptly.
“How can you still be in the mood to sing? Don’t you know of the trouble you’re in?” Keith scoffed.
“Ah? Trouble? What trouble?” Ron and the others inquired in shock.
“You are all arrested!” Keith announced as his expression darkened.
His colleague showed them the arrest warrant.
“Huh? What? We’re arrested?” Ron and his friends asked incredulously.
“Unfortunately, the CCTV footage was recovered by an expert. We’ve found the culprit, and he’s given us your names!” Keith laughed coldly.
Boom!
They were so stunned and almost passed out.
The next day, everyone waited eagerly for the results to be announced.
However, the results shocked them.
It was now apparent. The four council members of the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce were the ones who had framed Morris Group.
All the culprits were arrested and sentenced.
Morris Group’s innocence was proved, and everyone was happy about it.
The group even compensated the victims’ families with money, receiving public praise.
Benny was glad by how the matter was resolved.
He admired how Levi had dealt with the matter. He was impressed by his attitude.
The Lopez family was dumbfounded. They wanted to buy out Zoey’s new company for two million, but Morris Group had emerged unscathed in the end.
After that incident, many hospitals released the results of their clinical trials regarding Morris Group’s medical devices. In conclusion, the devices were of outstanding quality and performed better than the previous versions of the device.
Soon, Morris Group’s business resumed with its regular activity.
This time, the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce suffered heavy losses.
Their market value dropped by at least ten billion.
The four noble families could do nothing but watch, as their losses increased.
Their only hope was the God of War.
The North Hampton Warzone’s commander-in-chief’s appointment ceremony was about to happen soon. It was said that the commander-in-chief, Percy Covington, was about to arrive in North Hampton.
Eric and the others were excited.
Even the Gonzales family, who was the wealthiest family around, was eager for that day to arrive.
Meanwhile, Andy brought good news to the Gonzales family… Una and her cousins were allowed to join the ceremony.
Of course they were elated when they had learnt of the news.
The young ladies and gentlemen of the upper-class society took events like this seriously.
To them, this was a great opportunity to raise their social status and brag about how they were invited to such an event.
“Haha! Now that the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce is weakened, I only have to bootlick the God of War to gain control over it, sooner or later,” Winston announced, utterly delighted.
“Sir, a Mr. Park Guk-chang from the Kappei Corporation in Keerea is here to see you,” the housekeeper came to inform Winston.
“Okay, let him in.”
Winston had plenty of partnerships with companies in Keerea, and Kappei Corporation was something he had considered trivial.
Nonetheless, he was in a good mood today, so he agreed to see the man.
Soon, Park Guk-chang entered the hall.
His request was simple. He was going to develop his business in North Hampton, so he came to curry Winston’s favor.
The most interesting thing was that Park Guk-chang Kappei Corporation was the company from Keerea that Zoey was going to collaborate with.
“Mm, I know your teacher well. I’ll provide you help, wherever it is needed.”
Upon Winston’s agreement, Park Guk-chang was ecstatic.
The wealthiest man’s promise meant that he could gain a firm foothold in North Hampton.
The next day, Levi was in his office when he received Zoey’s call.
“Levi, I’m in a middle of a discussion. Abigail needs some business data for her internship. Can you help me deliver it to her?” Zoey asked.
She was currently discussing a collaboration with Kappei Corporation from Keerea.
“Okay, I’ll send it over to her!”
After receiving the data, Levi headed to the University of North Hampton.
It took him a while to find Abigail.
Levi handed the file to Abigail and was about to leave when she stopped him.
“Levi, you haven’t had lunch yet, right?” Abigail asked.
“Of course. I came to deliver the file to you,” Levi responded.
“Come, I’ll buy you a meal. Shall we eat at the canteen?” Abigail gazed at Levi expectantly.
Levi could sense his stomach grumbling upon hearing Abigail’s suggestion.
He had not had a meal in his alma mater for years.
“Okay, let’s go to the canteen!”
“Let’s go!”
Abigail held Levi’s arm as they walked in the campus.
Levi did not think much about it, as she used to do the same thing when Zoey was accompanying them.
He merely thought of her as a young girl.
However, the other students did not think that way.
Abigail was popular in the university as she was pretty.
She had been single since she had arrived, and many students were curious as to when she would get a boyfriend.
Today, an unusual scenario appeared before their eyes… The pretty Abigail was holding a man’s arm in public!
Everyone who had witnessed that was stunned.
It was definitely shocking news.
Even though the man seemed to be older than her, he was good in every way.
At once, everyone was certain that he was Abigail’s boyfriend.
Soon, the news of Abigail’s boyfriend spread quickly throughout the campus.
Levi sensed that everyone was staring at him strangely, while Abigail was smirking silently.
She wanted to fool others into thinking that Levi was her boyfriend.
As she inched closer to Levi, her pursuers were about to slam their tables in rage.
“I never knew that Abigail liked older men!” the young men exclaimed in anger.
Finally, Abigail and Levi reached the canteen.
Levi chose a table which was at a corner, but everyone could not peel their eyes away from him.
When Abigail arrived with the dishes on a serving tray, Levi was exasperated. “Turns out you’re quite popular on campus, huh?”
“Of course! I’m one of the prettiest students in campus!”
Abigail leaned closer to Levi and asked in a low voice, “Levi, everyone thinks that you’re my boyfriend. What should I do? I’ll never get a boyfriend if this happens.”
Levi grinned. “Not a problem. I’ll inform the broadcast room…”
“Hey, you’re no fun!” Abigail pretended to be mad.
As the dishes were served, Levi started gobbling the food.
He did not realize that the crowd surrounding them was growing larger.
After filling up his stomach, Levi stood up to leave.
“I’ll send you off,” Abigail pronounced, trailing behind him.
She was gazing at Levi affectionately, so everyone immediately knew what was going on.
Many young men’s hearts were broken into pieces. Abigail really has a boyfriend!
As Levi and Abigail stepped out of the canteen, a group of people approached them, blocking their exit.
Levi tried to leave, but they would not allow him to do so.
These people were dressed in Taekwondo uniforms, appearing to be fierce.
“Park Heung-tae, what are you doing?” Abigail yelled angrily.
This exchange student from Keerea was skilled in Taekwondo, and he was an overbearing young man. He had punished all the boys who had tried to get to know Abigail.
Ignoring Abigail, Park Heung-tae glared at Levi, warning him in broken English, “Abigail’s mine! Stay away from her!”
The crowd fell silent, and no one dared to look at him.
Smiling, Park Heung-tae declared, “No one wants to take up my challenge? Does no one dare to prove your Erudian wrestling? What a bunch of losers.”
He taunted the Erudians mercilessly before their faces.
Who on earth could bear with that?
However, everyone was helpless.
Even Kyle, who was an expert, was defeated, let alone, what would befall the rest of them?
Those who dared to accept his challenge were seeking death.
Right then, everyone who met Park Heung-tae’s vicious grin hurriedly lowered their heads in shock.
“Hahaha! No one in Erudia is going to prove that Erudian wrestling works? How disappointing. Your country is declining!”
To show off in front of Abigail, Park Heung-tae had blatantly provoked the entire country.
In a small voice, Abigail asked, “Levi, is he that good?”
Levi replied with a smile. “He’s nothing but an ant.”
Five years ago, Levi had encountered many men like this on the battlefield.
The Keerean soldiers were the worst of them all.
Right then, Park Heung-tae turned his sharp gaze to Levi. “What’s wrong? Do you want to challenge me?”
As Levi was standing beside Abigail, he had wanted to teach him a lesson from the very beginning.
Levi said nothing as he walked towards Park Heung-Tae.
The young man was thrilled. “Haha! Great! Finally, someone is willing to challenge me!”
As he stared at Levi, who was making his way over, dozens of ways to torture Levi appeared in his mind.
Soon, I’ll show Abigail what a real man is like!
In a blink of an eye, Levi was less than five meters away from Park Heung-tae.
Levi extended his right fist.
“Trash. What an idiot,” Park Heung-tae scoffed.
To him, Levi’s punch was full of flaws.
He reached out to block the punch instinctively.
However, the moment he touched Levi, his expression changed drastically.
Levi’s fist was faster than he had expected and was growing bigger in his eyes.
Thud!
The forceful punch landed on Park Heung-rae’s face as he flew back like a broken puppet.
A gush of blood flew through the air, along with several of his teeth.
The punch threw him dozens of meters away. Park Heung-tae crashed through two trees before he finally collapsed to the ground.
“Ugh…” Park Heung-tae yelled in agony, as he rolled on the ground in pain.
“Young man, you can’t insult Erudian wrestling,” Levi reprimanded him before leaving with Abigail.
Silence ensued.
No one had expected that the devil incarnate, Park Heung-tae would end up in such a situation.
Levi had simply punched him once, but he had ended up badly hurt.
Now, it seemed like Taekwondo was trashed instead!
The news spread like wildfire.
Right then, in Zoey’s new company at Union Square.
Zoey was discussing her collaboration with Park Guk-chang.
After gaining a foothold in North Hampton, Park Guk-chang surveyed the market, before realizing that Zoey’s company had huge potential and would be the perfect partner for him.
At this moment, he received a phone call.
“What? My son is in the hospital because someone has beaten him up?”
Park Guk-chang’s expression darkened.
“Ah? Are you okay, Mr. Park?” Zoey inquired.
“Ms. Lopez, I have to go. My son has been beaten up, and he’s in the hospital right now. I need to go to him,” Park Guk-chang explained.
“Let me come with you,” Zoey responded, as their collaboration was extremely important to her.
“Nonsense! Park Heung-tae started insulting Erudia first. As Erudians, where is your conscience? Did you forget how he’d insulted our country this morning?” Abigail cried.
These students stiffened, but swiftly retorted, “Ha! Did he? No, he didn’t. Park Heung-tae is a kind person. How would he insult Erudia?”
“Yes, you have an affair with your brother-in-law and had beat him up because he’d caught you in the act!”
A repeated slander made others believe it.
As so many people were condemning Levi and Abigail, even Zoey was embarrassed by their accusations.
“No! Park Heung-tae hit Kyle first! We can ask Kyle to prove our innocence!” Abigail suddenly suggested.
At the same time, Kyle revealed himself. He was standing at the back of the crowd the whole time.
“Impossible. Levi was the one who’d hit me. I was condemning him with Park Heung-tae, but he did this to me!”
Kyle was glaring at Levi viciously.
Park Guk-chang was smug. “What else do you have to say?”
“Levi and Abigail have to apologize! Levi must pay for what he’s done!” Kyle and the dozens of students shouted.
It was as if Levi was in the wrong.
Between the Gonzales family and Levi, Kyle chose the Gonzales family.
Thunderstruck, they instantly understood what was going on.
The Gonzales family and Park Guk-chang had arranged for everything to happen.
No matter how wealthy Kyle’s family was, he dared not go against the Gonzales family.
They pushed the blame to Abigail and Levi, using the Gonzales family’s influence to twist the truth!
Levi felt chills spreading across his chest upon that sight.
Where are their consciences?
Back then, when Park Heung-tae insulted Erudia, everyone was involved.
When I took action, they cheered for me.
But now, they are turning their backs to me by framing me.
Well, that’s disappointing.
Abigail knew why these students were willing to commit perjury. Besides the Gonzales family and Park Guk-chang’s coercion, Park Heung-tae was an exchange student, so they had no choice but to do so.
If they offended the exchange students, they’d be ostracized by other students, as exchange students enjoyed a high status on campus.
Right then, the Lopez family rushed over after hearing the news.
Even Iris who lived next door, arrived.
After hearing the claims, they started hurling out accusations.
“I was right! Levi’s nothing but a beast! He’s harbored indecent thoughts for my sister-in-law, and now, he’s involved with his other sister-in-law!”
“He’s even offended the Gonzales family. He’s dead meat for sure!”
“I suggest for Zoey to divorce him as soon as possible!”
Fabian and the others spoke up.
Even Iris appeared exasperated. “Why did you beat him up with no reason? You’re in deep trouble now, for offending the Gonzales family.”
“Isn’t Zoey good enough for you? Why did you seduce Abigail?”
Indeed, Levi and Abigail were rendered speechless.
This time, Park Guk-chang and the Gonzales family had an absolute advantage.
“From what I know, Park Heung-tae holds a black belt in Taekwondo. You must be good at fighting, huh? Why don’t we fight?” Luke stared at Levi, seemingly interested in him.
“What? You’re Luke Gonzales, the top fighter in North Hampton?”
Harry and the others’ expressions changed abruptly.
They had heard about this man. Normally, he would stay out of minor matters. However, if he took action, he would often cripple or kill his opponent.
Levi was done for!
He was screwed.
“Remember, come to Mr. Park before twelve, at midnight. If you don’t show up, everyone here should prepare to suffer from the Gonzales family’s wrath!”
It was late at night, but Winston, Una, and the others rushed to the City First Hospital.
Park Guk-chang had survived, but he was still unconscious.
Upon seeing Park Guk-chang wrapped up like a tortilla in the ICU, Winston could feel his anger boiling up.
Park Guk-chang was small fry, but he was backed by Winston.
As he had gotten beaten up, it had harmed the Gonzales family’s reputation.
Winston could not allow that to happen.
“Levi Garrison! I can’t take this anymore! Since you keep provoking me, I won’t let you off the hook!” Winston howled angrily.
“Levi knew that Park Guk-chang was backed by us, but he’d hurt him nonetheless. He paid no heed to us and has insulted us!”
The other members of the Gonzales family were infuriated.
“We must cripple Levi! Otherwise, it’ll be detrimental to our reputation!”
Soon, news about Park Guk-chang’s injuries spread to the Lopez family.
They were shocked to hear such news.
It was revealed that Levi had handled the matter by beating him up.
“B******! I’ll kill him now!” Harry was enraged.
Zoey received his phone call and immediately woke Levi up.
“What did you do? Did you hurt another person? Do you want to ruin my life?” Zoey almost burst into tears in anger.
How can Levi court disaster so easily?
“Don’t worry, the Gonzales family will apologize to me in no time,” Levi replied confidently.
“You’re beyond saving.”
Zoey could not sleep and went to Iris for help, while Levi resumed in his nap.
The next day.
News spread around North Hampton swiftly that someone had provoked the wealthiest man around… Winston Gonzales, in public.
Beating Park Guk-chang was akin to humiliating Winston.
In the morning, the Gonzales family’s fleet of cars was lined up outside.
Winston wanted to teach Levi a lesson to show the entire North Hampton that he was still as influential as he had been, previously.
Before they left, Winston’s son, Andy ran towards him.
“Dad, what are you doing?” Andy inquired curiously.
“We’re going to teach Levi a lesson!” Winston replied.
“You can’t go now. The new commander-in-chief, Percy Covington, is about to arrive in North Hampton. The North Hampton Chamber of Commerce will find out about his arrival soon. We must pick him up before they do!” Andy seemed anxious.
“So soon?” Winston was surprised.
“Yes, I have no idea why Commander-in-Chief Covington arrived in North Hampton earlier than expected. After receiving the news, I came over at once,” Andy responded.
“Hurry! Let’s go and pick him up now. We can’t let the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce get ahead of us!” Winston urged.
“Grandpa, what about Levi?”
As Una wanted to humiliate Levi as soon as possible, she was impatient.
Winston thought about it and consoled her, “We’ll have plenty of chances to punish him in the future. Besides, Commander-in-Chief Covington has just arrived. We shouldn’t leave a poor impression on him now.”
“Grandpa, you can go and pick Percy up while I bring Luke over, to teach Levi a lesson. He’s just a commoner, so it won’t leave a bad impression,” Una suggested, refusing to give up.
“Sure. You can take care of Levi.”
Winston turned to order Luke, “Protect her well!”
Luke nodded. “Don’t worry, Sir. I’ll be right by her side!”
Luke was confident that he could cripple an ordinary man like Levi in no time.
He thought that he was overqualified for the job, actually.
Even Una was cursing angrily.
Right then, Winston’s convoy arrived at Bayview Garden’s entrance.
The security guard at the entrance was wondering, why has another convoy arrived? Is something going on?
“Thank you, Mr. Gonzales. I don’t think that you should come, as he dislikes strangers,” Percy smiled and thanked Winston.
“Okay, see you later, Mr. Covington!”
Winston and the others watched, as Percy walked into Bayview Garden.
However, they did not leave at once.
“Find out who’s the relative that Percy was talking about. I want details about that man!” Winston ordered.
“Yes, Sir!”
Winston summoned two of his men. “Come, let’s find out which building Mr. Covington is heading to.”
Meanwhile, Levi and Una were still glaring at each other.
Luke stepped forward with a mocking smile on his face. “I normally wouldn’t have to deal with nobodies like you, but as you’ve insulted the Gonzales family one too many times, I’m here to teach you a lesson!”
Una sneered, “If you’re willing to grovel at my feet, I might consider letting you off the hook.”
Levi fixated his gaze on Una.
Suddenly, he slapped Una across her face without warning.
Slap!
That was a crisp and loud slap. Everyone who saw that happened was stunned, let alone Una herself.
As Una felt a stinging pain on her cheek, she belatedly realized that he had slapped her.
“You… How dare you slap me?” Una held her cheek as she stared at Levi in disbelief.
“B******! Luke, get him!” she yelled in fury.
Upon receiving her order, Luke took action at once.
Boom!
He struck his fist out, which was accompanied by a blast of air.
The force generated from his punch caused everyone to take a step back.
His punch was so powerful!
It was no wonder that he was the top fighter in North Hampton!
Levi stood rooted to the spot as if he were dumbfounded, so Luke was certain that his powerful and swift punch would wound Levi badly.
Thud!
When Luke’s punch was about to land on Levi’s face, someone suddenly appeared in front of him and took his punch.
Luke immediately sensed a powerful energy attacking him.
He stumbled six steps back before he came to a stop.
His gaze was filled with shock as he stared at Percy, standing right before him.
Levi did not expect him to show up in person.
Percy might have retired because of his injury, but he was still a skillful soldier.
He was once a courageous soldier on the battlefield who had protected Erudia.
There were no wimps in the Iron Brigade!
“How dare you gather in public? Have you no respect for the law?” Percy inquired icily.
Una defended herself, “Ha! The Gonzales family is the law in North Hampton! You seem skillful. Do you want to work for us? We are going to beat this man up today. Get out of our way!”
Luke was still staring at Percy. It had been ages since he had encountered someone as skillful as him.
“I hate bullies, so I’ll intervene in this matter today!”
Levi might be the God of War, but he would also intervene, even if Levi was an ordinary citizen.
“Do you want to die?” Luke exclaimed in fury.
“Stop!”
When he was about to take action, someone reprimanded him.
Everyone looked back to see Winston approaching them.
“Grandpa, I thought that you’d gone to pick Mr. Covington up from the airport? Why are you here?”
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Una was curious.
Winston was close to exploding in anger.
Fools! Commander-in-Chief Covington is standing right in front of you!
“Grandpa, we were about to teach Levi a lesson when this fool had showed up. Luke, deal with him!” Una ordered.
Before Luke could take action, Winston strode up to her, slapping her, hard.
Una’s right cheek swelled up at once, and her pretty face was swollen like a pufferfish.
Una was dumbfounded.
She did not expect to be slapped twice in such a short time.
The others including Percy were astounded, too.
“Grandpa, why did you slap me?” Una wailed.
Luke questioned curiously, “Sir, what’s going on?”
Winston barked angrily, “Do you know who he is? He’s the commander-in-chief of the North Hampton Warzone, Percy Covington!”
Everyone gasped in shock upon hearing his words.
They were utterly flabbergasted!
It turned out that the man was a warzone’s commander-in-chief.
What a huge misunderstanding it was!
Luke belatedly realized what he had done.
He instantly broke out into a cold sweat.
Even Una was rendered speechless as she gazed at Percy.
She had never imagined that he would be the commander-in-chief.
S***, I’d even insulted him and claimed that the Gonzales family was the law in North Hampton!
After Percy figured out what was going on, he scoffed, “So you’re from the Gonzales family. You’re so different from Mr. Gonzales. He’s kind, yet you’ve acted like a tyrant, claiming that the Gonzales family was the law in North Hampton!”
Even Winston was shocked by Percy’s words.
Commander-in-Chief Covington is holding us accountable!
“Commander-in-Chief Covington, the ignorant are not guilty. It was a slip of the tongue. Please don’t take it to heart,” Winston apologized at once.
“Yes, Commander-in-Chief Covington, we’re sorry. Please forgive us!” Una and the others hurriedly apologized.
Luke was so frightened that he was about to grovel at Percy’s feet.
“Ha! You should be apologizing to him instead of me! How dare you bring so many people to disturb him in the morning?” Percy uttered in a wintry voice.
“Mr. Garrison, we’re sorry for disturbing you. Let’s call it even!”
Winston was a sly fox and hinted that he would stop finding fault with Levi over Park Guk-chang’s matter.
It was a show, for Percy’s sake.
“Yes, yes. Park Guk-chang and his son deserve to be beaten up!” Una chimed in.
“We’re sorry, Mr. Garrison!” Luke led his men to apologize to Levi.
Upon seeing their actions, Percy nodded in satisfaction.
“This is much better. Mr. Gonzales, I won’t pursue this matter again. Think of it as me returning your favor, as you’ve given me a ride here,” Percy announced.
If we were elsewhere, these people should die, for insulting my God of War!
Percy decided not to pursue the matter further as he did not want to make a big deal out of it.
“Err…” Winston seemed stumped.
It will be hard to bootlick Covington after what has happened.
“I will bring these fools away. See you later, Commander-in-Chief Covington!”
Winston was about to leave with the others when someone spoke up.
“Wait. Did I tell you to leave?”
It was Levi. He was glowering at Winston and the others.
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Percy won’t pursue the matter, but I will!
“What?” Winston and the others were incredulous.
Percy allowed us to leave, but Levi won’t?
Is he a leech? Who does he think he is? How dare he provoke our family?
“You’ve disturbed me this early in the morning. Do you think I am an easy target?” Levi uttered icily.
Winston and the others remained indifferent, but Percy was terrified.
He knew that Levi was mad.
Winston tried to suppress his anger as he inquired, “Mr. Garrison, then what should we do?”
“If you want me to let you off the hook, everyone in the Gonzales family should come and kneel in front of me for one day! Otherwise, you’ll suffer from the same ending as the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce by disappearing from North Hampton!”
Levi’s voice was like a sharp knife.
Percy was certain that Levi really meant it.
North Hampton is crumbling, and the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce will be taken down as well, he thought.
“Hahaha!” Una burst out laughing.
“Levi, do you think you’re an influential man? Are you using Commander-in-Chief Covington’s influence to threaten us? You’re nothing but a leech! Dream on!”
Winston was infuriated too. “Commander-in-Chief Covington and us, hold no grudges against each other. Don’t use him to threaten us!”
Levi merely sneered, “I’ve warned you the last time, but you’d refused to pay heed to my warning. Fine, go down together with the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce!”
Levi’s statement sent Winston and his men into fits of laughter.
It turned out that Levi was an ambitious man who’d wanted to take down both the Gonzales family and the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce!
“Haha! What a joke. No one in North Hampton can take down our family and the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce! Not even Mr. Nielsen can do so!”
“Yes, no one is capable enough of doing so!”
Winston and his entourage were full of pride.
Messing with them was akin to messing with North Hampton’s foundation!
Who was capable enough of doing so?
“Just wait and see how I’ll deal with your family,” Levi announced coldly.
“Alright. We’ll soon see about that,” Winston and his entourage chortled.
After bidding Percy goodbye, they left immediately.
They were unafraid of Levi. Instead, they were afraid of offending Percy.
“God of War, I am here to see you.”
Percy gazed at Levi excitedly and he was about to kneel.
Three years ago, before he retired, if Levi had not saved him on the battlefield, he would have been dead by now.
Levi was the one who had given him a new life.
“Covington, why are you here earlier than expected?” Levi asked.
“God of War, I am here to see both you and your wife,” Percy smiled and replied.
“Come on in!”
Levi brought him into the house.
Meanwhile, Zoey’s movements were still restricted by Iris.
“Hmm? Why is it so quiet out there?”
Iris went to the window, but realized that everyone was gone.
She ran out together with Zoey. Those people had already left.
“Is Levi in trouble?”
Zoey and Iris entered the house at once.
The moment they entered the house, they were stunned by what they saw.
Levi was talking to a stranger.
Percy spotted Zoey and stood up at once.
“This is?” Zoey asked curiously.
“Covington, this is my wife. That’s her best friend,” Levi introduced.
“Honey, this is my good friend, Percy Covington. He has just arrived from Vermond.”
Zoey greeted Percy warmly upon hearing Levi’s introduction, but Iris folded her arms arrogantly.
She was looking at Percy, her gaze full of disdain.
Levi’s friend? How good can his friend be?
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She had met plenty of people and thought that she saw right through Percy.
Percy might seem imposing, but he has lost his edge.
Judging from his outfit, he must be in dire straits.
Hence, she was uninterested in him.
“By the way, where’re the Gonzales family’s men? I’d thought that they were here to take revenge on you? Why are they gone?” Iris questioned.
“They’d scuttled away in fear. Just wait and see. They’ll come to apologize to me soon,” Levi declared.
“Ha! The Gonzales family? Apologizing to you? Dream on!” Iris refused to believe him.
Zoey was not going to believe him either.
Percy merely grinned, “I bumped into them, so I talked to Mr. Gonzales and he’d agreed to call it even.”
Iris scoffed, “Who do you think you are? Why would Winston listen to you?”
At once, Zoey made a call to confirm Percy’s claims.
“Iris, it’s true! The Gonzales family agreed to call it even!” Zoey exclaimed happily.
“What? Did that really happen?”
On second thought, Iris proclaimed, “Ha! Mr. Gonzales was kind enough to forgive you guys.”
Percy smiled and kept silent.
Meanwhile, at the largest and most luxurious villa in North Hampton.
“Sir, I’ve asked around, but no one knows who Commander-in-Chief Covington’s relative is,” the housekeeper reported in disappointment.
Winston answered, “That’s within my expectations. We would’ve found out about it if someone else had known about it.”
“We’ll send someone to spy on Commander-in-Chief Covington to find out who his relative is.”
“No, Sir!” Luke hurriedly cut in.
“Mm? Why?” Winston questioned.
“Commander-in-Chief Covington is someone who I had yet to grasp the depths of his abilities. He’s almost comparable to me! If you send someone to spy on him, he’ll discover for sure,” Luke explained.
“What? The commander-in-chief is that strong?” Clint drew in a sharp breath.
“I’ve heard that everyone in the Iron Brigade is horrifyingly strong. Looks like the rumor is true!”
“We should wait to attend the appointment ceremony.”
Winston shot a look at Una. “Una, dress up nicely. You must attend the event in your best attire!”
“Why so, Grandpa?” Una did not know what her grandfather was planning.
“I’ve heard that the God of War is in his twenties, and he’s still single. What if he fancies you?”
Winston’s words scratched at Una’s heart.
The God of War was the biggest hero in Erudia.
Every woman dreamt of marrying him.
Now that she was given a huge opportunity to meet him, of course, she was elated.
“Yes, we’ll set you up with him. You’ll be a perfect match for him. You can be the God of War’s wife!” Clint exclaimed in delight.
Winston stroked his chin. “Yes, now that we’ve gotten to know Commander-in-Chief Covington, we can ask for his help. That’s very likely to happen.”
Their words immediately stirred Una’s imagination.
She wished that the ceremony would start immediately, so she would get to see the God of War!
The Gonzales family’s plan was to marry Una to the God of War.
“What if the God of War doesn’t fancy her?” someone questioned.
Everyone was rendered speechless by that question.
That was highly likely, too.
Luke suggested, “I have an idea. We can trick the God of War to sleep with Ms. Una. He cannot undo his actions, so he would have to marry her after that!”
Winston’s eyes gleamed. “That is a brilliant plan!”
The Gonzales family was scheming so that Levi would end up marrying Una.
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While the Gonzales family schemed, the members of the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce were also busy making plans of their own.
After all, Morris Group was finally becoming a threat that they could no longer ignore. Things were getting out of their control, and they were running out of ideas for what to do.
The only plan they had was to somehow find a way to associate themselves with the God of War and Commander-in-Chief Covington.
That was why they had invited Grover Cooke over tonight. They hoped that he would be able to help them come up with an idea.
“Morris Group has been developing at a rapid pace recently. A lot of companies are offering them all sorts of preferential treatment! I guess since it’s helping the economy of North Hampton, that’s a good thing,” Grover mused.
“But at this rate, they’ll soon be taking over our market, which leaves us in a very precarious situation!”
“They’re so ambitious that they’re even going after the Gonzales family businesses! It’s only a matter of time before they come after us next.”
Eric and the others fretted.
“Do you have any ideas, Mr. Cooke?” Clifford asked.
The man in question shook his head helplessly. “Nothing much will come of working from the shadows. You have seen for yourselves their ability to resolve all problems thrown their way.” He paused before suggesting, “Maybe you should try forcefully buying over Morris Group?”
“That might just work!” Eric and the other men’s eyes gleamed viciously.
Baldwin seemed doubtful as he stated, “I don’t think it’s going to be that easy. I’ve heard about how mysterious the boss of Morris Group is. Nobody knows who he or she is.”
Shaking his head, Wallace rebutted, “It’s not that hard. Have you forgotten how we used to buy over the other companies?”
The men exchanged sly looks.
“Alright then, you guys should probably focus on preparing for the ceremony. I’ll have Jesse introduce you to the God of War and Commander-in-Chief Covington when the time comes. With those two supporting you, you’ll still be fine even if you dance a little too close to the illegal side of things,” Grover finished with a smile.
“Thank you so much, Mr. Cooke! The North Hampton Chamber of Commerce shall forever be grateful to you!” the men fervently expressed.
After the incident at the hospital, Morris Group had been flourishing at a quick pace.
The celebrities endorsing their products were also reaping the benefits of this with a huge upsurge of advertisement invitations.
By contrast, business for Everest Entertainment had been getting increasingly worse. It was only a matter of time before they went bankrupt.
Lil Lacey and her manager, Amelia, had it even worse. They had been blacklisted by the entire industry and had not been able to find a single way around the ban.
Their only options left were to either leave the country or change professions.
But there was no way they would just let this go. To them, this was all Levi Garrison’s fault. He had destroyed everything of theirs, and he had to pay!
He had to die!
They had been searching for an assassin to hire for several days now. Strangely enough, the underworld of North Hampton had been incredibly quiet, and they failed to find anyone.
In the end, they finally managed to locate a reliable killer who hailed from South City.
Presently, they were lounging on a luxuriously large bed in a five-star hotel. Both were stark naked as they cuddled against a man with a devil tattooed on his chest.
He was Quentin Lane, an underground boxer who they had only been able to hire through some connections.
Notorious in the illegal fighting rings for being ruthless, he had once killed forty-eight men in a single year.
Currently ranked number five in underground boxing, he was nicknamed ‘Devil’.
Other than boxing, he was also known for taking on contract jobs like killing or maiming someone. Whatever his mission was, he had never once failed.
Most people would not have been able to hire him. It was only because Lil Lacey and Amelia were willing to sleep with him that he had agreed to come. Of course, they still had to pay for his services.
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“Mr. Quentin, the underground in North Hampton has been strangely quiet recently. I couldn’t even find an assassin…” Lil Lacey pouted.
Quentin snorted and replied, “That’s because the God of War, Liam Macy, and the King of North Hampton, Jack Smith, have been taken out. Someone cleaned up the underworld, so that’s why nobody took up your contract.”
A worried look crossed her face, “Then are you sure you’ll be okay?”
“Hmph! The North Hampton rules can’t stop me. As long as I kill off the man and immediately return to South City, nobody can do anything to me!” Quentin said confidently.
In the past few years, a lot of rich people hired him to assassinate someone or another. It did not matter if it was within the nation or out; he had never once been caught after killing someone.
This time was no different to him, and he did not think much of his target.
With that, he pinned Lil Lacey beneath him…
One hour later, he got up to put on his clothes.
“Give me his photo. I’ll leave after I’m done with him,” he ordered.
Lil Lacey hastily handed a photo of Levi over to him.
Accepting it, he scrutinized the photo closely, memorizing the man’s features.
From beside him, Amelia piped up, “The money has already been transferred. Please check your account!”
“Alright. Wait for my good news; this shouldn’t take me more than an hour!”
Tossing that over his shoulder, Quentin left.
The two women exchanged gleeful expressions, their eyes shining coldly. “Levi Garrison, you dare to ruin us? Well, you can go to hell! This day next year would be the anniversary of your death!”
Quentin had not actually come alone. He had brought four men with him, each an excellent fighter themselves.
Stabbing a dagger through Levi’s photo to pin it to the table, he commanded, “Find out where he is!”
On the other side of things.
Levi was eating BBQ with Benny and Percy at the aptly named BBQ Street.
With his carefree personality, it was no surprise that Percy got along with Ben perfectly.
The three of them chatted happily about anything and everything under the sun, taking hearty gulps from their cups as they toasted each other.
Being a street that mostly sold food, the appearance of Quentin and his men did not attract too much attention.
However, the menacing aura they gave off had passers-by subconsciously backing away.
They stood just around the corner, spying on the three men drinking and eating BBQ.
One of the men Quentin had sent out came back to report, “Mr. Quentin, it’s confirmed. That man is Levi Garrison!”
Quentin nodded. “Okay. Everyone, wait for my signal!”
One of his subordinates queried, “What about the other two men?”
“Kill them too!” A bloodthirsty look entered Quentin’s eyes. Right now, Levi was nothing but another dead body in his mind.
“Three!”
“Two!”
“One!”
The group of five dashed toward Levi, with their hands tightly gripping the weapons hidden underneath their suit jackets.
Within seconds, they were upon the three unsuspecting men.
Or so they thought.
In truth, Levi and Percy had detected their presence long ago. They abruptly turned around, taking the five killers by surprise.
“Levi Garrison? Someone badly wants you dead. Now, die!”
Quentin pulled out a dagger from underneath his suit, the glade glinting coldly as he swung it toward Levi.
His four subordinates did the same, attacking Benny and Percy.
Their movements were as quick as lightning and as fluid as water. No wonder they were experts!
All Benny could see was the steel blade flying toward him as he froze to the spot in shock.
The speed was just too fast!
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A chill wrapped around Benny’s body, and he swore his blood was freezing in his veins.
At that moment, it was almost like his spirit had already left his body behind.
So this is what approaching death feels like!
Excitement coursed through Quentin at that moment. His weapon was less than one centimeter away from Levi’s neck now. All he had to do was stick it in, and his mission would be complete.
Ding!
The next instant, there was a ringing sound, and he could feel pressure being applied to the blade.
To his shock, Levi had halted the dagger by clenching it between two fingers.
Crack!
Unbelievably, all it took was a deft twist of his fingers, and the blade broke into two.
Squelch!
The broken dagger stabbed into Quentin’s body.
How terrifying!
Quentin had been underground boxing for twenty years, yet he had never seen a more terrifying man than Levi.
Thump! Thump!
…
Quentin stared in disbelief as his men were sent flying by Percy, blood spraying out of their mouths.
What kind of f***ing monsters are these two?
The five of them were some of the best fighters in the underworld, yet before these two men, they were practically trash!
Realizing there was no way they would win, he quickly called out, “Retreat!”
The five men scrambled to get out of there as fast as they could.
Before they could go far, a huge group of men came into sight at the end of the street ahead of them. There were at least a hundred men or more.
The veritable army of men charged toward Quentin and his ilk.
These were Nueve and Trey’s men. They had come to help the moment they caught wind of Levi being in trouble.
The assassins’ faces fell, and they turned around to head back in the other direction.
They had barely taken a few steps when another throng of men appeared before them.
These strongly-built men were different in that they had varying skin tones and were clearly foreigners.
Leading the group was none other than James.
“Holy c**p!”
Quentin could have torn his hair out with frustration as a cold sweat broke out all over his body.
Just who the hell did we piss off? If I had known this man would be so powerful, I wouldn’t have come! Now I’m in deep sh**! Will I even survive this?!
“Lil Lacey, Amelia Mackie, you b**ches! You set me up!”
“Brothers, these men actually dared to attack Mr. Garrison! Get them!” James yelled.
Immediately, the two big groups of men swarmed the killers.
Even with their fighting prowess, Quentin and his men were already suffered injuries beforehand. There was also the fact that they were severely outnumbered. In no time at all, they were beaten till they were close to death. Countless bones had been broken, and their own blood stained them crimson.
To add insult to injury, they were tossed into dumpsters at the end.
Shortly after, Levi received a message and departed.
It was from Azure Dragon, who said he had already found out who sent the assassins.
At Hilton Hotel.
Lil Lacey and Amelia were growing more and more anxious as they waited in their hotel room.
One hour passed, and still, there was no news from Quentin.
Needless to say, they were more than a little worried.
“Why isn’t he reporting in?” Lil Lacey gripped her phone and stared at it intensely. It was as if by doing so, it would miraculously chime with a message or phone call.
Certain something was wrong, Amelia urged, “We should leave North Hampton right this instant! I keep getting the feeling like something bad is going to happen.”
“Alright!”
They quickly packed their bags before Amelia went to open the door.
Boom!
The door was slammed open with a kick from the outside.
Crash!
The force behind the kick was so much that Amelia was knocked unconscious by the door.
Azure Dragon and Levi appeared in the doorway.
“And where do you two think you’re going?” Levi asked with a smirk.
“What? How are you still alive?” Shock and fear shone in Lil Lacey’s eyes.
With a smile playing on his lips, he answered casually, “Hahaha, that’s because the men you sent to kill me are trash! I’m pretty sure they’re dead by now!”
“What? No, that’s impossible! He’s Quentin Lane, the Devil of the underground boxing ring. He’s supposed to be one of the best killers out there! There’s no way you could have survived him!” she shrieked madly.
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“You have been proven guilty of attempted murder. Men, take her away!”
At Levi’s words, Xavier Fields came into the room with a squad of police behind him. Within moments, Lil Lacey and the unconscious Amelia were arrested and dragged away.
Levi was not impressed by this so-called ‘Devil’.
The impudent fool thought he could kill him? Hah! He bit off more than he could chew.
Within the night, news of how the Devil of South City, Quentin Lane, had come to kill Levi but had been killed instead spread like wildfire.
“Hahaha! Does Garrison know no fear? Quentin Lane is the godson of Sebastian Lopez! Killing Lane is basically asking for death!” Winston Gonzales roared with laughter.
Una had an excited look on her face. “Grandpa, does this mean Garrison won’t be able to escape death this time?”
“Of course! Mr. Lopez doesn’t have any children of his own, so Lane was basically his everything. Garrison has really done it this time!” Winston stroked his beard as he chuckled.
“Hah! How dare he threatened our family? This is really karma coming to bite him in the ass!”
Una could already imagine what fate would befall Levi, and she just could not wait.
The appointment ceremony was three days away. Percy had gone back to North Hampton Warzone to prepare, so Levi also went back to work at the company.
Iris, who had just come out of a meeting, received a phone call. A few seconds later, she hung up with her face pale.
Everyone around her could tell something was off about her. One concerned staff asked, “Ms. Annabelle, is everything okay?”
She shook her head and replied, “I’m fine. Casey, could you prepare a car for me, please? I need to go out for a bit. Remember, no driver!”
After that, she left alone to head toward North Hampton International Airport.
When she arrived, a bespectacled man in a suit got in the car when he caught sight of her.
“Louis Lont, get out of my car! I never said you could come in. You’re going to dirty my seats!” she hissed furiously.
Louis took off his glasses and wiped his lens. A smile played on his lips as he said, “Iris, I’m your ex-boyfriend. You should be a little courteous at the very least, don’t you think? Why the sour attitude?”
Rage twisted her pretty face as she growled, “Hmph! Who would want to be courteous to a scumbag like you?”
When she went overseas, she had had a brief relationship with this man. To her disgust, it did not take her long to discover that he was a true scumbag. He had been with eight other women while they were still dating. Eight!
She had instantly demanded to break up and treated this incident as a matter of personal shame.
Proud as she was, she refused to let anyone know about her brief lapse in judgment. Hence, even Zoey did not know about him.
“Why did you come to pick me up at the airport if you didn’t still have any feelings toward me?” Louis chuckled.
He even had the audacity to try and grab Iris’ hand!
“Go away!”
She shoved him away violently and spat, “I didn’t come to pick you up. Just tell me what I have to do before you’ll hand over those things?”
“What’s the hurry? I’m a trustworthy person, really! I’ve helped you keep them secret for so many years and have never once shown them to anyone!”
“You – !” Iris gritted her teeth so hard her jaw ached.
Ever since they broke up, he had been holding a very personal secret of hers over her head and used it to blackmail her.
She had already given him several million in the past few years.
“Speak! How much before you’ll give them back to me?” she asked.
“What I want this time might be a little difficult for you, but you still have to agree. If you don’t, I can assure you that I’ll immediately release your secret to the public. You can be certain that your reputation will be ruined then!” he threatened.
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“You…” Iris was furious, yet there was nothing she could do about it.
She had thought she would be able to escape him by coming to North Hampton, yet here he was.
He was like a nightmare that she could never shake!
In a chilly tone, she queried, “What are your conditions? How much do you want this time?”
Snickering, he answered, “I don’t want money.”
Money was not something he was currently lacking. The North Hampton Chamber of Commerce had already paid him ten million to come here and had promised him forty million once he got the job done.
Indeed, they were going to use him to buy over Morris Group.
They had searched far and wide before they finally discovered him and his history with Iris. Realizing he held valuable blackmail material over her head, they had hired him to do their bidding.
This was one of the methods they loved to use to obtain other companies. They would either dig for blackmail material on the opposing company’s upper management or find the weakest link and use them to attack from within.
Another more ruthless method would be to threaten the upper management staff with their families’ lives.
When it came to forcefully buying over a company, loss of life was inevitable.
After all, the business world was like a battlefield.
Lives were lost and blood was shed.
…
This was why the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce was so confident in its ability to obtain Morris Group.
A confused expression crossed Iris’ face. “Huh? Then what do you want?”
Chuckling slyly, Louis stated, “I heard you’re some bigshot who controls Morris Group now. Your current net worth is probably more than one billion, right? You seem to be doing much better here than when you were overseas!”
A fissure of unease shot through the woman. In a cautious tone, she asked, “What do you want?”
“You’re in charge of Morris Group, aren’t you?”
“I’m only the vice president, but most of the decision-making power is in my hands.”
“So that would mean the president actually leaves you to deal with running the company?”
She nodded. “Yes, that’s right.”
“Great! Then you can make the decision right now if I want to buy over Morris Group, right?”
His words had the color draining from her face.
She shouted, “What? Are you crazy?! You want to buy over Morris Group? Do you have any idea how much the company is worth? Close to twenty billion! Where are you going to get that much money?”
“Well, not me per se, but my boss!” he amended.
The uneasy feeling in her grew, and she sensed there was something else going on here.
“Who’s your boss?”
“The North Hampton Chamber of Commerce! They deliberately sent me here to negotiate with you,” he declared as his eyes scrutinized her closely.
“What? The North Hampton Chamber of Commerce?” she repeated dumbly in shock.
The next second, realization dawned, and she could have slapped herself.
They were purposely using Louis to threaten her exactly because he held something of hers!
He uttered, “You have two options. One, Morris Group joins the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce and becomes one of their members. Two, they outright buy over Morris Group.”
Immediately, she shook her head. “No way! Morris Group and the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce are business competitors! Our company will never agree to join them.”
“They knew you wouldn’t agree. That’s why I’m here. You said you were in charge of Morris Group, didn’t you? Then I would suggest you seriously consider joining them. It would be better for you in the long run.” That infuriating smile was still curling his lips.
“Never! We’ll never join them no matter what! You can forget about it!” she refused.
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Tsking, Louis crooned, “Iris, do you seriously think you have a choice? If you don’t agree, I’ll share what I know with the public. I wonder what they’ll think about this rising star of the business world being such a s***ty woman in private?”
He casually glanced down at the magazine he held in his hands, where a picture of Iris smiled back at him.
It was the cover photo taken when the media had interviewed her previously.
Presently, she was probably even more popular than some other celebrities!
She knew if word got out about her secret, she would be ruined for life.
Thus, there was no way she could allow that to happen!
Foregoing her previous stubborn and hard attitude, she weakly protested, “No matter which option it is, I can’t make this decision for the company!”
He spoke up in a confident voice, “Who are you trying to fool? The North Hampton Chamber of Commerce is well-aware you call the shots in the company. All it takes is one sentence from you, and the company is sold!”
Iris felt her mind go blank. They had come after her specifically, which meant they had already planned out everything.
More importantly, she really did have the power to sell the company.
It would not be illegal either. She could just walk off without having to look over her back all the time.
Having given her the stick earlier, Louis thought he would give her the carrot now. “Think about it; even if you offend someone in the process of doing this, the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce will still back you up. They can also promise you the job position you want!”
“Oh yes, by the way, this offer only lasts for today. If you still can’t make up your mind, I’m going to release your secret!”
Face ashen, Iris asked, “One day is too short! Can’t you give me more time?”
“Sure! You just have to meet me at Wonder Hotel tonight. Also, remember to bring ten million with you. Otherwise, no dice!”
With that said, Louis exited the car without waiting for Iris to say anything.
As he walked off, he called Eric’s son, Phineas, “Mr. Robinson, it’s done! That b***h Iris will definitely sell off Morris Group within three days!”
“Good job. Have another ten million for your efforts!”
“Thank you, Mr. Robinson!”
Hanging up, he was beyond ecstatic.
“Looks like Lady Luck is smiling on me! At this rate, I’ll be able to earn 60 million AND sleep with Iris! What a wonderful day!”
Although he had Iris’ most personal secret as blackmail, the two of them had not actually slept together before she found out about him dating eight women simultaneously.
That was probably one of his biggest regrets, but it would seem he would finally have the chance.
Iris was slumped in her car seat with a look of absolute despair on her face.
If only she had not been so stupid as to allow him to find her secret…
But hindsight was twenty-twenty, and there was nothing she could do to change the past.
If she were being honest with herself, she felt like that secret of hers was more important than even her life.
She really would kill herself if that got out.
“What do I do? Should I really sell off Morris Group?”
She had no idea what she was supposed to do now.
“Either way, I should head back to the company first.”
She knew what Louis meant by tonight. He was forcing her to sleep with him to extend the time limit he gave.
Lost in a daze, she did not know how she managed to drive back to the company.
Screech! Bang!
Just in front of the company building, she rammed right into another car.
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The other driver got out of his car, yelling furiously, “What the hell? Are you blind or something? My signal lights were clearly on, yet why did you continue forward and crash into me? You – Eh? Iris?”
It took Levi several moments to register that the other driver was Iris.
To think he had just been cursing how the driver was swerving around the road like a drunken person!
Levi’s loud voice snapped Iris back to her senses. “Huh? What happened?”
His voice was cold as he demanded, “What the heck, you were out of it the whole time? You hit my car!”
He got the feeling something was not quite right with the woman today. She seemed incredibly distracted.
Had something happened?
“Oh. Sorry?” she apologized sheepishly.
After that, she called the garage, and the two cars were towed away.
Frowning slightly, he queried, “Hey, are you okay?”
“I’m fine!” she murmured vaguely.
Levi suddenly said, “Your bra strap is showing!”
“What? Where?” She turned her head to check over herself. It was several beats later before it occurred to her that he was lying.
Pushing this incident to the back of his mind, Levi made his way to his office in the technical department. As usual, he settled down to have some tea and a smoke.
Isaiah approached him, saying, “Mr. Garrison, we don’t have enough technicians in the department, so I wish to cultivate some more men.”
“Okay. Go ahead!” Levi answered.
Isaiah continued hesitantly, “But we would need a huge sum of money for that…”
“Money isn’t a problem. You can cultivate whoever you wish; just let me know, and I’ll arrange it!”
“Got it, Mr. Garrison!” Isaiah replied in a delighted tone.
He really enjoyed working with Levi.
Everybody could tell Iris had something on her mind as she seemed incredibly absent-minded today.
She had not reviewed a single document and had basically sat there in her chair dumbly for many hours.
Everyone who worked with her closely on a daily basis was worried about their boss. She used to be so passionate and energetic, nothing at all like the zombie she was today.
“Maybe she’s on her period?”
This was the only explanation anyone could come up with.
On the other side of things.
Having suddenly obtained twenty million in a day, Louis was currently enjoying himself at a nightclub.
There were more than a dozen beauties in the small private room he was in, and he had his arms wrapped around the closest two.
“Lont, you little sh**, you’ve really hit the jackpot this time!”
The voice who had spoken belonged to a bald man sitting near him. This was Zack, the boss of Bar Street. Some of the biggest bars in North Hampton were under his protection.
Around Zack were several of his most capable men, each built like an ox.
Last time, Louis used to lead an adulterous life and could often be found spending his nights in nightclubs. That was how he grew so familiar with all these thugs.
In the end, it was because of his gambling addiction that he had borrowed more than one million from Zack. Unable to pay the thug back, he ran off overseas to escape his clutches.
Now that he was back and had obtained such a huge sum of money, he wanted to return the money he borrowed.
“Zack, give me your account number, and I’ll transfer you the money immediately!”
One million was practically nothing to Louis now. He had plans to remain in North Hampton for the foreseeable future and would need to maintain a good relationship with Zack if he wanted to run a business here.
Zack puffed on a cigarette, a sleazy smirk on his lips. “By the way, I heard you’re planning on sleeping with Iris Annabelle from Morris Group tonight?”
“That’s right! I hold her deepest, darkest secret in my hands, so she has to spend the night with me!” Louis answered smugly.
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Zack chuckled and responded, “Just the thought of that b***h has me hungry!”
One of his subordinates piped up, “Yeah! She has a smoking hot body. With how cold and innocent she acts all the time, imagine how she would be like in bed!”
Ever since they saw Iris on the front of the magazine, they lost all interest in other women.
It did not matter that there were more than a dozen other beautiful women in the room with them now, all Zack wanted was her.
Compared to her, these women were nothing.
Zack smacked a meaty hand down on Louis’ shoulder. “How about this, Lont. You let us get a turn at her tonight, and I’ll forget all about the money you owe me! Also, from here on out, you’ll be my brother, and I’ll protect you from everything!”
Louis instantly agreed, “Sure! You can have first dibs, Zack, and I’ll go second. The rest of your men should come too! Let’s all see for ourselves how good she can be in bed, shall we? Hehehe…”
“Hahaha, good man!” Zack could not wait!
One of his men asked, “Boss, do we need to prepare some equipment?”
A wicked smile twisted Zack’s face in response. “But of course!”
…
In her office, Iris was staring off into space when her phone rang.
It was Louis.
“Iris, it’s nearly time for you to get off of work. Have you made up your mind yet?”
Clenching her teeth, she squeezed out, “I-I…I have…”
“Okay, then head to Wonder Hotel after you get off work. I’ll come down to personally escort you to my room.”
After he hung up, Louis told Zack and the rest about the good news.
They were absolutely delighted and anticipation had them hurrying to the hotel as quick as they could.
At last, it was time to get off work.
Iris transferred one million to a bank card and stuffed a pair of scissors into her bag before she left her office.
Her actions had the staff feeling puzzled.
Before, she would always work overtime till eleven or even twelve midnight. Yet today she’s leaving at six?
How strange…
But they were just her subordinates, so they did not bother themselves too much with her personal life.
At that moment, Levi finally woke up from his long nap. Stretching out the kinks in his back, he got ready to head back home.
“Don’t you guys think Ms. Annabelle has been acting so oddly today? She hasn’t gotten any work done at all and seemed strangely preoccupied with something.”
“I know, right? It’s so abnormal to see her like this. I’m sure she isn’t on her period either. It’s so weird!”
“I think it started this morning after she got that phone call…”
…
As Levi walked through the company, he overheard some women gossiping about Iris.
Their words had him freezing as a bad feeling rose in his gut.
“Oh no, I think she’s in trouble!” he muttered to himself.
He thought the car accident earlier this morning was a random event.
But it was starting to seem like there was really something strange going on here.
He hurriedly called Phoenix. “I need you to find out where Iris has been and who she’s talked to today!”
“Understood, Sir!”
…
At this time, Iris had arrived at Wonder Hotel.
Louis was already waiting for her in the lobby.
Taking a deep breath to steel herself, she headed toward him.
“We’re not in any hurry, so let me check the money first.”
Despite his eagerness to sleep with her, he still had his head on straight.
He had to get the ten million first before he would indulge himself.
Satisfied he had the money, he lead the way upstairs.
Clutching her handbag tighter, Iris followed along behind him meekly.
A few minutes later, they entered the presidential suite he booked.
Before she could say anything, five men walked out from the depths of the suite.
The baldheaded man at the front was watching her with a greedy smile on his lips…
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Sensing a bad vibe from these men, Iris backed away warily.
“Who are you guys? What do you want?”
Rubbing his hands together, Zack replied, “Babe, no need to be scared. I just wanna be friends with you! Hehehe…”
The rest of the men chortled as they neared her. “Yeah, baby! We all just want to be friends.”
“Louis Lont, you bastard! I’m leaving!”
Spinning around, Iris made to leave but was too slow.
In a flash, Zack had moved between her and the door. Locking it, he turned to step closer to her.
“Why the hurry to leave, babe? I promise I’ll be gentle!” he leered as his eyes seemed to be undressing her.
Louis sniggered and stated, “Iris, meet Zack. Don’t worry… He just wants to get to know you better!”
Feeling trapped, she shouted, “Louis, what the hell is the meaning of this? What are you trying to do? Have you already forgotten about the deal with the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce?”
Louis twitched slightly as he was reminded of his primary reason for being back in the country.
“Well, didn’t you say you wanted more time? Fine, I’ll make a deal with you! If you sleep with all of us tonight, I can give you three more days. Decline, and I’ll let the whole world see those photos of yours! Oh wait, I have a better idea. Zack, you guys wanna see her private photos? I can show them to you!”
Clearly impatient, Zack was quick to agree, “Of course! Hurry up and let me see them!”
“Wait!” Iris yelled in frustration and anger, “Louis Lont, you’re a devil!”
“Thank you for the compliment!” Louis laughed.
She insisted firmly, “I’ll pay you twenty million, but I’m not doing anything else with you.”
“Zack, just do it! This woman is very conservative and proud. She values her reputation above all else. So as long as we record everything, she’ll definitely listen to us from now on!” Louis revealed.
“Hell yeah! I’ve been waiting a long while for this!”
Zack was about to pounce on her when she pulled out the scissors from her bag.
“Don’t come any closer!” she threatened as she swiped at them with the weapon.
Zack took one step forward before he swiftly punched her wrist. The pain had her yelping and dropping the scissors.
Instantly, she was swarmed by the men, and they dragged her to the bedroom.
Thump!
Zack tossed her unceremoniously on the bed.
Tears of shame and fear dripped down her face.
Despair!
Utter despair!
She had underestimated how heartless Louis could be.
Now there was no one to help her.
All kinds of recording equipment had been set up in the room as well.
She was doomed!
Just the thought of what was about to happen had her wishing to commit suicide.
Eager to get started, Zack hastily undressed and swallowed some pills.
“Let’s begin, eh, boys?”
Just as he was about to crawl on the bed, a voice drawled from behind them.
“What fun this looks like. Do you guys mind if I join the party?”
Louis, Zack, and the other men whipped around in shock, only to see Levi standing there smoking.
“Who are you? What are you doing in my room?” Louis demanded.
A savage expression crossed Zack’s face, and he snarled, “Get him, boys! Beat him up good! I absolutely loathe it when people interrupt me just as I’m getting down to business!”
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At Zack’s order, his four subordinates lunged toward Levi.
A bloodthirsty look flashed through his eyes. His hand came up in a fist, and he punched the first thug.
Thump!
The thug sailed back a dozen meters before crashing against the wall heavily. When he fell to the floor, he did not move to get up again.
Wham!
Another punch sent another thug flying back.
The last two had it the worst.
Two vicious kicks to the crotch downed them like two sacks of potatoes.
They rolled around on the floor, clutching their lower bodies while letting out pained howls.
Everyone present was dumbfounded.
Who knew that Levi would be so brutal in his attacks?
Schick!
Zack yanked out a dagger from nowhere and stabbed it toward Levi, who dodged it with ease.
Wanting to have another ago, Zack abruptly found his wrist squeezed in a pincer-like grip.
Snatching the dagger from the thug’s hand, Levi threw it aside before punching the man.
Agony exploded through Zack’s body, and he screamed in pain.
All the blood had drained from Louis’ face, and he was as pale as a ghost.
Huge beads of sweat dripped down the sides of his face, wetting his already soaked shirt.
How frightening!
Levi’s deadly gaze slowly moved to land on him.
“I-I…It wasn’t me…I d-didn’t…T-this has nothing to do with m-me…”
He was so terrified that he was babbling.
Levi questioned, “You have some personal secret of Iris’, don’t you?”
Louis shook his head furiously. “N-no, I-I don’t…”
Levi did not speak, merely cracked his knuckles menacingly.
“Y-yeah, I d-do…”
Stretching his hand out, Levi wiggled his fingers. “Give it here.”
“Well…” Louis hesitated.
“Pfft!” Levi’s fist smashed into Louis, causing the man to scream in pain.
“Give it to me,” Levi repeated.
Knowing the consequences of his hesitation, Louis handed his briefcase over to Levi.
“They’re in my briefcase!”
Accepting it, Levi opened it up to reveal a stack of photos and a USB drive.
“Do you have any more copies?” He punched the other man for added measure.
Wailing in pain, Louis truthfully replied, “No! I already planned on giving her everything! With her strong personality, I knew she would kill herself if I pushed any further!”
“That’s good.” A cold glint appeared in his eyes, and his leg lashed out.
“AHHHH!” At that moment, Louis experienced what all men dreaded the most as excruciating pain flared in his body. His whole body was flushed red as he cradled his family jewels, rolling around on the floor.
Struggling to look at Levi, he gasped out, “Y-y-you went back o-on your w-word!”
An innocent smile curled Levi’s lips. “Did I ever say I wouldn’t touch you after you gave me the items?”
“I…” By then, the pain was getting too much, and Louis was close to passing out.
The last thing he heard was Levi saying, “Since you guys can’t seem to control your desires, I’ll help you!”
Lighting up a cigarette, he watched the moaning men on the floor with a grin tugging at his lips.
Just then, the unconscious Iris woke up.
The first person she saw was Levi, standing there calmly as he smoked.
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Then, Iris saw how Louis and the rest of the men were holding their crotches and whimpering in pain.
Scared and confused, she scurried to Levi’s side.
She asked, “D-did you save me?”
Smiling, he nodded and replied, “Yeah. Of course I was the one who saved you.”
Glancing around, she could not help disbelieving him. “Impossible! There’s no way you’re my savior!”
He frowned at her words.
Is there something wrong with this woman? Does she see anyone else around here?
“It must be the big boss! Yes, he must have rescued me!” she cried out in agitation.
Speechless and annoyed, he muttered, “Yeah, that’s right. He was the one who saved you.”
Technically, he was the big boss, so what she said was true.
“Is he here?” she asked eagerly while scanning the room.
“Nope. The men he sent here have already left. He told me to take you back home.”
“Alright then, let’s go!”
As Iris moved to take a step forward, her knees buckled, and she couldn’t walk an inch. Then, she turned to look at Levi helplessly.
Shaking his head wryly, he mumbled, “How troublesome.”
In the end, he had no choice but to carry her on his back.
Before he left, he made sure to confiscate Louis’ phone.
Sprawled against his back, she felt oddly warm and safe.
Maybe he’s not such a bad person after all.
Even though the person who had saved her was the big boss, the one who was bringing her away from this hell was still Levi.
She burst into tears when she recalled how her secret was still in Louis’ hands.
As if realizing what she was crying about, he handed her a briefcase.
When she saw the contents of the bag, her tears stopped.
“You didn’t sneak a peek, did you?” she asked suspiciously.
“I’m not interested in you at all!” was his reply.
She seethed furiously, “You…”
But what was more important was that she had finally gotten these items back.
These were actually photos of her in revealing clothing or other more explicit photos.
For someone as conservative and proud as her, she did not want her image ruined by having these leaked out.
Louis had copied these from her computer without her knowing when they had still been dating.
Ever since then, he used these as blackmail material for all these years to ransom money from her.
“By the way, don’t tell Zoey about this matter!” she suddenly uttered.
Getting a little annoyed with her, he said impatiently, “I don’t have time to gossip about you.”
She fell silent, pressing her face against his back.
While she felt like Levi was a useless person and did not have many praiseworthy traits, it was incredibly hard to find a man as reliable as him nowadays.
No wonder Zoey refused to let him go no matter what.
After sending Iris back home, Levi went back as well.
“Hmm? Why do I smell a woman’s perfume on you? And blood?” Zoey’s sharp nose immediately detected these unusual smells.
“Huh? Really?” He did not smell anything.
“You even have a woman’s hair on you!” she accused as she plucked a long hair from his shirt.
He hurriedly explained, “It belongs to Iris!”
“Why were you two so close?” She puffed her cheeks up in anger and glared at him. Jealousy flashed in her eyes.
She did not care that it was her best friend; nobody was allowed to be in such close contact with him!
“I-I…”
He did not know what to say. He wanted to explain what had happened, but Iris had insisted he keep her secret.
“I see. Can’t explain it, can you? Well, since you two are so intimate with each other, we should get a divorce! You can go live with her then!”
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Levi was dumbstruck at the extent of Zoey’s jealousy.
She was even packing her stuff and getting ready to leave!
Fortunately for him, Iris arrived at that moment.
She was traumatized by her earlier experience and was scared to sleep alone tonight. That was why she had come to find Zoey.
Seems like the two of them are arguing over me.
Hastily fabricating a lie, she explained, “Zoey, please don’t misunderstand! I twisted my ankle, and it took me a lot of effort to convince him to carry me back home.”
Zoey relaxed. “Oh. Darling, I’m so sorry for wrongfully blaming you!”
Smiling, he replied, “Honey, you never have to worry. I’m not interested in this woman at all!”
“As if I would be interested in you!” Iris retorted.
Yet somehow, those words seemed wrong the moment they left her lips.
That night, the two women shared a bed while Levi slept in another room.
At the same time.
At Emperor Hotel, Phineas Robinson was busy hosting a very esteemed guest.
This guest came from the Lopez family and held a venerable position in the family.
Only someone from the main Robinson family had the rights to host this person.
It was none other than Wesley. He was here on behalf of the Lopez family for an event.
“Phineas, do you know who Nueve, Trey, and Levi are?” he asked curiously.
The other man replied, “Of course! Levi is currently the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce’s enemy number one!”
“How powerful are they?” Wesley pressed.
“Not that weak, but nothing compared to the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce. Why the sudden interest in these insignificant men?” Phineas wondered.
Wesley sighed. “Well, you know how my second uncle’s godson was killed here in North Hampton two days ago? These three are the culprits.”
Phineas nearly jumped out of his seat in shock. “What? Mr. Lopez’s godson was killed here in North Hampton? I thought his godson was Quentin Lane, the Devil of the underground boxing ring!”
Wesley sighed again. “Yeah. Quentin was supposed to be one of the best fighters out there, yet he still croaked. That’s why I’m asking you about those three men.”
“Well, I would say there’s nothing extraordinary about them. They probably used some sly tricks to kill off Lane. Does Mr. Lopez want revenge? I can help him!”
Wesley shook his head. “No! Quentin is Uncle’s favorite, and now that he’s dead, Uncle is way beyond furious. He vows to get revenge personally! I’m only here as a scout to find out some things for him. As for how we’re going to get revenge on Garrison, that will have to wait for Uncle’s arrival.”
“Mr. Lopez is coming to North Hampton? That would really shake things up!”
Just the thought of it had Phineas shuddering in fear.
Garrison has really done it this time! Of all the men he could have pissed off, he had to piss off the one with the title of Hades!
“Oh, by the way, Wesley, I’m not sure if you know this, but Levi Garrison is part of Morris Group. I’m guessing this incident has something to do with them. Otherwise, why else would he have dared to touch a hair on Lane’s head?”
Phineas deliberately brought Morris Group into the mix, wanting to shift the other man’s ire toward the company.
There was a frosty look in Wesley’s eyes when he answered, “I know. Someone must be backing Garrison up, or he wouldn’t have had the guts to make such huge waves. I don’t care who it is; we’ll deal with them as well!”
Phineas chuckled.
After Wesley left, Phineas abruptly thought of Louis.
“I wonder how things are going on his side? We’re in a hurry here!”
He dialed the other man’s number. Before the latter had a chance to speak, he queried, “How are things, Louis?”
“I’m afraid Louis has been, ah, crippled.”
The voice coming from the other side of the phone had Phineas tensing.
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In a terrified voice, Phineas demanded, “Who are you?”
“Levi Garrison!”
“What? You’re Levi Garrison?” The shock he was feeling bled into his voice.
Speak of the devil indeed.
“W-what did you do to Louis?”
“I already told you. I crippled him,” Levi said with a chuckle.
Just then, one of Phineas’s men came hurrying over with a box. “Mr. Robinson, somebody sent this to you.”
Curious, he ordered, “What is it? Open it!”
When he saw the bloody contents of the box, he turned as white as a sheet.
“This is…”
Levi’s voice spoke up from the phone, “Louis’ manhood, of course.”
Sucking in a breath, Phineas felt sick. “Garrison, you sick man!”
Levi laughed before saying, “He couldn’t control his lower body, so I took the liberty of controlling it for him.”
A thought occurred to Phineas, and he questioned, “Does this mean Iris’ secrets are with you now?”
“Yup. You should give up on trying to buy over Morris Group.”
“Damn you, what the hell does this have to do with you? You’re just an insignificant staff member!”
Phineas was infuriated. Things had been going so well until that damned Garrison had come along to mess it up!
“You went after my wife’s best friend. Enough said. Besides, I’m a part of this company too! Who do you think got them all those medical supplies?”
A look of confusion descended on Phineas’ face. “What? I was wondering how Morris Group managed to obtain all those technologies. It was you!”
In the next instant, he understood.
It was not Neil Atkinson who had dipped his finger in the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce’s pie, nor was it the mysterious boss of Morris Group.
It was Levi Garrison!
He had somehow gotten his hands on all those technologies!
This guy has to die!
“I’ll say this again. You better not have any ideas about Morris Group!” Levi warned.
“Fine! I’ll admit defeat this time. But this isn’t the end of this matter!”
After Phineas hung up, he knitted his brows deeply.
There was no way he could let Levi go just like that.
But with the appointment ceremony coming up, this would be a bad time for the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce to be involved in any shady business.
“That’s right! Wesley!”
That night, he rushed to meet with Wesley.
“Wesley, I know you said you were only here to find out more information on Levi Garrison, but I think you should just get rid of them once and for all. That way, you could take credit for their deaths. I’m sure Mr. Lopez will be incredibly grateful to you for that!” Phineas suggested.
Wesley’s eyes gleamed. Although Sebastian Lopez was not the head of the Lopez family, his words still carried a lot of weight. Other than the head of the family, he did not respect anyone else.
If he, Wesley, really did resolve this matter, then Mr. Lopez would definitely hold him in high regard. When that happened, the chances of him becoming the man’s heir would be very high.
“You have any ideas, Phineas?” he asked.
Phineas chuckled slyly. “I’m sure you’ve heard about what’s been going on with the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce recently, so you should also know that now is a bad time for us to do anything. I can lend you my men to deal with Garrison.”
Still uncertain, Wesley asked worriedly, “But they must be pretty strong if they can kill Lane.”
“Relax! The men I’m loaning you are all top-notch fighters. The Robinson family went to great lengths and spent a lot of money on cultivating these killers. All thirty of them have been raised since young to be the perfect killers and have learned all kinds of fighting skills. I bet you even the elites of the military are no match for them!”
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“These men are stone-cold killers. As long as you pay them, they’ll be willing to kill anyone you want! Nueve and Trey are nothing compared to them!”
Phineas snapped his fingers, and thirty men filed into the room.
Each was solidly built with bulging muscles, not a hint of fat on any of them. Their faces were blank, but a murderous look was apparent in their eyes.
Even Wesley was taken aback at the intense and menacing aura they projected.
Never had he ever seen such malicious-looking men, even in the South Warzone.
Excitement coursed through him and he exclaimed, “Alright! If this mission succeeds, I promise I’ll make it up to you in the future!”
For the rest of the night, he was so excited that he could hardly sleep.
The next day.
Levi, Zoey, and Iris left the house together to head to work.
“I’ll make an exception today and take you to work,” Iris offered as she opened the car door and gestured for the man to get in.
Zoey nodded in permission, asking him to get in as well.
At that moment, in a private villa somewhere.
Nueve was lying on a bed with two women snuggled up on each side.
Crash!
The window was smashed open before ten men charged inside aggressively.
Nueve leaped to his feet, shouting, “Who are you?”
Wham!
The man in the lead, an expert in Muay Thai, knocked Nueve unconscious with one blow.
Meanwhile, in another private condominium apartment.
Trey had just gotten out of bed when someone knocked on his front door.
He had barely opened the door when several men barged inside. Before he could react, they knocked him out cold.
Back at Bayview Garden, Iris had only just started up the car and driven a few meters when –
Screech!
A van suddenly blocked her way, causing her to slam on the brakes.
Ten men exited the van before making their way to her car.
“Roll down the windows, now!”
Terrified, Iris did as ordered with trembling hands.
By contrast, Levi seemed completely unfazed. He still had an arm hanging out the window lazily.
The man in charge took out a photo and glanced between it and Levi. “You’re Levi Garrison?”
Levi nodded. “That’s me. What’s up?”
“Come with us quietly, or suffer the consequences!”
“Why should I?” Levi retorted.
“Because you pissed off someone!”
Frowning, Levi mused, “Who did I offend?”
Getting impatient, the man growled, “Hurry up and come with us! Don’t force our hands!”
“I can go with you, but at the very least tell me who it is?”
“Listen closely! You pissed off Sebastian Lopez of the South City Lopez family. Thus, you have to die today!”
The man directly yanked open the car door and dragged Levi out.
Levi did not resist, allowing himself to be taken to the van. He wanted to get a look at who was after him this time.
Slam!
The van door slammed shut before departing swiftly.
Iris could only stare off into space in shock.
Just then, Zoey came driving past.
Iris quickly hailed her. In a teary voice, she cried out, “Zoey! Something terrible has happened; Levi has been kidnapped!”
Zoey paled rapidly. “What? Levi was abducted?”
She felt herself grow faint at the thought.
Anxiety swamped her as she demanded, “Who did it? We have to save him!”
Iris repeated what she had heard earlier, “I think they said it was Sebastian Lopez of the South City Lopez family. I wonder who he is? The man also said that Levi had to die today!”
Zoey’s eyes brightened at the name. “The South City Lopez family? I have to find Grandpa; he’ll know what’s going on!”
Equally worried, Iris insisted, “Let me come too! Nothing must happen to Levi!”
Ever since he had saved her last night, she had changed her views on the man.
CHAPTER 350
The moment Levi was pushed into the van, his captors had blindfolded him to prevent him from seeing where they were going.
He took this chance to rest his eyes as his posture slowly relaxed.
Soon, the van drove through the gates of a private villa.
This was the personal property of the Lopez family in North Hampton, and nearly no one knew about it.
Levi was pulled out of the car before being taken to the basement.
When his blindfold was taken off, he saw Nueve and Trey kneeling beside him. Their faces were swollen badly, showing they had taken a beating before he had arrived.
The two men were clearly surprised to see him. “Mr. Garrison, you too?”
Levi shot them a smile but did not speak.
Though, the sight of him served to relax the two men.
They had been worried about whether they would survive this, but now that he was here, there was nothing to worry about anymore.
Nueve bellowed, “Who are you? Do you have any idea who we are?”
The thirty men remained silent, merely staring at them with killer intent in their eyes.
At that moment, the door swung open, and several men walked inside.
The middle-aged man walking at the front was dressed in a black suit, with a pair of golden-rimmed glasses perched on his nose.
He sneered, “Levi Garrison, Trey, and Nueve, right?”
“Who the f*** are you?” Trey demanded.
“Let me introduce myself. I am Wesley Lopez of the South City Lopez family!”
“What? The South City Lopez family?” Nueve and Trey exchanged glances with grim expressions.
Comparing the Robinsons to the Lopez family was like comparing a kitten to a tiger. The latter was the biggest family in South City.
While North Hampton took the lead in economic development, South City was just better in general for everything else.
“You know the guy you killed, Quentin Lane? He’s my uncle’s godson.”
Nueve and Trey nodded. “Yeah, we did. However, we only retaliated because he tried to kill Mr. Garrison first!”
Wesley’s expression darkened at their words. “The way you phrase it makes it sound like you both answer to him?”
The two men snickered before Trey spoke up, “But of course! We live to serve Mr. Garrison!”
“It doesn’t matter what you do to us, but your biggest mistake was going after Mr. Garrison!” Nueve added meaningfully.
“Hmm? Why?” A sliver of unease rose in Wesley.
…
Zoey and Iris got to the Lopez family residence as fast as they could.
When Harry caught sight of Zoey, he snorted. “Why have you decided to grace us with your presence so early in the morning?”
“Grandpa, I need your help!” Zoey said tearfully.
At her words, Harry and the rest of the family guffawed.
“To think a day would come where you come asking us for help! You’re the great president, Ms. Lopez, aren’t you?” Henry mocked.
If she had to, Zoey would get down on her knees and beg. As it was, she pleaded, “Grandpa, Levi has been kidnapped! Please save him!”
“Hahaha! Isn’t this just perfect? He pissed off someone he shouldn’t have and is going to get killed for it!”
“Yeah! Good riddance, I say! Rather than leave such trash lying around in the family, might as well get rid of him as soon as possible!”
…
Everyone was chortling merrily at the news of Levi’s misfortune.
Harry took this chance to suggest, “Zoey, Grandpa thinks what has happened to Levi is a good thing as well. You can use this opportunity to divorce him and marry someone else.”
“Grandpa, I won’t divorce him, ever! All I want to do know is save him. Only you can help him now! Please, help us!”
With a thump, Zoey fell to her knees before Harry.
“Zoey Lopez! Have you gone mad? You’re actually kneeling for a rapist?”
CHAPTER 351
“Yeah! What’s so great about that little weasel? Is it really worth it for you to resort to this?” Everyone muttered angrily.
Harry furrowed his brow and asked, “Did you say I was the only one who could save him? What did you mean by that?”
“Grandpa snatched a member of the South City Lopez Family! He got on the bad side of someone named Sebastian!” Zoey truthfully reported.
“What? The South City Lopez family? Sebastian?”
Fear struck Harry like a bolt of lightning, turning his legs to jelly.
“What’s wrong with the South City Lopez family. Grandpa?” Shaun asked, puzzled.
“You may be unaware, but we are distantly related to the South City Lopez family. We’re part of the massive Lopez clan. Let me put it this way. We, the South Hampton family, are still leagues away from the South City Lopez family. They would not even grace us with a second look, much less permit us to recognize them as blood relatives! This Sebastian character is even more frightening. His nickname is Hades, and he’s notorious for slaughtering people without mercy! Offending him is the equivalent of earning a ticket to hell!”
After Harry’s elucidation of the situation set in, chills ran up Zoey’s spine.
Levi pissed off such a demon?
This is even more terrifying than the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce!
What do we do now?
“Grandpa, you’re familiar with the South City Lopez Family. You have to know of a way to save Levi!” Zoey burst out, her voice tinged with anxiety.
Harry only shook his head. “Impossible! I’m but a mere bug in the eyes of the South City Lopez Family! I have no right to vouch for Levi at all!”
“I’m begging you, Grandpa! I can’t let anything happen to Levi! Please!” Zoey pleaded desperately, tears raining down her cheeks.
“It’s too difficult! It might end up causing trouble for our family!” Harry shook his head helplessly.
“Grandpa, please help me out just this once! I want to give it our best shot at the very least!” Zoey was out of options.
Harry was unconvinced.
“Please try Grandpa! I’ll agree to anything!” Zoey’s tears gushed out of her eyes.
At her words, Harry’s eyes lit up. “Okay. You said it yourself. You’ll really agree to anything I say?”
Zoey nodded vigorously. “Yes. I will. Grandpa, as long as you save Levi, I swear I’ll do anything you want!”
“Okay then. I’ll see what I can do! If Levi makes it out, you are to transfer the entire company to me and back out of your own accord!” Harry announced.
Zoey froze. Sadness crept over her heart.
Even at a time like this.
Grandpa still chose to plot against her.
“Fine. You have my word!”
She was ready to sacrifice everything in order to save Levi.
“Your word isn’t enough. We’ll sign a contract to seal the deal!” Harry said.
Henry immediately typed out a contract.
After reading through the terms, Zoey signed it.
The Lopezes were delighted.
All of Zoey’s inheritance was finally theirs.
It had been a long and arduous wait for this day.
They trusted Harry inexplicably.
Since he had given his word, success was guaranteed.
Harry was extremely confident.
Decades ago, he had attended one of the Lopez family’s annual meetings. He was granted assurance that the South City Lopez family would support all the family branches.
The South City Lopez family promised to help them with one instance.
Harry had been holding on to this chip for years.
He was wisely biding his time in order to wait for the perfect opportunity.
A window of opportunity had finally shown itself.
After all, Zoey’s inheritance was worth close to a billion.
“Okay, let me call and try!” Harry grabbed the receiver of the landline.
“Hello Sir, I am Harry from North Hampton. Unfortunately, I’m calling to trouble you. I would like to activate the promise given to me at the annual meeting!”
“Are you certain you want to use it now, Harry? You only get one chance!” The voice on the other end of the call coldly warned.
“Yes, I’m sure!” Harry nodded enthusiastically.
“Okay then. What do you need?”
Harry recounted Levi’s situation to the Lopez family.
A moment later, a call was returned.
“The matter has been settled. Sebastian agreed to let him go!”
The South City Lopez family was unaware of Wesley’s scheme. Sebastian only agreed to let the matter regarding Levi rest.
Harry was absolutely overwhelmed by this result.
Both Zoey and Iris let out sighs of relief.
Levi was safe.
“Someone print the final contract for the transfer! Once Levi shows his face, we’re signing it!” Harry could not be more eager.
Although bitterness pricked her, Zoey had no regrets.
If Levi’s safe, losing him for the company is worth it!
Meanwhile, in the underground cellar of the Lopez family’s private manor.
Wesley glared daggers at Levi and the rest. “I don’t care who you are! No matter what it takes, I’m taking your decapitated heads to my uncle! Someone come and chop their heads down now!”
After issuing his order, Wesley turned to avoid the imminently gruesome scene.
Thirty men lunged forward, poised to strike Levi and the rest.
With a loud bang, Levi managed to escape his bonds and struck his attacker.
His victim was sent flying across the room.
Another loud bang resonated. This time, he had launched a spinning kick which propelled another attacker backwards.
Levi was taking on the battle by himself.
He weaved into the crowd, throwing a series of rapid attacks. Each extension of his limb resulted in the collapse of at least one of his opponents.
Within thirty seconds, all thirty mercenaries were sprawled over the ground.
All of them had at least seven or eight broken bones.
Nueve and Trey were frozen in shock.
They had never seen Levi in action and assumed he was a regular man.
Neither expected him to be a master of combat!
Wesley sensed that something was wrong and slowly turned around.
The moment he turned, terror seized him.
All the trained experts were defeated?
It’s insanely impressive!
“Sebastian was it? Send him a gift on my behalf!” Levi stalked over and came to a stop right in front of Wesley.
Wesley spluttered, “What gift?”
Bang!
One swift kick to the shin and a horrible cracking sound echoed through the room.
Crack!
Crack!
Crack!
Three more kicks followed in succession. All of Wesley’s limbs had been broken.
With a strangled howl of agony, Wesley finally understood what Levi meant by ‘gift’.
He succumbed to the darkness shortly after.
“Dig into the identities of these people! They were no ordinary men!” Levi instructed Nueve and Trey.
Once they departed the manor, Levi started on his journey back to Zoey.
In the Lopez family residence.
“Grandpa, is Levi out of danger yet?” Zoey urgently pressed.
“I’m sure he’s fine, Sebastian gave his word that he would drop the matter!” Harry muttered dismissively.
“Let’s give it a while more. As a last resort, we’ll just call the police!” Iris did not trust the Lopez family at all.
Just then, Levi strolled in.
“See? I told you he was fine!” Harry grinned triumphantly.
The rest of the family gazed at Harry with unadulterated admiration.
Grandpa is amazing. He managed to convince the South City Lopez family to release Levi after a single phone call.
Even Iris had to admit Harry was impressive.
The moment Zoey laid eyes on Levi, she leapt into his arms, pulling him close.
CHAPTER 353
Zoey had never been more fraught with worry in her life.
“I’m fine! There’s no need to cry! Let’s go back!” Levi murmured comfortingly.
“Why don’t you head to work with Iris? I have some business to discuss with Grandpa.” Zoey said.
“Okay.”
Iris led Levi out and they made their way to the office.
Zoey signed the transfer papers and Harry insisted on taking them to a lawyer’s office for verification.
“From now on, Ms. Lopez will have nothing to do with Imperial Meadows.” The lawyer declared.
“Yes, yes, I know.” Zoey could not stop the tears which surged and overflowed.
“Wait, you’re so capable Zoey. Why don’t you come work for my company?” Harry offered facetiously.
“No thanks!” Zoey resolutely turned him down and left the family residence, her cheeks wet with tears.
“Hahaha…”
Uproarious laughter erupted from the rest of the family.
Only a few months till Zoey’s inheritance becomes all ours!
At long last, the day has finally come!
“Tonight, we’re celebrating at the best hotel in town!” Harry was at peak jubilance.
“Father, should we invite Aaron?” Harry giggled smugly.
“Of course! We need to let the unfilial maggot see for himself how I’ve gained control of his family’s properties! Hahaha…” Harry guffawed gleefully.
Zoey scurried back to Bayview Garden.
She had lost everything.
She would most likely be unable to afford the rent from then on.
But she had no regrets.
Levi was safe, and that was all that mattered to her.
Iris neglected to inform Levi of this development, hence he was none the wiser.
“Mr. Garrison, we’ve found the information you requested! Those people were trained assassins who belong to the Robinson family!” Nueve reported.
Things instantly clicked for Levi. The Robinsons were the ones pulling the strings.
“Good. Once the swearing-in ceremony is over, you guys will be the first to go!” A flash of steely hostility crossed Levi’s gaze.
After work, Iris brought Levi back.
Before she exited the car, Iris issued an austere remark, “Treat Zoey well. The burden of the family rests on your shoulders from now on!”
Levi found her words strange.
I’ve always been good to Zoey!
Back home.
Zoey looked like she had been crying.
“What’s wrong, honey? Why the tears?” Levi asked with curious concern.
“It’s nothing. I just felt like crying for some reason…” Zoey dried her eyes.
“You have a weird hobby…” Levi smiled.
Suddenly, someone pounded on their door.
When Levi opened the door, Aaron and Caitlyn bolted past him straight towards Zoey.
“What’s wrong with you, Zoey?” They asked in surprise.
Zoey’s voice caught in her throat and she struggled to come up with a reply.
“What’s wrong? Did something happen to Zoey?” Levi was bewildered by their reactions.
Aaron shot Levi a glare. “Don’t you know what happened? Because of you, Zoey gave her entire inheritance to the Lopez family!”
“Exactly! She’s now penniless!” Caitlyn roared.
“Wait. What?” Levi was floored.
“You were captured by the South City Lopez family so, in order to save you, Zoey agreed to Father’s terms. Your safe return in exchange for her entire inheritance!”
“Since you were saved, Zoey had to make good on her word!”
“It’s all your fault! We were beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel, but you wrecked it! Why did you have to offend the Lopez family?”
Aaron and Caitlyn were ready to unleash their fury on Levi.
CHAPTER 354
“I admit to pissing off the South City Lopez family. But Harry was not the one who saved me. I managed it by myself! It had nothing to do with him!” Levi explained in frustration.
He turned his attention to Zoey. “You’ve been tricked. It really wasn’t Harry who saved me. Why didn’t you just ask me?”
Zoey was stunned.
She believed Levi.
“As if! Don’t you know who Sebastian is? They’re on par with the most elite family from North Hampton. How would you be able to make it out on your own after incurring their wrath?”
“Exactly! We all saw Father make the call to Sebastian, who promised to let you off!” Aaron and Caitlyn snapped.
Zoey was also looking at Levi suspiciously.
None of them would believe his claims.
Levi did not bother to explain himself any further.
After all, regardless of what he said, his words would not be taken seriously.
Harry had chosen the perfect opportunity to wrap everyone around his finger.
Further elaboration was futile.
“Levi, please reflect on yourself! Zoey made the ultimate sacrifice all for your sake! She lost a multi-million company!” Aaron was close to tears in distress.
Levi was visibly touched by Zoey’s sacrifice.
She really loves me.
After all, a few million is more than enough to test one’s loyalty.
Yet, she chose to save me even if it meant losing a few billion.
“Since the company has already been transferred, there’s no point in crying over spilt milk! I’ll help Zoey start up a whole new company, one which will take the world by storm!” Levi asserted.
It aligned perfectly with the plan he was about to execute.
Soon, he would be purging North Hampton.
When the time came, there would be a surplus of resources in the market.
It would be the perfect opportunity for Zoey to step in.
She would also be helping Morris Group to share the load.
Then, no one would care about the crummy company the Lopez family stole.
“You’re all talk. Luckily, you work for Morris Group, else I would beat you to a pulp!” Aaron and Caitlyn smiled wryly as they exited.
Zoey beamed. “Stop teasing me, honey! As if I would be able to take the world by storm!”
“I’m serious! North Hampton is about to undergo a big shift! Just wait and see!” Levi announced.
He’s just trying to comfort me. I need to smile for his benefit.
“The Lopez family better watch their backs! I won’t let them get away with it so easily!” Levi’s eye glinted menacingly.
As the sun slowly disappeared below the horizon, the Lopez family was enjoying a stupendously lavish banquet.
“They didn’t even bother to show up!” Henry and a few other people screeched.
“Father, I suggest we scratch their names entirely off the family register! They’re as poor as church mice now!” Henry suggested.
Fabian nodded in agreement. “Yes, that’s right. We’ve milked them for all they’re worth! What’s the point in keeping them around!”
“Yes yes! The Lopez family is now worth over a billion! How could we accommodate people like Aaron? How humiliating!”
“They’ll definitely come crawling back for help in the future. How bothersome!”
The rest of the people jabbered and brayed.
Harry was slightly tipsy and he nodded excitedly. “Okay! We’ll remove them from the family register at the family meeting tomorrow! From then on, we won’t have anything to do with them!”
“Hahaha. That’s great!” Henry and the rest applauded delightedly.
The next day.
Zoey and Levi were still slumbering.
An urgent call woke them abruptly and tore them from away Morpheus’ realm.
The call was from Aaron, who told them to hurry down to the Lopez family ancestral home.
CHAPTER 355
By the time Levi and Zoey rushed to the scene, Aaron and Caitlyn had already arrived.
The location had been intentionally picked to be the family ancestral halls.
“Dad, Mum, what’s wrong? What’s the rush?” Levi asked, puzzled.
“We don’t have a clue either! We were just told to meet at the ancestral halls. I think they’re announcing something big!” Caitlyn answered.
Aaron knitted his brows. “My right eyelid won’t stop twitching!”
Shortly later, Harry arrived with the rest of the Lopez family party at the ancestral halls.
Henry and the rest smirked sinisterly.
An uneasy feeling settled in the stomachs of Levi and the other three.
But they were certain of one thing. Nothing good could come out of this.
Harry seated himself on the wooden chair in front of the shrine and the rest took their seats according to seniority.
Harry quickly scanned the scene and sternly boomed, “Is everyone here?”
Fabian nodded in response. “Everyone is here Father!”
Harry was the first to offer up a joss stick.
“It’s been some time since we had a family meeting at the ancestral hall! Today’s meeting was called to announce…” Harry’s gaze fell on Aaron.
“After a long discussion with the family, I, of the North Hampton Lopez family, have decided to expel Aaron and his family from our clan!” He stated plainly.
Once the last word left his lips, every person present gaped in astonishment.
Levi and his family’s faces fell.
“What? Kicked out?”
The news was earth-shattering for the three of them. They could almost see their world crumbling around them.
We’re being removed from the family register!
What could be worse?
Such a blow threatened to push them off the cliff into the chasm of insanity.
Aaron looked at Harry in utter disbelief.
Caitlyn immediately dissolved into tears.
Tears were brimming in the rims of Zoey’s eyes.
Grandpa just robbed me of my assets worth close to a billion. How could he go so as far as to burn all our bridges? How could he force us out of the family?
She could only sigh in resignation.
“All in favor, raise your hands!” Aaron yelled.
In a flurry of movement, the hands of Fabian and many others shot into the air.
“It’s settled! The move to remove Aaron and his family has the majority vote!” Henry chuckled.
He was completely indifferent to the feelings of the four people in question.
“Good luck to you guys. From now on, the North Hampton Lopez family shall have absolutely nothing to do with you! Please do not involve us in your matters from here on out!”
“I, Harry Lopez, are henceforth severing all ties with you! We shall be no better than strangers from now on!”
“Get out!” Harry ordered cruelly.
“Get out of the family! Get out of the family! Get out of the family!” The rest of the people chanted with ruthless determination.
“Might I suggest you change your last names? You’re undeserving of the Lopez name!” Henry sneered.
Zoey’s body was shaking with the force of her wails.
She was indignant!
She had never been wronged to such an extent in her life.
I don’t even deserve the Lopez family name now.
This is even worse than losing all my assets.
My own grandfather wants nothing to do with me.
Right after he snatched away close to a billion from me!
Caitlyn was not doing any better.
But neither of them was in worse shape than Aaron.
His birth father had cut ties with him and he was erased from the family register.
What more could be worse?
Seized by rage, Aaron spat out blood.
“Father, Aaron…”
Zoey and Caitlyn rushed to catch the teetering Aaron.
Aaron did not speak. He only glared directly at Harry.
“What? Haven’t given up?” Harry leered.
“Right. It’s not over!” Levi exclaimed.
CHAPTER 356
“What does useless scum like you have to be upset about? You’re grossly unfit to be part of the Lopez family!”
“Exactly! Get out of the Lopez family! You useless scum!”
“You have no right to be here! Get out and stay away!”
Levi opened his mouth and the room fell silent.
“Harry, would you believe me if I said you’ll live to regret this?” Levi hissed, his lips curled upwards in a malevolent smirk.
“Haha. Me? Regret? Impossible! I hold all of Zoey’s assets. What do I have to regret?” Harry retorted with an equally hostile smirk of his own.
The rest of the people stared at Levi like he was an idiot.
Aaron wiped away the blood at the corner of his mouth and fixed his eyes on Harry incredulously. “Father, must you go this far? What did I do wrong that you insist on kicking me out from the family?”
“Yes! The Lopez family has always had strict rules. Erasing anyone’s name from the family register can only be a punishment for something egregious. What did Aaron and I do?” Caitlyn asked, choking back sobs.
Zoey’s gaze was also boring into Harry.
Harry exchanged a look with Henry before coldly replying, “Don’t you even know what you did? I worked to raise you and even opened a company for you. What about you guys? You contributed nothing to the family! You even committed deplorable acts! But you want to leave the Lopez family! It’s the equivalent of betraying your ancestors!”
“Yes! Zoey’s company leaving the Lopez family is the equivalent of betraying the ancestors!”
“The punishment for betraying your ancestors is expulsion form the family!”
“Get out of the Lopez family!”
Henry and the rest chided and raged. They even shoved the four of them.
Aaron gazed at Harry despondently and asked, “Father, I’ll ask you one last time. Must you take it this far?”
“Leave! Never call me Father ever again! You’re no longer part of the Lopez family!” Harry rebuffed heartlessly.
He struck off the names of Aaron and the rest from the family register.
Aaron was no longer a member of the Lopez family. It was official.
At that moment, despite being a picture of masculinity, Aaron broke down into bawls of agony.
“Dad, Mum, Zoey. Let’s go!” Levi dragged the three of them out.
Despite trying to saunter away, their figures appeared forlorn.
“Hahaha…”
The Lopez family guffawed and laughter resonated throughout the room.
We’ve finally got rid those burdens!
“From this day onwards, our family shall prosper!” Harry bellowed.
In the car.
Aaron and his family huddled together, sobbing.
This was the darkest hour of their existence.
They never would have imagined that the day would come where their names were erased from the family register.
They no longer belonged to the Lopez family.
Levi could only offer warm words. “The three of you are too nice! You’ve suffered silently at their hands for ages! All this time, you prioritized family, and allowed them to step all over you! If you think about it, they’re the ones who aren’t fit to be related to you! Look at how they treated you. After leaving you with nothing, they even kicked you out of the family! But this might be a good thing. From now on, you can focus on working hard without anything holding you back! I’ll make them pay! You can just sit back and wait for the day when I make them kneel before you and beg for forgiveness!”
The trio was in the throes of despair and merely took Levi’s words and passing remarks of comfort.
The Lopez family did not stop there.
The news spread like wildfire through the North Hampton media outlets.
‘Aaron Lopez and family betrayed the Lopez family and plotted to get ahold of all the Lopez family estates.’
‘Harry Lopez had no choice but to harden his heart and expel them from the family.’
Countless savage condemnations fell upon them.
Page after page depicted Aaron as a callous fiend, an ungrateful bastard.
CHAPTER 357
“Such scum should just be sentenced to death! Why keep him around?”
“Yes! He even betrayed his family. He’s no better than a traitor!”
Aaron and Caitlyn did nothing to defend themselves.
Any attempt to do so would just result in more rebuttal and insults.
They were slandered!
Such malignance!
After getting wind of the news, Una could not hold back her broad grin.
“Who would’ve thought even Levi would come to this? Even your wife has fallen from her grace. Let’s see how you crawl out of this hole.” She sniggered spitefully.
Even Winston was elated to receive the news.
A man of Levi’s position would normally never have caught Winston’s eye.
But he caused trouble one too many times and Winston was practically boiling with rage.
“All I had to do was dangle some meat in front of the mutts and they took the bait” Winston grinned widely.
Oh, I can’t imagine there exists joy greater than this!
Not only was he attending the next day’s swearing-in ceremony for the commander-in-chief, but to receive such news as well, he was bursting with happiness.
“Now everyone, focus on preparations for tomorrow’s swearing-in ceremony!”
That night, these powerful figures of North Hampton struggled to get some shut-eye.
In a luxurious mountain villa somewhere.
The kingpin behind the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce, Eric Robinson, who also stood at the head of four noble families, invited Grover Cooke and Xander Hoyles over.
“Mr. Cooke, Mr. Hoyles, I ask for your assistance tomorrow!” Eric appealed.
“How do you want us to help?” Xander asked warily.
“Tomorrow you are to arrange a meeting between us, the God of War and Mr. Quinton. Winston Gonzales cannot, under no circumstances, know about it! I’ll leave this matter in your hands! The North Hampton Chamber of Commerce is in grave danger!”
The faces of the men in front of him soured.
“Okay, leave it to us! I’ll also have Jesse come up with a plan to help the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce!” Grover replied calmly.
“That’s great!” Eric and the rest were thrilled.
Their fates rested on the shoulders of Xander and Grover.
“Hehe. When the time comes, we’ll have both Morris Group and the Gonzales family under our thumb!”
They could not wait for the next day to arrive.
The next day.
The North Hampton Warzone had completed all preparations and were more than ready. The commander-in-chief’s swearing-in ceremony would begin at exactly 9 o’clock.
Andy, who was in charge of the event, bustled about incessantly.
The last step was to ensure the God of War would be making an appearance to formally introduce Percy as the new commander-in-chief.
Andy was overwrought with emotion.
Even the God of War had to follow the schedule he set out.
How wonderful was that!
In the morning.
Levi addressed the family before him, “Dad, Mum, Zoey, let’s go out and have some fun!”
The trio did not protest and obediently climbed aboard the car.
Soon, Levi had driven them out of the suburbs.
Zoey did not pay much mind. She assumed Levi was taking them to the countryside or to a scenic location.
But as the ride went on, she sensed something was off.
There were many cars on the road, most of which were of high-end brands like Maybach and Rolls-Royce.
They were all moving in the same direction as Levi.
Is there an event going on?
“Honey, where are you taking us?” Zoey enquired.
“I’m bringing you to see the world, and enjoy yourselves while we’re at it!” Levi grinned.
After about two hours, they were almost out of North Hampton.
They had finally arrived at their destination.
When they took in the surroundings, the three Lopezes were stunned.
They were at an army camp!
We’re actually at an army camp!
The car had only just halted when soldiers came marching over for inspection.
The soldiers were all armed to the teeth. Zoey and her parents could not help but feel on edge.
CHAPTER 358
“Sir, as this car is not sanctioned by the Warzone, you are to park there, on the left. You may enter afterwards!” The soldier informed Levi.
“Sure!” Levi drove the car to an empty slot and parked.
After they got out of the car, Zoey and Aaron scanned their surroundings with fascination.
How are we allowed to be in such a solemn and sacred place?
What are we doing here?
They were burning with curiosity and fear as they held the military in high regard.
Zoey also spotted the luxury cars which they passed on the road, parked around them.
Something’s definitely going on!
“Levi?”
At this moment, a shocked voice called out.
Levi turned to see the Gonzales family making their way over to him.
There were a large number of members present, ten of them to be exact.
Una walked right up to Levi and asked with a smile plastered on her face, “What are you doing here? Is this a place you’re allowed to be at?”
Winston broke out into a smile as well.
After all, it was no easy task getting an invitation to the ceremony.
It had posed somewhat of an issue even for an elite such as Winston, much less for commoners.
Yet, Levi came?
What kind of joke is this?
Levi replicated their expressions. “I’m here for the swearing-in ceremony of course!”
“Hahaha…”
The Gonzales erupted into peals of laughter.
There were ‘regular’ people who were given invitations to the event, but they were gentries such as Winston and the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce.
The Rogers family, who were worth five billion, might stand a chance.
But Levi was far from being included in the realm of possibilities.
He had nothing to his name and was even kicked out of the Lopez family.
“You seem to be in a good mood Mr. Gonzales! Why are you laughing?”
The heads of the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce appeared.
Winston smiled. “Do you know Levi, Robinson?”
Eric and his three companions froze momentarily before regaining his gait. “Of course I know him!”
Phineas Robinson kept his eyes trained on Levi.
The lucky bastard. Wesley was this close to ending his life.
Who would have expected Sebastian to drop the case?
Thanks to him, my thirty masters are gone.
Wesley must have brought them back to South City.
“Levi is also here to attend the swearing-in ceremony.”
After Winston’s revelation, the Robinsons dissolved into cackles.
“Who gave him the right to show his face here? Ha!”
The Robinsons scoffed before departing.
Levi was worth nothing in their eyes.
Before the Robinsons left, they made a slicing gesture across their necks. “Sooner or later, your head will roll, Levi Garrison.”
They sauntered off.
Aaron and the rest were breathing raggedly.
The tension from the interaction with North Hampton’s elite had been too overwhelming. They felt almost suffocated.
They could not believe Levi had made enemies of such people.
The last few seemed to bear intense hatred for Levi as well.
Just how much trouble did he cause?
“I have to say, hats off to you! You managed to piss off so many big-shots with one swing!” Aaron smiled wryly as he did not know how to react to this.
“Dad, Mum, it’s fine. After today, those people will all fall!” Levi chuckled confidently.
“Moving on, can you take us in? To the swearing-in ceremony?” Zoey asked.
“No problem!”
Levi led them into the camp with no problems.
A representative from the camp greeted them and gave them a tour.
CHAPTER 359
Levi decided that he didn’t want them to attend the Grand Opening Ceremony in the end.
He felt that it wasn’t worth going, and they might as well have a tour around.
Winston and his group made their way into the hall of the barracks. He started to interrogate his son, Andy when he finally sat down.
“Is Levi or Aaron on the guests’ list?”
Andy shook his head, “Nope. The list had long been ready. But Levi’s name is nowhere to be found.”
“Hahahaha…”
Winston and a few others laughed.
“Besides, Levi and the others aren’t even here in the hall. How is he supposed to attend the Grand Opening?” asked Andy.
Winston grinned brightly.
Levi was just a clown in their eyes.
Besides sheer luck, that clown had nothing else.
When the Gonzales family was dealing with Levi, Percy happened to be there to resolve the crisis.
And Harry was there when the Lopez family from South City intended to deal with Levi.
……
“Your good luck is going to be used up one day!” Una sneered.
Inside the hall arranged by the North Hampton Warzone, guests who were there for the ceremony flocked to their pre-arranged seats.
Winston and the other upper-class members of the society were seated in the first row.
Governor Jesse Nielsen and his men were also in the front seats. Even though Grover had stepped down, he was still more than qualified to be seated in the first row.
Xander Hoyles and Benny Quinton had also arrived and were seated.
Soon, most of the seats were filled up.
But there were still six empty seats in the first row.
Everyone knew what this meant.
These six seats were reserved for the God of War and his subordinates, the Five Great Wars Regiment.
Any one of them alone was enough to make the North Hampton tremble in fear.
Not to mention the God of War.
This is exciting!
This is really, really exciting!
Winston had never been so excited in his life. He was about to meet the legendary God of War!
Oh, how long have I waited for this day to come…
And it finally came!
There was a different meaning to it today.
The God of War and Benny Quinton were going to make their appearance together.
The commander-in-chief in charge was also the famed general of the Iron Brigade.
This would be quite a historic moment to witness.
Winston kept glancing towards the passageway. The anticipation he was feeling was overwhelming.
The younger generations of the Gonzales family were feeling honored and prideful from the bottom of their hearts.
Among all those from the younger generation of the North Hampton, who else was fortunate enough to attend such a ceremony?
This was the power of the resources they had.
The experience and networking they had accumulated were definitely enough to crush their competitors.
The billionaires of the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce were of no exception.
Compared to Winston, the God of War was relatively more like their last hope.
Because the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce was in distress and the markets were disintegrating.
They would suffer if there wasn’t anyone to back them up.
The attendees quietened down after a short while.
Not long after, Percy marched into the venue with his military uniform on.
The attendees slowly stood up and welcomed Percy.
After all, he was going to be the commander-in-chief of the North Hampton Warzone after today.
But Percy didn’t walk over to the stage. He waited at the passageway instead.
Soon, Azure Dragon, Kirin and Phoenix arrived.
They were the Five Great Wars Regiment!
Their intimidating aura overwhelmed the audience in the hall.
This was the first time the famous Five Great Wars Regiment were onstage together.
Even Xander felt his blood boiling with anticipation.
Just the five of them was enough to kill an army of a thousand men.
Azure Dragon and the others stopped at the passageway too. Six of them including Percy stood in two rows as they waited.
Everyone knew what this meant.
They’re waiting for the arrival of the God of War!
Everyone stood up as they held their breaths and paid full attention to the passageway.
Tap…tap…tap…
Sounds of footsteps could be heard shortly after.
A mighty silhouette had appeared at the passageway!
CHAPTER 360
“Salute!” Percy yelled and gave a standard military salute.
All the soldiers followed suit.
Once the figure returned the salute, he began to walk into the hall with Percy and the others flanked beside him protectively.
Everyone’s hearts were pounding as it wasn’t an exaggeration that the seven people in front of them could save the world.
This is exciting!
He’s the God of War!
He’s Erudia’s one and only 5-star rated God of War!
Una’s heart thumped as she watched the tall figure from afar.
Now that’s a true hero!
He’s the man of every woman’s dream!
Una fell in love with the man just by the sight of him.
The Gonzales family had also planned to do whatever it took to get Una to sleep with the God of War that night.
Una was very confident that she was going to be the God of War’s wife soon.
I’m going to be the wife of Erudia’s most respectable God of War.
Una could already see the bright future she was going to have.
The faces of Winston and his group were glowing. After today, I, Winston Gonzales, am going to be the Grandpa of the God of War!
The Gonzales family is going to prosper and become Erudia’s most powerful aristocratic family!
Before long, Levi and his group were finally in the hall and got to their reserved seats.
The attendees in the hall could only see the back of the God of War. He sat in a tall and upright manner, like the backbone of the nation; the Great Wall of Erudia.
The five stars on his shoulder shined brightly.
Right now, he was the biggest focus of the audience.
“One should have a son like the God of War!” exclaimed Winston.
“Don’t you think the God of War looks familiar?”
Winston and his group who were sitting a bit further behind couldn’t see quite as clearly.
So Winston, Eric, and the others started to put on their glasses.
“His back seems really familiar… I feel like I’ve seen him somewhere before!” said Winston.
“That’s right! He looks familiar to me too, but I just can’t remember who he is…” said Una.
Meanwhile, Xander and Andy, who were sitting in the first row, broke out in cold sweat just after a glance at the God of War.
They had seen photographs of Levi before.
But they didn’t expect Levi to be the God of War.
Thud!
Andy didn’t sit tight and fell onto the ground, attracting the attention of everyone in the room.
“What’s wrong with Andy? How can he make such a rudimentary mistake?” said Winston angrily.
The Gonzales family wore an unsightly expression on.
The ceremony finally began.
Almost an hour had passed since the ceremony started and Percy stood on the stage as he waited.
“Lastly, let’s welcome the God of War!” announced Xander.
Xander stood up and shouted to the audience, “Salute to the God of War!”
“To the God of War!”
Thousands of officers and soldiers shouted in unison.
Levi got on the stage in the midst of the shouts and stood facing everybody.
The attendees went crazy when they saw the face of the God of War as their dream finally came true.
All these years, the God of War was the military spirit of the soldiers.
They could die without any regrets now that they finally saw the God of War in person.
“I want to take a good look at how the God of War really looks like.”
Una and those who were younger immediately paled as they were shocked to see who the God of War really was.
Boom!
Everyone was shocked at the revelation. It was like a bolt that came out of the blue sky.
Levi Garrison!
No one had expected Levi to be the God of War.
It was beyond their wildest imagination.
It’s actually Levi!
Una was dumbfounded.
Clint was dumbfounded.
Robinson was dumbfounded.
……
“Huh? What’s wrong with you guys? Are you shocked?”
CHAPTER 361
Winston and the rest were confused as to why the younger ones were so shocked.
“We should take a look too!”
They turned.
Winston, Eric, and the others almost fainted when they saw Levi’s face.
“Levi? It’s Levi?”
“No way! How could it be Levi?”
“I don’t believe it! I must’ve seen it wrongly.”
Winston and the others couldn’t accept the reality. They just couldn’t believe it even though they saw it with their own eyes.
Even North Hampton’s highest leader, Grover Cooke, paled upon seeing Levi.
“This- Isn’t this Levi Garrison? Levi is the God of War? I’m not dreaming, am I?”
Those who knew Levi felt as though their life was about to collapse soon.
The young man who had once been imprisoned had transformed into an unparalleled general in a blink of an eye!
He was a capable and powerful person now!
It was unimaginable!
The scene before their eyes was just too shocking.
The upperclassmen were absolutely dumbfounded, it was as if they had been struck by lightning.
Levi, who was still on stage, said with a smile, “Sorry to disappoint you! But I am indeed the God of War!”
Boom!
The audience from the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce was about to go crazy when they heard Levi admitting it.
They finally understood why Morris Group’s progress had skyrocketed.
The Morris Group had the God of War backing them up all along!
Who the hell would be able to stand against them? And there was Neil Atkinson too. They saw Neil’s name on the guests’ list.
Neil is Kirin!
Pfft!
Winston couldn’t stand it anymore and coughed out a mouthful of fresh blood.
The God of War was the one who saved him from his sudden heart attack previously.
Winston tried to repay the God of War by offering him money so that the latter could live a new and better life, but Winston was rejected which lead to the Gonzales family thinking that Levi was a scoundrel and a hypocritical clown.
The Gonzales family thought that Levi was going to use the incident to gain more money.
So the Gonzales family had constantly been targeting Levi. They even tried to kill him!
Winston was about to suffer from a brain hemorrhage due to the shock and fear he was feeling.
So the person I’ve been targeting constantly has been the God of War all along!
He really didn’t care about my repayment at all! After all, the God of War wouldn’t be lacking any money! Of course he wouldn’t need me to give him a new life!
The Gonzales family is finished!
Winston suddenly recalled all those times Levi had warned him.
Besides someone with a status like Levi, no one else would be brave enough to force the Gonzales family to kneel in front of him and apologize.
Back then, when commander-in-chief Covington said that he was going to visit his relative, he must be referring to Levi!
I’m such a fool!
I should’ve figure it all out earlier!
Pfft!
Pfft!
……
Winston continuously coughed out a few more mouthfuls of blood.
The truth hit Una harder than anyone else.
She had always been in contact with Levi and had the greatest conflict with him.
Una had even hit Levi with money previously!
It was an act of impiety!
What have I done?
I’ve been humiliating the God of War all this time?
Una immediately burst into tears.
She had single-handedly ruined the Gonzales family!
Up on stage, Levi held the Decree of Appointment and announced, “I hereby appoint Percy Covington as the commander-in-chief of the North Hampton Warzone!”
Percy accepted the Decree of Appointment while the attendees clapped.
It was the most glorious moment of his life!
I thought I had left the Iron Brigade, but I didn’t expect that I would be personally appointed by the person I respect the most!
Levi didn’t get down from the stage immediately. Instead, he scanned through the audience and said with a smile, “I’m going to use this opportunity to say a few words to some of you.”
Boom!
The attendees were stunned by Levi’s words, especially Winston and his group.
Their expressions had changed drastically.
They realized that something bad was about to happen soon.
Sh*t!
CHAPTER 362
Percy and the higher-ups of the North Hampton Warzone looked at Levi with curious eyes.
They knew nothing of the upheavals of the North Hampton.
But Xander, Grover, and a few others already knew that something was up.
They broke into cold sweat.
“Winston is here, right?” Levi asked suddenly.
Boom!
Winston was about to have a heart attack at that moment.
He coughed out another mouthful of blood!
“Is Winston here?” Levi increased his volume into a thunderous roar.
Everyone in the room felt the powerful aura Levi exuded.
“H-here… I’m here…”
Winston almost fell on his knees out of fear.
“How did you treat me when I saved your life the other day?”
Thud!
Both Winston and Una fell onto their knees.
“How dare you repay my kindness with enmity? Your granddaughter threw money at me to humiliate me. She kept provoking me and even tried to kill me!”
The attendees were shell-shocked upon hearing what Levi had said.
The leaders of North Hampton looked at the Gonzales family in disbelief.
Where did they find the courage to do that?
They actually tried to kill the God of War?
Who on earth could bear with that?
It seems like even Xander Hoyles would have to destroy them!
“Will the Gonzales family retreat on your own, or do you need me to use my powers to make you disappear?” Levi asked coldly.
Levi said the words as though he was on a trial.
Crap!
We’re really doomed!
North Hampton would never have stories about Winston the billionaire anymore!
“There’s also a personal grudge with the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce. Six years ago when my business start-up became successful, you coveted my skills and techniques. So you purposely set me up. You crippled me and sent me to jail. You coveted what I had so you took everything away from me!”
“What kind of punishment do you think you deserve?” asked Levi.
Thud!
Eric Robinson and the others fell on their knees one after another.
At this very moment, they finally knew why Levi didn’t go against them right away.
He wanted to slowly replace North Hampton with Morris Group!
“You’re all the same as the Gonzales family!”
Levi looked at Jesse, “Nielson, arrest all those who are in the wrong!”
Boom!
Eric and the others paled and they started to break into cold sweat.
They had done many things that violated the regulations in the years of expanding their business to its current state.
It was enough to get them all locked up!
Not to mention that there was solid evidence of them making a move against Levi Group. They couldn’t escape from evidence.
The group of people quickly looked towards Xander and Grover, hoping that they could save the day.
However, both of them lowered their heads.
They could at least have a say if it was the North Hampton.
But this is the freaking God of War!
He could stand his ground simply based on his strength and the law!
Grover quickly said, “The North Hampton Chamber of Commerce is problematic!”
Jesse nodded as he said, “God of War, I’ll definitely get it done!”
“Alright, dismissed!”
No one had expected the Appointment Ceremony of the new commander-in-chief to end in this way.
The world of North Hampton had changed after an hour.
The most powerful North Hampton Chamber of Commerce and the Gonzales family are ruined!
After they left the hall, Levi changed into casual clothes while Percy followed by his side.
The duo found Zoey and her group.
“Today has really been an eye opener!”
Aaron was in a great mood after a tour around the military camp. All the sorrow he felt earlier was gone.
“Mom, Dad, let me introduce you to my friend. This is Percy Covington. It’s all because of him that I’m able to get here today.” Levi said as he introduced Percy to the elderly.
Aaron shook Percy’s hands excitedly.
They were shocked.
Levi has friends like this too?
“May I know what your position is, Covington?” asked Aaron curiously.
CHAPTER 363
“I’m just a lowly commander. It’s not worth mentioning,” said Percy with a smile.
Caitlyn nudged Aaron and said, “That’s classified information! Why are you asking that?”
“Haha. That was rude of me!”
Aaron laughed.
The few of them enjoyed their dinner together afterward.
Aaron still had questions on the way out, “I think a new commander-in-chief was appointed today!”
“That’s right!”
“Well, we don’t need to think about people like him. But you did really well today, Levi. We’re really happy for you!”
Aaron grinned as he spoke.
“Let us have good fortune and happy events happening one after another after today!”
Levi smiled at that.
Zoey was swiping through her phone as they spoke. Suddenly, an alarmed look appeared on her face and she almost dropped her phone onto the floor.
“What’s wrong, sweetie?”
Everyone looked at her curiously.
“Something big happened! North Hampton is crumbling!”
Zoey took a deep breath.
“Winston Gonzales and all from the Gonzales family opted to quit Gonzales Group! North Hampton Chamber of Commerce announcing dissolution! Eric Robinson of the four noble families from the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce and dozens of higherups have been arrested due to commercial crimes!”
……
The eye-catching headlines were shown on the phone.
Zoey, Aaron, and the others were about to go insane.
This was definitely the biggest news of North Hampton!
Both the Gonzales family and the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce had crumbled at the same time.
This is unbelievable!
Zoey’s puzzled eyes landed on Levi. There was something mysterious about this man.
Can he predict the future?
He even told me that the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce and the Gonzales family were doomed!
It came true in a blink of an eye!
“Levi, is there anything that you know of?” asked Aaron.
“I heard from Percy that the God of War got back at them at the Appointment Ceremony earlier.”
Levi smiled.
“Oh, I see! They offended the God of War. I told you so. No one else in North Hampton would be able to destroy them!”
Aaron felt a sense of relief.
The news of North Hampton’s powerful figures crumbling had quickly spread all over Quebec.
Two mighty mountains had collapsed in an instant.
This meant that the North Hampton market was currently vacant. Anyone would want a share of the pie.
In just a blink of an eye, South City and multiple other places were preying on that pie.
In the meantime, Morris Group, which had received orders from their boss, expanded their business and took up the market share.
North Hampton was too big. It wasn’t possible for them to take over it completely in a short period of time.
In any case, Levi’s plan was simple. It was to quickly restore North Hampton’s order without shaking up its economy.
Rogers Group had also gotten the order from Levi and had joined in as well.
All of a sudden, Rogers Group became the richest aristocratic family in North Hampton.
Glenn had never expected all these to happen.
Levi did it out of respect for Abigail. It was also because he wanted to stabilize North Hampton as soon as possible.
“Zoey, do you still remember what I said previously? I’m going to help you rise to the top again. Just you wait!” Levi said with a smile.
Zoey was actually looking forward to it when she saw how mysterious Levi was acting.
The Lopez family was also really excited at this particular moment.
They had earned so much money and properties recently. Now that the North Hampton market was empty…their opportunity was finally here!
As long as the Lopez family worked hard, having a corporate with a hundred million of net worth wouldn’t be a dream anymore.
“As expected, once we chased Aaron out of the family, our luck has been good!” Henry said while laughing.
Harry looked up to the sky and cried out, “God bless the Lopez family!”
“We’re in big trouble! Something bad has happened!”
CHAPTER 364
Shaun and Melanie Lopez shouted.
“What are you up to? Why are the both of you so frantic? Didn’t I tell you to move the company?” said Harry as he frowned, obviously displeased.
After he took over Zoey’s company, the first thing he did was to move his company to Union Square.
After all, Union Square was at the center of the city.
It feels good to have a company building in the middle of the city.
“Grandpa, the company has been moved. But there’s some other stuff…”
“Grandpa, we don’t know what happened but… Just this morning, large numbers of the Company’s workers resigned. What’s more, it was none other than the executives who led them to resign! It’s a huge loss to the company!”
Shaun panted.
Melanie’s face was extremely sullen.
“What? Did all these really happen?”
Harry and the others’ expressions changed.
It wouldn’t matter much if it were only low-ranking workers who left.
But it would be a huge problem if the executives left.
Melanie’s phone rang.
“What? Seven more executives left?”
Melanie was stunned.
Henry’s phone rang too.
“What? The construction team of the West City Ecological Park Project canceled the contract and all of the workers left? Even the security and the guard dog left?”
Henry’s eyeballs were about to pop out upon hearing the news.
The West City Ecological Park Project had become a complete mess.
Shaun received a text message. He was immediately left dumbfounded after he read the text.
“What? The company is insolvent? The funds have long been used up in the development and now the company doesn’t have any cash flow?”
Shaun was about to have a breakdown soon.
The person in charge of the project from Morris Group called Harry right at this moment.
“Hello Mr. Lopez, why is the project we’re collaborating with Imperial Meadows Limited halted?” Morris Group asked.
“Uh… Due to some recent internal affairs of the company, there has been a delay in the progress. It’ll be back to normal soon!” Harry said and smiled awkwardly.
Morris Group was like the God of Wealth to the Lopez family now.
“Mr. Lopez, please take a good look at the contract. There’s still two days’ time. If the project invested can’t resume, you’ll have to compensate us due to breach of contract! According to the contract, you’ll have to pay one billion if that happens.”
Harry almost peed himself upon hearing what the person in charge from Morris Group had said.
Harry was trembling when the call ended.
“What’s happened? Have the collaboration projects with Morris Group been halted?” asked Harry.
Fabian quickly went to check.
Fabian was sweating buckets when he was done checking.
“Father, the collaboration project with Morris Group is just too big! If we want to continue, we’ll have to dump in more money!” said Fabian.
“What happened? Didn’t Zoey’s company get a big investment fund? How did this happen?”
Harry was about to vomit blood.
“The treasury department of Zoey’s company is currently empty. Not only have the funds been cut off, it seems like the company is also in debt…”
What Shaun said made the Lopez family tremble in fear.
“Huh? That’s not possible! Zoey’s company had been growing so well! Her company even moved to the Union Square!”
“That’s right! The company’s market value of almost a billion isn’t fake!”
The faces of Harry’s and the rest were full of disbelief.
“I understand now! It’s all an illusion made by Zoey! She deliberately made a good financial report and crafted a perfect company image just to attract investments and collaborations!”
“Yes! There have been quite a few companies looking to invest and collaborate with us. It must be because they were attracted by the financial report made by Zoey!” analyzed Fabian.
CHAPTER 365
“God damn it! I thought we actually had a billion in our hands. But who knew all we got is this mess?” said Harry furiously.
In the meantime, a car stopped in front of the Lopez family’s residence.
There were a few men and women in suits.
“Which one of you is Mr. Harry Lopez?”
“That’s me. And you are?”
Harry had an unsettling feeling.
“Hi, we are the person in charge of Union Square. We’re here to inform you that the lease contract of the company is a temporary contract. This is the official contract. Naturally, the prices will be revised accordingly.
It will be revised from the previous ten million every five years to a hundred million every five years. Please pay as soon as possible or you will be ordered to excavate within three days!” One of the persons in charge from Union Square said coldly.
Boom!
A wave of shock washed over Harry and he almost lost his balance.
Shaun took the new contract with trembling hands and read through it.
The more he read, the darker his face got.
The Lopez family was at the verge of going mad.
Isn’t this just too unlucky?
Zoey’s lease was only ten million, yet it became a hundred million for them.
“Hurry up and settle this!”
With that, those from the Union Square left.
But this was only the beginning.
Someone came again.
“Hello, I’m Hailey, the general manager of the North Hampton Bank. Imperial Meadows Limited had previously loaned eighty million from us.
Now the total amount is a hundred and ten million including interest. Lopez Group will have to settle everything within seven days! Otherwise, you’ll have to go through judicial processes!” said Hailey relentlessly.
Thud!
Harry was shocked and fell onto the ground.
We owe the bank more than a hundred million?
Is Zoey crazy?
More importantly, the Lopez family has to clean up this mess!
Hailey left soon after.
But someone else came again.
They were a dozen other companies who came at once.
“Hi, Mr. Harry Lopez. I’m from Harper Investment. I’m here to collect your debt of twenty million!”
“Hi Mr. Harry Lopez, I’m from Allison Corporation. I’m here to collect your debt of fifteen million!”
“Hi Mr. Harry Lopez, I’m from Hilton Group. I’m here to collect your debt of thirty million!”
……
Thirteen companies, all without exception, were here to recover the debts.
Together with Union Square and the bank, the Lopez family had a debt amounting to a total of four hundred and eighty million!
Everyone from the Lopez family was about to faint.
They didn’t gain a single cent, yet they have to settle a debt of approximately five hundred million now?
Pfft!
Everyone was about to cough up blood soon.
“Hang on. Zoey’s Imperial Meadows Limited is the one that owes you the money. It’s none of Lopez Group’s business!” Shaun immediately tried to justify themselves.
“Hmmph! Why are you still trying to come up with excuses? Lopez Group officially bought over Imperial Meadows Limited. So naturally, the debt of Imperial Meadows Limited will have to be settled by you!”
“That’s right. What does this have to do with Ms. Lopez?”
“Hurry up and pay us back! Or you’ll have to go through the judicial process. Everyone from the Lopez family will have to go to jail by then!”
The representatives from all thirteen companies were tough. They didn’t even give the Lopez family a chance to breathe.
“Seven days! We’ll only give you seven days!”
When all representatives from the thirteen companies left, everyone in the Lopez family were deathly silent.
Everyone was soaked in cold sweat and was breathing heavily.
Tap…tap…tap…
Suddenly, footsteps could be heard from the outside.
A group of workers wearing safety helmets rushed into the Lopez family’s residence.
They were contractors from Imperial Meadows Limited. It was payday.
When the workers heard that the company was in a crisis, they had rushed to the Lopez family to get their pay.
“Harry Lopez! Pay us immediately!”
“Right! Quickly pay us, or you won’t be able to handle the consequences!”
CHAPTER 366
A hundred men or more had the Lopez family completely surrounded.
They made a big ruckus out of it.
The Lopez family were completely stunned.
Did a bunch of workers come out to protest?
Previously Zoey had arranged for the contractors to be paid at the end of the month and it just so happened that today was the payday.
The Lopez family might have to foot the bill in her stead.
“Zoey is the one who had your money! Find her if you must but it has nothing to do with us!” yelled Shaun angrily.
“What nonsense is this? Shouldn’t it be the opposite? Ms. Lopez has nothing to do with the company anymore!”
“That’s right! Ms. Lopez has already been disowned by the Lopez Group. How could she be a part of this?”
“We won’t leave until we receive what we were owed!”
The workers were starting to be unreasonable.
“You are trespassing on private property. Get out of my sight or I’ll have the cops arrest you!” warned Shaun.
“Even better. I’ll have them know that our wages are due!”
The contractors did not seem to mind at all.
“Fine, I’ll do just that!”
Shaun believed that the contractors were only putting on a facade.
“Wait! Don’t be rash and think this through. Should you get the police involved, things might just blow out of proportion. Wouldn’t it be bad if the media finds out about this?” said Fabian as he attempted to stop Shaun.
Shaun came to his senses immediately.
Indeed. If such a scandal were to reach the ears of the media, the Lopez Group would be in deep trouble.
“Then what should we do?” asked Shaun.
“Settle it!” said Fabian unambiguously.
“But uncle…”
Shaun was unwilling to give these people money, especially not on behalf of Zoey.
“My word is final,” responded Fabian coldly.
Shaun, Melanie and the CFO of the company wasted no time in auditing the accounts.
There were a total of seven contractors, they would have to fork out at least 5.7 million this month.
It wasn’t until both parties had agreed to settle things cordially that the contractors finally left with their workers.
The Lopez family could finally take a breather.
More than five million gone in the blink of an eye.
Oh, how much it hurt!
The main thing was that this wasn’t a business investment, so they wouldn’t be able to get a single cent out of it.
The Lopez family slumped helplessly on the floor, drenched in cold sweat ever since this morning.
This was the biggest predicament they have ever faced.
A debt of five hundred million!
Even if they had Harry sold, would they even be able to pay off this debt?
How did things turn out this way?
They just couldn’t fathom what happened.
“How did this happen? Are you guys stupid? Why did you investigate Zoey’s company beforehand?” yelled Harry.
“Well…The Imperial Meadows appeared to be doing great. They had a few billions of highly liquid assets and some big-name investors backing them up. There was no doubt that the company had a bright future ahead,” whimpered Shaun.
“How would you explain this then?” asked Harry.
Everyone had their heads lowered, no one seemed to have an apparent answer to that question.
They did not expect this to happen at all!
“So what are we going to do now?” Harry shouted.
“I knew it, this is the doing of Zoey! Ten billion in exchange for Levi’s life, it isn’t that hard of a choice for her to make, is it?”
“That’s right, knowing how despicable this little harlot is, she would definitely have made that choice! In order to climb the ranks of society, she was even willing to sleep with countless older men!”
“If she were given the choice between Levi and five million, she would have undoubtedly chosen the latter. Not to mention this is ten billion that we are talking about right now. It is definitely intentional!”
As Shaun and Melanie were busy badmouthing Zoey, Harry’s eyes gleamed and appeared to be in dismay.
“Are you saying that Zoey was searching for a scapegoat as she could no longer keep up with the operations of the company, and we just so happened to be there?”
“That is certainly the case! A wicked woman like her would be all too glad to witness our downfall!”
CHAPTER 367
“I swear I’m going to kill this harlot!”
“Pfft!”
Harry was seething with anger.
“Zoey you little b*tch! You tricked me?”
At this moment, the Lopez family were all sold with the idea that Zoey was having them clean up her mess.
But she had no idea at all.
When she was at the helm of Imperial Meadows, things were doing well. The business was growing and the company had sufficient capital.
Little did they know that Levi was actually the one behind it.
Within the span of a night, he had changed the fate of Imperial Meadows for the worse.
“Grandpa, I think it would only be reasonable for Zoey to return and clean up her own mess!” suggested Henry.
“Yes, we should do just that! We’ll let her solve her own problems!” responded the crowd angrily as they agreed to Henry’s proposition.
Zoey was currently at the Morris Group.
Even though she had lost her company, her abilities were . She planned to put her skills to good use at the Morris Group.
However she was stopped by Levi.
Levi had plans for her to start her own company.
Zoey was sulking at Levi for not letting her to do what she wanted.
At that very moment, she received a call from Harry.
“Zoey you goddamn harlot! How dare you trick me! Don’t you dare tell anyone that you are related to Lopez family!”
Just as the call was connected, Harry was blasting at Zoey with full force.
“What happened, grandpa?”
Zoey seemed to be puzzled.
“What happened you say? Imperial Meadows of yours a debt of four billion! Your company’s senior management have collectively resigned. This is such a huge matter, don’t you dare pretend that you don’t know about that!”
“Huh? How did it end up like this? I don’t have the tiniest inkling about that!”
Zoey was stunned, that wasn’t surprising as she did not know what had unfolded behind the scenes.
“You are driving me crazy!”
Harry was on the verge of exploding in rage as he thought that Zoey was feigning ignorance at such a point in time.
“There were times where I had restless nights, feeling guilty for exiling you from our family. Who would have thought that you were actually plotting against us the whole time. A pox on my pity!” yelled Harry from the other side of the phone.
“Grandpa, what are you talking about? I really don’t know anything about that.”
Her company was doing well, how could it incur such a huge amount of debt?
Impossible!
“Zoey you little harlot, how dare you play me for a fool! If only I could slap the hell out of you!”
Harry was boiling with rage.
“Also stop calling me your grandpa, I don’t have a vile granddaughter like you!”
Zoey was in a bind, she did not know what to do.
“However I’ll give you a chance to redeem yourself! Reinstate yourself as the director of Imperial Meadows and clean up your own mess. I’ll welcome you and your family back if you do so!”
Harry was employing the stick and carrot method.
He knew Zoey’s and Aaron’s personality like the back of his hand. They perceived the honor of the family being more important than their own lives.
When they had their names removed from the family registry, Aaron cried in agony.
To them, there are things that worth more than their own lives.
Harry firmly believed that if he were to mention the reinstating them back into the family, they would immediately seize the opportunity.
“As long as you agree to return and solve your company’s issues, I’ll have your family reinstated right now. I’ll even promise that I won’t interfere with your company’s affairs from now on!”
“Grandpa might have overreacted for a bit, but I hope you will understand my circumstances as your company is currently in deep trouble.”
Harry had gone to great lengths to manipulate his granddaughter.
And indeed, Zoey was moved by his words.
Not only would she be able to get her company back, but she would also be reinstated to the Lopez family.
That would be killing two birds with one stone!
Zoey bit her lips, she couldn’t resist agreeing on such a good deal.
CHAPTER 368
“Zoey should you agree to it you may now come to the Lopez family residence and I’ll personally reinstate your family!”
Harry had foreseen that it wouldn’t take long for her to agree, she just needed a little push.
“Grandpa, I…”
Just as Zoey was about to agree on it, Levi snatched her phone away from her hands.
“Who the hell are you? It would be best for you to stop harassing my wife or I’ll beat you up!” said Levi angrily.
“Levi, it’s me! Did you not recognize your grandpa?”
Harry was furious but he had no choice other than to hold it in.
“Grandpa? Never heard of him. Now scram!” shouted Levi before he hung up the phone.
He even blocked all the contacts of the Lopez family.
Harry tried to call her again, but to no avail.
The others tried but they had the same result.
“Zoey has blocked us all!”
“It was Levi! That man had berated me!” said Harry.
His complexion was eerily pale.
“What is the meaning of this, Levi? Why did you scold grandpa?” asked Zoey.
There was a tinge of discontent in her tone.
“What did I just tell you that day? Are you going to just let them walk all over you?” said Levi angrily.
Zoey bit her lips, before stuttering for a bit. “But…It seems that the company…”
“Is that even your company in the first place? What does it have to do with you now? Or are you a member of the Lopez family? If my memory serves me right you have already been exiled from the Lopez family!”
“But grandpa said that he will reinstate us…”
“Are you really that dumb? He only agreed to reinstate you back to the family because he wanted you to clean up his mess. After you are done, he’ll get rid of you without hesitation!
Zoey bit her lips a little harder this time. It took her a while before she came back to her senses.
“Fine, I’ll go along with what you had in mind,” responded Zoey.
Levi immediately ordered Aaron and Caitlyn to block the contacts of the Lopez family.
Not only that, but Levi had also even arranged a holiday trip for Caitlyn and Aaron.
It won’t be so easy for you Harry!
“People will only take advantage of your kindness. You need to know that the Lopez family has nothing to do with you right now.” ranted Levi as he shook his head.
When will Zoey realize she’s too kind for her own good?
Or else she would be bullied by the Lopez family for the rest of her life!
The Lopez family was in a state of panic as they couldn’t contact Zoey or her family at all.
“Grandpa, no matter where I looked I just couldn’t find Zoey’s whereabouts. Not to mention Caitlyn and Aaron are on a vacation to god knows where. It would take them at least ten days to come back!” said Shaun who was panting heavily.
“The heavens want us dead!”
Harry was on the verge of tears.
“Curse that bastard Levi! Zoey was about to agree to it!”
“Why am I not at all surprised that Levi was backing Aaron and his family?”
“I really want Levi dead!”
Just when the Lopez family was about to descend into madness, a few cars came to the family residence.
“Allow us to make a brief introduction. We are the co-developers for West City Ecological Park. What happened to the construction of Ecological Park? I’ve heard that the construction workers and even the security guards had all left. What is the meaning of this? Did you intend to run away with our money?” asked one of the co-developers.
Their pressure was overwhelming, there were at least twenty brawny brutes behind them.
“Huh? No, that has nothing to do with us!”
Shaun could feel his sanity slipping away.
“What do you mean it has nothing to do with you? The contract says that the Lopez Group is now fully in charge of the West City Ecological Park!”
That rendered Shaun speechless.
CHAPTER 369
“With the project coming to a halt, the construction workers gone and your company facing cash flow issues, we would like to terminate the contract. Of course, it goes without saying that you will have to pay us back the amount that we have invested!”
“We have already appointed our lawyers, why don’t you have a nice long talk with them?”
It seems that the co-developers had already made their preparations.
“Why would you involve the lawyer at such an early stage? Did we say that we disagree to it?”
Shaun was about to lose himself.
“Thump!”
A brute had stepped forward and threw a punch at Shaun’s nose, causing blood to spew everywhere.
“How dare you hit me!” said Shaun angrily.
“Just you wait, I’ll call the cops!”
The brute gave Shaun a cold sneer before saying, “Call the cops if you wish, but I’m just a passerby. I just couldn’t bear to look at you.”
“You…”
Needless to say the Lopez family was enraged by this, but there was nothing that they could do.
A phone call cut the tension that was starting to build up.
It was Mr. Jennings from the Ministry of Construction. “Mr. Lopez what’s the matter? What in the world happened to the West City Ecological Park? If I were you I would refund the money to the co-developers, or else there would be a hell of a price to pay!”
It was an order from the Ministry of Construction.
“Shaun, give the money back to them!” said Harry as he did not dare to defy orders.
“Alright, grandpa!”
They had no choice but to give them their refund.
Fortunately, the payable amount was slightly lower than the previous one, totaling up to 12 million.
Just today they had already given out at least 20 million and this wasn’t even a major part of the debt.
If this goes on, the Lopez family would inevitably fall.
They thought they could rise higher by forcefully acquiring the company, but who would have thought that things would end in tragedy.
Tears were flowing out of the rim of Harry’s eyes.
Greed!
Greed was the main cause of their downfall!
Or else why would this even happen in the first place?
Harry started to sob.
The others followed him soon after.
If this goes on, not only would their future be ruined, but they might also even end up in jail.
It was at this moment Henry ran in with long strides while panting heavily. “Dad, I’ve found out where Zoey and Levi are! They are at Morris Group!”
“Great, we’ll meet them at once! Zoey is our last hope!”
Harry brought along the other members of Lopez family as they headed towards Morris Group.
As Zoey and Levi looked out of the window of their office, they could see a bunch of unexpected visitors right at the gate.
“Why are they here?” asked Zoey puzzledly.
“Of course it is to make you the scapegoat! Why else would they be here? The burden of the failing Imperial Meadows could only be thrown to you!” explained Levi as he let out a few laughs.
It wasn’t until now they Zoey understood the situation of the Lopez family. “Why did all sorts of problems occur once I had left the Imperial Meadows? It is as if someone is behind this!”
“You know you are not as slow-witted as you have led me to believe! Yes, I was the one behind this.” answered Levi as he laughed.
Levi seemed to be having a little too much fun.
“You? That’s impossible! If you were capable of this you wouldn’t be spending all day sipping tea over here!” said Zoey as she shook her head in exasperation.
Meanwhile, Harry was leading his family hurriedly towards the Morris Group’s front building. As they attempted to trespass, they were met with several shouts.
“Hold it, hold it! Do you think you own this place? Coming in as you please?” yelled the security guards as they attempted to block the trespassers.
“Mate, I’m here to see Zoey” said Harry as he gave out a few fake laughs.
“Zoey? Have you mistaken? There’s no one with that name over here! What are you all here for?” yelled the captain of the security angrily.
“Oh no, we are actually looking for Levi. Could you please tell him that we are here?” said Harry as he rephrased his words.
He even slipped in an envelope to the security guard, it was full of cash.
“Did you say Levi? I’ll help you ask.”
Levi and Seth had a close relationship, and so he was able to dial his number directly.
“Mr. Garrison, there is someone looking for you!”
“Tell him that I’m busy!”
CHAPTER 370
As Seth had his phone on speaker mode, Harry and his family members could hear it clearly.
What? He is not going to meet us?
“Hey Levi, it’s me! Your grandpa!” said Harry immediately.
“Who the hell do you think you are? Why don’t you call me grandpa instead!”
And with that, Levi hung up immediately.
“This…”
The Lopez family were dumbfounded.
It was a force of habit that these words had slipped from his mouth.
Seth stared at Harry and the people behind him before saying, “You all are not here to seek for trouble, are you? I can’t believe you just called yourself Mr. Garrison’s grandfather.”
The other guards were also staring at them.
While Levy was given the cold shoulder by Iris and the upper management inside the company, he could get along well with the security guards and also the janitors.
They were always seen hanging around smoking or chatting during tea breaks.
So naturally, Levi had a good reputation among them.
To be hearing someone calling himself as Levi’s grandfather, the security guards immediately turned hostile.
“That’s right! They don’t look like people with good intentions!”
The other guards also chimed in.
Shaun was in a bad mood before arriving here, and to be picked on by the security guards, he could no longer hold it in. “Did you mistake yourself for someone important? You are just some lowly guards! Now scram!”
“That’s right, who the hell do you think you are! It would be in your best interest to summon Levi right now or I’ll see to it that you lose your jobs!” said Henry.
After all, the Lopez family had a net worth of around ten billion.
How could they stomach the humiliation of being ridiculed by security guards?
Anger stirred within Seth when those words reached his ears.
“These thugs are trying to mess around, throw them out!”
Seth had given the order.
A number of guards gladly obeyed the orders of their captain and threw them out of the compound.
Shaun had been beaten up once before, and now again.
Harry was exasperated. He had never experienced something like this in his entire life.
“Slap! Slap! Slap!”
The slaps landed perfectly on the face of Shaun and Henry.
“What did you come here for? We came to ask for a favor! Not to act like a gangster!”
Harry was so close to losing it.
He went forward and filled the captain’s pocket with a lot of cash.
Seth happily accepted it.
He gave Levi a call once again.
“Tell them that if they wanted to meet me, it would only be right for them to show some sincerity by prostrating themselves on the ground,” said Levi from the other side of the phone.
“Did you hear that? If you really wanted to ask Mr. Garrison for a favor, then prostrate on the ground right now!”
“Levi you piece of shit!”
Just when Shaun and Harry were about to burst from rage, their father stopped them.
“What are you doing? Have you not come back to your senses yet? On your knees!”
Under the instruction of the head of the household, Fabian, Shaun, Harry and the rest all knelt before the building.
How humiliating!
Words can’t describe such humiliation!
To think that there would be a day where they would have to kneel before Levi.
The passers-by were amused by such a scene and some even took pictures of them.
This made the Lopez family feel even more humiliated!
Their pride and honor were being trampled on publicly.
Each and every one of them swore to take vengeance on Levi.
They would give it back to him tenfold!
Harry felt humiliated despite not being the one kneeling down.
The Lopez family’s honor was tarnished.
But in order to meet Zoey, he could only endure the pain.
Zoey and Levi were watching from the window of their office, they had the best front-row seat all to themselves.
Looking upon the scene of her arrogant uncles kneeling before her, Zoey found it especially entertaining.
But she also felt bad for them.
“Levi, don’t you think that we have gone too far? They might not be able to recover from this mental anguish after all!”
CHAPTER 371
Zoey was just too kind for her own good.
“Are you actually feeling sorry for them? Don’t you know what the Lopez family meant by kicking you out of the family? They wanted you out of their sight!” Levi chided.
Zoey slowly nodded.
That was not false…
“Hey, Seth? Why is he still standing? Tell him to kneel!”
Levi was visibly annoyed while Zoey began to panic.
“W-what are you doing? He’s my Grandpa! How can you tell him to do that?”
Zoey’s breaths quickened as her heart was gripped by horror.
“He has never thought of you as a granddaughter, has he? Don’t get yourself involved. Leave it to me!”
There was a tone of finality in Levi’s voice.
Meanwhile, on the plaza, Seth approached Harry slowly.
“Can they see me?” Harry asked.
“Of course! Why aren’t you kneeling? Get down now!” Seth demanded.
“Me?”
Harry shot him a look of confusion.
He had not expected to be forced to kneel as well.
He had thought that getting Fabian to kneel before Zoey was already sincere enough.
Why are they after me now? He thought.
Are the two of them crazy?
Do they even care about their seniors?
Such unfilial children!
“Hey! Did you hear me? Stop acting like you’re so special! You’re here to plead someone to do your bidding, for goodness’ sake!”
Seth was visibly enraged.
Harry began to tremble uncontrollably. “A-are you telling us to get on our knees?”
“Obviously! Kneel now or scram!”
Seth glared at Harry impatiently.
Crash!
As the Lopez family looked on in horror, Harry fell to his knees in front of Seth.
The pride of the Lopez family fell with him.
What a shame!
Levi Garrison! We’re going to kill you!
That was the thought coursing through every Lopez family member’s minds.
Even Harry felt utterly humiliated when he knelt in front of Seth.
He had admitted defeat to Levi Garrison!
Harry could feel his self-confidence crumbling into the ground when he noticed the passersby’s curious looks.
He wished he could bang his head against a wall and kill himself.
However, he had to stay strong for the sake of the Lopez family.
Zoey, who had been sitting in her office, was shocked by the sight before her.
Harry Lopez was on his knees!
She began to feel guilty but could not help but look at Levi curiously.
This man seems different after coming out of jail… She thought.
He had become a literal fortune teller.
He had predicted the fall of the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce and the Gonzales family.
He had speculated Harry Lopez to show up, kneel before them, and plead for their help.
…
Is he God?
Is he a prophet?
She started to wonder if the whole thing had been orchestrated by Levi and the entire Lopez family.
However, that seemed almost impossible.
“What are we going to do now?” Zoey asked.
“Leave them there.”
By the end of the workday, Harry and company had been kneeling outside the office for a good three hours.
Levi told Zoey to get in Iris’ car and leave the scene.
Meanwhile, he waltzed out of the entrance to the office.
Everyone in the Lopez family grinned from ear to ear when they saw him.
Their last lifeline had arrived!
Levi headed straight for Harry and smiled at him. “Well, old man, you’re an obedient one, aren’t you?”
“Weren’t you and Zoey the ones who told us to kneel here? Where is she? Has she agreed to our requests?” Harry hurriedly asked.
“That’s right! We’re still waiting for her to come back and deal with the situation!”
The others began to panic as well.
Levi simply smiled. “I’m sorry, but I think you’ve misunderstood us. This has nothing to do with Zoey.”
“What? Are you saying she doesn’t know a thing about this?”
Harry was dumbfounded.
“That’s right. What requests did you have, by the way?” Levi asked.
The entire Lopez family froze for a moment.
Indeed, they had been kneeling for three hours without mentioning their requests.
“Are you messing with us right now?”
Harry glared at Levi, disbelief evident in his eyes.
The members of the Lopez family felt as though they could go crazy any moment.
“What? No, of course not! It’s not like you told me anything before you kneeled!” Levi sneered.
The Lopez family looked like they were about to burst into tears at any moment.
“Alright then. If there’s nothing else, I shall take my leave,” Levi declared, before turning around to walk away.
“Wait! Where’s Zoey!” Shaun yelled after him, rushing forward to stop him.
“Why should I tell you? Go away!”
“I’m not letting you leave until you spit it out!” Shaun yelled.
“Get out! Are you tired of living?”
Seth and his army of security guards soon rushed to the scene.
Within seconds, Shaun and his subordinates were lying face-down on the floor with their hands behind their backs.
That was the third beating he had received that day.
The Lopez family could only watch in despair as Levi left the scene.
The people of Morris Group had been overworked recently, the lights in their office staying on even in the wee hours of the morning.
That was because the market was no longer saturated after the collapse of the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce and the Gonzales family.
Morris Group needed to expand as quickly as possible to snatch the newly-available market shares.
Recently, companies from South City and Quebec have flocked to North Hampton in an attempt to get a slice of the cake.
At that moment, Levi received a call from Aidan Wright, his former subordinate.
“Mr. Garrison, I’ve just come across a promising company that might be of interest to Ms. Lopez.”
“Tell me about it,” Levi said.
“It’s the Oriental Star. Its biggest shareholder used to be the Gonzales family, and it has several different projects under its management, including its recent ventures into the entertainment industry. The collapse of the Gonzales family has left it with close to no sponsors. They’ll be auctioning off the company tomorrow at the suburb resorts. Do you need me to buy it over?” Aidan asked.
“No need. I’ll go there myself,” Levi answered, smiling.
He wanted to take Zoey on a vacation to escape from her unreasonable family members anyway.
Zoey was still fretting over the matter when she got home.
“Pack your things!” Levi exclaimed suddenly.
“What? Why?” Zoey asked, widening her eyes in surprise.
“We’re going on a vacation!”
“Why are we going now?” Zoey questioned doubtfully.
She was worried about her job, her future and her family.
Going on vacation was the last thing on her mind.
Even so, Levi insisted on taking her along to the Clear Sky Resort, where the auction would take place.
She was still in the dark about his true intentions.
By the time they arrived at the resort, it was already late at night.
Even so, the parking space outside the resort was packed with luxury cars, making even Zoey’s Audi RS7 look cheap.
“Wow! Isn’t that Cloudscape’s chairperson? Why is he here too?”
“That’s Fortune Source’s CEO…”
Zoey looked excited to see so many tycoons gathered in one place.
At the same time, she could not help but wonder why they were all there.
She finally got the answers to her questions after the registration.
Oriental Star Group was going to hold an auction at that venue the next day.
Those tycoons were there to compete for its ownership.
“Looks like I’ve underestimated the number of conglomerates that fell with the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce and the Gonzales family!” Zoey sighed.
CHAPTER 373
“What do you think of the Oriental Star Group?” Levi asked.
“It’s an extraordinary corporation! I’m just amazed at how they managed to break into both the property and the entertainment industry. Look at how well their artistes were doing!” Zoey exclaimed happily.
Levi stroked her head lightly. “Alright then, it will belong to you tomorrow!”
“Hahaha!” Zoey laughed loudly.
“Stop joking! It’ll cost you at least two billion to even stand a chance!”
Levi had indeed promised to help her rise to the top, but buying the entire Oriental Star would be impossible.
She figured he was just trying to comfort her.
“Let’s just treat the auction as a learning opportunity, shall we?” She smiled.
Just as the two of them were about to take the lift to their hotel room, a voice rang from behind them. “Are you Zoey?”
They turned around to see a young man dressed impeccably in a suit. Despite looking like he was in his thirties, he gave off the aura of a business veteran.
“Hm? Terence Gibson?”
Zoey recognized him immediately.
He was the son of one of Aaron’s classmates.
Aaron’s classmate had once tried to matchmake Terence with Zoey, but she had rejected him outright.
“It’s really you! I thought I might have gotten the wrong person.”
Terence smiled and glanced at Levi scornfully.
“Are you working here, Terence?” Zoey asked.
Terence stood upright and put on a proud expression. “That’s right! I’m the general manager of the Clear Sky Resort. Here’s my name card.”
He proceeded to hand over a copy of his name card to both Zoey and Levi.
“Wow, Terence! You seem to be doing great!” Zoey said politely.
“A few million a year, perhaps? I can’t compare with you,” Terence said arrogantly.
“Oh, that reminds me. I heard your company has been taken over by the Lopez family a few days ago, and that your name has been crossed out from the genealogy book. My sincere condolences!”
He glanced at Levi once again and continued, “Besides, your husband is pretty useless this whole time. Didn’t he just come out of prison?”
Seeing that both of them were silent, Terence continued his speech, “Bro, aren’t you embarrassed that you’re living off a woman’s salary? Just divorce her already. You’re dragging her down!”
“What makes you think you’re a better husband than me?” Levi retorted.
Perfect! Terence thought.
It looks like he knows he doesn’t deserve her…
Terence’s gaze was deep as he looked at Zoey with starry eyes. “Zoey, I’m thirty-two this year but I’m still single. I’ve been waiting for you this whole time! If you’re willing to marry me, I can take you back to one of my mansions immediately. I have all the money you will ever need, and a Porsche at home!”
Zoey felt her cheeks heat up in embarrassment.
In Terence’s eyes, her flushed cheeks were a sign that she was moved by his show of wealth. He began to fantasize about their future adventures in bed.
“You can take over Clear Sky Resort once you marry me! I’ll establish another resort for myself,” Terence promised, smiling.
He was sure Zoey would not be able to resist such a lucrative offer.
“How much is this resort worth?” Levi asked while smiling.
“Two hundred million!” Terence answered proudly.
Levi took out his phone and dialed a number. “Hello? It’s me, Levi Garrison. We’re buying Clear Sky Resort!”
CHAPTER 374
Levi’s straightforward words came as a shock to Zoey and Terence.
However, Terence started to chuckle after a few moments.
“Bro, have you been watching too many movies? Are you sure you can afford to buy my resort?” Terence scoffed.
Hahaha! What a maniac! Who does he think he is? A millionaire or something? He’s just an attention-seeking jerk!”
The group of resort employees standing nearby began to poke fun at Levi.
He’s being ridiculous! Zoey thought.
She did not care about her own dignity in front of Terence, but Levi just had to make a massive joke out of the two of them…
“We’re heading to our room, Terence! See you around!”
At that moment, Zoey wanted nothing more but to escape from the hellhole she was in.
She dragged Levi away by the arm.
“Zoey! Keep my name card on you! Come and look for me if you need anything. I’ll be keeping my promises!” Terence yelled after them.
Afterwards, he turned around and told his employees, “Find out which room they’re in and give me a spare room card.”
A lewd smile appeared on Terence’s face.
That was not the first time he had fantasized about getting intimate with her.
The chance had come, and he was not going to miss it.
“Hmph! Just you wait, Zoey!” He snickered inwardly as the flame of desire inside of him began to burn unbearably bright.
Meanwhile, Levi and Zoey had arrived at their room.
Levi received a call from someone just moments later.
“Hello? Is it done? Alright, send me the contract tomorrow. I’ll deal with it then,” He said into the phone.
Zoey rolled her eyes. “There’s no one here but me. Can you stop with your acts?”
She was still convinced Levi was making things up.
However, what she did not know was that the Rogers family had already done Levi’s bidding. They had purchased the entire Clear Sky Resort on his behalf.
Afterwards, they went to a restaurant to have dinner.
The employees that had been stalking the two of them ran back to report their movements to Terence.
This is my chance! He thought gleefully.
He walked into the kitchen.
“Where are the orders from Table 8?” He asked casually.
“They’re here!” the chef answered, pointing to a tray of food sitting on the table by the side.
Terence took out a packet of powder and emptied it into a couple of dishes discreetly.
That was from his stash of sleeping drugs.
He had used it several times over the years.
Every time a pretty girl came to his resort, he would spike her food with that drug and sneak into her room at night.
None of them would remember anything the next day.
Terence walked over to Table 8 with one of the waiters.
“Zoey, here’s a gift from me to you. Enjoy!”
“Thank you!” Zoey said.
Levi was still skeptical of Terence.
He bent down to take a whiff of the food and the wine, and lo and behold, both the food and the wine had been spiked.
However, he did not say anything about it.
He dug in with Zoey as though nothing had happened.
Terence watched everything unfold before his eyes from the other end of the restaurant.
Time to have some fun tonight! He thought.
The sleeping drug would take effect in about an hour, and Zoey would be his in no time.
…
Still ignorant of her precarious situation, Zoey poked Levi’s arm and gestured for him to look to the side.
After Levi took one look at the table next to them, he almost spit his food out.
There were three men sitting by the neighboring table.
The three of them were tall and muscular, but their faces were caked with makeup.
To Levi’s bewilderment, the men sounded and acted like women.
They would even kiss each other from time to time…
They’re gay!
That was the only thing Levi could think of as he watched those men go about their business.
CHAPTER 375
Not only were the young, handsome guys coming out as gay, but even the most manly-looking men might also surprise everyone with their sexual identity.
The contrast between their appearance and their demeanor was astonishing.
The more Levi looked at the three men flirting with one another, the more uneasy he felt.
Zoey could feel goosebumps appearing on her arm.
“Let’s finish our food and leave, darling!” Zoey whispered.
“Alright,” Levi answered.
They stuffed the rest of their food into their mouths and left afterwards.
Zoey began to feel drowsy soon after the meal, and she collapsed onto the bed in their room as soon as they returned.
The sleeping drug had, without a doubt, taken effect.
However, Levi seemed immune to its effects, and he decided to sit on the sofa to wait for his prey.
Meanwhile, Terence was getting jittery as he sat waiting in his office.
He had waited for an additional half an hour to make sure that the drug had taken effect.
Walking on his tiptoes, he slowly made his way to Levi and Zoey’s room.
He pressed the doorbell a couple of times, only to receive no reply.
He proceeded to bang on the door loudly – still no response.
Relieved, he took out his spare keycard and let himself in.
He turned on the lights to see Zoey lying on the bed, fast asleep.
Lustful thoughts overtook his mind, but not before he noticed Levi’s absence.
“Wait…where’s Levi?”
He began to search for the man.
Bam!
Suddenly, someone popped out from behind his back and smacked a heavy object onto his head, knocking him out cold.
Levi stood behind his limp body, taking his own sweet time to smoke a cigarette.
Afterwards, he dragged Terence by the arm to the door of another room.
He pressed the doorbell lightly.
That room had belonged to the three gay men they had encountered earlier.
The door flew open in seconds.
To the three men’s surprise, there was no one outside, except for a young man stripped to his birthday suit.
It was none other than Terence, still out cold from the blow that Levi gave him.
The three men exchanged dirty grins.
In a flash, they picked Terence up and disappeared into their room.
For the rest of the night, everyone in the vicinity could hear terrified screams coming from the three men’s room.
The other guests assumed they had been watching horror movies and decided to ignore them.
Meanwhile, the employees of the resort were huddled together in a gossip circle. “Is Mr. Gibson up to something again?” One of them asked.
“Yeah! Haven’t you heard? It’s his dad’s classmate’s daughter this time around! She’s gorgeous!”
“I bet he’s having a whale of a time right now. I saw him slip into her room just moments ago!”
However, the reality was far from what they had thought. Rather than bliss, Terence was in a state of confusion.
He could not tell if he had been dreaming or not.
He vaguely registered getting manhandled by three muscular men.
His entire body was throbbing in pain.
The next morning, he woke up to white-hot streaks of pain coming from his backside. He slowly opened his eyes to find himself lying on a large bed.
Did I succeed last night?
Terence was overcome by joy for just a second.
Did I finally get to spend a night with my goddess?
I don’t seem to remember anything about it though…
Terence rubbed his throbbing head.
Afterwards, a wave of fatigue washed over him like a tsunami.
He could feel stabs of pain from every part of his body; his lips, his neck, his arm, and even his backside. He felt as though he had been torn open from the inside.
What even happened last night?
Was Zoey crazier than I thought?
Terence could not figure out why he was feeling that way.
He blinked to clear his vision before reaching out to check if there was anyone next to him.
The flesh his fingers came into contact with was as hard as a rock.
He froze when he realized who had been sharing a bed with him.
CHAPTER 376
“Ahhhhh!”
Terence let out a piercing scream that could almost tear the roof of the building.
He began to wonder how he had gotten himself into that situation.
Where did my clothes go?
What happened here?
Who can tell me what’s going on?
Terence felt like breaking down there and then.
His scream jolted the three men awake.
They looked at him flirtatiously and cooed, “Oh, baby, you’re awake?”
“Urgh…”
Terence almost puked his dinner out when he heard those words.
Disgusting!
Terence stumbled off the bed and glared at the three men warily. “Who are you? Why are you here?”
“Baby, you came here yourself! You were completely naked!”
“Are you running away after enjoying yourself? Ew! What a jerk!”
…
Terence could feel his sanity slipping away as he stared at the three men.
What in the world happened between us?
He knew he had to get out of there.
Terence wrapped a blanket around himself and made a run for the door, but before he could get there, the three men formed a line and blocked his way.
“Did we say you could go, baby?”
“What the hell are you doing? I’m going to kick the three of you out later on!” Terence threatened as bolts of pain continued to shoot through his flesh.
“Why don’t you take a look at what happened last night yourself, baby?”
One of them handed a camera over to Terence.
The more he watched the sinful action unfold, the more he wanted to wither into the ground.
He had indeed been manhandled by the three men!
“Argh! I can’t stand it anymore!
He was going crazy from anger.
“Levi Garrison! He must have tricked me! I’m going to kill him!” He yelled the moment he put two and two together.
I have to leave this place!
Terence knew he had to get out no matter what.
“Baby, don’t leave! If you leave, we’ll put this video online!” The three men threatened.
Terence was scared out of his wits when he heard them.
If that video ended up online, he might just be left with no choice but to disappear from the face of the earth.
His parents would die of embarrassment!
Crash!
Just like that, the three men threw Terence onto their bed again and resumed their roughhousing.
Terence gripped the sheets tightly as angry tears flowed down his cheeks.
It was the most shameful moment of his life.
No man would be able to stand being humiliated like that!
When Terence was finally released from that prison, he could not even walk straight. He had no clothes to wear, so he ended up borrowing one of the men’s clothes before he could go out.
His tears never stopped flowing, and he felt numb all over.
He wished he could just end it all.
How could this happen to me? He thought sorrowfully.
“Hm? Terence? Why are you limping around? Are you crying?”
Zoey’s voice rang down the hallway all of a sudden.
Terence looked up, only to jump in shock as Zoey and Levi appeared before him.
Levi piped up as well. “Yeah, bro! Why are you crying? What happened?”
“Why are your lips bleeding? And what’s with the hickeys, lipstick marks and perfume…” Levi asked, frowning.
Every word of Levi’s was like a grain of salt on Terence’s wounds, reminding him of the suffering he had gone through.
All those markings were remnants of the three men’s crimes towards him!
“Where were you last night? Are these clothes even yours?”
More tears spilled out of Terence’s eyes when he heard that.
His chagrin grew when he noticed Zoey’s revolted expression.
This is it.
This is the end!
She’s going to hate me forever!
Levi suddenly leaned forward and sniffed Terence’s body before turning to Zoey, saying, “Honey, can you smell that? Doesn’t he smell like those three gay men we saw yesterday?”
CHAPTER 377
Boom!
Terence could feel his head exploding.
Levi, you’re going too far!
Why are you rubbing salt on my wounds?
If anyone hears about the tragedy he had gone through, death might just be the only option left for him.
In particular, his dignity would be reduced to naught if Zoey found out.
Zoey breathed in deeply and said, “Yeah! It smells familiar! I remember that scent!”
“Oh dear, bro! Don’t tell me you slept with those three men last night? Gosh, I didn’t know you had such a kink. No wonder you aren’t married yet!”
Levi’s exaggerated tone attracted the attention of everyone around them.
“Yeah! I remember those clothes as well. It belongs to one of them! Don’t tell me you’re…”
Zoey looked at Terence quizzically.
Terence’s dignity was in shambles; he decided to make a run for it.
Pitter patter…
He scampered down the hallway with his head down.
Tears of despair ran down his cheeks as he ran off.
“Ew! I didn’t know he was interested in that! Hubby, I don’t want to see him ever again,” Zoey snarled.
“I know, right? I almost puked my guts out when I saw him!” Levi chuckled while smiling.
Terence ran back to his room and burnt the clothes on his body.
He dived into the shower room and used up a whole bottle of body wash to scrub every inch of his skin down after that.
He finally got out of the shower after a long, long time.
He had been trying to wash the marks of humiliation the men had imprinted on his skin.
He put on a fresh set of clothes and showered himself in perfume in an attempt to mask the scent of those three men.
“It must have been you, Levi Garrison!” He snarled to himself.
His mind was clearer than it had ever been.
From Levi’s reaction just moments ago, Terence could tell that he had been the mastermind behind all this.
After all, he had passed out just moments after entering Levi and Zoey’s room.
It must have been him!
He ran over to the security room and pulled out the CCTV footage from last night.
When he saw Levi dragging his limp body to the three men’s room, he banged his fist on the table in a fit of anger.
“I’m going to kill you, Levi Garrison!” He growled loudly.
He could almost explode on the spot.
He deleted the footage immediately afterwards.
The security guards in charge of the CCTV footage began to snicker amongst themselves. “Boss, how was last night? Why don’t you tell us about her? We heard she’s as pretty as a goddess!” One of them quipped.
Slap!
“Shut up!”
Terence slapped the person who had just spoken across the face.
He had just been violated by three men!
There was no way he was going to tell them about such a thing!
Afterwards, Terence rushed to Levi and Zoey’s room with a group of security guards behind him.
“Zoey Lopez! Your husband is a thief! We caught him stealing the belongings of other customers on camera!” Terence bellowed.
He did not care about his image anymore.
All he wanted to do was to beat Levi into a pulp.
Even so, he needed an excuse to do so.
“Huh? That’s impossible. He was with me all along!” Zoey argued.
“Move aside! Take Levi Garrison away!” Terence yelled.
The guards rushed forward to tackle Levi.
“Terence! What are you doing?”
A loud voice boomed down the hallway, followed by hurried footsteps.
“Hm? Mr. Zielger? Why are you here?”
Terence turned around, utterly confused.
The boss of the resort strode down the hallway and stopped in front of him.
“Someone has bought over the resort. I’m here to settle the paperwork,” Mr. Ziegler said.
CHAPTER 378
“What? Someone bought the resort?”
Terence froze in his tracks.
Zoey was shocked as well.
Could this be a coincidence?
Did Levi actually buy the resort last night with that phone call?
“That’s right. The paperwork was done last night, but he only requested to see it today.”
Mr. Ziegler’s words hit Zoey like a train.
She tossed Levi a quizzical look. Was it you? She questioned with her eyes.
“M-Mr. Ziegler, w-who bought the resort?”
Terence began to stammer as the scary truth dawned upon him.
“He’s right in front of you!” Mr. Ziegler said, smiling.
Mr. Ziegler took one step forward and bowed low to Levi. “Mr. Garrison, the ownership of the Clear Sky Resort has now been transferred to you. Here is the contract for your reference.”
Boom!
It was as though a meteorite had landed upon Terence when Mr. Ziegler spoke those words.
He felt as though he had been cracked open from the head down.
It was him all along!
He actually bought the resort last night!
He had thrown out two hundred million in exchange for the resort with just one phone call!
Terence was utterly dumbfounded.
Wasn’t he just an imbecile who leeches off his wife’s fortune?
Even Zoey could not believe her ears.
Did he actually buy the resort?
She stared at Levi, absolutely stupefied.
Levi simply smiled. “Never mind with the paperwork. The resort belongs to me now, doesn’t it?”
“That’s right!”
“They answer to me now, right?” Levi asked, pointing at the group of security guards behind Terence.
“Of course!”
Levi suddenly raised his voice and hollered, “Well then, why don’t you tell me what valuables were lost last night?”
The security guards and Terence felt as if they could suffocate on the spot.
The security guards exchanged looks before glancing at Levi and Terence.
Noticing something was amiss, Mr. Ziegler began to grow agitated. “Say something! Spill the truth!”
The leader of the security team was the first to speak up. “Nothing of such sort happened Sir! Terence told us to use this as an excuse to beat you up, Sir!”
Flop!
Terence collapsed onto the ground.
“I’m sorry! Mr. Garrison, Zoey, please forgive me! I won’t do it ever again!” Terence cried.
Levi smirked. “Can someone send him to room 1409 for me?”
Terence began to panic the moment he heard the room number.
His eyes were swollen as his body began to tremble like a leaf.
“No…no, no! No!”
“Please! Let me go!”
“Send him there now!” Levi snarled.
“No!”
Terence turned around to run away, but his unstable gait made it difficult for him to do so.
Within seconds, he was tackled onto the floor by the security guards.
That room was hell to him.
As he struggled against his restraints, the security guards dragged him to room 1409 and threw him inside.
“Um…what’s with room 1409?” Zoey asked curiously.
“Remember the three men? That’s their room!” Levi whispered.
“Huh?”
Zoey decided not to ask any further.
Levi’s eyes held a dangerous glint.
That was the least he could do to punish Terence for drugging his wife.
Soon, the time came for the auction of the Oriental Star Group.
The participants filed into the venue as soon as the doors opened.
Zoey and Levi headed in as well.
Just as they had expected, the room was filled with the tycoons of the city.
Not only were the prominent businessmen of the local economy present, but Zoey also caught sight of several foreign investors in the crowd.
The Oriental Star Group was a lucrative business that anyone would long to have a piece of.
“Hey, beautiful! Care to be my friend?”
Suddenly, a group of people rushed towards Levi and Zoey.
CHAPTER 379
The man leading the group smiled brightly at Zoey while completely ignoring Levi.
Zoey returned a smile. “Apologies. I’m already married.”
“Well, that doesn’t mean we can’t get to know each other! I’m Zayn Suarez of the South City Suarez family!”
The man handed Zoey a copy of his name card.
Everyone was shocked to hear his name.
“What? Zayn Suarez? The third Young Master of the South City Suarez family? Why is he here? They’re just as affluent as the Rogers family! Were they after the Oriental Star as well?”
“What’s the point of competing with them? We should just give up.”
The tycoons around them looked defeated.
They knew that many tycoons from South City have come to North Hampton to snatch a portion of the Oriental’s shares.
However, they had not expected to meet someone from the Suarez family in person.
Zayn seemed satisfied with this reaction.
The prominent families of South City were treated like royalty in North Hampton. It was as though they were visiting monarchs from faraway kingdoms.
“Do you think I’m good enough for you?” Zayn asked proudly.
The young masters of South City have long been looking forward to paying a visit to North Hampton, where there was a large population of beautiful women.
Zayn had fallen for Zoey the moment he saw her.
She was prettier than any movie star he had ever seen!
He did not care if she was married or not, as he just wanted a taste of her sweetness.
“No!”
Levi spat a single word of rejection into Zayn’s face and pulled Zoey over to their designated seats.
Zayn watched them leave with an evil grin on his face. “Fine then, wait till the auction’s over! You can’t escape from me, woman!”
Soon, the seats were filled, and the Oriental Star Group representatives filed into the room.
After a brief introduction of the Oriental Star Group, the auction officially began.
“The starting bid is one and a half billion. Bidding starts now!” The auctioneer announced.
“1.53 billion!” The Cloudscape chairperson yelled, raising his paddle.
“1.55 billion!” The Fortune Source CEO hollered, raising his paddle as well.
…
Soon, the bid rose to 1.7 billion.
Everyone raised their bids tentatively, each bid only a little higher than the previous one.
“Is this a joke? Why are they increasing their bids by only ten million at a time?” Levi growled, visibly annoyed.
Zoey grinned. “We’re just here on a learning journey. There’s no need for us to get involved.”
After that, she glanced in the direction of Zayn and his party. “Besides, I think it’s pretty obvious that he’s going to win the auction in the end!”
“Oh, really?” Levi said, smirking.
“Two billion!”
Zayn, who had been silent the whole time, raised his paddle and shouted his bid without warning.
The sudden addition of three hundred million shook everyone to the core.
More than half of the participants could no longer afford to go any higher.
Zayn glanced at the crowd, warning them to stay back with his piercing gaze.
“2.1 billion!” Someone yelled, refusing to back down.
“2.2 billion!”
…
The tycoons decided to give up if the price went over two and a half billion.
“Three billion!”
Zayn yelled out an astronomical sum yet again.
The crowd roared, and everyone turned to stare at Zayn in shock.
“The Suarez family really is scary!”
“I knew we wouldn’t be able to win the moment I saw him!”
…
The crowd chattered amongst themselves fearfully.
Even the Oriental Star Group representatives were getting excited.
They had not expected the bid to go so high.
Zoey smiled bitterly and looked at Levi. “I knew it. They’re going to win.”
However, her face fell the very next second.
Levi had raised his paddle!
Is he going to bid?
CHAPTER 380
Zoey had wanted to stop him, but it was too late.
Everyone’s eyes were trained on him the moment he raised his paddle.
“Three billion, one!”
The entire crowd froze for a moment when they heard that.
By the time Zayn had given his three billion bid, most of the tycoons had already given up.
They were ready to accept the reality that the Oriental Star Group was going to belong to Zayn.
To their surprise, however, someone was still going!
He had increased the bid by just one!
It was obviously a move to provoke Zayn Suarez.
The Oriental Star Group representatives began to panic.
Who even does that?
Besides, there was an unspoken agreement amongst the bidders to increase the price by ten million with each bid.
Everyone from Zayn’s party stared at Levi in anguish.
How dare they provoke us?
Zayn, however, merely kept his evil grin on his face.
You dare threaten me?
You’re asking for trouble!
“3.1 billion!”
Zayn raised the bid by another hundred million and glared at Levi.
Let’s see how long you can keep up!
“3.1 billion, one!”
Levi did not give up.
“You…”
Zayn was about to explode from anger.
This man is definitely messing around with me!
Everyone else could only stare at Levi in shock.
Where did he get the guts to mess around with the Young Master of the Suarez family?
He’s dead meat for sure…
Zoey was concerned as well.
She knew exactly how powerful the Suarez family was, and she did not want to get into their bad books.
Levi was playing with fire!
However, it was too late for her to stop him.
“3.2 billion!”
Zayn continued to increase the bid.
His family had budgeted for a three million bid, but Levi’s appearance had forced him to scrap their plan.
He had no choice but to add another two hundred million.
I’m going to kill you and sleep with your wife once this is over! He snarled inwardly.
Levi remained unfazed. “3.2 billion, one!”
“You…you b*****d!”
Zayn stomped his foot on the floor while the rest of his party fumed in silence.
Hasn’t he had enough?
Meanwhile, everyone else in the crowd looked on with frowns on their faces.
This boy is doing it to the extreme!
“Fine then. Let’s see if you can take this!”
Zayn raised his paddle again and yelled, “3.5 billion!”
“Woah…”
The crowd drew in a collective gasp when he announced his bid.
The Oriental Star Group representatives were ecstatic.
That was way more than they had expected!
Zayn glared at Levi again arrogantly.
3.5 billion was the most he could afford as there were other expenses the Suarez family had to take care of.
All he wanted to see was if Levi had the guts to increase the bid any further. If he did not, Zayn would get the Oriental Star Group like he was supposed to.
If Levi were stupid enough to bid any higher, Zayn would step aside and watch his desperate attempts to produce 3.5 billion worth of cash.
All eyes were trained on Levi at that moment.
Zoey held her breath anxiously.
To everyone’s surprise, Levi raised his paddle slowly and yelled, “Four billion!”
“What?”
“Four billion?”
The room went deathly silent after Levi announced his bid.
Everyone had been expecting him to increase the bid by just one.
Who knew he would add another five hundred million instead?
Boom!
Zayn and his party could only gawk at Levi.
Looks like he had not been messing around after all…
Zoey, on the other hand, began to panic.
Is he crazy?
Four billion?
Where is going to get the money from?
Is he joking?
“Going once…going twice…sold! Oriental Star Group has been purchased by Mr. Levi Garrison for 4 billion!”
CHAPTER 381
The auction ended as quickly as it started.
The Oriental Star Group representatives had reaped almost twice the amount they had planned for.
It made them jittery with excitement.
Bang! Bang! Bang!
Zayn slammed his fist against the chairs over and over again.
Veins began to appear on his neck as his face contorted into an ugly scowl.
The Suarez family had planned to take over the Oriental Star Group as a crucial first step to break into the North Hampton market.
He had failed his entire family.
Zayn raised his head and glared at Levi coldly. “Well, Sir, may I ask how you’re going to produce the four billion you promised?”
Everyone snapped out of their shocked trance when they heard that.
It’s four billion!
Does he really have that much money?
Even Zoey was not convinced.
Since when did he have four billion?
A few members of the staff walked up to Levi. “Sir, you need to prove your assets to take part in the bidding. You are the only one here who has yet to do so. We hope you understand,” They explained with a smile.
Levi took out a black card and said, “I’m paying by card.”
No one believed him.
It’s four billion, for goodness’ sake!
What kind of credit card could hold so much money?
All of their expenses came directly from their companies’ reserves.
Five minutes later, a huge group of staff members rushed over to Levi’s side.
They looked as though they were ready to kowtow to him.
“Mr. Garrison! The transaction was successful! Oriental Star Group now belongs to you!”
“Here is your card.”
The manager bowed deeply and handed the bank card to Levi with two hands.
The crowd let out a collective gasp.
“It…It went through?”
“He paid four billion by card?!”
Zayn and his party’s eyeballs looked as though they were going to pop out of their sockets.
They had not expected to meet such a plutocrat on their first trip to North Hampton.
However, no one could compare to Zoey in terms of how bewildered she was.
She was still reeling from the shock of witnessing Levi buy over the entire resort that morning.
She could not believe her eyes when he had thrown out another four billion to buy the Oriental Star Group.
Where did he even get that money?
He was completely broke six years ago!
“Mr. Garrison, please come with us to settle the paperwork,” The manager said politely.
“Oh, before I forget, I bought Oriental for my wife. Let her sign the paperwork,” Levi said.
“What? It’s all for his wife?”
“She’s so lucky! Who even gifts a whole company to their wife?”
Everyone at the scene were shocked.
“I…”
Zoey covered her mouth with hands, unable to make a sound.
She was touched and moved to tears by this gift.
He had promised to help her rise to the top ever since she had been chased out of the Lopez family.
She had not expected anything like this.
Zoey stared at Levi lovingly, tears spilling from her eyes onto her porcelain cheeks.
“Let’s go, honey! Time to sign the paperwork!”
Levi took Zoey’s hand and followed the staff backstage.
Zayn watched as they left the scene with a gloomy expression.
“No, I can’t just let him go so easily! I have to secure the Oriental Star for my family! I want that woman for myself too…”
“What should we do, Young Master?” His subordinate Harold Walker asked.
“How many people did we bring this time round?” Zayn asked.
“Thirty fighters!” Harold replied.
“Alright. Tell them to get ready and intercept Levi and Zoey when they’re about to leave. I’m not going to let them get back to the city!” Zayn ordered.
A bloodthirsty glint flashed across Zayn’s eyes.
CHAPTER 382
Backstage…
It took them half an hour to settle the paperwork.
Zoey Lopez had officially become the owner of the Oriental Star Group.
Her hands could not stop shaking even after she signed her name on the contract.
It was unbelievable.
She felt as though she had been living in a fantasy all along.
Zoey stroked Levi’s face lightly. “Hubby, are we still asleep?”
“Are you confused?” Levi asked.
“Does it hurt if I pinch you?” Zoey asked before pinching Levi’s skin with all her strength.
“Ow! It hurts! You should have tested it on yourself…”
Levi took a step to the side to avoid her fingers.
My wife is so silly!
It took a while, but Zoey finally registered the situation.
Everything had been real!
“Did you just buy an entire corporation for me? You’re too nice…” Zoey sobbed, hugging Levi tightly.
“Where did you get so much money from? Are you hiding something from me?”
Zoey furrowed her eyebrows and stared at him with much doubt in her eyes.
“I…” Levi began. But he was cut off by the ringing of Zoey’s phone.
It was a call from Iris.
“You’re really happy now, aren’t you Zoey?” Iris asked, smiling.
“Huh? How did you know I’m happy now? Are you at the resort too?” Zoey asked, puzzled.
“Haha…our mysterious boss took notice of your exceptional talent and bought the Oriental Star Group for you! He needs your help urgently, so do your best!”
Upon hearing Iris’ explanation, Zoey’s face fell.
She looked at Levi with a grim expression.
She had thought he had a stash of cash somewhere that he used to be her hero.
The last thing she expected to hear was that the person who had secured the deal was the boss of the Morris Group.
Levi took advantage of the Morris Group to accomplish all this!
Despite her disappointment, she was touched by his sheer determination.
Instead of exposing him outright, she smiled and said, “Levi, you’re amazing! You should work hard so you can climb the ranks at Morris Group!”
Levi was utterly befuddled by her words.
I’m already the boss of Morris Group…
Why do I still need to climb the ranks?
The couple took their leave after signing the contract.
They passed by a group of people carrying Terence on a stretcher headed for the hospital as they exited the resort.
Levi scoffed. I could have killed you for plotting against my wife, so be grateful that I let you live.
As soon as Levi and Zoey got onto their car, Zayn appeared behind them.
“What? They already left? Kill the man and bring me the woman! I want to force them to hand over the Oriental to the Suarez family!”
A cruel grin appeared on Zayn’s face.
Even his companions shuddered at the sound of that. “Third Young Master, are you suggesting we take over the Oriental Star Group without spending anything?”
“Why not? We’ve only just started our conquest of North Hampton. We have to be as dominating as we can! We need everyone in North Hampton to fear the Suarez family!” Zayn declared.
“Let’s get going!”
Meanwhile, Zoey was nodding off in the car.
The effects of the sleeping drug had long worn off, but she still felt very sleepy after getting on the car.
Levi glanced at the vehicles following them through the rearview window and grinned.
Are they looking for trouble?
After a short while, a car appeared right in front of Levi’s car and stopped him in his tracks.
The cars behind them also picked up speed and had their Audi surrounded within seconds.
CHAPTER 383
A few dozen people gushed out of the cars.
All of them were armed with metal sticks as they charged towards Levi and Zoey’s car.
Levi slipped out of the car quietly to avoid waking Zoey up.
Harold stormed over to Levi and snarled, “You’re a brave one, aren’t you? Didn’t expect you to get out and face us rather than running away!”
Levi calmly lit a cigarette and breathed out a ring of smoke before replying, “My wife is sleeping. Get out of my face, or else.”
“Hahaha!”
Harold and his group of fighters burst into raucous laughter.
“That’s enough! Let’s beat him up!”
The group of fighters charged forward at Harold’s command.
Bam!
Levi sent a flying kick at the first person.
Pow!
The person launched into the air before crashing onto the ground with a loud thud. His limbs spasmed for a few seconds before he went limp.
Everyone froze for a second after witnessing Levi’s strength.
“Beat him up!” Harold yelled, enraged.
At the same time, Levi began to fight back.
With two mighty punches, he sent another two people flying.
Within seconds, he had appeared right in front of Harold and grabbed him by the shoulders.
Bang!
Levi raised his knee and knocked it against Harold’s face.
“ARGH!” Harold screamed.
Blood and gore smeared all over his face by the time he fell to the ground, making him almost unrecognizable.
Afterwards, Levi went into full battle mode.
Within a minute, the dozens of men Harold had brought along were all lying on the ground, unable to move.
Their limbs had all been broken and rendered useless.
He’s strong!
He’s way too strong!
Harold and his fighters had grossly underestimated his strength; Levi was unbelievably skilled.
Although Harold and his fighters were masters of underhanded tactics, they had been defeated in minutes.
They watched in horror as Levi dragged the cars they had used to block his path away with nothing but his bare hands.
Those cars weigh several tons!
Is he even human?
Harold’s eyeballs were going to pop out from their sockets the more he stared at Levi.
His gaze was filled with fear.
The last thing he had expected to meet in North Hampton was a superhuman!
Suddenly, James rushed over to Levi’s side with a few of his men.
“I’m sorry for coming late, Mr. Garrison!” He apologized.
“Don’t worry. They were just a bunch of thugs,” Levi said.
“Stay here and beat up anyone they send as reinforcements. Oh, and remember to spare one of them to act as a messenger,” Levi stated before getting on his car and leaving the scene.
Zoey had been fast asleep the whole time.
An affectionate smile appeared on Levi’s face at the sight of her.
He would have buried those people alive if they woke his wife up!
Meanwhile, Zayn was getting anxious.
He felt starved whenever he thought of her beautiful features, as well as his failure to obtain the Oriental Star Group for his family.
“Hurry up! I’m sure Harold and his men have already settled things!”
Zayn gave Harold a call, but it went unanswered.
“He must be beating that scumbag up,” He snickered.
Zayn arrived at the scene five minutes later.
He grinned evilly when he saw the wreckages of cars strewn about the road.
“Get ready to die, Levi Garrison!”
Zayn rushed into the fray, only to be horrified by the sight that appeared before him.
The broken forms of Harold and his thirty fighters were all lying lifelessly on the ground.
“What happened?”
Zayn could not believe his eyes.
He could not see Levi’s car anywhere.
Bang!
Suddenly, the door to the car right next to him opened.
Several foreigners alighted from the car, their huge bodies making them look like mountains of flesh.
The leader, James, stared at him in mild interest.
CHAPTER 384
“Who are you? Where are Levi and Zoey?” Zayn asked.
“Well, Mr. Garrison told me to take care of you,” James answered, baring his teeth in a cruel grin.
“W-what do you want?”
Zayn began to panic as the muscular guys began to close in on him.
He was tiny compared to them…
Slap!
James slapped Zayn across his face without warning.
That slap almost knocked him out cold.
A buzzing sound ensued as he struggled to recover from it.
Crack!
The slap was not the end of it.
James stomped his foot into Zayn’s leg, breaking it into pieces with a loud snap.
Crack!
His other leg was broken as well.
Crack!
Crack!
His arms were gone in seconds.
Zayn could do nothing but scream at the top of his lungs.
Not only did he lose an entire company to someone else, but he also got crippled by some foreign jerk.
Within minutes, all of Zayn’s men were lying on the floor and writhing in pain.
Only one person remained.
“Let me remind you that North Hampton isn’t a place you can just waltz into and call yourself the king!” James spat before turning around and taking his leave.
After just a few hours, word spread far and wide amongst the Quebec nobility. Not only did the Suarez family fail to snatch even a portion of the Oriental shares, but its Third Young Master and his men had also been beaten severely and thrown out of North Hampton.
It was the breaking news of the day.
Many people had considered going to North Hampton to vie for its market shares, but that incident had scared them off.
North Hampton had no shortage of leaders despite the collapse of the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce and the Gonzales family.
The Morris Group, for one, was a rising star.
It was rumored that someone from the Morris Group had crippled the Third Young Master of the Suarez family.
For a long time after, the Suarez family disappeared from public view, as though they had retreated to observe the situation from the sidelines.
The other families followed suit.
…
Meanwhile, Levi and Zoey made their way to the Oriental Star Group as quickly as they could.
The higher-ups of the Oriental rushed out of the building to welcome their new boss.
The media was contacted, and a press conference was held.
When Zoey arrived, a succession ceremony was being held, followed by the press conference.
On the other hand, the Lopez family continued to suffer.
“All of you! Get out!”
The manager of Union Square kicked the Lopez Group out of the office building.
They even went as far as throwing their things out of the door.
The Morris Group continued to bombard them with phone calls, reminding them that they only had one day left.
If they failed to evict themselves by the deadline, they would have to pay a fine of one billion.
The companies the Lopez Group had taken loans from continued to pester them for their repayment.
The Lopez family spent the night trying to contact Zoey to no avail.
By the next morning, Harry’s hair had turned snowy white.
“What are we going to do? Are we going to jail for this?” Harry muttered.
Everyone else looked as though they had not slept in days, with their dark eye bags and tired expressions.
They were running out of ideas.
Suddenly, a piece of news on the TV caught their attention.
“Hey! Isn’t that Zoey?” Melanie exclaimed.
“What? Zoey?”
Everyone looked towards the TV to see Zoey sitting behind the desk at the Oriental Star Group press conference.
The channel was reporting about the Oriental Star Group’s transfer of ownership to Zoey, as well as her appointment as the chairperson and CEO of the company.
“According to estimations, the Oriental Star Group is worth around five to six billion. Ms. Lopez’s spectacular leadership skills would help the Oriental grow and flourish even more!” The reporter said, smiling.
“What? She’s the chairperson of the Oriental Star Group now?”
“How can it be? Wasn’t it worth at least five billion?”
CHAPTER 385
“How did she do it? Am I dreaming?”
…
The members of the Lopez family could feel themselves going crazy.
They had not expected to be caught in this situation.
They had envisioned Zoey begging in the streets after being thrown out of the family, yet she had defied their expectations. She had become the chairperson of a huge company worth billions!
They regretted it immensely.
Harry, in particular, wished he could turn back time and right his wrongs.
Slap!
Slap!
He slapped Henry and Fabian across the face roughly.
“How dare you suggest that I cut Aaron’s family out of our lives? Look at Zoey now! We’re never going to be able to bask in her glory now! I bet buying the company was easy for her!” Harry yelled.
Henry and Fabian fell silent.
Weren’t you the one who made the decision?
Why are you pushing the blame onto us now?
What were you doing before that?
“How did she even do it?” Melanie asked, confused.
“I bet she got in bed with some tycoon! I can’t think of any other way she would be able to accomplish that!” Henry huffed.
“Yeah! That’s disgusting!”
“Luckily, she isn’t part of our family anymore! We would’ve been so embarrassed by her!”
“She’s so shameless!”
…
The Lopez family continued to rant about Zoey.
Harry nodded. “We all know what underhanded methods she used, but she’s the boss of the Oriental Star Group now. What can anyone do about it?”
“There’s only one way left, and that is to beg her for help!”
They made their way to the Oriental Star Group immediately.
They managed to bump into Zoey the moment they arrived at the office.
Though the members of the Lopez family despised her, they still plastered a smile on their faces as they approached her. “Oh Zoey, we’ve finally found you!” Harry exclaimed. “I’m sorry for everything that’s happened to you before. It was all your uncles’ fault! I’ve punished them severely.”
“As long as you’re willing to come back, you’ll be a part of our family again! Can you help us out, for my sake? Look at how crippled I look now!” He continued pleadingly.
Harry indeed looked about ten years older after just a couple days of separation.
“Zoey, you’re the boss of the Oriental Star Group now, so you have the power to help us out! It’ll be good for you in the future too!” Harry pleaded as the rest of the family looked on pitifully.
Zoey genuinely felt sorry for them.
“Hey, honey, what are you doing? Let’s go home!”
Just as she was wondering if she should help them, Levi appeared behind her.
The Lopez family fumed in silence when they saw him.
He’s up to no good again!
“Zoey, let’s talk about this in private. This has nothing to do with Levi,” Harry said hurriedly.
Levi quickly took Zoey’s hand and led her away. “Didn’t I tell you to ignore these people? Have you forgotten what I said?”
“I…”
Zoey bit her lip, unsure of what to say.
“You’re no longer a member of the Lopez family. Why care about their matters?”
When will she realize she’s too kind for her own good?
“What the hell do you mean, Levi Garrison?” Shaun yelled in a panicked voice as Zoey was dragged further away from them by Levi.
“Get out! We won’t help you!” Levi declared.
“Fine then! Do you want to know how Zoey got hold of her position at Oriental Star?” Shaun snickered.
“How?”
“She slept with another man!”
CHAPTER 386
Shaun pointed a finger at Levi as he scoffed, “You don’t know about it, do you? How do you think Zoey managed to convince those investors? How do you think she paid for that office in Union Square? She did all that by sleeping with other older men! You have been cheated on!”
“Hahaha! That’s right! Levi Garrison, you idiot. Did you really think Zoey would wait six years for you? In your dreams! She’s slept with countless men during that period.”
“Yeah, that’s right! Zoey is a hooker who brings shame to the Lopez family!”
“You disgusting b****! Do your parents know you are a slut?”
The situation had already turned sour, so the Lopez family could not care less anymore. They jumped in and kept insulting Zoey.
Sob! Sob!
Zoey teared up immediately after being ridiculed by her family.
Shaun scoffed, “What are you crying for? You don’t actually feel wronged, do you? Don’t think we don’t know about all the vile things you’ve done! We only kept quiet because it’s embarrassing, idiot.”
Shaun felt a chill run down his spine as soon as he finished speaking.
It felt as if he had been kicked into icy water.
When Shaun turned and saw Levi’s gaze, the former got so frightened that he almost fainted.
What the hell is that?
A monster?
A murderer?
That kind of gaze could puncture anyone’s heart, and one look was sufficient to trigger nightmares.
Boom!
Levi was standing in front of Shaun at the very next second.
The former kicked a leg out forcefully.
Spat!
Shaun spat blood after crushing into the wall and falling.
He hadn’t even stood up before Levi showed up right in front of him.
Levi lifted Shaun, pressing him against the wall.
Levi’s right hand was on Shaun’s neck; it was becoming tighter and tighter…
“Urgh.. Argh…”
Shaun’s face turned purple soon after, and his eyes turned white as his legs kicked around aimlessly.
He was suffocating!
Levi is going to kill him!
The Lopez family came around quickly. They hurried over to stop Levi.
Unfortunately, Levi kicked every single one of them away before they could stop him.
It was hopeless.
Levi was intent on killing Shaun.
Shaun’s face was turning dark…
“Levi, no! You’ll get in trouble for that!”
Zoey rushed over and pried Levi away.
Thump!
Shaun fell onto the floor after Levi loosened his grip. Unfortunately, Shaun fainted as he had been out of air for too long.
“Hurry and take him to the hospital!”
The Lopez family quickly carried Shaun and rushed him to the hospital.
Harry and the others wanted to threaten Levi, but when they saw Levi’s murderous gaze, they became so frightened that they couldn’t speak.
That’s a lunatic. We can’t mess with him.
Zoey shouted angrily, “I will no longer be a part of the Lopez family! Don’t come looking for me again because I won’t help any of you!”
Zoey and Levi left the place after.
If Zoey hadn’t stopped Levi, he would’ve killed them for what they said.
How could he let anyone insult his wife like that?
The Lopez family were utterly hopeless.
Zoey had mercilessly rejected them; their last shred of hope was gone.
They were on their own. They would have to pay a debt of one hundred million and a legal damage claim of one billion…
That was enough to land all of them in jail.
Harry gave up and readied himself to be taken into custody.
Still, he was angry because the other members of the Lopez family were still too young.
Shaun and the others were still in their twenties!
That was one of the most torturous nights for the Lopez family.
Many of them had aged a decade within that one night.
Everyone sat together the next day as they waited for the inevitable.
A few cars drove up to the house.
When the Lopez family heard those cars coming, they turned devastated.
CHAPTER 387
A group of people entered the house soon after.
Harry looked up and realized that he did not know any of the intruders.
The middle-aged man who looked like he was the boss came in and saw everyone looking devastated.
He yelled furiously, “What is the meaning of this? Why is the Lopez family of North Hampton in such a terrible state? You lot bring shame to our family!”
“Huh?”
Harry and the others were stunned.
Were those men not here to demand payment?
“Excuse me, but who are you?” inquired Harry.
“You don’t even recognize me, Harry Lopez? I am Dustin Lopez from South City!” Dustin barked.
“What? The Lopez family from South City?”
Harry stood up immediately; he would’ve gone on his knees out of respect if that was appropriate.
Henry and the others stood up politely too.
It was a member of the Lopez family from South City!
As far as Harry and the others were concerned, that family were like royalty.
It was as if the kings and queens were visiting when members of the Lopez family from South City came to visit.
“What happened?” asked Dustin cruelly.
Harry quickly shared everything with him.
After learning everything, Dustin scoffed, “Fine, the Lopez family from South City will deal with it.”
“Huh?”
Harry and the others were flabbergasted.
The Lopez family from South City will deal with everything?
Is this a gift from heaven?
“We want to expand our business into North Hampton. You lot will play an important role, so your troubles must be solved,” Dustin clarified.
That made the others even happier.
The Lopez family from South City is coming to North Hampton? Does that mean we would benefit from their expansion too?
The Lopez family of North Hampton would play an important role in South City’s Lopez family’s development into North Hampton.
North Hampton’s Lopez family had great connections in the city. That would help the South City’s Lopez family build a strong foundation when they came.
Hence, it didn’t matter if Harry owed over a billion. The South City’s Lopez would help anyway because they would be earning hundreds of billions in the future with Harry’s help.
A mere billion didn’t mean much under those circumstances.
It took Dustin less than a day to solve all of Lopez Group’s troubles.
Harry and his family’s net worth also grew exponentially because the Lopez family of South City would be heading over soon.
With an ally that powerful, they didn’t need to care about Zoey anymore.
“What? Zoey is that unfilial?” Dustin growled in fury after hearing exaggerated and misleading stories from Harry and the others.
“Yeah, but this is all my fault. I did not guide her well, and that brought shame to the Lopez family.”
Harry looked like he was about to cry.
“Why didn’t you demand her to renounce her family name? Women like that have no right to use our surname!” said Dustin.
Harry complained in tears, “I have no right to do so. I could only remove her from our family tree. She would not agree to change her surname, and that bitch has risen to be a CEO by sleeping with others. We have no choice.”
Slam!
Dustin slammed his hand on the desk and growled, “Damn it! That woman brings shame to our entire family. I must force her and her family to change their surname. I will personally go after her since you lot can’t do it!”
“Also, my uncle, Sebastian, will be here soon. I want this matter solved before he reaches, so that minor issues like these don’t bother him,” added Dustin.
“What? Sebastian is coming? Thank heavens,” said Harry excitedly.
Dustin’s eyes shone with cruelty when he instructed, “You will come with me tomorrow, and we will solve this issue with Zoey together.”
CHAPTER 388
The Lopez family never thought they would see the day when they reached a new level.
They were under the protection of the Lopez family from South City.
That night, they were so excited that they could barely sleep.
They were all looking forward to hurting Zoey the next day.
They could finally their revenge.
The next day.
The Lopez family’s fleet of cars marched proudly to Oriental Star Group.
“Excuse me, do you have a reservation?” asked the receptionist immediately when she saw the group of people coming.
“I am here to talk to Zoey Lopez!” scoffed Dustin, who was leading the way.
“Oh, you’re here for Ms. Lopez? Have you made an appointment? Ms. Lopez just joined us, so she is extremely busy now,” replied the receptionist with a smile.
They had seen Zoey clocking in before 7 a.m. that day.
Dustin scoffed, “As if I need an appointment to talk to her?”
“Wait, sir. You must call ahead if you want to talk to Ms. Lopez. I just looked into the system. Ms. Lopez doesn’t have any appointments with anyone today. Please do leave,” the receptionist said politely.
Slap!
Dustin suddenly slapped the receptionist.
That slap was so hard that the receptionist fell onto the floor and teared up…
Everyone was surprised.
No one thought Dustin would be that cruel.
“Security. Someone call security!”
Some spectators shouted instantly.
A group of security guards showed up soon after.
“Who’s the troublemaker?”
Dustin scoffed and instructed, “Take them down.”
The four muscular men standing behind him attacked.
Moments later, over twenty security guards were lying on the floor and groaning in pain.
Harry and the others were delighted to see that sight.
The Lopez family from South City truly was something else.
They were too cool!
They were so powerful that they didn’t need to care about anything!
Dustin demanded cruelly, “Have Zoey Lopez come see me right away!”
More and more people gathered around the living room, and they stared at Dustin with their guard up.
Everyone saw just how powerful the four men with him were.
The situation became so dire that Zoey was alerted, and she and a few top managers went over.
Zoey’s expression changed when she saw Harry and the others there.
“That’s Zoey! That’s the unfilial woman who has been tarnishing and destroying our family name.”
Shaun and Melanie informed right away.
Dustin’s domineering gaze turned to Zoey. “You’re Zoey Lopez?”
“And you are?” asked Zoey curiously.
Shaun scoffed, “Listen up, Zoey. This is Mr. Dustin Lopez from South City, and by right, you should refer to him as grandpa. However, you are not worthy of doing so!”
“Huh? The Lopez family from South City?”
Zoey’s expression changed, and her eyes shone as she had her guard up.
“Zoey Lopez, you will change your surname today. You are not allowed to keep it because your claim has been revoked!”
Dustin glared evilly at Zoey.
“Excuse me? My surname is revoked?”
Zoey refuted, “Well, it’s true that I have been removed from the family tree, but my name is Zoey Lopez, and no one can change that. The law accepts my name, and the name on my identity card and account will remain as Zoey Lopez!”
“No one can change that!”
Henry and the others stoked the fire by adding, “See? She has always been that unreasonable!”
Zoey’s attitude infuriated Dustin, and he shouted, “This is not up to you! The country has its laws, but the family has rules too! I represent the Lopez family from South City, and I say that you are changing your surname!”
CHAPTER 389
Zoey was angry too, and she insisted, “And I say that it will not happen! My name is Zoey Lopez, and no one can change that!”
“Fine, you forced me to do this. Guys, take her away! She will change her surname one way or another!” commanded Dustin.
The four men who had come with Dustin took Zoey away forcefully.
Oriental Star Group was in a mess.
Still, their opponent was a powerful figure from South City, so what could they do?
“This is our family’s internal matter, and if anyone dares to butt in, the Lopez family from South City will show no mercy!” threatened Dustin before he left.
That frightened everyone even more.
In the end, Zoey was dragged back to the family’s home.
They forced Zoey to kneel in front of the Lopez family’s’ ancestral hall.
“Sir, we have talked to the related departments, and Zoey’s surname can be changed at any time.”
Upon hearing that report, Dustin turned to Zoey and scoffed, “Pick any other surname. You are not worthy to be called a Lopez.”
Zoey shook her head. “That will never happen! My name is Zoey Lopez, and I will not stand idly by even if you have the departments legally change my name. I will just change it back.”
Everyone was shocked by Zoey’s persistence.
“Damn you, Zoey Lopez. How dare you disregard the family rules?”
Dustin could feel his authority being challenged, and that infuriated him.
“Sir, that is how she has always been. She has never respected the Lopez family in North Hampton or in South City.”
Shaun and the others kept stoking the fire from the side.
“I will order you one last time. Change your freaking surname!”
Dustin growled as he forced his anger down.
Zoey remained stubborn and ignored her safety then.
“No freaking way! You can demand a hundred times, but my answer will remain the same.”
Dustin didn’t look angry. Instead, he laughed and commented, “Fine then, you’re being stubborn! Guys, prepare the whips in accordance with the family rules. I will hit her until she bows down!”
Dustin had just finished speaking when two of his subordinates approached with a long whip.
The more powerful a family was, the crazier and stricter their rules were.
Those in the family who disobeyed the rules would inevitably be whipped.
The whip would be so strong and harsh that its victim would need at least ten days of bed rest to recover.
Even Harry trembled at the sound of it.
He had seen the consequences of being whipped before.
One whip was sufficient to break its victim’s skin and tear its victim’s flesh.
Harry had seen a man suffer ten whips; he had taken a month to recover.
Harry never thought Dustin would do that to Zoey.
Zoey’s stubbornness had obviously triggered Dustin, and the latter said, “I will carry that punishment out!”
Dustin took the whip and grinned like a cruel demon when he turned to Zoey.
“Zoey Lopez, you are an unfilial member of the Lopez family and have ignored our rules. You even abandoned our ancestral teaching, and as such, you will be punished.”
“You will be removed from the family tree and will change your surname!” commanded Dustin cruelly.
“We will start with ten whips!”
Dustin could already see how horribly Zoey would bleed after being whipped.
Harry grew nervous then.
It didn’t matter how angry or disappointed he was at Zoey.
She was still his granddaughter, and he had seen just how terrible the whips were.
Zoey would have trouble surviving if she were to be whipped ten times!
“Hang on. Let me talk to her first.”
Harry then walked to Zoey and advised, “Zoey, listen to me. Just agree to his terms. It’s just a surname, isn’t it? It’s not a big deal. You won’t be able to handle the whips.”
Zoey’s expression remained dark, and she scoffed, “Thanks, grandpa, but I will never agree to it. Come at me! I’m not afraid.”
“Then so be it!”
Dustin was extremely furious as he lifted his whip to attack Zoey.
CHAPTER 390
Harry was so scared that he closed his eyes.
Zoey closed her eyes too and felt hopeless as she readied to suffer through everything.
Boom!
Bang!
A surprising incident happened at that moment.
The heavy living room door had been kicked down, causing dust to fly everywhere.
Dustin was so surprised that he paused and stared stupidly.
When the dust settled, a figure walked out slowly.
“Huh? Levi?”
Shaun blurted in surprise.
When Zoey saw Levi there, she quickly broke free and rushed to him.
Sob! Sob!
Despite Zoey standing her ground earlier, she had been terrified.
Levi didn’t say anything. He simply narrowed his eyes and glared at the Lopez family.
Anyone who knew Levi would be frightened because Levi was looking absolutely terrifying and cruel at that moment.
If they were on a battlefield, Levi’s enemy would meet their end.
There was a saying about Levi that went, “When the God of War is angry, a million hidden soldiers will rise!”
“Are you the one who was going to hit my wife?” demanded Levi.
“Yes, that’s me. You’re Levi Garrison? How convenient! My uncle is coming after you too, so I will destroy you in advance. That would make an excellent gift for my uncle,” sneered Dustin.
The Lopez family from South City knew all about the notorious Levi Garrison.
That man was partially responsible for killing Quentin Lane.
He had also been there when Wesley became a cripple.
“Take him down,” ordered Dustin.
Dustin’s four subordinates walked towards Levi slowly.
“Step aside for now, honey. I’ll deal with this.”
Levi led Zoey aside.
Boom!
Levi saw one man coming at him, so he rushed forward too and punched the man’s face. That punch broke over ten of the man’s teeth and distorted half of his face.
Boom!
Another left hook swept across another man’s face.
Pfft!
The man fell down and fainted from that one punch.
Boom!
Boom!
The two remaining men were punched too and would need at least one month of bed rest.
“What? He’s that strong?”
Levi’s strength surprised everyone.
He’s that good of a fighter?
The one who was most afraid was none other than Dustin Lopez.
He knew just how powerful the four men he had brought with him were.
Dustin felt a little scared when he saw Levi approaching him.
“Do you even realize what you’re doing?”
Dustin had the whip in his hand when he warned, “Levi Garrison, you are dead because you kept challenging the Lopez family of South City! My uncle is coming all the way over just to defeat you. If you go down on your knee and beg for my forgiveness now, I might think about letting you go.”
Levi sneered.
He snatched the whip away from Dustin the very next second.
Levi checked the whip out and chuckled, “So this is the whip for carrying out the punishment? It’s quite sturdy.”
Dustin couldn’t help but sweat in fear as he scolded, “I’m warning you, Levi Garrison! Calm down! Don’t act impulsively or you and your wife will suffer dire consequences.”
Levi grinned, “I heard that you were going to whip my wife ten times. Is that right?”
“Huh? No, I…”
Whip!
Levi suddenly slashed the whip at Dustin.
One whip was all it took to tear through Dustin’s clothes and leave a deep and bloody wound.
“Ahhh!”
Dustin screamed in agony.
That painful shout got Harry and the others to back away.
Whip!
Levi whipped Dustin once more.
That second whip got Dustin’s clothes to fall from his body, and the second bloody mark on his fat body gave everybody goosebumps.
CHAPTER 391
“Ahhhhh!”
Dustin was rolling on the floor and screaming in pain.
Whip!
The third whip landed.
Dustin was dying of pain at that moment.
All he could feel was agony, and he had shouted so much that he lost his voice.
He felt as if his soul had left his body.
Whip!
Whip!
……
Levi kept whipping until all ten whips had been delivered.
Dustin soon stopped screaming. His body had been so mercilessly whipped he stopped moving. He curled up in agony.
He didn’t die, but everyone could tell that Dustin was basically crippled.
Those ten whips had kicked the life out of him, and he would be on bed rest for at least a year!
“How weak,” Levi scoffed before he tossed the whip aside and left.
“Quick, call the ambulance and take him to the hospital!”
Harry got nervous.
Things had gotten out of control.
Dustin was the next in line to inherit the Lopez family’s estate in South City!
Yet, he had been gravely injured in North Hampton, and Harry and the others will likely be punished harshly for what had happened.
“That Levi is too freaking stupid and brave. How dare he attack a member of the Lopez family from South City?” Shaun gaped as he grinned.
“You know, you’re right. Under these circumstances, there is no way the Lopez family from South City will let him live!”
“Right. Isn’t the famous Sebastian coming to destroy him?”
Melanie and the others were anticipating the future fight excitedly.
In the end, Dustin survived the incident, but the hospital reported that he would have a lot of complications in the future.
For example, Dustin might go into a coma and never wake up.
It was also likely Dustin would become a lunatic.
…….
Neither situation was what the Lopez family of South City wanted.
That was their next commander.
It would be a total joke if he turned into a lunatic!
The Lopez family could not accept a humiliation like that.
When the Lopez family in South City learned of what had happened, they got angry.
They announced they would avenge Dustin, even if it meant toppling the entire North Hampton.
Three men were in line to succeed and lead the next generation of the Lopez family.
Quentin had been killed.
Wesley was crippled.
And Dustin might be comatose!
Who would be okay with something like that?
The famous Sebastian was going to head to North Hampton in the following week, but he showed up the following day after hearing about what had happened.
In a backyard of a mansion in South City.
An elderly man in an old-fashioned outfit was sitting by the table, enjoying his tea.
That man was the renowned Sebastian.
There was a saying in South City that went, ‘One would rather face the devil than go against Sebastian’.
That proved just how powerful and terrifying Sebastian truly was.
His title as the man who could overthrow the devil was not unfounded.
He had been cruel and bloodthirsty when he was younger, and his hands had taken countless lives.
They say that the number of people he killed was equivalent to the number of stars in the sky.
Sebastian later stepped back to settle into retirement. He would drink tea, do some gardening every day, and would go to the temple on some occasions.
He did that to be Zen and to change his violent life.
Unfortunately, he overdid it.
The incident with his godson, Quentin Lane, had turned him back to his former self.
He was even angrier after his two nephews got hurt.
“Everything is ready, sir. We can head to North Hampton tomorrow,” reported Sebastian’s servant, Simon.
Simon was actually a skilled fighter, too.
Sebastian sipped some tea before instructing calmly, “Go get the Black and White Guards out from prison.”
“Huh? Are you sure you want to do that?” Simon trembled.
The Black and White Guards were simply too terrifying.
“Yes!”
“Okay. I will arrange for that right away,” replied Simon.
After that, Simon took a deep breath and left.
Sebastian’s fame and the fear he inspired was partially owed to the Black and White Guards.
Those two men were crueler than him; they were cannibals.
The two of them had gotten into a battle with two hundred men and won. That battle made them famous.
Sebastian’s notoriety was immeasurable.
The cruel part of that notoriety was linked to the Black and White Guards.
Those were the masters of cruelty. Rumor had it that they grew up with wolves and ate raw meat every day.
They had single-handedly defeated an army of two hundred and rose to fame.
They later joined an underground boxing tournament, but they were so cruel that they were disqualified.
There was a story about how, during a match, one of them tore his opponent’s rib out and used that rib to stab the guy to death.
They later joined Sebastian’s team and raised hell everywhere.
They had killed so many people that there were many powerful figures and families who didn’t even dare look them in the eye.
The mere mention of the Black and White Guards got people to tremble in fear.
The Black and White Guards had gotten too violent and caused a lot of trouble, so Sebastian has locked them up.
Sebastian taking the Black and White Guards to North Hampton meant that he was getting serious.
When the citizens of South City learned that the Black and White Guards were being released from prison, everyone grew nervous.
Those two being released meant that someone was definitely going to die.
The citizens sighed a breath of relief when they learned that Sebastian was taking those killers to North Hampton.
However, they started praying for North Hampton.
They wondered which unlucky bastard had angered Sebastian so much that he released the Black and White Guards.
Everyone knew that anyone who offended Sebastian would face dire consequences.
Death would’ve been a better option because the Black and White Guards’ inhumane methods had always terrified everyone.
……
The network in North Hampton was still pretty good.
When Glenn heard the news, he immediately went to look for Levi.
“Mr. Garrison, something bad is about to happen. Sebastian will come to North Hampton tomorrow with the Black and White Guards!”
Glenn wiped his sweat off.
“So what if they come? Why are you so scared?” chuckled Levi.
“Mr. Garrison, maybe you don’t know it, but those three are nuts! They are like a time bomb that would go off at any moment!”
“You know Liam, don’t you? He is strong and undisciplined… The ones who defeated him were Sebastian and the Black and White Guards! Liam had to go on his knees and beg them for mercy. His life was spared because of that, but they still crippled all his limbs!”
Glen took a deep breath before he continued, “The Black and White Guards are especially brutal. They killed everyone in the orphanage when they were ten, and their violent tendencies only worsen as they age. They have killed countless men, and rumor has it that they are cannibals! They’re basically demons.”
Levi laughed.
He had seen all kinds of lunatics during his time in the army.
Many places had similar ‘demons’ who had murdered thousands before, but he had defeated them all.
“Be careful, Mr. Garrison. They are here to destroy you,” Glen warned.
“Well, since they’re coming to North Hampton, then we’ll trap them here,” said Levi cruelly.
“Huh?” Glen blurted, stunned.
Isn’t this dude a little too full of it?
Trapping Sebastian and the Black and White Guards?
Glen didn’t think it was plausible, but he wasn’t in a position to say anything.
The news of how Sebastian was heading to North Hampton with the Black and White Guards had spread.
Everyone started avoiding the place, simply staying home.
Some powerful families, however, got ready to welcome the three men.
It seemed that Sebastian wasn’t just there to seek vengeance. He was also there because he was expanding into North Hampton.
The powerful families thought that if they left a good impression on Sebastian, they might benefit from it in the future.
Harry and the others stood guard at the hospital.
They were excited but also scared to hear that Sebastian was heading over.
With Sebastian there, North Hampton would practically be dominated by the Lopez family.
As such, they would benefit from it as well.
They were also afraid, though, because Sebastian might blame them for what had happened.
CHAPTER 393
“It’d be great if Dustin could wake up before Sebastian gets here,” sighed Shaun.
When the doctor heard that, he blurted, “I have an idea that might help with that…”
“What is it? Tell us. If it works, we will reward you handsomely,” Harry said, whose eyes lit up immediately.
The doctor replied, “A medical expert I know might be able to cure this patient, and there’s a good chance that he knows how to wake the patient up.”
“Really?” asked Harry, whose eyes shone with hope just like his family’s eyes were.
“Yes, he is definitely the top in the medical field in Erudia. However, I heard that he will be catching a plane and leaving North Hampton tomorrow,” said the doctor.
“Are you talking about Benny Quinton?” asked Fabian.
“Yeah. Who else would be that skilled?” The doctor nodded.
Harry looked troubled as he said, “But I heard that Benny Quinton no longer takes patients in. He will definitely reject our request if we ask.”
“We have to try! Sebastian will be here tomorrow.”
Harry and his family soon got to the place where Azure Dragon and Benny Quinton lived. They asked Benny to help cure Dustin, but as expected, Benny rejected their offers.
Harry and the others kept trying to come up with another solution after that.
The next day rolled by soon after.
A bunch of cars showed up in North Hampton.
The last few cars had about a dozen men in black outfits. They got out and stood at the side.
Simon drove the Rolls-Royce in the lead. He got out and circled around to open the door for Sebastian.
Sebastian was wearing a black, old-fashioned outfit, and was holding a walking cane with a dragon’s head carved on it.
He oozed a domineering aura as he scanned the place.
After that, he walked to the black luxurious car at the end.
The car seeped a chilling aura, and it shook so violently that it seemed that it might topple itself over.
“Stay in the car and do not leave until I give the say so,” instructed Sebastian. Only then did the car stop shaking.
Simon was trembling in fear because that was the car the Black and White Guards took.
If those two showed up on the street, the entire place would definitely turn upside down.
Simon later led Sebastian into the hospital, and they headed into Dustin’s room.
Thump!
Harry and the others got down on their knees in front of Sebastian.
“This is all our fault, Sebastian. We did not keep Dustin safe. We were wrong, so please punish us as you see fit,” cried Harry.
Sebastian scanned everyone and replied cruelly, “Get up. This has nothing to do with you. Those people are not easy to deal with, or Quentin and Wesley would not have been defeated.”
Harry replied softly, “I don’t dare to. Levi is my grandson-in-law, yet I did not teach him the rules. I didn’t know he was that strong.”
“I said, stand up!” Sebastian suddenly raised his voice.
That made Harry and the others jump up in fright.
They stopped bullshitting then.
Sebastian went to check on Dustin.
“What did the doctor say?” He asked.
“It’s not good. He will not be able to wake up for the time being and might stay in a persistent vegetative state,” answered Harry.
Sebastian looked devastated then.
“However, there is still hope. Benny Quinton is in North Hampton, and he is the best expert in the medical field. We asked him to come over yesterday, but he rejected our offer. His plane will be taking off today, and he should be boarding in two hours.”
Sebastian’s eyes shone with a cruel glint upon hearing that. “Simon, go get Benny Quinton over! Do not let him board that airplane.”
CHAPTER 394
Harry then added, “Still, you shouldn’t hold out so much hope because Benny has a rule about how he doesn’t do private calls. The God of War, Liam Macy, dragged Benny over once. Things did not end well.”
Sebastian’s eyes burned with untamed fury as he roared, “That puny Liam Macy is nothing compared to me!”
“I can hire anyone he can hire, and I am capable of convincing people he can’t convince.”
“Go get Benny Quinton over right away. He must cure my nephew!”
Simon nodded, “Understood. There isn’t a person on Earth who wouldn’t come at your command.”
“That’s right. Those who disobey me will meet an untimely end,” scoffed Sebastian.
Harry and the others trembled as they stood at Sebastian’s side.
Sebastian’s aura was too strong.
Everyone felt the weight of mountains crushing on them when they heard him speak.
As such, they were all sweating then.
Simon departed immediately to get Benny Quinton.
Henry and the others started saying, “Sebastian, this is all Levi’s and Zoey’s fault. They are close with Nueve and Trey, and they thought they can do whatever they want because of that. They don’t respect the Lopez family from South City.”
“Freaking Levi Garrison. I am here just to deal with him. I don’t care who he has supporting him; I will not forgive him!”
“Also, I will be staying here permanently. My plan is simple. I will make it so that everyone in North Hampton trembles in fear when they hear our name,” declared Sebastian.
Harry and the others were ridiculously excited.
Was it finally their chance to shine?
It didn’t matter how useless they were. Being a member of the Lopez family would be sufficient.
North Hampton would soon belong to Sebastian.
Liam Macy, Winston Gonzales, and the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce would all fall.
No one could beat Sebastian!
At that moment, Harry and the others had started fantasizing about their future.
Simon hurried over to the airport with about ten men.
Levi had personally driven the car to take Benny Quinton and his assistant to the airport.
At first, Levi wanted to use a military plane to take Benny straight to Vermond, but Benny rejected that offer.
That was how Benny Quinton was.
He was an ordinary doctor with a pure soul.
Levi kept them company until they went into the waiting lounge.
Unfortunately, a van stopped at the airport after Levi had left.
Simon and over ten men rushed into the airport.
Benny and his assistant had just gotten their boarding passes and were heading towards the gate.
However, over ten men showed up in front of them.
“Mr. Benny Quinton, please come with us!”
Simon was swift.
He never gave Benny a chance to talk before he grabbed them.
When Benny and his assistant finally came around, they were already in the van.
“Let’s go!” instructed Simon before the car departed.
At the hospital.
Benny Quinton and his assistant were forcefully dragged into the patient’s room.
Everyone turned serious and polite when they saw Benny Quinton there.
Sebastian, however, glared in disdain and scoffed, “I hate educated people like you. So pretentious.”
Benny grinned, “Then why do you insist on bringing me here?”
“Because you are a doctor who can cure patients. That is all you are worthy of!”
Sebastian pointed at Dustin, then ordered cruelly, “Treat my nephew right now! If you succeed, I will give you a total of one billion. If not… You can choose if you’d like to keep your arms or your legs.”
Sebastian’s barbaric style stunned Benny.
Liam Macy had been a powerful bully too, but even that man had shown a little respect to Benny.
The man in front of Benny was utterly despicable and unrestrained.
He looked like a madman.
CHAPTER 395
“No. You have your rules, but so do I,” refuted Benny.
“As I said, educated people like you are horrible. Isn’t your job to cure the sick? Why aren’t you treating him? Where is your so-called moral?” scoffed Sebastian.
“You were immoral and kidnapped me, so I have no obligations to help you,” persisted Benny.
Sebastian laughed aloud. “There are just too many ways to force your hand. Simon?”
Simon received the message immediately.
Slam!
Simon kicked Benny’s assistant to the floor.
“Arg…” The assistant cried.
“What the hell are you doing?” demanded Benny in a worried tone.
“I will cripple him if you refuse to treat the man,” said Simon as he increased the pressure on the assistant’s ankle. That prompted the assistant to shout even more.
Harry and the others were horrified when they saw that.
Sebastian was too cruel.
All he knew was to tap into his violence to solve his problems.
Benny had no choice but to nod and said, “Okay, fine. I’ll treat him.”
“Wouldn’t it have been much better if you had just agreed to do so early on?” gloated Sebastian.
There were simply too many ways to force Benny’s hand.
The cruelest among them was to lock Benny and his assistant in with the Black and White Guards.
Benny probably would’ve raised the white flag in under thirty seconds.
Benny and his assistant quickly dove in to treat Dustin.
“You better treat him well, or you will end up just like him!” threatened Sebastian.
After taking Benny and his assistant to the airport, Levi returned to Morris Group.
Morris Group had just expanded once more and would soon be the top enterprise in North Hampton.
Hence, many people had their eyes on them.
A tv show had even done a special interview.
Iris found Levi and scoffed, “You love to show off, don’t you? Well, then here’s your chance.”
“Huh? Me? Showing off?” blurted Levi suspiciously.
“The North Hampton Television Network wants to do a special on Morris Group in three days. I’ve already helped you accept the invitation, so you may not bail on it.”
“These are the interview questions and other materials. Don’t embarrass me!”
Iris left after tossing a stack of documents to him.
Urk!
Levi almost vomited blood.
She is making me do an interview and show my face to everyone?
Is she f*****g kidding?
Still, he had no choice but to participate because Iris had already accepted it.
“Well, it’s for my own company, anyway,” murmured Levi before he started studying the materials.
His phone rang up at that moment.
The call was from Azure Dragon.
“I think something bad happened. The airport called and said that Mr. Quinton never boarded the plane, and we can’t find him at the airport either,” said Azure Dragon, whose voice was obviously quivering.
“What? He’s missing?” said Levi, whose expression took a sharp turn.
He had not gotten a private plane for Benny, but Levi had talked to the managers at the airport and asked them to keep an eye on him.
Benny was missing, and that meant that something must’ve happened.
“Investigate it immediately! Mr. Quinton must not get hurt,” instructed Levi.
“According to the CCTV at the airport, someone dragged Mr. Quinton into a van,” reported Azure Dragon soon after.
“Call Xavier and the people responsible for the traffic. Find out where that van went!” said Levi anxiously.
He would not let anyone go off that easily if Benny had a hair off his head!
“Got it! The van went to the hospital, and there were witnesses that claimed they saw Benny there!”
Levi stood up and announced evilly, “Okay, got it. I will personally head over to the hospital.”
CHAPTER 396
Inside the hospital.
Benny and his assistant examined the patient thoroughly, and Benny’s conclusion was that it would take Dustin a long time to recover. The treatment would go on for at least four months.
“How about this? I will take this patient with me to Vermond and will personally treat him there,” suggested Benny.
Benny had a lot of work to tend to in Vermond; he couldn’t stay in North Hampton.
Simon, Harry, and everyone else grinned when they heard that there was hope.
Sebastian, however, frowned and asked, “Why can’t you treat him here in North Hampton?”
“Because I work in Vermond, and a lot of patients are waiting for me there,” explained Benny.
Sebastian shook his head. “No! You must stay here and treat my nephew. You are not to leave or treat anyone else during this period. Focus only on my nephew, and you may leave when he is back on his feet.”
“You may reject my offer, but he will have to stay, and who knows how long he’ll survive?”
Sebastian was staring at Benny’s assistant at that moment.
The assistant trembled in fear.
If he stayed, he would definitely be killed.
Sebastian had always been that barbaric, and he didn’t give Benny a chance to say anything else.
“You…”
Benny was so frustrated that he felt as if he would explode.
He couldn’t stay in North Hampton because he simply had too much to do in Vermond.
“Sir, I promise I’ll revive him in Vermond. Can I please take him there?” asked Benny.
“No! There will be no further discussion. You will stay right here in North Hampton, and you will treat my nephew.”
Sebastian’s eyes shone with fury.
“Oh right, I just remembered that North Hampton has a private hospital. Transfer him over right away. Benny Quinton, you will come with us!” ordered Sebastian.
“I’ll get started on the paperwork right away,” replied Simon.
Benny was nervous then.
Is this Sebastian guy going to imprison me and force me to treat his nephew?
…..
Levi arrived at the hospital at that moment.
He paused when he saw the cars there.
However, he had not stopped because there were over ten similar cars parked in a straight line. He had stopped because he had sensed two dangerous auras seeping out of one of the cars.
There were a number of good fighters in North Hampton. Some examples would be Jack Smith’s Invincible-13 who were all amazing fighters.
However, compared to the two men inside the car, all thirteen men seemed puny.
Despite all that, the aura only made Levi take one look.
He had been on the battlefield for five years, so he had seen all kinds of outstanding fighters before.
He was simply curious as to why someone like that would show up in North Hampton.
Levi was about to enter the hospital when he bumped into a group of men.
Simon had made the arrangements to transfer Dustin Lopez, and Benny was there with them.
“Mr. Quinton?” blurted Levi.
Benny sighed a breath of relief as soon as he saw Levi there.
I’ll be fine with him here.
Simon looked displeased as he asked, “What’s going on?”
Harry rushed over immediately and complained, “That is Levi Garrison! He whipped Dustin ten times and put Dustin in that state. He was also involved in the incidents that hurt Quentin and Wesley.”
“That’s right. He’s Levi Garrison! You should kick his ass right away!”
“He has always been disrespectful to the Lopez family and often insulted Sebastian.”
…..
Shaun and the others started bullshitting once more.
Simon became furious when he heard that. “You’re responsible for this?”
The Lopez family’s bodyguards all turned and glared at Levi right away.
“Yeah, I did that. You guys want Mr. Quinton to treat him? Nope, no one is allowed to treat him!”
Levi’s voice sounded even, but his tone was evil.
CHAPTER 397
Even Simon was stunned.
There are people brave enough to be that disrespectful to the Lopez family of South City?
That was basically asking the devil himself to come to collect one’s soul.
Simon and the others didn’t buy it when Harry and his family bullshitted.
Meeting Levi in person showed Simon that the brat was even more arrogant than how Harry described.
“Let’s go, Mr. Quinton!” said Levi.
“No one is leaving! Take them down,” ordered Simon angrily.
The handful of men following his lead attacked instantly.
However, those men were no match against Levi.
It only took him a moment to knock all of them out.
“Quick, get the others over!”
Simon hurried to get more help.
However, Levi left with Benny and his assistant before Simon returned.
Levi was more than capable of defeating Sebastian, but they were at a hospital, after all. It would be bad if things escalated.
That was why Levi had taken Benny away first. Levi would deal with the other issues afterwards.
Sebastian exited the hospital with a bunch of men soon after.
Simon also returned after asking over ten men to follow him to the entrance.
“Where is he? Where is Levi Garrison?” demanded Simon.
Sebastian came as soon as he heard the news that Levi was there to rescue Benny, but he didn’t meet the man.
“Huh? That is not possible. He was here just a second ago!”
There were too many people at the entrance of the hospital, so Harry and the others couldn’t even tell when Levi had slipped away with Benny and his assistant.
“You can’t even keep an eye on one man?” reprimanded Simon.
Sebastian turned even angrier; he was on the verge of exploding.
Levi Garrison, the man who had crippled three of his successors, had taken Benny Quinton away from right under his nose!
That was an insult to Sebastian.
It embarrassed him!
He had been in North Hampton for less than a day but something that embarrassing had already happened!
Sebastian was so angry that he was going crazy.
He had always viewed his notoriety as something crucial.
Most people in Quebec would tremble in fear when they heard his name.
Yet, someone had utterly disregarded him!
He would not stand by it!
“Send our people out right away and bring me Levi Garrison and Benny Quinton!”
“If you can’t manage that, I will have the Black and White Guards take over!”
Sebastian’s eyes were burning with fury then.
Boom!
Simon’ entire body trembled.
Letting the Black and White Guards out of their cages when we have just arrived in North Hampton?
If those two monsters were released, North Hampton would be drenched in blood.
Simon was scared of it.
The others were even more terrified.
“I will send our people out right away, sir. Let’s not let the Black and White Guards loose unless it is absolutely necessary,” said Simon.
Harry got curious and asked, “Who are these Black and White Guards?”
“I’ll teach you all about them if I have the time,” puffed Sebastian.
For some reason, Harry could feel a chill running down his spine.
……
On the other side.
After Levi got Benny into the car, the former got a private plane to take Benny to Vermond immediately.
Azure Dragon followed behind Levi and asked, “What do we do? Sebastian is too powerful; even Liam is not a match against him.”
“Moreover, the powerful families in South City and other remarkable places are going insane and trying to get to North Hampton, too. They want to profit off of Sebastian’s arrival.”
“Nielson is one of those men, and he wants me to ask you if that’s okay.”
Levi’s eyes were cruel when he answered, “Welcome anyone who is here to contribute. If they are only here to cause trouble and steal resources, then tell them to f*** off!”
Azure Dragon trembled. “Understood.”
Levi lit up a cigarette and looked into the distance before he instructed nonchalantly, “As for Sebastian… I will deal with him myself!”
Azure Dragon shivered even more.
That man was truly unlucky to have inspired Levi to personally deal with the matter.
CHAPTER 398
Inside the Lopez family home.
Sebastian was waiting for the news.
Simon soon rushed over and reported, “Sebastian, something bad had happened. Benny Quinton has left North Hampton and has reached Vermond!”
“What?”
Sebastian jumped up.
“Those people are too much! They showed no regard for me at all,” roared Sebastian.
Simon nodded. “Levi Garrison really is freaking arrogant. He even publicly announced that he will not let anyone treat Dustin’s condition.”
“That asshole! He’s making it personal!” shouted Sebastian. He was holding a cup at the time, and a single squeeze shattered it.
Harry and the others were flabbergasted.
Sebastian is that strong? He really is an expert!
Simon looked troubled as he said, “Now that Benny Quinton is back in Vermond, there is no way we can get him back here.”
“I know! There are too many experts in Vermond, and even I can’t break them.”
Sebastian added, “But I must make Levi Garrison pay!”
Simon quickly said, “I’ve looked into the matter. Levi Garrison may look like he has Nueve and Trey supporting him, but the truth was that all three of them are being supported by the mysterious man behind Morris Group.”
“Morris Group? I’ve heard of that company. They say that aside from the Rogers family, the Morris Group is the most powerful enterprise,” said Sebastian.
“What should we do?” asked Simon.
Sebastian thought about it and replied, “Host a party tonight and invite everybody who is anybody in North Hampton. I want the whole of North Hampton to know that I am here!”
“We’ll have the party right here in the Lopez family’s mansion in North Hampton!”
“Understood,” replied Simon as he nodded.
That got Harry and the others excited.
It was their moment to shine, and that was all thanks to Sebastian.
No one in North Hampton would ever look down on them again.
The elites in North Hampton soon received their invitation.
Winston Gonzales, the four representatives of North Hampton Chamber of Commerce…
Glenn Rogers of the Rogers family, and all other wealthy families were also invited.
Even Liam Macy and the others got their invitation.
Inside the office of Morris Group.
A secretary came in and reported, “Ms. Annabelle, someone from South City has dropped by.”
“What do they want?” asked Iris.
“They are here to send us an invitation card,” the secretary spoke as she handed an invitation card over.
“Oh, and the man said that the invitation card must be handed to the boss,” added the secretary.
Iris opened the invitation card, and it said that the invitation was from Sebastian Lopez.
The content of the invitation, however, sounded barbaric; it felt more like a royal decree than an invitation.
“Sebastian of the South City? Isn’t he related to Zoey?” Iris said suspiciously.
After that, she contacted Neil to tell him about the invitation.
Neil, in turn, brought the invitation card to Levi.
“Sebastian is hosting a party today, and he has actually invited you over. Are you going?” asked Neil with a grin.
Levi smiled mysteriously and read the invitation card as he planned his next move.
……
Everyone in North Hampton was nervous at that moment.
They knew Sebastian Lopez had suddenly travelled to North Hampton.
Worse still, there were rumors about how he had brought the gods of assassinations known as the Black and White Guards over.
It seemed that a bloody storm was inevitable in North Hampton.
What worried everyone, even more, was the fact that Sebastian seemed interested in extending his business to North Hampton.
To some, that news was devastating.
Sebastian could single-handedly force everyone in North Hampton to bow down to him, and his cruel methods horrified everyone.
He had thrown a party that night, and it seemed that his intention wasn’t pure.
CHAPTER 399
Sebastian had thrown the party for two reasons. The first was to tell all of North Hampton that he, Sebastian Lopez, was there.
The second was to have everyone pick a side. Those who stood with him would be fine, and those who chose otherwise would die before they know it.
Harry personally looked into all the details of the party and quickly decorated the place.
When evening rolled by, many luxurious cars drove to the Lopez family’s house.
Everyone who was anyone in North Hampton had shown up.
All their net worth was over ten billion, and they used to treat Harry and the others like they were nothing.
However, those same people had been bowing down to Harry and greeting him politely that day.
Harry was delighted.
He had never enjoyed a treatment like that before.
It seemed that having someone strong supporting them had made all the differences.
Shaun Lopez was having fun too. Back in the days, he was the one who had to bow down to the other wealthy kids and appease them.
Even Melanie was benefitting from all that. Many young and powerful men had approached her to chat and flirt with her.
That put Melanie on cloud nine.
“Zoey Lopez is not so great. She is nothing now!”
Henry laughed, “Yes, that’s right. I am so proud to be a member of the Lopez family.”
“Hello, Mr. Lopez.”
Winston, Eric, and a number of other elites greeted Harry.
Harry was so excited that he almost fainted.
He hadn’t even dared to fantasize about such a thing in the past.
The most powerful men in North Hampton had come to greet him!
Even one of the most popular guys in North Hampton, Glenn Rogers, had approached Harry.
When eight o’clock rolled by, almost everyone who had been invited had shown up.
Everyone sat in their seats as they waited patiently for Sebastian to show up.
Sebastian got out of a locked room inside the Lopez family’s house at that moment.
The locked room rang up with roars.
The men making those noises sounded grouchy and scary.
The cold aura spewing out of that room made everyone shiver in fear.
Simon warned Fabian, “Remember to keep an eye on this door. Do not open it, or you’ll die before you know it.”
“Understood,” replied Fabian.
He had no idea what was locked in there, but given how Simon had warned him, he was certain that whatever’s inside was horrifying.
Unfortunately, the more scared Simon was, the more curious Fabian got.
Fabian stood nervously by the door, and he peeped through the small window.
One look was all it took.
“Ah!”
Fabian was so scared that he fell backwards.
No one knew what he saw through that window, but he shouted fearfully, and he turned pale while dripping with sweat.
After that, he hurried out of there…
That night, everyone waited in the party hall.
“Sebastian Lopez is here.”
Everyone stood up to welcome him.
Sebastian exuded an extremely powerful aura and his gaze was enough to get everyone trembling.
If the legendary Black and White Guards were to show up too, everyone would be even more frightened.
Everyone knew Sebastian being there meant that North Hampton was pretty much his.
It would be extremely difficult to live with him because he would not share any of his resources with anyone.
“Sebastian,” greeted Winston and the other men who were sitting at the front.
Sebastian swept his gaze across them before he scoffed and asked, “Who’s the head of Morris Group?”
The entire place turned quiet after Sebastian spoke.
Everyone looked to one another, but no one dared to answer.
“So? Where are the people from Morris Group?” asked Sebastian with a smile.
“Sebastian, um, the people from Morris Group never showed up,” someone piped up.
Sebastian narrowed his eyes, and a terrifyingly cruel glint shimmered past his eyes.
“Who said that the people from Morris Group aren’t here?”
A voice suddenly rang out.
CHAPTER 400
Everyone turned around.
All they saw was a team of uniformed security guards walking in.
The one leading them over was Seth, the head of security.
He had a rolled-up scroll with him.
“Huh?”
Everyone was stunned.
All other companies and family had sent their best and brightest as their representatives, but Morris Group had sent a group of security guards instead.
That was such an arrogant move.
It seemed like they weren’t afraid of Sebastian at all.
“Interesting.” grinned Simon.
Sebastian narrowed his eyes, but he laughed, “Morris Group really is something else for sending their security guard over.”
Seth stood forward and grinned before he said, “Sebastian, please allow me to introduce myself. I am Seth Wilson and am the head of security for Morris Group. My employer has asked me to send you a scroll with some words on it.”
Everyone gasped in shock when they heard that.
Morris Group’s arrogance was ridiculous!
They had sent the head of the security guards as if someone of that rank was all Sebastian’s invitation was worth?
They were blatantly challenging Sebastian!
No one, not even the ones with inside knowledge, knew what game Morris Group was playing.
Glenn, for example, was totally clueless.
He was a little worried about Levi’s challenge going over the board and things spiraling out of control.
Sebastian and the Black and White Guards were lunatics, after all, and if they were cornered, they would do something crazy.
“You are nothing but a freaking security guard, yet you dare to talk to Sebastian? Drop-dead, asshole.”
Shaun already hated Seth, so the former wanted to use Sebastian’s power to destroy the latter.
“Guards! Come and cripple these idiots!” shouted Henry angrily.
“Hang on….”
Sebastian spoke up, “I’m curious and would like to see what the head of Morris Group has gotten for me.”
“Go get it.”
Upon hearing that, Simon walked forward to take the scroll from Seth.
“We will take out leave now,” replied Seth before he turned around to leave.
Shaun wanted to stop Seth, but Simon glared at him.
The Lopezes had no choice but to watch as Seth and the other security guards walked away.
Simon brought the scroll to Sebastian.
“Open it and see what’s inside,” instructed Sebastian, who was curious.
Simon’s long arm held the scroll as it rolled down.
Boom!
Everyone was stunned when they saw the content of the scroll.
A pin-drop silence fell over the room.
Their jaws dropped because the content was simply that surprising.
Sebastian sensed that something was off, so he walked around to look at the scroll.
Sebastian almost died of high blood pressure and anger when he saw it.
The scroll read, “F*****g Leave North Hampton!”
That was absolutely barbaric!
Turned out, sending the security guards over wasn’t the only arrogant act they had prepared.
The true display of arrogance was what happened next.
No one had ever blatantly demanded Sebastian to leave a place before.
In fact, Sebastian had been in that industry for several decades, but he had never been treated that way before.
“Destroy Morris Group!”
Simon and the Lopez family’s security guards could not hold it in anymore.
They wanted to crush Morris Group then and there.
Simon suddenly realized why Levi had acted so freaking arrogantly.
How could he not be arrogant when he had a boss who acted like that supporting him?
Everyone sitting opposite the stage had their heads down. They were waiting for the inevitable storm.
Infuriating Sebastian Lopez was a terrifying thing to do.
The river would run red with blood, and mountains of bones would rise…
It seemed that a bloody storm was heading for North Hampton.
Sebastian turned to everyone else and asked, “What do you guys know about the head of Morris Group?”
“He’s very mysterious and has never shown his face before. Even his subordinate, Neil, rarely shows up.”
“However, he is probably extremely powerful because he was able to compete against the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce and the Gonzales family.”
……
Everyone chimed in.
“And what do you think, Mr. Gonzales?” asked Sebastian.
“I suggest Sir to retreat out of North Hampton immediately. Your safety is of utmost importance. That man is not someone you can afford to cross.”
The moment Winston finished speaking, everyone froze, including Sebastian.
What? You’re asking me to leave North Hampton?
“Yes. The North Hampton Chamber of Commerce agrees with Winston. North Hampton is vastly different from what you’ve imagined. You might die here,” Robinson and the other three said.
In the end, even Liam chimed in, “That’s right. You can’t afford to cross that man!”
The three powerful men of North Hampton were persuading him not to stay.
Their words were shocking.
Winston and the rest would not have said something like this in the past.
However, after seeing the contents of the painting Seth had shown them, they realized what that man’s intentions were.
If Sebastian insisted on attacking North Hampton, he was doomed for death.
Sebastian and the rest were staring at the speakers in shock.
I can’t afford to cross the Morris Group?
Is this a joke?
Other than one man in Quebec, there was no one Sebastian could not afford to cross.
Moreover, that man was now in South City, not North Hampton.
“Oh, I see.”
Abruptly, Sebastian laughed.
He finally understood why the people of North Hampton did not want him to stay; he was intruding upon their territory.
That was why these people were using the boss of Morris Group to pressure him to leave.
However, he refused to do as they say.
The more he could not afford to cross him, the more he wanted to try.
This piece of cake in North Hampton had to be his.
He was going to destroy the Morris Group and kill Levi Garrison.
Not even God could stop what Sebastian wanted to do.
Looking at the crowd, Sebastian sneered, “The theme for this banquet is simple. I’ll expand my territory into North Hampton along with everyone. If you trust me, give me a sign. From now on, your business is my business.”
Sebastian’s words were simple to understand.
He wanted everyone present to pick sides.
The time had come.
Everyone’s hearts skipped a beat.
Liam, Winston and Eric were the first to express their stances. “We’ve retired. We no longer participate with any disputes in North Hampton.”
“Very well. And the others?”
Sebastian looked at the rest.
“I choose to follow Mr. Lopez.”
“Me too!”
……
Everyone was quick and in a hurry to stand on Sebastian’s side.
“I choose to be neutral.”
“Same!”
……
A portion of the men decided to pick no sides.
In the end, the three wealthy families that had the same standing as the Rogers family—Jenkins, Welch and the Hardy family had chosen to be neutral.
After all, their families had tens of billions. They could expand their territories by themselves.
Upon hearing these three men’s choices, Sebastian became upset.
His expression frightened the rest.
Sebastian might not go against them, but their happy days would be numbered.
Soon, each family had expressed their stances.
Half had chosen to follow after Sebastian, and most chose to be neutral.
“Who’s next?” Sebastian asked.
Everyone turned to look at Glenn.
The only one who had not expressed their stance was him.
“Mr. Glenn Rogers, what is your answer? I know you’re powerful now. Please pick your decision wisely,” Sebastian laughed.
Glenn knew what he meant.
No matter which decision he made, he would remain as Sebastian’s ultimate archenemy.
Now, the decision he would make was important.
It was time for him to pick sides.
If he chose to be neutral, Sebastian would not target him.
However, he would not pick neutral, and neither would he choose to follow after Sebastian.
“I choose to stand on Morris Group’s side.”
CHAPTER 402
A chorus of gasps sounded out.
The moment Glenn’s words left his mouth, the crowd fell silent.
Next were the sounds of people drawing in their breaths.
Their eyes were close to popping out of the sockets as they stared at Glenn in shock.
Everyone could barely believe their ears. A third choice had been voiced out.
They could not believe that someone had chosen to side with the Morris Group, which was Sebastian’s archenemy.
It was as if Glenn was courting for death.
Sebastian’s terrifying gaze landed on Glenn, and it sent a shudder down his spine.
Now, terror had gripped tight onto him.
“I’ll ask you one more time. What is your choice?” Sebastian repeated his question in a deep voice.
Anyone who was not blind nor deaf would realize that Sebastian was angry.
The continuous provocation had made Sebastian furious.
The trembling of Glenn’s body was evident.
However, he would not change his decision.
That was because standing on Morris Group’s side meant that he was standing on Levi’s troops’ side.
Levi’s the God of War!
No matter how impressive you are, Sebastian, you can never surpass the God of War.
The reason behind him being number one in North Hampton was because he was a follower of Levi.
If not for him, the Rogers family would have been bankrupted long ago.
This was the time for him to express his loyalty to Levi.
“I repeat my answer. I choose to stand with the Morris Group. Whoever is the enemy of the Morris Group will be the Rogers family’s enemy,” Glenn declared.
No one could understand Glenn’s decision.
They thought, Even if you don’t want to follow after Sebastian, you can choose to be neutral.
Why do you have to go against Sebastian?
Do you have a death wish?
“Alright, alright,” Sebastian said.
Even he was stunned by Glenn’s answer.
He thought that everyone in North Hampton would bow to him the moment he commanded them to.
Yet, it was only his first day here and he was already provoked several times.
Levi had humiliated him.
The Morris Group had forced him.
The Rogers family had chosen to go against him.
……
This was humiliating!
Sebastian’s pride was destroyed in a blink of an eye.
Fury!
It was an unrestrainable fury!
Sebastian laughed, “Has everyone forgotten about me because I haven’t come here for a long time?”
“We wouldn’t dare!”
The crowd was shocked.
Sebastian said to Simon, “Simon, it seems like we need to do something to remind them that I hold the title of Hades.”
Simon nodded, “Sir, I’ll arrange for it immediately.”
Their conversation scared the living daylights out of the crowd.
Sebastian was about to make his move.
Even Glenn was afraid.
He doubted he would be able to leave the Lopez family’s estate alive tonight.
Henry and Shaun took the opportunity to sneer, “You have no fear of death! Did you have to force him to do this?”
Sebastian walked towards Glenn and patted his shoulders. “Don’t be scared. I won’t kill you tonight. In near future, I’ll show you why your choice is a mistake.”
At the end, when Glenn left the Lopez family’s estate, his clothes were soaked with cold sweat.
The remaining left with pounding hearts.
Everyone knew that for North Hampton, tonight was destined to be a sleepless night.
After the people had left, Sebastian narrowed his eyes and announced, “We’ll deal with Nueve and Trey tonight!”
“Assign Black and White Guards on it,” Sebastian added.
Simon drew a sharp breath.
He knew that Sebastian was serious about it this time.
Harry and the rest exchanged a look. They knew what the Black and White Guards were.
They must be what was kept in the forbidden room.
Fabian, who had seen them personally, started perspiring in fear.
CHAPTER 403
When he thought back of that scene, his knees went weak.
……
Levi knew what had happened at the Lopez family’s estate.
“That coward Glenn actually stood on Morris Group’s side!” Levi laughed.
“No matter how cowardly he is, he knows how powerful the God of War is,” Azure Dragon chuckled.
Kirin added, “I’m afraid Sebastian will be exacting his revenge maniacally now. That man is a lunatic!”
“The faster he makes his move, the earlier he dies,” Levi chortled.
Sebastian Lopez was not worth his attention.
Recently, Nueve and Trey were giddy with delight.
They had abandoned the terrible things in their past.
Now, they were focused on their businesses, hoping to contribute to North Hampton.
Moreover, they were in collaboration with several other successful businessmen. They frequently had discussions on methods of business expansion.
Most of their businesses were involved with bars and karaoke clubs.
Tonight, at Crown Karaoke, Nueve, Trey, and five other businessmen were in a meeting.
Right then, screams traveled into their ears from the corridor.
Nueve and Trey’s men were lying scattered across the corridor.
As the karaoke room was soundproofed, Nueve and the rest did not hear the screams.
Bang!
Right then, the door to the room was kicked open.
A group of people entered.
“Who are you?”
When Nueve and the rest recognized none of the intruders, they became wary and stood up defensively.
“Neuve? Trey?” The leading man asked.
“That’s right. Who are you? What are you doing here?” Neuve hissed.
No one in North Hampton dared to provoke him.
“There are two people who wish to meet you,” the man replied as he laughed.
“Who wants to meet us?”
Nueve’s curiosity grew.
Just then, the dozens of men by the door moved to the sides, leaving a space in the middle.
With the sounds of footsteps, two men came in.
One in black, and the other in white.
When Nueve saw them, the color drained from his face. His voice trembled. “What? B- Black and White Guards…”
Nueve had lived a life in the underground society for decades.
He had heard of the Black and White Guards.
However, he did not expect these two gods of death to look for him.
“Black and White Guards?” Trey shrieked.
The Black and White Guards were taboos.
There was no good ending for those who encountered them.
“Let’s fight till the end. We have no other way!” Nueve hissed.
Sebastian’s guards went out, leaving the Black and White Guards in the room. When they left the room, they locked the door.
“Ugh!”
“Argh!”
Agonizing wails traveled out of the karaoke room.
Even Sebastian’s men had cold sweat beading on their foreheads when they heard the screams.
They could not imagine the bloodbath that was going on in the room.
They could not imagine what torture Nueve and Trey was experiencing.
Indeed, the room had turned into hell.
The screams continued for half an hour.
Finally, the Black and White Guards exited.
Both men’s hands were covered in blood, and they were sucking it as if they did not want to waste even a drop.
That night, that place in North Hampton had gone through its worst history.
In one night, Sebastian had shown the people of North Hampton the definition of cruelty and the weight of Hades’ arrival.
It was an act too cruel.
Excluding the countless deaths and injuries, many had their bones simply removed from their bodies.
“Levi, bad news. Sebastian went to settle off Nueve and his gang last night. Countless are dead and severely injured. Even Nueve and Trey are on the verge of death!”
Early in the morning, Azure Dragon came with horrible news.
“What? They actually dared to make a move?”
Levi was stunned.
CHAPTER 404
“Yes. Sebastian is a madman!”
Azure Dragon sighed, “Apparently, he has two terrifying subordinates who are ruthless. Many were bitten to death. Although Nueve and Trey had many men with them, they were no match for those two.”
“They must be the Black and White Guards that Glenn mentioned,” Levi mumbled.
“Do you remember Chopper?”
Levi nodded.
Chopper had been a great help to him.
“Chopper died from blood loss after the Black and White Guards sucked out his blood while he was alive,” Azure Dragon told him the terrifying truth.
“Hm.”
Levi looked calm, but on the inside, anger was boiling.
“Let’s visit Nueve.”
When they reached the hospital, they saw Neuve and Trey swaddled in bandages.
With one glance, Levi knew how terrible last night had been for them.
“Neuve has 87 broken bones and 105 cuts on him. Trey has 76 broken bones, and he has 88 cuts.”
Azure Dragon informed Levi of their injuries.
“It seems like it’s a miracle that they survived. They can only live as a cripple from now on,” the doctor explained.
Azure Dragon whispered to Levi, “Sir, I think the Black and White Guards intentionally left Nueve and Trey alive. It’s a warning for us.”
Levi nodded. “Yes, I’ve noticed. They have more than a hundred wounds, but each cut avoided the vital points. It seems like those two are quite impressive.”
“How cruel,” Azure Dragon gritted out.
“If we don’t deal with them, they might end up hurting Ms. Lopez. That’s a consequence we don’t want to think about.”
Kirin suggested, “Let me deal with this.”
Levi shook his head. “No need. It’s time for White Tiger to exercise a little.”
“Huh? White Tiger?”
Azure Dragon and Kirin were bewildered.
He was a man with a great reputation and influence.
White Tiger, the King of War, had a nickname on the battlefield— War Machine.
That title was the nightmare of many enemies.
That was because White Tiger was a maniac and also the devil of the battlefield.
In the Five Great Wars Regiment, he was the best fighter.
Once, White Tiger had fought his way out of tens of thousands of enemies without a scratch on him.
In that battle, he had killed over six thousand people all by himself. That battle was the one where his reputation was established.
However, he was the cruelest and most controversial one.
As long as White Tiger made a move, his opponent will die. There were no other options for them.
Once, he murdered tens of thousands of prisoners, and he nearly went to the military court.
Hence, that was why Levi had made him stay low for such a long time.
Every time White Tiger made a move, a disaster ensued.
“Yes. It’s time for him to act.”
Levi was determined.
……
Sebastian’s act of sending out the Black and White Guards to create a bloodbath in the underground world frightened everyone.
Sebastian’s title as the Hades had returned overnight.
People from all corners of North Hampton were trembling in terror.
They were scared that they would be his next target.
After all, the enemy was in the shadows.
Glenn was distressed.
The entire Rogers family was feeling dreadful.
Last night, it had been Nueve and Trey.
The next in line would definitely be the Rogers family.
Glenn started sobbing.
He could not cross both sides.
Crossing either side would result in death.
They thought that the Rogers family had finally reached their prime, but now they were facing an impossible obstacle.
At the Lopez family’s estate.
Sebastian was satisfied with the reactions of the people in North Hampton.
“Violence is needed for them to feel fear. If not, there’s always someone who’s trying to provoke me,” Sebastian sneered.
“Who should I deal with next?” Sebastian contemplated.
CHAPTER 405
Henry stepped forward and uttered, “Sir, I have a suggestion. It’s a plan that will kill two birds with one stone.”
“Speak your mind. If it’s satisfactory, I’ll reward you for it,” Sebastian said.
“Glenn Rogers has a granddaughter named Abigail Rogers. Moreover, Abigail Rogers is Levi’s sister-in-law, and they’re close to each other,” Henry cackled.
Upon hearing this, Sebastian’s eyes gleamed.
“Wonderful! Simon, bring Abigail to me,” he instructed.
“Yes, Sir.”
Sebastian then turned toward Henry. “You have quite a lot of ideas. Follow me from now on.”
“Thank you, Sir, for this honor.”
Henry immediately got to his knees and kneeled to Sebastian.
If he followed Sebastian, his life in North Hampton would be easy.
Abigail was currently doing an internship in market research.
In the evening, when she and her classmates were about to return home, several large men came towards them.
“Ms. Rogers, please come with us.”
Instantly, one of the women started dragging her away.
“What? I don’t know you.”
Abigail had a displeased look on her face.
Among Abigail’s classmates were her admirers. They swiftly intervened.
“What are you all trying to do?”
A few tall classmates stepped in front of Abigail to protect her.
Smack!
Smack!
……
Their answers were in the form of a punch. Instantly, their faces were bloodied and their noses were broken.
Abigail was taken away as the others watched.
Levi was drinking tea in the Morris Group’s office.
Right then, Seth Wilson, the leader of the security team, called.
“Levi, bad news! The Lopez family said that your sister-in-law is in their hands. If you don’t reach the Lopez family’s estate by twelve, Abigail will be handed to the Black and White Guards,” reported Seth anxiously.
“What? Abigail’s been caught? They must have a death wish!” Levi fumed.
He had sent his men to protect Zoey, but he had not thought the possibility of Abigail being caught.
It would be horrendous if Abigail ended up in the Black and White Guards’ hands.
From what he heard, the Black and White Guards were not only cruel executioners, but they were also perverts.
On the other side, Glenn Rogers had also received news of Abigail’s capture.
Glenn was in a panic; this was his beloved granddaughter.
In the evening, at the Lopez family’s estate, Abigail was locked in a room.
However, there were sounds and movements from the other side of the room. It was as if there were two pacing beasts breathing heavily.
Fortunately, there was a window between the two rooms, and both sides could see each other.
When Abigail looked through the window and saw the two beasts, she shrieked in horror.
One was dressed in black, and the other was dressed in white. Both men had far too much hair on them to look human.
Not only were their arms and legs covered in thick hair, but their faces were also hairy.
They looked like savages.
The two men had grown up in a pack of wolves. Their habits and behaviors were similar to those of a wolf.
The two were baring their teeth at Abigail, and she could smell the pungent scent of blood.
Their eyes were the eyes of beasts. One look and Abigail was crying out of horror.
Sebastian went to the forbidden room and smiled. “This girl is your reward. After you’ve enjoyed her thoroughly, help me kill her later.”
“Hmm.”
The Black and White Guards nodded as they eagerly looked at Abigail.
“No! Don’t!”
Abigail knew what was coming next, but Sebastian was already gone.
Before he left, he threw the keys to the two men.
Clang!
The Black and White Guards swiftly unlocked the door.
CHAPTER 406
The two beasts quickly opened Abigail’s door and rushed in.
She closed her eyes in despair.
“Levi, save me, please…”
Levi’s face emerged in Abigail’s mind.
Just as the Black and White Guards were about to pounce on Abigail, they suddenly stopped.
Slowly, they turned their heads to look.
Nearby, there was a man in green military attire. His cap blocked his face.
The only thing they could see was that he had a cigarette between his lips, and he was taking a long drag.
He beckoned the Black and White Guards.
Cracking sounds came from the joints of the Black and White Guards.
Both were looking at that man in excitement.
Their eyes were an eerie green, and it was as if they had turned into wolves.
The sense of danger which that man exuded made them interested.
That man was White Tiger.
He had finally stepped into the sun after arriving in North Hampton a few months earlier.
Whoosh!
In the next second, the Black and White Guards charged.
They struck out as swift as lightning.
It was as if two wolves were charging towards White Tiger.
Like claws, Black Guard swung his hands at White Tiger.
However, White Tiger was as quick as them; he dodged it easily.
He then grabbed Black Guard’s waist and slammed his knee onto the other man’s body.
Crack!
A blow from his knee broke Black Guard’s back.
“Ow—”
Black Guard howled like a beast as he collapsed on the floor, unmoving.
His spine was broken.
It was now impossible for him to muster any strength at all.
Instantly, White Guard’s attack came too. Swiftly, White Tiger tilted to the side to dodge it. Before White Guard could attack again, White Tiger had already restrained his arms and in one move, he bent them.
Crack!
Crack!
……
Both of White Guard’s arms were torn out from their sockets by White Tiger. He threw the arms onto the floor, where they still wiggled.
Abigail was terrified by the scene, but she could not tear her eyes off it.
“Close your eyes!”
A voice traveled into her ears and made her feel at ease.
“Levi, you’re finally here!”
Abigail jumped into Levi’s arms and hugged him.
The Black and White Guards were looking at White Tiger in disbelief.
Never in their life had they encountered a man as skilled as him.
It was incredulous!
White Tiger looked at the two and shook his head in disappointment.
To him, these two were too easy of an opponent.
He had thought that a skilled fighter was waiting for him, but he ended up meeting two pieces of trash.
Instead of leaving immediately, White Tiger kept stepping from left to right and vice versa.
When the Black and White Guards noticed it, they wailed.
They saw thin threads encircling every part of their body.
These thin threads were deadly and sharp. A gentle touch of them would make the fingers bleed.
No!
What he’s about to do is…
When the Black and White Guards realized what White Tiger was doing, they were terrified.
This was the first time they had felt fear in their lives.
This was the first time they had met someone who was stronger and crueler than them.
White Tiger walked forward as both of his hands held onto a thin thread each.
Pft!
He tugged his hands back. The threads straightened and glided through the Black and White Guards’ bodies.
Without another sound, the Black and White Guards were dead.
Moreover, their bodies were sliced into multiple pieces.
In the end, when they left, Levi carried Abigail on his back as White Tiger followed behind them. On his face was a look of dissatisfaction.
In the Lopez family’s living room.
Sebastian was still sipping on his tea and waiting for the news.
“Is Levi too scared to come now?” Simon questioned.
Henry laughed, “He must be. Levi would not risk his life to save someone like Abigail.”
CHAPTER 407
“Hahaha! Isn’t Levi a cocky man? What’s wrong? He’s afraid now?”
Even Sebastian was laughing.
Simon chuckled along, “Sir, it’s mostly because what happened last night was too terrifying. Now, the entire North Hampton is afraid of you. How does Levi dare to come?”
Just then, Glenn brought the Rogers family to the Lopez family’s estate.
“Hahaha! It’s the grandfather. He’s here. Levi is indeed a coward!” Sebastian guffawed.
Trembling, Glenn said, “Mr. Lopez, come at me if you dare. You’re just a coward if you take my granddaughter.”
“That’s right. We’ll agree with anything you want. Let Abigail go,” Anthony and Leo said.
“I only have one principle—I will not let anyone who’s related to you go,” Sebastian uttered.
As if realizing something, Glenn paled. “Y- You didn’t do anything to Abigail, did you?”
“Hahaha! I don’t know. I left her with the Black and White Guards.”
A cruel smile grew upon Sebastian’s lips.
“Y- You’re an animal!”
Glenn was infuriated.
“Take us there now!” Anthony urged.
“Yes. Let’s go and take a look. What a shame the cowardly Levi isn’t here.”
Sebastian felt somewhat regretful about it.
The group came to the spot behind the Lopez family’s estate.
“If everything’s going smoothly, the Black and White Guards must be playing with Abigail right now,” Sebastian crowed.
However, they had only taken a few steps before they stopped.
When Sebastian saw the pieces of Black and White Guards strewn across the bloody floor, he was stupefied.
“Is this… the Black and White Guards?”
Despite their separated states, Sebastian recognized them.
After all, their attires were distinguishable from the others.
Boom!
The scene was a bolt out of the blue for Simon and the rest.
The Black and White Guards are dead?
How can this be?
They’re powerful beings!
There is barely anyone in South City who’s a match for them.
How can they die in North Hampton?
And in a cruel way like this too!
Glenn and his party did not care about the Black and White Guards. They rushed into the room, but Abigail was long gone.
They let out sighs of relief.
Evidently, Abigail had been rescued by someone.
In the next second, the call they received from Abigail reassured them completely.
Outside, the Lopez family was silent.
It was some news too shocking for them.
There’s someone in North Hampton that can wipe out the Black and White Guards?
Sebastian and Simon exchanged a look.
The person they immediately thought of was the mysterious boss of Morris Group.
Glenn sneered, “Do you know how powerful the North Hampton is now? That man is someone you can’t afford to cross.”
Upon hearing Glenn’s words, Sebastian shuddered.
A look of disbelief flashed past his eyes.
No wonder Winston and Liam were persuading him the other day; he really could not afford to cross him.
At the very least, while he was on North Hampton soil, he could not cross him.
Glenn gleefully said, “Mr. Lopez, I’ll give you a chance now. Kneel at the Morris Group’s office for the entire night. Perhaps that man will let you off the hook.”
“Impossible! How could I bow to him?”
Sebastian immediately instructed, “Simon, take your things. We’re returning to South City. Any later, and we won’t be able to go back.”
No one expected the situation to end up like this. Sebastian had come to North Hampton with a grand entrance but now he was leaving in a such flurry.
He knew what the consequences of his prolonged stay were, so he was swift to leave.
The news of Sebastian’s departure reached Levi’s ears.
“Ha. Does he think he can come and go as he pleases? If he’s here, he’ll have to stay in North Hampton forever.”
CHAPTER 408
“Understood.”
Azure Dragon and Kirin shared a look.
By now, Sebastian, Simon and the rest of his gang were already out of the metropolitan area of North Hampton.
They were rushing their way towards South City.
“We’re finally out of North Hampton,” Sebastian heaved a sigh of relief.
He was fearful of actually dying in North Hampton.
That man is too ruthless.
He managed to deal with tough opponents like the Black and White Guards.
Sebastian knew that if he continued his stay, only death awaited him.
Since his opponent was so strong, he chose to avoid him.
“I’ll remember what Morris Group has done. I’m coming back after I get help from South City!”
It was impossible for Sebastian to let this matter go.
“Sir, I think something’s wrong.”
Simon’s instincts were sounding the alarms in his mind. It felt as if something bad was going to happen anytime soon.
“Don’t worry. No one can come after us here,” Sebastian sneered.
Fwoosh!
Right then, the driver pulled the brakes abruptly and nearly threw Sebastian and the rest out of the car.
The road in front of them was blocked.
Sebastian’s fleet of cars was forced to come to a stop.
“What’s going on?” Sebastian urgently asked.
Right then, a group of shadows appeared from behind the roadblocks.
The man in lead was James.
They had been waiting in this spot for a long time.
“Mr. Sebastian Lopez, since you’re here, why don’t you stay forever? Why are you leaving?” James said with an accent.
“Get rid of them!”
The look in Sebastian’s eyes turned cold.
The bodyguards of the Lopez family charged forward.
Bang! Bang! Bang!
However, they were worlds apart in skills from mercenaries like James.
Soon, the bodyguards of the Lopez family were all on the ground.
Sebastian and Simon looked at James and his men in shock.
Knowing that he was disadvantageous in the situation, Sebastian surrendered instantly.
“Take them with us!”
In the end, James brought the escaping Sebastian back to North Hampton.
They came to a villa in North Hampton.
In the villa, a group of people was staring at him.
Shakily, Sebastian asked, “What are you trying to do? I want to meet with the boss of Morris Group.”
Kirin laughed, “You want to meet my boss? You have no right!”
“W- Who are you?”
Sebastian warily looked at Levi.
“Neil Atkinson.”
“What? Neil Atkinson?”
Sebastian was stunned after hearing his words.
Neil Atkinson was only a step away from the most mysterious figure he had ever heard.
“What are you going to do to me?
Sebastian panicked.
Neil laughed, “I’m going to give you a chance…”
“What chance?”
Neil’s smile widened. “A chance for you to stay alive. How much do you think your life is worth?”
Wham!
Comprehension crashed into Sebastian’s mind.
The worth of his life was now calculable in money.
Neil had the intention to get a large sum of money from him.
Sebastian knew that if he refused, he would not live to see the next morning.
“A…”
Sebastian was about to say a hundred million when Neil interrupted, “I heard that you’re a prominent figure in South City, aren’t you? I’m sure you’re worth at least billions.”
Bastard!
Sebastian’s fists were clenched tight as he cursed in his heart.
Neil is outrageously greedy!
“What about this? Ten billion. An amount fitting for someone like you. I’m sure that won’t be a problem, will it?”
The smile on Neil’s face was as sly as a fox.
“You-”
Sebastian was close to exploding in anger.
Ten billion!
He wants ten billion!
The Morris Group is too greedy!
Simon was shaking in rage, but he could not do anything about it.
“Hm? Do you think your life isn’t worth ten billion?”
Neil’s expression changed as a murderous aura began to exude from him.
It made the hair on the back of Sebastian’s neck stand up. He felt as if he was a rabbit watched by a fox.
CHAPTER 409
He knew Neil was warning him that if he could not fork out ten billion, he was as good as dead.
After looking at Simon for a moment, Sebastian relented.
“Alright. I’ll give you ten billion, but you have to let me go.”
Neil nodded. “No problem. As long as you give us exactly ten billion, it won’t be worth it for us to take your crappy life.”
“Pft-”
Sebastian nearly spat blood in the midst of his fury.
Not only was he blackmailed of ten billion, but he also had to endure humiliation.
“Simon, transfer the money to them now.”
Swiftly, Simon and Elena transferred ten billion to the Morris Group.
Neil chuckled, “Mr. Lopez, you’re welcome to visit us at North Hampton again. Thank you for your contribution.”
Crash!
Sebastian stumbled and fell onto the floor.
He was at the worst moment of his life.
Sebastian had come to North Hampton with such grandeur and he left in three days.
The Black and White Guards were permanently left behind in North Hampton, and so was his ten billion.
The news quickly spread.
People from all parts of Quebec were shocked when they received the news.
Even Sebastian Lopez, Hades, was kicked out in such a sorry state?
Is North Hampton that horrifying of a place?
Haven’t the three prominent figures in North Hampton collapse?
Is there another frightening presence in North Hampton?
More and more powerful families started observing in silence.
They had slowly come to realize that North Hampton, as great as it was, was not an easy piece of cake to get.
No one was capable of rising in North Hampton unless they were obedient to the rules and sincere in contributing to North Hampton. Otherwise, they would all end up like Sebastian Lopez.
This was Sebastian’s greatest humiliation in life.
Everyone knew that Sebastian would not let the matter go.
One day, he would return to North Hampton to take his revenge.
……
The one who had planned to take ten billion from Sebastian was naturally Levi.
“Sir, we have ten billion now. What do we do with it?” Kirin and Elena queried.
“Invest it all into North Hampton’s development. Firstly, set up a foundation to allocate the funds to help those in need. Secondly, build more nursing homes, orphanages and free schools. Thirdly, invest the money in the poorer areas of North Hampton for its development, like their agricultural products,” Levi instructed.
After listening, Kirin and Elena’s eyes lit up.
Levi’s mind was at a level that they could not dream of reaching.
They had thought that Levi would use the ten billion for the development of Morris Group.
Elena worriedly said, “Mr. Garrison, Sebastian would definitely come back. He’s not one to take such losses quietly.”
Levi huffed in laughter as he held onto his cigarette.
“That’s great. It won’t only be ten billion next time. Honestly, I hope idiots like Sebastian come more often. It’s a great help for North Hampton’s development.”
“Pft-”
Kirin and Elena nearly spat blood when they heard his words.
If his words were heard by the prominent figures in South City, they might just die from a heart attack.
No one in North Hampton had thought that Sebastian would leave the place as disheveled as he was.
The one who benefited most from his departure was the Rogers family.
That night when they went against Sebastian, everyone had thought that it was the end for the Rogers family.
However, the loser turned out to be Sebastian.
After defeating Sebastian, the Rogers family and Morris Group’s shares soared.
Now, both of them were the pillars of North Hampton.
On this day, Levi had just arrived in the company when Iris came to him.
“Quick. Prepare yourself. You have a press conference in a moment. Tidy yourself up to look livelier later.”
Iris handed him a suit.
However, Levi did not wear it.
He did not see the need to.
Soon, the reporters arrived.
“Huh? Why is it you? Levi?”
CHAPTER 410
The pretty reporter was stunned as she blurted out her question.
Levi rubbed his eyes and took a good look at her.
Now, he remembered.
The pretty reporter in front of him was the young intern that joined North Hampton Television Network six years ago.
Back then, she had interviewed Morris and him.
Levi remembered that this young reporter was no honest woman.
Her attempts to seduce him had failed. She then tried to seduce Morris, but failed as well.
In the end, Levi reported her to her superior.
She was penalized, and her internship was canceled. From then on, she was blacklisted from the television station.
Yet, unexpectedly, she was still working in the station. It seemed like she was one of the older and experienced reporters in her company.
Indeed.
Back then, Margaret had been fired by the station after Levi’s complaint.
However, Margaret slept with one of the persons-in-charge in the station, and managed to return to her post.
From then on, her career was smooth. Now, she was the golden child of the station and the most vital reporter there.
Furthermore, she was pretty and elegant. She was well-respected among her peers, and she was the ace of her company.
As Morris Group’s development had been going fantastically, the television station assigned their ace to interview them.
Before coming, Margaret had been anxious.
After all, Morris Group was the main support of North Hampton.
She was worried about interviewing a company as large as the Morris Group.
At the same time, she wanted to become acquaintances with them.
It would be best if she could be acquaintances with Neil or the mysterious boss behind Morris Group.
Margaret had prepared stockings and some other items in her purse; she was ready to use her body to achieve her goal at any time.
Yet, she did not expect the interviewee to be Levi.
“Ms. Ward, this man is Levi Garrison. He’s our company’s representative for this interview,” Iris’ secretary introduced.
Margaret frowned and asked curiously, “Would you please tell me who Mr. Garrison is?”
“Oh, he’s the technical adviser. I don’t know why Ms. Anabelle assigned him as the representative for the interview. Honestly, I think he’s the least qualified. If it were up to me, I’d rather send a security guard or a janitor,” Iris’ secretary whispered her complaints into Margaret’s ears.
“If Ms. Ward isn’t happy about the situation, I can suggest to Ms. Anabelle to have someone more important to come for the interview,” the secretary suggested.
Margaret smiled. “No need. I’m alright with him.”
“Very well. Please begin, Ms. Ward. You can look for me if there are any problems.”
After the secretary left, Margaret looked at Levi from head to toe.
“Levi, you must not have thought of a day that we’ll meet again like this, have you? I didn’t think you’ll still be in the Levi Group,” Margaret mocked.
Levi chuckled, “And I didn’t think you’ll still be working at North Hampton Television Station. Weren’t you fired?”
The cameraman at the side sneered, “Please be mindful of your words. Ms. Ward is the ace of our station. She’s the best reporter we’ve got.”
Margaret gleefully smiled at Levi.
“How did you do that? Did you…”
A look of surprise emerged on Levi’s face.
“You-”
Knowing what Levi was about to say, Margaret trembled in rage.
“I got to where I am with my own talents. I’m not like a certain someone, who I’ve heard was earning a living by pulling a little strings here and there. Apparently, he’s much more useless than the guards and the janitors. That’s true. After all, you were just released from prison. It’s a miracle that you even have a job,” Margaret ridiculed.
The other staff on sight could not help but say, “Ms. Ward, isn’t the Morris Group too much? They sent an ex-convict for us to interview. They’re obviously looking down on us!”
“That’s right. We won’t conduct an interview like this. Let’s go back.”
An evil thought popped in Margaret’s mind, and she laughed, “No, no. We have to continue the interview. The Morris Group is North Hampton’s top company. They’re not looking down on us.”
“Get ready, Levi. We’re starting the interview now,” Margaret announced.
“Sure.”
Although he despised this woman, he had to continue with the interview.
Otherwise, he would not know how to explain to Iris.
When the camera started rolling, Margaret presented herself in the perfect way she always did. That was the professionalism she had honed throughout the years.
After introducing the interview while facing the camera, she started interviewing Levi.
“Mr. Levi Garrison, I heard that you were jailed on the charges of adultery. Is that true?”
Without any changes in expression, Levi nodded.
“Yes.”
“Was your jail term six years?”
“That’s right.”
“When were you released from jail?”
“Three months ago.”
“I heard that you entered the Morris Group by pulling strings after your release?”
“Who was the one who got you into the company?”
“As Levi Group’s ex-president, how do you feel working in the company that used to be yours?”
“I heard that your private life is a mess, and you were interested in your sister-in-law. Is that true?”
……
The staff at the station was dumbfounded just after the interview started.
The questions that Margaret was asking Levi were not the same as the ones in the script.
Originally, the interview would be about Morris Group’s future developments, but every question Margaret asked was in relation to Levi.
Moreover, every question was ruthless and a personal attack on him.
Margaret’s sinister intentions were obvious to Levi.
However, if he did not take the interview obediently, Iris would definitely complain about him again.
Therefore, he answered every question Margaret asked.
Half an hour later, the interview ended.
Margaret immediately dropped the professional smile from her face.
“Levi, are you pleasantly surprised? After all, you’ll be on television soon,” Margaret asked with a smile.
Then, she asked the others to leave the room.
“Levi, you never expected this, did you? Not only was I not fired, but I’m also doing well at North Hampton Television Station. Are you angry? Let me tell you this- Morris and you are insolent fools. I was kind to give you a chance back then, but you were ungrateful, and you even reported me to my superior! Did it do anything? Crushing you now is simple for someone of my status. It’s easy to ruin your reputation.”
Margaret stared at Levi with gloating eyes.
Levi chuckled, “The road you’re on is a short one. Karma is around the corner.”
He knew with a glance that Margaret must have climbed the ranks by sleeping with the superiors.
“Hmph. Is that so? It’s been years, and I’m still doing fine. Also, I’ll be going to South City Television Station next.”
The gloating look was still in Margaret’s eyes.
Levi gave her a meaningful smile. “Is that so? You won’t be able to go there.”
“Levi, I still remember you reporting me six years ago. Now, let me tell you this. I’ll definitely take my revenge. Just you wait!”
At that, Margaret left the conference room.
However, she did not leave the building.
In the name of collecting materials for the interview, she started wandering around the Morris Group’s office.
She handed her contact number whenever she met male executives.
In the end, she went to Iris.
“Ms. Anabelle, will I get the chance to meet the Morris Group’s boss or Mr. Atkinson today?” Margaret inquired.
CHAPTER 412
Margaret’s eyes were gleaming.
She was involved with the upper-class society in North Hampton, and she knew about every recent big event.
For example, she knew everything about Sebastian Lopez’s failure in North Hampton.
She also knew that the one who defeated Sebastian was Morris Group’s boss.
If she were able to win over the boss or Neil Atkinson, her bright future would be guaranteed.
Margaret was a beautiful and elegant woman. She was the beauty of the station.
Margaret was confident of her charms.
She was sure that she would be able to win the mysterious boss and Neil’s heart when she met them.
Once they went up on her bed, she was confident none would be able to come back down.
This was her survival skill.
Otherwise, a young intern with no background like her would not be able to have tens of millions, eight properties and a villa in North Hampton.
These were not gifts that fell from the sky.
“Unfortunately, they’re not in the office today,” Iris replied with a polite smile.
Even I haven’t seen the boss yet. What gives you the courage to ask this?
“Ms. Annabelle, I’ll apply for an exclusive interview with the Morris Group’s boss and Mr. Atkinson when I get back to the station. This will be advantageous for the Morris Group. I’m sure I don’t need to elaborate on why.”
A bright smile hung on Margaret’s lips.
“Sure. I’ll try my best to make arrangements for it,” Iris answered.
It was mostly because she wanted to meet the mysterious boss too.
After that, Margaret left.
On her way out, she winked at the numerous passing men.
In the corridor, she even encountered Levi.
She sneered, “You tried to destroy me back then. Now, just watch as I destroy you.”
Levi ignored her words; she was not even a threat to him.
Even someone like Sebastian had to pay up ten billion in the end.
At that moment, Jesse called.
“What’s wrong, Nielson?” Levi asked.
“Sir, I’ll be straightforward with you. We’ve discussed the recent matters and the changes in North Hampton’s market. We’ve decided on holding an investment promotion conference. The main purpose of it is to attract foreign individuals and companies to invest. It’ll stabilize North Hampton’s market, and it’ll also help with the development. What do you think about it?” Jesse queried.
Levi brightened up. “Not bad, Nielson. That sounds great! Everyone’s been wanting a piece of North Hampton recently. The earlier we deal with this, the better it’ll be. It’s a fantastic idea. You have my approval!”
Jesse hesitated before saying, “But I need to go to Vermond for a meeting soon. I’ll be there for about a month. You’ll have to take the full responsibility for the investment promotion conference this time. After all, you’re the deputy of North Hampton.”
“That’s fine. Leave it to me.”
“Great!”
Levi, too, felt that it was an outstanding plan.
He welcomed everyone to the market as long as they were contributing to North Hampton.
After establishing this rule, North Hampton was running smoother than before.
After getting Levi’s approval, North Hampton promulgated the policy, and the investment promotion conference was swiftly declared to take place in three days.
The host of the conference would be Deputy Garrison.
The moment the North Hampton Television Station received the news, they started reporting and promoting it.
Soon, the head of the station came to look for Margaret.
“Margaret, you’ll be doing full-day interviews at the exhibition center these few days. We’ll be depending on you for it!”
After hearing his words, Margaret’s eyes lit up.
An investment promotion conference as large-scale as this meant that she would be able to socialize with more prominent figures and expand her social network.
Margaret was more than willing to do this.
“Also, the host for the conference is the new deputy of North Hampton. You have to find a way to get an exclusive interview with him. If you do this, you’re definitely getting the promotion next month!”
CHAPTER 413
The head of the station was confident in her skills.
Margaret reassured, “Sir, I guarantee I’ll do it well!”
“Yes. After all, you’re our ace. Hehe…”
The man’s eyes started wandering across Margaret’s body.
“Thank you for giving me this chance,” she giggled as she intentionally made herself slip and fall into his arms.
Soon, an explicit scene took place in the office.
……
After the interview, Iris came to Levi.
“How was the interview?”
“It should be fine.”
Levi nodded.
Iris said to him solemnly, “Levi, you have to understand that I’m trying to give you a chance. This is a way for you to make yourself more important in the company. Otherwise, Zoey will leave you far behind.”
Iris’ arrangement this time was a selfish decision.
She wanted Levi to have more chances to become a more impressive person.
“Alright, thank you, Ms. Anabelle.”
Levi smiled wryly.
“Sure. All we need to do now is to wait for the interview to be broadcasted.”
Iris was sure that Levi would become more reputable once the interview was out.
That way, she would be able to arrange a better position in the company for him.
On that day, Levi left work earlier to pick Aaron and his wife with Zoey.
When the couple found out that Zoey was now the chairman of the Oriental Star Group, they were overjoyed.
Zoey laughed, “Dad, Mom, Levi’s doing not bad too. Iris has assigned him to an interview with North Hampton Television Station. It’ll be broadcasted tonight. When that happens, Levi will be well known in North Hampton too.”
“That’s great!”
Aaron sneered, “That old man shouldn’t have been only nice to Fabian and Henry. Look at how well we’re doing. Hmph!”
Caitlyn was also proud of them.
After all, they had gone through much suffering in the Lopez family.
The ones that the head of the Lopez family looked down on most were them.
Now, they had finally made a name for themselves.
In the evening, Levi and the other three sat in front of the television and waited for his interview to come on.
“Here it comes!”
Instantly, everyone’s gazes were fixed on the television.
The first to appear was Margaret. She gave a detailed explanation of the Morris Group.
“This reporter’s great. She’s a well-known reporter in North Hampton. I always see her on TV,” Aaron praised.
Caitlyn nodded. “That’s right. She’s the best reporter in North Hampton. She has even interviewed the director of the hospital!”
“The reason behind Morris Group’s success was the hard work of their brilliant employees. I took a trip around the Morris Group, and I’ve realized that the talented ones are all here.”
Then, Margaret changed the topic. “However, after a long while, I’ve finally found an employee who doesn’t fit into the Morris Group. His presence in the Morris Group is a disgrace to them.”
In the beginning, Margaret had used several minutes to pour praises on the Morris Group.
Now, she was pinpointing on a single employee. It was easy to understand what she was trying to tell the audience—the next section she was going to talk about was only directed to a specific person instead of the Morris Group.
However, the audience in front of their television held their breaths in shock at the turn of events.
Besides Levi, the rest of the family was looking at each other.
A sense of unease shot through them.
“I shouldn’t point out who that employee is, but the Morris Group is the hope of North Hampton. I can’t possibly allow a douchebag like him to taint Morris Group. It’s quite an interesting matter, actually. This employee is Levi Garrison, the founder of Levi Group, which was the company before Morris Group.”
CHAPTER 414
Hiss!
The moment Margaret said his name, the audience gasped.
“What? Levi?”
Aaron, Caitlyn and Zoey all turned to look at Levi.
Didn’t they say that if Levi takes the interview, he’ll become a reputable figure?
Why did he become a douchebag employee?
What’s going on?
Levi was silently watching the interview.
What a daring reporter.
The interview continued.
Margaret laughed, “Maybe you think that he’s someone talented to be able to join the Morris Group, but I’ve done my investigation. Levi has joined the company by pulling strings, and he hasn’t been doing much every day. At work, he only drinks his tea, smokes his cigarette, and sleeps at his desk. He does nothing. His reputation in the company is terrible. More than 80 percent of his colleagues hate him, but because he’s associates with the executives, they can’t do anything about him. Only some old staff from Levi Group has a better impression of him. But as an outsider, I can’t bear to watch it continue. A cancerous tumor like him will end up ruining the Morris Group. Morris Group is the hope of North Hampton now. They’re our hope! I can’t allow a poisonous person like him to remain in the company! Furthermore, Levi has a poor character, and his private life is a mess. He was once interested in his sister-in-law, and even now, he’s still in an ambiguous relationship with her. These aren’t my guesses; these are the results of my investigation. I’ve also interviewed him, and he has admitted to what he’s done.”
Soon, the interview with Levi was played.
Margaret asked, “I heard that your private life is a mess, and you were interested in your sister-in-law. Is that true?”
Levi answered, “Yes, that’s true.”
Margaret continued, “Did you embezzle public funds when you were in Levi Group?”
Levi admitted, “Yes, it did happen.”
……
The questions Margaret asked Levi in the interview were all sensitive topics.
However, Levi said yes to all her questions.
The interview was a bolt from the blue.
Zoey and the rest were stunned after watching the interview.
They looked at him in shock and asked, “Levi, are you stupid? Why did you answer everything she asked? Why did you admit to things you haven’t done?”
“That’s right. Have you gone mad? How can you say such ridiculous things?”
Zoey had a look of disbelief on her face.
On the other hand, Levi was calm.
What a cunning woman.
She’s really trying to destroy me.
There had been no problems with the questions she asked.
However, the interview that was broadcasted had been edited.
She had intentionally edited Levi’s answers for the other questions.
It made it look as if he had admitted to having a relationship with his sister-in-law.
Generally, no one would believe in an interview like this.
Anyone with a hint of analytical skills would realize that it was an edited video.
However, this was broadcasted by a television station. That meant it was official, and there was a sense of authority about it.
If it was released to the public, that meant the video was reviewed, and that the contents were true.
Even those who had doubts would have to believe in it.
This was what Margaret could do.
This edited video made Levi seem like the cancerous tumor of the Morris Group.
It was that simple to ruin a person in nowadays’ society.
From now on, there was no place for Levi in the Morris Group.
No major companies in North Hampton would dare to take in Levi either.
In fact, some restaurants and public spaces would refuse Levi’s patronage.
If it were someone else, if it had been someone average, this would be the end of them.
CHAPTER 415
However, the one Margaret was trying to set up was Levi Garrison.
On-screen, Margaret raised her right hand high. “So, I’m raising a petition. I hope the Morris Group will fire Levi Garrison. Also, I hope that everyone can stand with me and boycott this toxic man. Restrict his right to purchase, and restrict his traveling…”
Many responded positively to Margaret’s petition.
Major media companies started boycotting Levi.
Furthermore, executives in the Morris Group agreed to the petition and announced that they were going to fire Levi.
Many restaurants and public spaces also announced their stance to boycott him.
Soon, Levi had become the sinner of North Hampton.
Once again, he became a street rat that disgusted everyone.
It was the same situation as six years ago, except that he had not gone to jail this time.
It was the times of advanced communication, and news spread swiftly.
Levi’s troubles were piling up.
Right then, Iris, who was living next door, came to knock on his door.
“Levi, what’s gotten into you? How can you just say anything you want to? Are you out of your mind?” Iris roared.
However, Levi lit up his cigarette and muttered, “Iris, do you think I’m that stupid?”
Iris’ furious expression turned into shock. “Did she edit the interview to target you?”
“Yes. Didn’t you notice that the interview had nothing to do with the Morris Group? She’s clearly coming after me,” Levi answered.
It was only then realization struck everyone.
“But are you at odds with her?” Zoey queried.
“Back when she was an intern, she tried to seduce Morris and I when she was interviewing us. I reported her behavior to her superior, so she has hated me since then. Now that she has the chance to take revenge on me, she wouldn’t let it slip past her,” Levi explained.
Iris furrowed her brows.
“But the interview has already been broadcasted. We have no evidence of her tampering it. She’s a representative of the TV station; she’s the authority. I don’t know how we’re getting you out of this. Moreover, there are lots of people agreeing with her petition. Even the executives in the company are calling me and asking me to fire you. If this matter gets out of hand, it won’t be good for the Morris Group.”
When Zoey and the rest heard Iris’ words, they panicked.
“Iris, think of something! You can’t let her ruin Levi like this!”
Iris was at a loss as well. “I want to help him too, but I can’t think of anything right now. Everyone’s talking about this interview at this moment. If I insist on keeping Levi, the Morris Group would be forced into a corner. Let me go back and think of a way. I need to come up with the perfect plan.”
Levi chuckled, “You can leave this to me. I’ll deal with it myself.”
“You?”
The four people stared at Levi with a frown.
It was not that they did not believe in Levi’s capability, but this matter was gradually getting out of hand.
He would not be able to get the situation under control alone.
Not unless he was the most powerful figure in North Hampton.
Not unless he could change North Hampton Television Station’s stance with just a sentence.
The only way out for him now was for the television station’s director to clear up the situation by telling the truth in public.
Otherwise, he was doomed.
After all, this woman’s plan was flawless.
They ignored Levi and started coming up with plans by themselves.
“I’ll ask Mr. Atkinson about this. Let me see what he thinks about it.”
Later in the evening, the situation worsened.
Many were asking Levi to get out of North Hampton.
They did not want a toxic person like him to remain in North Hampton.
CHAPTER 416
Levi ignored it and went on with whatever he did, much to Zoey’s disappointment. If it were in the past, he would have come up with a way to settle the matter on the spot instead of dragging it out.
However, he lost that part of him now, and he was smoking even at a time like this.
Margaret called him before he slept just to mock him. “How do you feel now, Mr. Garrison?” She chuckled.
Levi smiled. “Is that all that you’ve got? It doesn’t hurt that much. No, scratch it. I don’t feel a thing.”
“Yeah, keep acting and maybe you can start a career that way. Don’t you know the situation you’re in right now?” She sneered, “Just you wait. Tomorrow is going to be even worse for you. But if you want to settle this, just grovel before me, and I might just let you go.
If you don’t, then you can kiss North Hampton goodbye.” Margaret cackled. Oh, destroying someone’s life is so much fun! Especially when the guy is someone I hate! Dragging him down to hell. Mmm…
Levi smiled. “We’ll see who has the last laugh.”
Margaret veered away from the topic, “It’s a shame Morris has died, otherwise I would have done the same thing to him too.
Levi’s eyes revealed a hint of viciousness. How dare she disrespects the dead.
Levi went to Morris Group as usual the next day, but everyone looked at him weirdly the moment he came in.
Seth came up to him and whispered, “Are you sabotaged, Levi?”
“I can handle this.” Levi gave a nod as he chuckled.
Not everyone saw things as clearly as Seth did though, and most of them thought everything Margaret said on the interview was real.
All the top management now looked at Levi in disgust. They could ignore most of the little transgressions he did in the past, but things have been different since that interview.
“How dare you come here, Levi? Scram! Don’t make this hard for everyone.”
“Yeah. Morris Group might be a new company, but we will never allow a disgusting man like you here!”
…
Iris was troubled, for all the top management requested for her to fire Levi. Left with no choice, she called for a meeting to vote on Levi’s fate. There was no question about the result as most people wanted him to leave.
It was hard on her, but still, she came to tell Levi that he was sacked. “I have no choice, Levi. I’ll think of some ways to salvage this though.” Iris felt guilty.
“It’s fine.” He left the company in the end. Levi was going to work on getting new funds, so he couldn’t work at the company anyway. Well, just as I planned.
When the news of his sacking was announced, the whole company cheered in joy, but Elena and Isaiah smiled bitterly. Have fun while you still can. Once he comes back, you’re the ones who’re getting sacked.
Levi went to North Hampton’s exhibition center to monitor the decorations, and the person in charge was shocked to find that he was here.
“Mr. Garrison! So far, we’ve received 74 registrations, and all of them are big companies! The registrations are still piling on, and here’s the list so far! Please have a look!”
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Levi skimmed through it and noticed the name of many big companies on it. “Mr. Garrison, North Hampton’s news channel and media outlets are planning on filming the venue for publicity. Is that fine by you?” The person in charge asked.
“Of course. Do it as much as possible. It will do good for us. Oh right. Who’s the reporter for this session?” Levi asked.
“Let me check. Oh, it’s someone called Margaret,” he replied.
Levi smirked. Well, what are the odds?
At the same time, Margaret and the other reporters were waiting outside the hall. She had just gotten the news about Levi’s sacking, and it delighted her.
Yeah, so this is how it feels! She sneered. “This is just the beginning, Levi. It’s going to get harder for you. You might even starve to death because you’d be out of cash to buy even a grain of rice!” Margaret suddenly laughed.
“What happened to her?” Some reporters asked.
“Nothing. I just destroyed my old enemy and got him fired.” Margaret grinned.
“That’s good news,” everyone buttered her up.
“Thanks. I’ll treat you guys to a meal after this.” Margaret was elated.
“OK, you guys may head in now. Some things must be kept secret, so don’t go doing anything you shouldn’t. You know the rules,” the staff told them.
“Of course.” Everyone picked up their gear and entered the hall, while Margaret went up to the staff and asked, “Mister, who is this boss you’ve been talking about?”
“Keep this a secret. The boss came here today to monitor on the progress of the event. He’s such a responsible guy.
Everyone calls him Mr. Garrison and he is the second-in-command of this event. I saw him just now, and he doesn’t look a day older than twenty-eight,” the staff replied.
Margaret’s eyes shone. That’s the job the channel asked me to do! The mysterious Mr. Garrison is here today? Great! I must interview him.
Apart from getting an interview, Margaret hoped sparks would fly between them, since he was young and successful. Little did she know that the spark she had anticipated turn out to be the exact opposite of her imagination.
Everyone got on to their work after entering the hall. Margaret was a true professional, and she beat everyone else by finishing her job first. Even so, she kept strolling around in the hall.
She had been looking around ever since she came in to catch a glimpse of Mr. Garrison, but none of the guys she saw fitted the bill. He might be in the backstage.
After a while, she went to the backstage, but there were many rooms there, so she searched them one by one.
After searching a few dozen rooms, she finally came into one that was crowded with a young man in the center.
Judging by the vibe he was giving off, she was sure this was Mr. Garrison. He looks familiar though. Where have I seen him before?
Trepidation and excitement swirled within her. Now that I found him, I’m not going to let this chance go to waste. Time for an interview!
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“What are you doing tiptoeing around?” When she was about to move forward, someone boomed from behind, shocking her.
She turned around and saw a few guards boring their eyes into her. “Don’t take this the wrong way. I’m Margaret, a reporter. Here’s my ID.” She quickly handed her ID over for confirmation. “I want to interview the leader in there for a bit,” she told them what she had in mind.
“No. He doesn’t accept any interviews. Everything they talk about is top secret, so please leave.” She was chased out of the backstage abruptly. It wasn’t easy for her to meet Mr. Garrison, so she wouldn’t give up now.
“We should leave now, Margaret. Everyone else has already left,” her partner urged.
“You guys go ahead. I’ll wait for him at the passage.” Margaret came to the hall’s secret passage. Few people knew about this, for this was exclusively for leaders. Even so, Margaret easily found it and waited here.
She believed Mr. Garrison would leave via this passage, so she would take the chance to interview him then. Margaret staked out at this place, but she almost fell asleep after waiting for god knew how long. Unbeknownst to her, Levi would be staying here for a couple of days because he would be making the plans here.
Meantime, Levi was already taking a nap on the sofa. Margaret thought he would come out in the end, so she waited until dusk, but still he didn’t appear. “I can’t give up! This chance is too important for me,” she cheered herself up.
When it was time to get off work, Levi checked around and left from the front gate, since he didn’t know where the secret passage was.
It wasn’t until almost nine in the evening did someone come out from the secret passage, and Margaret’s legs were already numb. She quickly went up and asked, “Is Mr. Garrison coming out soon?”
“Huh? He left a long while ago,” the staff replied.
Margaret almost exploded. “What? He left? When? I’ve been waiting right here all the time!”
“You waited here? No wonder you missed him! He left through the front gate. It’s been almost two hours.”
Margaret almost went mad. “What!?” I’ve been waiting at the wrong spot all this while!? It’s alright, I have no regrets. I’d come back again tomorrow.
Margaret’s whole body was sore after going back, and she felt angry. “Oh yeah, I can vent this on Levi.” She fished out her phone and punched in the latter’s number soon after.
His case was still spreading like wildfire, so everyone was still talking about it. At the same time, someone anonymously exposed Levi’s wife, his parents-in-law, their working places, and their house address.
Suddenly, Zoey and her family were dragged into this. She was the boss of Oriental Star Group, so many people started boycotting the company, resulting in a significant loss overnight.
The medical staff called and asked Caitlyn to refrain from coming to work for a few days, or else it would look bad on the hospital.
Aaron’s department also suspended him for the time being, putting his salary on hold. Everyone didn’t want this matter to affect them, and nobody could see the matter snowballing to this degree.
“Didn’t Levi say he can handle this? Then why is this matter getting more serious?”
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Aaron was fuming, and Caitlyn was vexed. Initially, the company had released the documents officiating her promotion to department head, but now it was delayed. If the matter was not resolved, someone else might take her place. To make matters worse, she couldn’t even return to work now.
Zoey called Iris over to ask for her opinion. “Let me talk to Margaret. This can only die down if she clears things up herself.” Iris called Margaret.
“Hey, Miss Iris. Is there anything I can do for you?”
Iris replied, “Margaret, I hope you can stop what you’re doing right now. Don’t make it worse for Levi. He’s already having it hard.”
Margaret sneered, “Hard? The people he destroyed had it harder. Has he ever thought of that? No. Besides, why are you interfering in this matter? Isn’t it great that I helped you get rid of a canker?”
Iris was slightly annoyed. “You did help the Morris Group, so technically speaking, I should thank you. But on a personal level, Levi is my best friend’s husband. So, I want to talk to you about this. What are your terms?”
Margaret said, “I can stop this if you want to, and my terms are simple. Arrange an interview for me tomorrow, and I want the interviewees to be Neil and the boss behind Morris Group. If you can do it, I’ll take everything back and lay off Levi’s back.”
“Very well then. I’ll try.” Iris hung up and called Neil, “I have something to trouble you…”
Kirin listened to what she had to say before replying, “Let her come to the company tomorrow then we’ll see.”
That must mean Neil agreed to the interview… At least that was what iris thought and she conveyed the message to Margaret.
Margaret guaranteed that she would take back all the accusations she made against Levi after the interviews were done.
“Thank you, Iris. Levi should be here bowing to you. You saved him!” Aaron told her, and he was struck by the impulse to have Levi kowtow to her.
Iris came to the company early next morning, but Neil was already there. “Oh, Mr. Neil, you’re here. Is the boss here yet?” Iris looked around and blushed, for she was about to meet the man of her dreams.
She never did any makeup in the past, and even if she did, it was a light touch up at best. However, she took two hours to do her makeup today. “Take it slow. The boss knows everything, and you’ll know who he is soon enough.” Kirin smiled.
When the clock struck nine, in came Margaret with a group of people. She dolled herself up for the occasion, and her goal was simple: get the scoop on Neil and the mysterious boss no matter what.
“Let me do the introduction. Miss Ward, this is Mr. Neil,” Iris introduced.
Margaret took one look, and she was dumbfounded. He’s so young, and so handsome! Probably the most handsome out of all the guys I’ve seen!
“Hello, Mr. Neil. I’m Margaret from the TV channel. It’s an honor to interview you today.” Margaret came up and extended her hand while winking at him.
“Scram! A trash like you have no right to interview me!” Kirin bellowed, much to everyone’s shock.
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Even Iris was shocked by the roar, while the smiles were wiped off of Margaret and her partners’ faces. They looked at Kirin, dumbfounded.
“Guards! Throw these people out! Do they hire trash to be reporters now? What a disgrace!” Kirin looked displeased, and Seth came in with the security guards, ready to chase Margaret and her team out.
“What? I thought Mr. Neil agreed to the interview today. What happened?” Margaret looked at Iris.
Neil laughed. “Let me explain. I don’t mind interviews, but not if you’re the reporter.”
Iris looked down, her face ashen. She didn’t know why Neil disliked Margaret, since this was just their first time meeting. If he refused Margaret’s interview, Levi’s matter wouldn’t die down.
It took everything Iris had to get Margaret’s agreement, but the former couldn’t do anything now, so it was hard for Iris.
Since she was in Morris Group, Margaret didn’t fly into a rage. “It’s fine if you detest me, Mr. Neil, but you don’t call the shots here. Maybe the boss will agree to my interview,” she answered with a lovely smile.
Kirin said nothing and called Levi to tell him about what happened. “Tell her to f*ck off! I don’t take interviews from trash!”
Iris and Margaret were equally shocked to hear the roar, and Margaret left without saying a word. However, before she left, she sneered at Iris, “Looks like I won’t be letting Levi off the hook then.”
This was troublesome news for Iris. “Mr. Neil, why do the both of you…” Iris wanted to know the reason.
“This is the boss’ idea.” That stopped Iris from asking further.
After going back, Margaret took it out on Levi by exposing his and Iris’ address.
All of a sudden, the crowd graffitied the walls with insults and smeared it with rotten food.
Aaron and his wife stayed indoors, for there were many strangers here who were keeping an eye on them. They couldn’t go out; even their delivery would be snatched away.
For the time being, Aaron and the others were stressed out by the situation. If this kept up, they would be driven mad.
At this crucial time, no one knew where Levi had gone to.
Levi, of course, was in the exhibition hall.
“Mr. Garrison, we added three hundred more companies to the roster in one day! And seven of them are giants in South City!” The person in charge was excited, for this would benefit North Hampton greatly.
Levi flipped through the list, and he saw the Suarez Family as well as the other big names from South City. “If you’re here to mess North Hampton up, I will make you pay dearly.” His eyes gleamed coldly.
A staff member approached him and asked, “Mr. Garrison, a reporter from North Hampton Television Network plans to interview you. Do you want to go ahead with it?”
“She’s Margaret, isn’t she?” Levi didn’t even look up.
“Huh? How do you know? Will you accept it?” The staff asked carefully.
Another staff member came and asked softly, “Mr. Garrison, North Hampton Cultural Channel wants to have an interview too.”
“And the reporters from the economic section wants one too.”
The news outlet came for interviews after knowing Mr. Garrison was the host of the event. It didn’t take long for Levi to make up his mind on which interviewer he chose, “Well, we’re short on time, so I can only take one interview. Hmm, let’s go with Margaret from North Hampton Television Network.”
“What? Mr. Garrison only accepts my interview?” Margaret was delighted after knowing that. I’m so lucky! There are a lot of reporters here, and I am the lucky one who gets chosen?
“Alright. Please tell Mr. Garrison that I won’t let him down,” she guaranteed.
The event would start soon and representatives from corporations elsewhere arrived earlier to survey the market.
Powerful corporation like the Morris Group and the Rogers family had a lot of people asking for collaboration, and many were looking for potential ones like Oriental Star Group that was helmed by Zoey.
More than thirty corporations talked about collaboration with her, and after some careful review, Zoey chose four from South City to work with. There were four representatives to talk with, so they agreed to talk about this over dinner one night.
Zoey was cautious of her dinner meetings now. She would bring some males from top management with her. This time, she brought Levi together just in case.
The four representatives from South City sat in Wyvern Hotel’s room, and the oldest one, who went by the name of Draco, was on his phone, “Don’t worry, Mr. Shorts. I’ll make Zoey pay tonight. Just wait and see how I torture her,” he snickered.
The four corporations were backed by the Suarez family, and they were going to set Zoey up tonight. Before Zoey came, they and their lackeys took some sobering pills.
After that, Zoey came in with her entourage. “Oh, what’s the meaning of this, Ms. Lopez? Are you worried we might do something to you?” Draco looked displeased.
One of the top management quickly explained, “Mr. Johannes, Ms. Lopez almost got into trouble back then, so she must bring us along whenever she goes for negotiations.
We can hold it if you’re okay with us here, but if it’s impossible, then we can stop it here.”
Draco and his group looked at one another, and they knew it would be hard to get them away. “Oh, of course we can. We’re here to negotiate, so this won’t be any trouble.” He grinned.
A moment later, everyone sat down and had small talk before cutting to the chase. Collaboration wasn’t a problem, but the agreement on profit sharing was. Zoey wanted to have ten percent more, but they didn’t want to budge on this.
Draco raised his glass. “You should know that us southerners can be… fierce. We have our own rules here.”
“Of course. I’ve experienced it myself,” one of the top management replied.
“Great, so the rules here are simple. We’ll have a drinking competition. If we lose, then the ten percent is yours, but if you lose, then that’s it,” Draco suggested.
“Sure, no problem,” Levi agreed.
Zoey glared at him, for she knew Draco and his gang must have the confidence in winning the bet, or else they wouldn’t propose this. Levi is too rash.
“Great. Including the driver and our assistants, there’s a dozen of us here, so pick any number you want from your side,” Draco said. They had taken sobering pills beforehand, and they were heavy drinkers, so they were confident this would be a landslide win.
Levi smiled. “Very well then. Ms. Lopez and I will take the challenge on our own.”
“The hell?” That shocked Zoey. Is he mad? Two against twelve?
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If she knew that they had popped the pills before the dinner, Zoey would have been horrified at Levi’s announcement. Levi must be mad!
Zoey’s subordinates were flabbergasted. Hey, they said we can call anyone we want! At least call two dozen here before going ahead with it. Two against twelve? Is he stupid?
“Very well then! If that is what you say, then we’ll start right now!” Draco mocked Levi silently and made the decision for them, worrying that Zoey would go back on her word.
“No. I—”
Zoey was about to say something, but Draco smiled. “Ms. Lopez, you can’t go back on your word, can you? That would be an insult to us. If that’s the case then there’s no point in continuing the negotiation.”
“No! Let’s do it!” Zoey had no choice but to accept it.
Draco and his gang smirked, for they thought this was victory for them. They grinned at the thought of them ravaging Zoey. Is this guy on our side? Man, this is a big help. What a dumba**!
Levi grinned at them. “You’ll have to get past me to drink with Ms. Lopez.”
“Challenge accepted!” Draco and his gang were raring to go, for they thought Levi couldn’t win against all of them, especially not after they had taken the sobering pills.
“Oh, right. We only allow those who participates in the drinking game to stay during the competition. It’s a southerner rule.” Draco looked at the top management. He had to chase these guys away, otherwise they couldn’t do anything to Zoey.
“Why you…” The staff glared at Levi, blaming him for ruining this negotiation. They were fairly confident about taking the ten percent profit, but now Levi botched it.
The competition went under way after they had left. “Hey bro, if we go by the rules, you have to take a shot for every shot we take.” Draco grinned.
“Yeah, sure. I’ll take twelve shots for every shot you guys take. Let’s begin.”
“I like you!” Draco thought Levi was an idiot now. A moment later, twelve glasses of wine sat before Levi, and Zoey was concerned. How long can he last? A round?
Draco and his gang finished their wine in no time. “Your turn, buddy.” He smirked.
They thought Levi would lose out after taking all twelve shots, but what happened next shocked everyone. Levi, always the showy guy, took two shots at once, and he finished all twelve in less than a minute.
“He’s fine?” Draco and his gang were taken aback. He’s a good drinker too. Well, that explains his impulsive behavior, but he can’t win against all of us, not when we took the sobering pills.
“Get on with it.” The second round started, and Levi downed twelve shots like it was soda, shocking everyone.
“On with it!” The third round came, then the fourth, the fifth, and finally, the tenth round came. A hundred and twenty shots later, anyone would fall, but not Levi.
Him still standing not only shocked Draco, but Zoey as well. They thought Levi was acting tough, but now they knew he wasn’t. Even though Draco and the gang had taken sobering pills, ten shots still made their stomach churn.
“Well, go on. Are you guys scared?” Levi provoked them, and the competition resumed.
Draco and his gang refused to believe they would fail, so they wanted to see how much longer Levi could go on. Another ten rounds came, but Levi was still fine. On the other hand, the alcohol started kicking in for Draco and his gang, torturing them.
CHAPTER 423
The competition ensued, and cartons after cartons of wine were served. At this point, Draco and his gang started worrying about the bill. How much can one guy drink? Is he Dionysus or something?
“Mr. Johannes, let’s put in another rule: no toilet breaks!” Levi suggested.
Draco couldn’t hold it in anymore, but he could only agree at this point. Another bout started, and the more Levi drank, the clearer his head became. Wine usually makes people drunk, but Levi was an anomaly.
Apparently, Levi was the only anomaly here. Draco and his gang felt like their stomachs were going to explode, as well as their bladder.
The competition had dragged on for too long, so the sobering pill’s effects had expired. Now they felt the alcohol kicking in, and the group couldn’t hold on any longer.
They couldn’t understand how Levi managed to take so many shots. He must have drunk more than a thousand shots now, but surprisingly, he looked fine. This guy must be Dionysus himself!
“Carry on!” Levi shouted.
“G-Give me a minute! I can’t hold my pee in any longer!” Draco sat on the chair, not even moving an inch, but before he could react, Levi force fed him one shot of wine.
Shhhhh…. They could hear the sound of water flowing, then hot air came up from below, while a rancid smell spread.
Zoey quickly covered her nose and stayed far, far away. Draco peed in his pants!
This was the most embarrassing thing Draco had done in his life.
“March!” Levi took twelve more shots, forcing them to continue.
“No! We can’t!”
“Just do it!” Levi pressed another guy down and forced another shot down his throat.
That made him puke, and he fell down on his barf. “Your turn!” He forced another guy to drink, and that made him roll on the floor in pain, for his stomach bled.
The other guys couldn’t hold it anymore, so they peed in their pants. It made the whole room rancid, then they heard something explode. Everyone looked in the sound’s direction, and what greeted them was their comrade in agony, for his bladder exploded.
Zoey screamed in terror. Terrible fates befell all twelve of them. Shame, embarrassment, and grievous injuries swam among them, and these people took sobering pills beforehand. If they didn’t, they would have been in worse condition.
“Carry on, Mr. Johannes! I’m just getting started!” Levi came up to Draco with a few bottles of wine.
Is he even human?! That’s not how a human works! He’s fine even after drinking that boatload of wine?! ”I-I can’t keep this up anymore!” Draco shook his head.
“Oh, no can do. The fight’s just getting started.” Levi grinned.
“I’ll sign it! I’ll sign it, okay?” pleaded Draco.
“You should have done that in the beginning.” Levi smiled.
Worrying that Levi might force him to drink more wine, Draco quickly signed the contract and let Oriental take ten more percent in profit.
“Let’s go, honey. We got the contract.” Levi grinned toothily, while Zoey looked at him, stunned. For some reason, Levi was shining. Wow, he’s awesome! He got the contract through drinking?
Who would have thought? Ten percent of profit is huge! A few hundred million at that!
After they came out, Zoey looked at Levi. “Are you fine, honey?” Levi said nothing, but then he fell against her groggily.
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“What’s wrong, darling? Are you alright!?” Zoey held him tightly, feeling frightened. It took her a moment, but now she realized Levi took a few thousand shots, and it could kill him.
She started sweating in fear, but then she felt electrified. Realizing Levi was feeling her up, Zoey blushed and let him go. “Did you just scare me for nothing?!” She looked away.
“Hey, I just got us the contract, and now I don’t even get a thank you?” Levi asked.
Zoey glared at him. “Stop messing around. How do you feel? Do you need to go to the hospital? You drank a lot.”
Levi smiled. “Do I look hurt to you? No? There’s that then. But…”
“But what?” She looked at him curiously.
“But well, you know, drinking always leads to something else. Here, give me some sugar.” He tried to kiss her, but she ran away.
“You pervert!”
That night, as they lay in bed, Levi quickly hugged her. Zoey was shocked, but she also looked forward to what would happen next.
She might be Levi’s wife, but Zoey was still a virgin. She wanted to consummate the marriage, but now that they were about to do it, Zoey was nervous. If he’s going for it, should I accept him? Or should I say no?
Zoey only wanted Levi as her husband. When he took all the drinking for her earlier, Zoey saw him as her knight in shining armor. If he wanted it tonight, Zoey would give it to him, but…
She was still in a dilemma when a snoring sound snapped her out of it. He’s asleep. For some reason, she felt disappointed, so she turned around and glared at him. “Is sleeping all you know! Go away!” Zoey shoved him away.
“Why did you push me, honey?” Levi asked.
“Just turn around!” Zoey said angrily.
“Why are you mad?” A perplexed Levi asked, and he thought women were weird. They get angry for no reason every time. At least now we know that behind every angry woman lay a man who didn’t know what he did wrong. Levi was an example of that.
When morning came, Oriental was hit with the shocking news of Zoey snagging a contract that gave them an extra ten percent of profit, much to the top management’s disbelief.
At the same time, Draco and his gang were in the hospital. “Trash, all of you! You can’t even handle one woman, and all of you got hospitalized! Trash, trash, trash!” Tristan was livid.
Draco and the others shivered in fear. They thought they would win, but Levi was an unexpected variable. They thought nobody could drink that much, but Levi proved them wrong. Is that guy a God?
“Resign, you trash. I’m already in North Hampton, so I’ll take care of this matter myself,” Tristan said coldly.
“Young master Tristan, please—” Before they could even explain, Tristan had hung up. Never did he imagine that all it took for him to lose hundreds of millions and his future was a drinking session.
North Hampton was in high spirits today, for scores of merchants came today. Everyone was shocked, for the number of participating companies in this event was twice their projected estimate. They weren’t complaining though, for this was great for North Hampton.
CHAPTER 425
In North Hampton Television Network’s office, Margaret and her colleagues were going through the scripts for the next day’s interview. This was a great chance for her, so she wouldn’t let it go. She wasn’t Elsa.
“You’re awesome, Margaret! There are 38 outlets that want to interview Mr. Garrison, but he only gives that chance to us!”
“Yeah, and he specifically asked for Margaret! He obviously thinks highly of her!”
“He must have only chosen us because of Margaret! Treat us to something good after this, Margaret!”
Margaret felt smug listening to all the praises, but she pretended to be calm. She was a famous person in the channel as well as the industry. Now, with the mysterious Mr. Garrison giving her the chance to interview him, it would consolidate her place in this world.
Now, everyone in the channel listened to her, including her boss.
“Tell us whatever you need, Margaret. We’ll do anything for you,” her boss kept telling her that.
“Margaret, I heard Mr. Garrison is single. If you guys can be a couple, it’d be sweet!”
“Yeah! He’s a leader, while you’re the best employee of the channel. It’s a good match!”
Margaret was riled up by this, for she was planning to do that. Intelligence was her forte, and with experience on her side, she knew Mr. Garrison had a bright future, for Jesse handed such a big event to him.
He might be a deputy now, but this was only the beginning, so Mr. Garrison would climb to mayhap the top spot.
If she could snag him, Margaret would be set for life, and the idea made her chuckle. This must be divine providence. There are more than three dozen outlets, but he chose me! ”This chance has always been mine to begin with.” Margaret looked confident.
“Margaret, Levi is in a bad situation. I heard their place got splashed with paint and sewage! His parents-in-law can’t work, and his wife’s company is affected!” Margaret’s lackey reported.
Margaret bellowed happily, for she thought Lady Luck was on her side. First, she could interview Mr. Garrison; Secondly, she would be promoted after finishing her job; and finally, she managed to back Levi into a corner.
“I have already told you never to cross a woman, Levi. But you just wouldn’t listen. So, this is what happens.” Margaret’s eyes gleamed coldly.
“Of course he’s dead if he offends you, Margaret. You’re so much more powerful than he is.” Her colleagues laughed.
Then, someone came for Margaret. When she walked out, a Rolls-Royce was waiting for her, much to her surprise. After getting into the car, she saw a man in his thirties, looking dignified and elegant.
“Hello, Ms. Ward. I’m Zachary, from South City’s Suarez family.” Zachary puffed his cigar.
Margaret was shaken to her core as she looked at him and stuttered, “T-the Suarez family? You’re young master Zachary?! I know you! I’ve interviewed your family!”
“It’s good that you do.” Zachary nodded.
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“Is there anything I can help you with, Mr. Shorts?” Margaret asked with a flirtatious wink.
“Are you after Levi and Zoey recently?” Zachary asked.
“Yes, yes, yes. That’s right! Are you related to Levi?” Margaret looked at Zachary cautiously.
Zachary shook his head, “No, he is my enemy. My brother had all his limbs amputated by him! If it weren’t for fear of the Morris Group that was behind his back, I would’ve killed him ages ago!
You are doing a good job for now. To think that you can subdue Levi’s family to this point! I’m able to kill him right away as soon as he is forced to leave North Hampton! There’s nothing Morris Group can do about it!”
Margaret was smart and immediately replied, “Mr. Shorts, should I step up the game a little?”
“Yeah, you’re perceptive and a fast-learner!” Zachary beckoned to his assistant, and he brought a suitcase. After opening it, a big load of cash could be seen contained in it.
“Here’s an advanced five million! I’ll pay you another five million after the job is completed!” Zachary said.
Margaret’s eyeballs were about to pop out from their sockets when she saw the money.
Five million!!! Who could’ve expected that I could be paid for settling my personal feud? Ten million in total? Is this my lucky day? This is quadruple happiness!
“Wait for my good news, Mr. Shorts. Let me add fuel to the fire. I can assure you that Levi will leave tomorrow!” After Margaret put away the money, her smiling eyes turned into crescent shape.
“Very well! You’ll be rewarded in the future when the Suarez family begins its development in North Hampton,” Zachary said.
Margaret replied with a lovely smile, “I’m honored to devote myself to the Suarez family. Everything I have belongs to the Suarez family!”
Margaret was feeling ecstatic.
Now that I’m acquainted with the Suarez family’s young master and had turned to them as my backing. Isn’t it safe to say that my future is pretty bright?
At this time, Levi and Zoey were standing in front of Bayview Garden.
Levi looked calm, but Zoey was infuriated.
“These people are such a bully! It’s too much!” Zoey sobbed in a soft voice.
The house’s door was splashed with different colors of paints, and it gave off a pungent smell.
The wall next to it was splashed with manure, emitting a horrible stench.
Levi had no doubt that these people might pour dung water into the room next time.
“Dad, mom. Are you facing this situation as well?” Zoey became infuriated after receiving the call.
Despite Levi’s calm appearance, he was actually extremely furious.
He paid no attention to a small-time reporter like Margaret because he figured she couldn’t do anything to him.
But he found out that he was wrong. It was now evident that this person could affect him in his daily life.
“Levi, why don’t we move out of here? I don’t think this is gonna work. I got a strong hunch that things are gonna become worse.”
Zoey was afraid because things were seriously affecting her life.
Caitlyn and Aaron could only hide in their room every day.
They didn’t dare to step out of the house.
There were only two days’ worth of food supply left in the house.
She began to worry about the safety of her parent’s lives.
“We should pick up dad and mom secretly at night. If something were to happen, we’d be in trouble,” Zoey cautioned.
“We’ll not move out!”
Levi took out his phone and made a call to Margaret.
“Hey, Levi? Hahaha! Was it too unbearable that you’ve decided to call me?” Margaret laughed arrogantly on the other end of the phone.
“Are these your handiwork?” Levi asked.
“You bet! There’s nothing you can do about it. Hit me if you dare!” Margaret sneered.
Levi warned with a deep voice, “I’ll give you one more chance to explain your previous interview!”
CHAPTER 427
“Levi, don’t you understand the current situation? You’re at my mercy now. Why does it sound like the opposite? Are you stupid? Hahaha…”
“Okay. I’ve given you a chance, but it seems like you don’t appreciate it,” Levi replied coldly.
Margaret became angry and said in a cold tone, “Then let me tell you something as well. Even if you lick my shoes and drink my foot-washing water, I won’t give you another chance. Just you wait!”
After hanging up the call, a murderous intent flashed across Levi’s eyes.
“Honey, give me one more day. I’ll be sure to settle it,” Levi declared.
“Huh? How are you gonna solve it?” Zoey found his words hard to believe.
“Anyway, just wait until tomorrow afternoon. It should be done by then.”
In the evening, there was another breaking news from the TV station. Six years ago, Levi Group expanded its business by way of replacing human labor with machines. This has disrupted the market and caused many to go unemployed. It was believed that at least thirty thousand people were unemployed because of Levi Group. The main culprit was Levi Garrison!
Zoey and the rest were going crazy after the news came out.
The situation is worsening! First and foremost, this news was taken out of context! It was just a normal industrial development. How can they blame it on Levi? Besides, the amount of revenue generated by Levi Group’s advanced technology was incomparable to those of the outdated technology.
But after such news was reported, those who were unemployed thought that Levi was the cause of their misery.
Levi had become the sinner of North Hampton!
Many people formed an alliance to protest against Levi and drive him out of North Hampton.
Some even began to foresee that Levi’s life would be in danger.
Due to the investment promotion fair, there had been a higher degree of attention to hot news lately.
As a result, Levi and the others were under more pressure.
“Darling, why don’t we leave North Hampton for a while? We can’t continue living like this.” Zoey was afraid.
Levi remained level-headed and said with a calm face, “Don’t worry, honey. Everything is gonna be alright. It will be settled by tomorrow afternoon.”
At this moment, Zachary and Margaret were relaxing on a big bed in a five-star hotel, and they were paying attention to the news.
“Hahaha! Good job, babe. Levi will have no choice but to leave North Hampton tomorrow.” Zachary was satisfied.
“Yeah, the authorities can’t even intervene when it was the laid-off workers who force Levi to leave!” Margaret smirked while lying in Zachary’s arms.
Zachary made a call and ordered, “Pay attention to Levi’s whereabouts. Cut off his limbs immediately as soon as he leaves North Hampton.”
“Hahaha… Take me there with you when the time comes, Mr. Shorts. I want to see his miserable looks with my own eyes.” Margaret laughed and sneaked under the covers.
There she goes again!
Zachary was reeling from fear as the thought crossed his mind. He dared not think of what would become of him if he were to defy her.
This woman is something else. I’m no match for her at all!
The following day, North Hampton’s exhibition center was bustling.
Thousands of companies were gathered in the largest investment promotion fair known in North Hampton.
Margaret and her colleagues had arrived in the exhibition center early in the morning.
“Margaret, you have a major role to play in handling the content of the forum and interview Mr. Garrison today!” The head of the station showed his concern to her.
“Haha! Rest assured. I’ll get it done nicely.”
Margaret began to put on makeup and prepared herself to be in her best form while everyone looked at her enviously.
After all, she was the only person who had the chance to interview Mr. Garrison.
CHAPTER 428
“Margaret, I’m so jealous of you! It great that you have the privilege to interview Mr. Garrison.”
“I know, right? What incredible luck! But to be honest, Margaret is the best in North Hampton.”
“Ain’t it the truth? Isn’t Margaret the best in professionalism, beauty, and temperament?”
…
Margaret was basking in the compliments from her colleagues.
What an exciting day. I’ll get to interview Mr. Garrison soon and receive another five million. Will the time go faster please?
Representatives of major companies arrived one after another to the exhibition hall.
The prominent families and leading corporations in South City had also shown up one after another.
Zachary and his group of people were one of them.
In fact, the Lopez family of South City had sent their representative. But he was here to exchange views on behalf of Harry.
Soon, the investment promotion fair started after the officials of North Hampton made a speech.
The exhibition center was divided into many areas, covering every sector of businesses.
Among them, Rogers Group and Morris Group had the most merchants in front of their booths.
Everyone knew that these two companies had great prospects and were eager to cooperate with them.
However, those leading corporations had their sights set on other things. They wanted to grab as many deals as possible and dominate a larger share in the North Hampton market.
However, every deal signed on this occasion was legal and beneficial to North Hampton’s development.
Levi watched every movement in the exhibition hall from backstage.
The person behind him was Aurora Newt, a personal secretary arranged by Jesse Nielsen.
“Mr. Garrison, it’s true that the policy enforced by the officials in the Investment Promotion Fair was in North Hampton’s best interest. Otherwise, those corporations and influential families will flock into North Hampton lawlessly, causing bad competition and negative effects,” Aurora said with a smile.
Levi nodded, “I have to commend Nielsen’s great insight!”
Aurora smiled bitterly. He is the only person who dares to address the governor like that.
“By the way, Mr. Garrison, it’s time for the TV station’s interview session. Shall we?” Aurora glanced at the time and said.
Levi replied, “Alright. Let them in.”
Following that, Levi and several other leaders waited in a conference room.
Outside the conference room.
“Thanks, Ms. Newt. I owe you a meal,” Margaret said with a smile.
Aurora smiled in response, “Ms. Ward, please.”
Everyone came to the conference room under the guidance of Aurora.
Even though Margaret had done this kind of interview before, she couldn’t help but feel a little nervous today because there wasn’t much information about Mr. Garrison.
About ten officials were sitting in the conference room.
Margaret panicked a little when she caught a glimpse of it.
“Hmm?”
She became stunned the moment she caught sight of the official’s faces. One of them looked particularly familiar.
In order to confirm her sight, Margaret took a few steps forward.
It’s Levi! He’s sitting in the middle alongside the other leaders.
Margaret was puzzled by what she saw. What is Levi doing here?
Her colleagues were equally confused.
No wonder Mr. Shorts said he couldn’t locate Levi. Because he was here!
Margaret said instinctively, “Levi, what are you doing here? You don’t belong in this place!”
The entire conference room fell silent after her speech.
Margaret was taken aback when she noticed everyone staring at her strangely.
“What are you talking about, Ms. Ward? This person is Mr. Garrison,” Aurora said in confusion.
CHAPTER 429
“Huh? Mr. Garrison? It can’t be! Isn’t he Levi? The target of disdain who is a hot topic in North Hampton these few days.”
“That’s right. A malignant tumor like Levi should be driven out of North Hampton forever!”
Margaret and her colleagues commented.
“Know your place!”
“How dare you insult the name of the leader?”
At this time, the Minister of Commerce became furious.
“That’s right! Where did this reporter come from? Who is she to insult Mr. Garrison like that? What’s the meaning of this?”
“You’re from the North Hampton Television Network, right? Call Director Charles Yorke here!”
…
The other leaders also voiced out one after another.
The remarks of Margaret and her colleagues completely angered them.
After hearing the scolding, Margaret and her colleagues finally understood that they’ve gotten into deep trouble.
“What is the meaning of this, Ms. Ward? The person sitting in front of you is the Deputy Leader of North Hampton, Mr. Levi Garrison. Besides, he is also known as the one and only 5-Star God of War in Erudia,” Aurora stated the facts.
Boom!
Margaret and her colleagues were frozen instantaneously as if a thunderbolt had hit them from the sky.
Deputy Leader of North Hampton? The God of War? Levi Garrison? NO! It can’t be! This isn’t real!
Margaret and her colleagues remained rooted in a state of trance as their minds went blank completely.
Bang!
At this moment, the door of the conference room was opened.
A plump middle-aged man came running in while panting heavily.
This man was the director of North Hampton Television Network, Charles Yorke.
He looked at all the leaders present while gasping heavily.
He noticed a familiar face when his gaze landed on Levi.
Isn’t he the brat that Margaret was after? Why is he sitting here?
“What’s going on?” Charles looked at the crowd and asked curiously.
“‘What’s going on?’ How ignorant can you be?”
The person speaking was the leader of Uptown District, Draco Simmons.
Bang!
The man slammed the table hard.
“Huh?”
Charles became increasingly baffled, and his body was trembling.
“Do you know that a reporter from your station had insulted Mr. Garrison for no reason when she saw him?” The other leaders chided in anger.
At this moment, a secretary distributed a few tablets to Draco and the other leaders.
The content was about the details of Margaret framing Levi.
Everyone burst into anger after reading the contents.
“Look at what you’ve done, Charles Yorke! Your good days are over!” Draco said and threw the tablet to Charles.
“It seems like you have no idea. So let me tell you, the person who your station slandered is the Deputy Leader of North Hampton, Mr. Levi Garrison! He is also the God of War! Figure it out yourself!”
Thump!
After hearing this, Charles fell to the ground in horror.
His face was covered with cold sweat, and he was terrified.
Oh my god! How much trouble did I get myself into? This person is the God of War!
Levi smiled and said, “The director of the TV station? Is that how the content review works? How dare you release edited content? What’s going on?”
Charles almost wet his pants at Levi’s question.
“No… Mr. Garrison, I-I don’t know how this happened… It was Margaret who released it…”
“Margaret, how dare you set me up?”
Slap!
Charles gave Margaret a hard slap across her face.
CHAPTER 430
Margaret finally regained her senses after being slapped.
Thud!
Her body went limp, and she fell to the ground.
It never crossed her mind that Levi would have such an identity.
Otherwise, she would never even dream of doing such a thing.
“Margaret, do you still remember the call I made?” Levi had a menacing smile on his face.
Boom!
Margaret was in a state of shock after the epiphany.
How could I forget? Levi even called to give me a chance. But I was too foolish to realize my mistake.
“I-I was wrong… It’s all my fault, Mr. Garrison… Please forgive me…” Margaret immediately kneeled on the ground and begged for mercy.
Thud!
Thud!
Charles punched and kicked Margaret.
“You have the nerve to ask for forgiveness?”
He wanted to kill her there and then.
“What a vicious woman you are, Margaret! You drive people to their death by abusing your power. If it wasn’t for my identity, do you think I can still stand here?” Levi asked with a smile.
Everyone in the conference room felt a chill down their spine.
Levi is angry!
“What are you standing here for, Charles? Hurry and expose the wrongdoings of Margaret and clear the name of Mr. Garrison!” A few leaders bellowed.
Charles reacted and replied, “Okay. I’ll do it right away!”
Soon, an urgent news update was released on North Hampton Television Network. Exposed! Reporter Margaret deliberately framed Levi Garrison with edited content.
Margaret’s reputation was ruined after a series of evidence was presented, and the previous negative remarks about Levi and his family dissipated eventually.
…
“Charles, you’re responsible for this matter. Therefore, you’ll be relieved of your position!” Draco announced.
Charles nodded immediately, “Got it.”
“All the people involved in this matter must be penalized. Any individual that had dealings with Margaret should be arrested or punished!” A few leaders ordered at once.
Margaret laid on the ground, became paralyzed, and felt like her body was no longer hers.
Levi glanced at Margaret and said, “Falsity will never prevail. You know the things you did to get to your current position today. The truth will be uncovered eventually!”
Margaret felt regretful and penitent.
None of these would have happened if she didn’t offend Levi.
It was not known how Margaret managed to leave the exhibition hall.
“This is the bi*ch that lied to us and made us blamed the wrong person!”
“Yeah. If it weren’t for the discovery, we would’ve driven an innocent person to death!”
…
There was a huge crowd gathering outside the exhibition hall.
The crowd started pouring buckets of foul-smelling dung water all over her as soon as she appeared.
“Ughhhhhh…” Margaret puked immediately.
But the manure continued to splash on her again and again…
This was how a vicious person would always end up being.
After the matter was resolved, Zoey immediately called, “Darling, that was awesome! How did you do that?”
Levi smiled and said, “Justice always prevails.”
After Zachary got the news, he found Margaret as soon as he could.
Zachary clutched his nose and stayed far away from Margaret because there was a horrible stench on her.
“What happened?”
Margaret cast a glance at him with a miserable smirk, “I advise the Suarez family to give up, leave North Hampton and stay in South City.”
“Why?” Zachary looked baffled.
“Because he is someone you can’t afford to provoke! If you insist on pushing your luck, the Suarez family will be wiped out from the face of the earth,” Margaret warned.
“Hahaha! What a joke! Do you really think we, the Suarez family would be afraid of anyone? Just wait and see. Soon enough, we’ll have our own territory in North Hampton.”
Zachary didn’t give a second thought to what Margaret had said.
Thus, the week-long investment promotion fair ended on a fulfilling note.
Many businesses from overseas had given their all into investing in North Hampton’s developments.
That was exactly the results Levi wanted to achieve.
However, he had heard of a few larger families forcing a few small and medium-sized corporations into handing over their companies. Within just a few days, many of those corporations had already been bought over.
“Mr. Garrison, what should we do? Should we start taking action?” The Rogers family asked.
Levi shook his head. “We’ll just observe for now. It wouldn’t be too late for us to take action only after they’ve succeeded. After all, it’s only fair for them to make contributions to the North Hampton’s economy first.”
When everyone caught sight of the smirk hanging off Levi’s lips, they understood what his true motives were.
Levi was planning to fatten them up slowly and surely. The moment they were ripe and plump enough, only then would he sink his teeth into them.
Back in the Lopez family mansion, Sebastian was looking frazzled.
He’d aged quite a bit under the stress from the recent events.
Staying put without taking revenge wasn’t his style of confrontation at all.
“What happened? Did he agree to it?” Sebastian asked.
“Yes, he did, but he asked for you to go and invite him personally,” Simon said.
“Yes, of course I will!”
“Sebastian, I never would have thought that you’d call on him.” Simon’s eyes trembled in fear.
Sebastian scoffed, “If it weren’t that urgent, would I have gone for this option?”
“It’s not a bad thing. In fact, if he takes action, then the boss behind the Morris Group has nowhere left to run!”
Murderous intent glazed over Sebastian’s gaze. “That’s right. That man is the one and only person I’ve ever feared of. If he didn’t go into hiding, would I even have the chance to be where I am today in South City? He’s the real head of Quebec!”
“That’s right. The Morris Group has been playing games for far too long. It’s high time this man appeared to stop them.”
The Suarez family had been gobbling up businesses left and right in North Hampton. So far, they’ve gotten themselves quite the collection.
“No! I can’t just let the injury my brother suffered go that easily. The Oriental Star Group must be ours.” Zachary’s gaze was chilly.
That very afternoon, Zachary brought a group of his men to the Oriental Star Group.
Zoey had no choice but to meet them.
“It’s Zoey, isn’t it? I’ll keep things short. I’m here to take over the Oriental Star Group,” Zachary said instantly.
Zoey, however, refused just as quickly. “That’s impossible. I’ve just taken over the company, and we’re developing pretty well. Why would I ever sell the company to you?”
“That’s right! Mr. Suarez, did you hear any false rumors? The Oriental Star Group isn’t up for sale. Were you expecting to buy us over?”
The other higher-ups looked at Zachary questioningly.
Zachary just chuckled. “Well, the Suarez family wishes to take over your company, so you have to sell it to us.”
“What kind of twisted reason is that? Aren’t you just forcing us to give it up to you?”
“What kind of society are we living in? I didn’t know such hegemony existed.”
The higher-ups of the Oriental Star Group all disagreed with his outlandish request.
“That’s right. The Suarez family is simply used to such methods. I’ll give you 24 hours to clean up before I come back here to take what’s mine. If you turn me down, trust me, you’ll regret it,” Zachary said coldly.
Three loud bangs resounded as one of Zachary’s men tossed three throwing knives and landed them each on the words, ‘Oriental Star Group’ that was printed on the wall behind them.
CHAPTER 432
That was a threat.
It was a threat; plain and simple as that; laid bare for all of them to see.
That was a warning to everyone in Oriental Star Group that if they dared to go against him, they’d regret that decision for the rest of their lives.
“Remember, none of you have the right to retaliate against the Suarez family, so don’t even try,” Zachary said coldly before leaving.
In the end, the higher-ups were left staring after him in disbelief.
Was the Oriental Star Group about to get bought over right after they’d just begun developing?
“Ms. Lopez, I think it’d be for the best if we let them buy the company.”
“That’s right. The Suarez family has been buying companies left and right. The ones who tried to retaliate ended up defending themselves to death.”
“The Suarez family has way too much power in South City. We don’t have the power to fight back against them. In fact, we might end up dead, too.”
The higher-ups of the Oriental Star Group had given up completely.
Zoey, however, remained silent.
Deep within, her heart was crumbling in hopelessness.
Why did they have to get on the Suarez family’s bad side?
Zoey was ready to give up.
Based on everything that had happened recently, the Suarez family would stop at nothing to get what they wanted.
In order to force the hands of those business owners, they had used all kinds of twisted methods.
Zoey was especially terrified that her parents or her husband would get into trouble because of her.
Recently, Levi had been rather satisfied with how North Hampton was coming along.
There were a couple of obstacles along the way, but overall, everything was going smoothly.
Once he reached home, however, the first thing he saw was Zoey’s unhappy face.
“What happened, honey? Did something happen at work?” Levi asked, concerned.
Zoey shook her head. “I’m just frustrated because of the recent developments with the company.”
The next day, Zoey had just stepped foot into the company when she caught sight of Zachary strolling in with a bunch of his underlings.
Everyone else shivered at the sight of the man from the other day who had used the throwing knives with such ease.
“So, Ms. Lopez, what’s your final decision?” Zachary asked with a smirk on his face.
“You could at least try to be a little more sincere with your request. What’s your price?” Zoey asked.
Zachary was taken aback for a second before replied, “One billion!”
Everyone inhaled sharply at the sound of Zachary’s price.
The Suarez family was truly overbearing!
How dare they try to buy a company with a net worth of six billion for only one billion?
Zoey scoffed coldly, “Mr. Suarez, are you insane? How could I possibly sell it to you for a mere one billion?”
Zachary burst out laughing.
Coldly, he jabbed, “Ms. Lopez, I don’t think you know what’s going on right now. You’re in no position to make any negotiations. I named my price to save you some face. If you piss me off, you’re not going to get even a cent from me.”
Ridiculous!
How could the Suarez family be this ridiculously overbearing?!
Sadly, they could only seethe in silence.
Two days ago, someone tried to retaliate against the Suarez family. They ended up with four broken limbs and their family got dragged into it too.
Who wouldn’t be afraid of such a force?
“This is the contract. Sign it now, and the money will be transferred to you instantly.” Zachary tossed the contract to Zoey.
“If you refuse to sign this, Aaron Lopez and Caitlyn Black will be joining me for dinner tonight.” Zachary laughed chillingly as he laid his threats down.
His meaning was clear enough. If Zoey refused, he’d find a way to get rid of Aaron and Caitlyn, and it didn’t matter whether they were dead or alive.
“You’re being unreasonable!” Zoey shouted in anger.
Even after so long, she had never met such an overbearing person.
Sadly, she couldn’t do anything about it.
“Ms. Lopez, just sign it!” The other higher-ups started clamoring.
“I don’t think so.”
Right at that moment, a voice called out.
Levi was here.
He had noticed Zoey’s worrisome expression during dinner the other day. He did some investigations of his own to find out what was wrong.
To think that it was caused by the Suarez family!
“Levi Garrison? What are you doing here?”
Zachary had seen Levi in pictures before, and the very moment he laid his eyes on him, he knew he hated his guts.
CHAPTER 433
It’s normal for enemies to want to finish off each other upon meeting. Zachary couldn’t help but want to kill Levi on sight.
With a deep frown on his face, Levi asked, “Who are you? Have we met?”
“I’m Zachary of the Suarez family. Zayn Suarez is my brother.”
Levi nodded. “Oh, that cripple!”
“You-!”
The moment he heard of the way Levi referred his brother, Zachary’s anger flared up.
“You should have stayed in South City. What are you doing here in North Hampton? Are you asking to be killed here?” Levi asked.
Zachary laughed coldly. “Don’t go thinking you’re safe with the Morris Group behind you. I’m warning you, the Suarez family is not going to stop until we’ve conquered a good part of North Hampton! You’d better sign the contract before you regret it.”
“Just screw off already.” Levi shoved Zachary away.
“You asked for it!”
Zachary’s subordinates started moving toward Levi.
Zachary stopped them.
“There’s no need for that.”
Zachary smiled at Zoey and asked, “Ms. Lopez, I hope you’ve thought about this properly. You’ll regret it if you make the wrong move.”
“I told you to leave, didn’t I?” Levi yelled.
“Okay, okay. Just you wait and see.” Zachary smiled menacingly.
“Mr. Shorts, why didn’t you just get rid of that guy?” After they exited the area, Will Brown asked Zachary in confusion. Will was the strongest fighter on Zachary’s team.
Zachary looked pissed. “You think I didn’t want to? That man has the Morris Group backing him up. Even Sebastian Lopez faced a hard time with them.”
“Then, what should we do? Just take it?” Will said in anger.
Zachary, on the other hand, smirked mysteriously. “Of course not! We’ll settle the Oriental Star Group first.”
“What about Levi Garrison?” Will Brown asked.
“I heard about Sebastian Lopez wanting to make a comeback.”
“Huh? Even the Black and White Guards suffered greatly. What could Sebastian do?”
Zachary smirked. “It will be a whole different story when Sebastian managed to call on him.”
“Him? Wait… could it be?”
Will suddenly looked terrified at the thought of someone and inhaled sharply.
“Sebastian Lopez is truly putting in his all. How’d he manage to call upon someone who’s been in hiding for the past thirty years?!”
The others were just as amazed.
“That’s right! That’s the real boss of Quebec and the one Sebastian is scared of the most.”
“The Morris Group is really something. They managed to drag him out of hiding,” Zachary said.
Will figured something out and smiled. “Mr. Shorts, you’re waiting for Sebastian Lopez and that man to get rid of the Morris Group before getting rid of Levi, right?”
“Yes. Without the Morris Group behind his back, how is Levi going to act all high and mighty?”
In South City, there was a small, rundown temple in the corner of Mount Amethyst.
Anyone in the upper class of South City knew that this temple was off-limits. That was because it was the home to the most terrifying figure in South City, and even all of Quebec.
He had once ruled over Quebec.
Thirty years ago, he retreated back here and became a vegetarian. Apart from that, he started reciting Buddhist mantras everyday.
Highly skilled professionals surrounded the temple and no one was allowed to go near it.
However, today, the Lopez family approached the temple.
Sebastian knelt in front of the temple personally, waiting for him to appear.
“Sir, the Lopez family is in trouble. Quentin Lane has been killed; Wesley Lane and James Lane have been crippled, and the Black and White Guards have been spliced into pieces. I, Sebastian Lopez, beg you to get rid of them. In exchange, I will give everything I have.”
Sebastian begged with all his sincerity and kowtowed three times.
CHAPTER 434
Everyone present at the temple instantly held their breaths at that sentence.
They stared at Sebastian in disbelief.
What could possibly have pushed Sebastian to make such a daring exchange?
He was even willing to give up his fortune in order to beat this mysterious person, or force.
Sebastian continued kneeling as he waited for an answer to come from within the temple.
Finally, after about ten minutes, the rundown wooden door of the temple creaked open.
A man dressed in a suit walked out of the temple. Everyone looked on in shock and fear as the godson of the ex-ruler of the underworld walked toward them.
Even Sebastian looked terrified.
The young man said simply, “Sebastian, please return. My godfather will handle this.”
“What?”
“Thank you, sir!” Sebastian yelled in glee.
He agreed!
That meant the Morris Group was done for.
To Sebastian, this man was practically on the same level as God himself.
There was nothing in Quebec that he couldn’t get his hands on if he were willing to step up.
Right after that, the news of this man finally returning to society started spreading around South City like wildfire.
Once, he had been the ruler of Quebec. He had locked himself away for thirty years, but he was finally emerging once more.
Everyone could tell that North Hampton was about to undergo great changes.
The fact that this man was willing to show himself once more meant that Quebec was about to go through a massive transformation.
All the other forces and families in South City started preparing for this man’s arrival.
Early on the next day, the ten most powerful families of South City gathered along the twisting and turning roads of Mount Amethyst in two lines as they waited for this person’s arrival.
Sebastian stood among them.
There was finally some people coming from the end of the road.
They had come down the mountain on foot.
This group of people surrounded an old man with white hair and a ruddy complexion who looked full of spirit.
Even though he was already 80 years old, his steps were steady and he was clearly of good health.
He was once the ruler of Quebec, Scott Yates.
Everyone in Quebec called him by ‘sir’ and ‘sir’ only.
At first sight, he looked like any other esteemed figure, perhaps a well-read professor or master.
No one would have connected him to the role of an underworld ruler.
Apart from Fernand Yates, Scott’s godson, there were four other people walking next to him. They were also known as the Four Mighty Generals.
The first one was all skin and bones, and resembled a walking skeleton. His skin stretched taut over the angular frame of his skull. He was known simply as Bones.
The second stood at around 2 meters tall and looked like a human mountain. He was named Golem.
The third was as bulked up as a bull and his head was completely bald. There were six scars on the thin skin of his scalp. His name was Titan, and he was a priest.
The last one appeared completely normal, and nothing stood out about him. However, he was the most fearsome among all.
The Black and White Guards were an indestructible force in South City.
But in the face of these four, they were mere ants.
In South City’s extensive underworld, the Black and White Guards would only be the fifth or sixth most powerful forces.
The first four places belonged to these four generals.
These four taking action was just as terrifying as any natural disaster.
They were much too scary.
They were rumored to be able to beat an army of thousands.
“Congratulations Sir, on your return!”
When the families saw Scott Yates and his lineup, they welcomed him enthusiastically.
So what if they had countless riches?
So what if they had enough money to overthrow the country?
All that could disappear at any second with just a word from Scott Yates.
As compared to Liam Macy and Sebastian Lopez, Scott Yates had experienced much more. He had made his breakthrough during the peak of Quebec’s underworld, so he had a much stronger background.
There was nothing he could say that Quebec wouldn’t obey to instantly.
Sebastian stepped up. “Sir, now that you are back, there’s a favor I have to ask from you.”
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“Sebastian’s reputation has been completely ruined!”
“The Morris Group? Is that a new corporation?” Scott Yates asked.
Sebastian nodded. “Yes, sir. The Morris Group appeared only recently. They appear to be run by the Rogers family. The collapse of the three main pillars of North Hampton have a lot to do with the Morris Group.”
Scott Yates stayed silent at that.
His godson, Fernand Yates, piped up, “Yes, I’ve taken notice of that as well. The reason that this Morris Group managed to gain so much power in such a short time is due to someone extremely powerful working behind the scenes. Furthermore, it’s next to impossible to find any information about their mysterious boss or Neil Atkinson.”
Fernand also held a lot of power. Despite Scott Yates lived in seclusion away in the mountains for the last thirty years, the family business had continued under Fernand’s management. However, he had chosen to stay subtle about it and only worked in the background.
Anyone in South City knew that Scott Yates was number one when it came to accumulated wealth.
“How dare they act like this in North Hampton? There must be a powerful figure behind the scenes.” Scott Yate’s expression changed abruptly. “Investigate! No matter who that person is, I will chase him out of Quebec regardless.”
“Understood. I’ll begin investigations right away,” Fernand replied.
The citizens of South City let out a sigh of relief.
With Scott Yates helping them out, the Morris Group would definitely be done for.
They could finally gobble up North Hampton with ease.
Every time anyone tried to take over North Hampton’s businesses, they either got held back by the law or got targeted by the Morris Group and the Rogers family.
The people of South City had been holding back their frustrations for a long time. The Suarez family and the Lopez family were especially bothered by that.
Despite that, all of them were more than aware of the fact that the Morris Group would be done for the moment ‘Sir’ left the mountain.
It didn’t matter how strong and powerful the Morris Group was.
It didn’t matter what their reputation was in South City.
In Quebec, Scott Yates’ word was the law.
Even a dragon would find it hard to control a snake in its old haunt.
North Hampton wasn’t as closely updated, so they had no clue of the imminent danger.
Zachary had caught wind of Scott Yates’ return.
He couldn’t be more ecstatic at the news.
“The end of the Morris Group is near! We should quickly wrap up our deal with the Oriental Star Group.”
The Oriental Star Group was an essential component of the Suarez family’s battle plan.
The entertainment department of the Oriental Star Group was something the Suarez family urgently needed.
“Mr. Suarez, the Oriental Star Group has recently been shooting seven blockbuster online-only movies. This was all produced by Zoey Lopez. Around fifty million was invested into each production. They’ll probably increase as time goes by. The final cost has to be around five hundred million at least!” Will Brown reported.
“Hmph! Zoey Lopez, I bet you were trying to make a real profit, weren’t you? Well, not a chance!” Zachary murmured as he chuckled darkly.
Zoey Lopez was definitely eager to make some achievements.
The property arm had already been established.
Naturally, she had to pay more attention to the entertainment segment.
Today, Zoey decided to visit the set personally.
This set belonged to the movie that they had invested the highest amount of money in, which was around seventy million.
They didn’t spend that much money on special effects or the plot. Most of the money had been invested into casting the male and female leads, who were both top-notch actors in the industry.
Casting the both of them would cost around fifty million at the very least.
The actual cost of the production itself was only about twenty million.
However, she believed that the movie would become a hit and generate a sizeable return given the actors’ fame.
The crew was currently preparing for filming while the actors were going through their lines.
Niall, the male lead, spotted Zoey once he lifted his head.
“Who is that?” he asked his assistant.
“This is the new boss of the Oriental Star Group, Zoey Lopez.”
Niall’s eyes lit up as he smiled. “I have to get to know her well then.”
CHAPTER 436
So far, Niall was the most famous actor in the Oriental Star Group. He was extremely popular and had a ton of fans.
However, anyone who knew him personally knew how messy his private life was.
He slept around with fans and other female celebrities alike.
He had even had a fling or two with his assistants and makeup artists.
He had no problems hooking up with female higher-ups of various companies that had their eyes on him.
From just his appearance alone, Niall had risen from a barely-there social media influencer to a highest-paid actor within just three years.
Every time he took on a new job with a new company, he would immediately flirt with the female higher-ups as long as they were decent enough.
Even if the female boss in question was old and ugly, he’d still say yes if she was willing to pay a huge amount of money or benefits.
Niall was entranced the very moment he laid his eyes on Zoey.
How could there be such a beautiful and young boss in the industry?
The appearance and figure of all the other celebrities he had met so far paled in comparison to Zoey.
On top of all that, she was the boss of a multimillion company.
Zoey was watching the crew do their work when a scented breeze suddenly blew past her.
She lifted her head to see a tall and handsome man looking at her.
“Hi, nice to meet you. My name is Niall Xander!” Niall reached out his hand for a handshake.
“Niall Xander?” Of course Zoey knew who he was.
“I’m sorry, my husband doesn’t allow me to have physical contact with other men,” she turned him down.
Niall lowered his hand awkwardly.
He hadn’t considered the fact that Zoey was a married woman.
Despite that, a glint of ecstasy flashed in his eyes.
He loved married woman.
They were on an entirely different level from immature young girls.
He had already set his sights on Zoey as his next target.
“Wow, I can’t believe how young you are, Ms. Lopez. The fact that you managed to pull off filming seven movies at the same time is really impressive,” Niall complimented.
Zoey smiled. “It’s also thanks to your contributions as an actor. Hopefully, it’ll bring us good results.”
“Of course it will! I’ll put my everything into this movie,” Niall promised.
Gerry Wade, who was in charge of the entertainment department, reported, “Ms. Lopez, we’ve officially started advertising on the seven movies to the public. So far, the ones with Niall in the cast are the most well received. Based on our early calculations, we can earn up to four hundred million. In fact, it might end up being even more.”
Zoey smiled in excitement and said, “Mr. Xander, you are truly the hope of Oriental. Please, if you need anything at all, just let us know.”
Zoey understood what was going on.
In order to gain the most out of the movie, they had to treat Niall and their female lead like royalty.
“Of course! In fact, I wanted to ask if you are free tonight. I have something I need to discuss with you. It has to do with the future developments of Oriental Star Group,” Niall said with a smile.
Gerry whispered to Zoey, “Ms. Lopez, Niall’s management team is pretty impressive. They’re the ones we hired for a huge sum last time. In my opinion, you should say yes.”
Zoey agreed. “Alright. Since I’m new to the entertainment industry, it’ll be great to have a light to shine my way.”
Niall exchanged glances with his assistant and he smiled.
The fish had taken the bait, and he would be enjoying it tonight.
“Niall, what are you doing here? We were going through our lines just now,” Yvonne, the female lead, asked unhappily.
She had always liked Niall.
The company was also desperate to sell Yvonne and Niall as a couple, to which she was more than happy to oblige.
All along, Yvonne had seen the girls Niall took interest in as enemies.
When she saw the way Niall looked at Zoey, she was instantly furious.
“Who are you? Why are you interrupting our practice?” Yvonne asked frostily.
CHAPTER 437
Niall yelled, “What are you doing? This is our new boss, Ms. Lopez!”
“So what if she’s our boss? She shouldn’t disrupt our practice!”
Yvonne was the star of Oriental Star Group, so she was haughty and did not care about others.
“Alright then, I shan’t be disturbing you! Mr. Xander, please don’t forget about tonight!” Zoey reminded in good nature.
Niall was excited and nodded immediately, “Don’t worry, I’ll make the necessary arrangements!”
Yvonne was enraged by this. She knew what Niall was up to.
For the entire shoot today, both Niall and Yvonne were distracted.
To begin with, both of their acting skills were mediocre.
The quality of the shoot was especially bad that day, but the directors had to call it a good take.
After all, they could not afford to offend either of them.
Yet, the two of them were involved in five major movies that day.
“Nevermind if the quality is bad. They have a large fanbase. We’ll get our money’s worth from their fanbase alone!” the directors, scriptwriters, and other crew members consoled themselves.
That day, Levi returned to the Morris Group once again.
Iris did not let him slack off and arranged for him to be an interviewer.
Even though she felt that Levi was incapable, he had a good eye for talent.
Hence, Levi spent the entire day conducting interviews.
A few young men came for an interview.
Levi glanced at the contract and was puzzled. He inquired, “You’re from the North Hampton Film Academy? You’re trained as an actor? Why are you applying for a job in sales?”
“To be honest, Sir, the entertainment industry is too stressful and competitive. Without a good background or funding, it’s difficult to make a name for yourself! We’re all from the countryside and have neither of them, so we’re struggling to make ends meet. We wanted to find a job to survive.” The youngsters hung their heads in disappointment.
That was not an uncommon sight. There were only so many successful artistes. Most artistes did not even find success as internet celebrities and had to find another job, even if they were talented actors and actresses.
When he heard about the entertainment industry, Levi immediately thought of his wife’s firm.
He recalled that they were expanding the scale of their entertainment business and were lacking manpower.
“In that case, you guys have a minute to perform something for me. You have a minute each. Feel free to exercise your creativity!” Levi smiled.
The interviewees were confused, but Levi was the interviewer after all. They did as he asked.
“Not bad. You really have talent!” Levi commended sincerely.
These men were all skilled actors, but their talents were not appreciated.
Sadly, there were many talented actors who did not get a chance to act. The movies were all filled with famous stars with poor acting skills, resulting in low-quality films.
“Please show me any other skills you have!”
Some of them showcased their dancing, singing, and other skills.
“All of you are great! Sign this, please!” Levi smiled.
“I beg your pardon?” they were all bewildered. You can get a sales job just by singing and dancing?
They had no idea that Levi was giving them the opportunity of a lifetime, transforming them from people barely making ends meet to superstars.
Meanwhile, at night, after work.
Zoey made a trip to the drama department.
“Hi Ms. Lopez, Mr. Xander is too busy and has returned to his residence. After that, he has to attend a dinner. Time is tight, so if you’re looking for him, please head to his home!” his assistant said.
“Alright, please lead the way,” Zoey replied. She did not dwell too much into it and followed the assistant to the artistes’ lodging.
She did not have any stray thoughts.
For one, the place was crowded.
For another, Niall was a star and would not do anything to harm his reputation.
CHAPTER 438
But Zoey was wrong.
His management team had long known about him and he did not care about his reputation at all.
Zoey headed to Niall’s room. He had just finished taking a bath and walked out in a bathrobe, showing off his muscular body.
Zoey immediately turned to leave.
“Ms. Lopez, why are you leaving? It’s fine!” Niall hurriedly blocked Zoey.
Zoey turned around and smiled embarrassedly, “Sorry for coming all of a sudden. I didn’t expect you to be in the shower.”
“I’m a simple man. Ms. Lopez, please, have a seat!” Niall offered.
Zoey questioned him, “Mr. Xander, you said earlier that you had something important to discuss. What is it?”
“Winnie, help me get something!”
Niall waved her off. Winnie, his manager, left with a knowing look.
Zoey had no idea that Winnie would not be returning.
Before Winnie left, she closed the door behind her.
Zoey became alert the moment the door closed.
After all, she was alone with another man in a room.
Niall smiled and enquired, “Ms. Lopez, how do you feel about me?”
“You’re a great star who has a large fan base!”
“No, I meant about my looks. How’s my figure? Did I get your heart racing?” Niall flirted directly.
“Huh? What do you mean?” Zoey felt something was amiss.
Niall closed in and explained, “Ms. Lopez, I decided to give you a chance – a chance to have me for one night!”
In the past, when Niall said this, those rich lady bosses would have pounced on him.
However, Zoey’s reaction was far from what he had expected.
She was not tempted by the offer and was even filled with an icy rage.
“Mr. Xander, please show some self-respect! I’ll be off!” Zoey spat.
“Wait, hold on. Let’s talk things through!”
How could Niall allow her to escape?
“Let me go! If you try anything funny, I will be sure to persecute you!” Zoey roared.
Niall scoffed, “Woman, I looked for you because I felt you were worth it. Stop being so full of yourself. Do you think you’re the boss here? I’ll tell you honestly. In the Oriental Star Group, I’m the real boss! You have to listen to me!”
“You…” Zoey was fuming.
She did not expect to meet an artiste like that!
Niall sneered, “Zoey Lopez, you’d better obey my every command. I’ll guarantee that all of your movies sell well and Oriental Star Group’s business excels! Otherwise, I’ll cripple your company!”
Zoey bit her lip and glared at Niall.
“Come, as long as you listen to me, we will both benefit from it!”
Niall was about to pounce upon Zoey.
Bam!
The door slammed opened and Yvonne entered.
Whew! Zoey heaved a sigh of relief.
Meanwhile, Niall was enraged.
This stupid woman is at it again! Why does she have to ruin everything?
“Zoey Lopez, you wench! As the owner of the Company, you’ve overstepped the boundaries and seduced your own artistes! How shameless!” Yvonne accused her.
Zoey was bewildered. Niall was the one who tried to seduce me. Why am I in the wrong now?
“Zoey, you’re so shameless! I’ve heard that you were even married for six years! How could you even do that!”
“You slut!”
Niall fell silent and acknowledged Yvonne’s actions.
CHAPTER 439
He wanted to maintain the stance that he was not in the wrong and that it was all Zoey’s fault.
At this point, Niall’s manager and a few assistants had arrived.
“I’ll explain alright! Zoey here seduced me and was refused by me, simple as that!” Niall sneered.
When she heard Niall twisting the facts, Zoey was about to burst with rage.
“Bullshit! You were the one who tried to rape me!” Zoey screamed.
Yvonne pushed Zoey and spat, “Stop pretending to be innocent! I saw everything earlier. You were clearly seducing him!”
Yvonne loved Niall, so even if Niall were in the wrong, she would protect him and push the blame to someone else. This was one such example.
“You two…” Zoey nearly fainted from the rage.
Winnie sided with them as well, “Ms. Lopez, you can’t do that! Even though you’re the boss, there are limits! Niall is an actor. If word got out, his career would be destroyed and your company would suffer as well!”
“That’s right! A woman like you can get any man you want. Let Niall off!”
“That’s right, Ms. Lopez, don’t make life difficult for him!”
…
Niall’s manager and team started to defend him anxiously.
“You… I… It wasn’t me…”
Zoey was livid but she did not know how to explain herself.
She was framed and everyone present were on his side.
She would not be able to defend herself even with concrete evidence.
“Ms. Lopez, please leave. We will pretend this never happened and won’t pursue this matter!” Winnie said as she dragged Zoey off.
Zoey was flabbergasted. I’m the victim here! Why did I suddenly become the villain and even get blackmailed by them?
Zoey’s first reaction was to fire all of them.
She dialed Wade’s number and informed him of this.
“You can’t do that, Ms. Lopez. Oriental Star Group’s entertainment business depends on Niall and Yvonne. We can’t possibly fire them. Calm down and hear me out, Ms. Lopez! This will not benefit the company in any way!”
“I…!” Zoey clenched her teeth angrily.
I am the victim here! Yet, there’s nothing I can do about it!
…
In Niall’s room, Yvonne scorned, “How could you do something so reckless? This woman isn’t any ordinary person. The moment she gets ahold of your weakness, you’re toast!”
“Hmph! I’ll get this woman someday!” Niall spat. He was still angered by Yvonne for ruining his opportunity. Otherwise, Zoey would not have been able to escape back then.
“Alright, Ms. Wren. Calm down. Niall is still young and reckless. It’s okay,” Winnie persuaded her.
At this point in time, Winnie received a call.
“Huh? What? Mr. Suarez from South City wants to meet Niall?”
Meanwhile, Yvonne’s manager also received a call.
The contents of the call were the same.
“I’m not meeting anyone tonight! I don’t feel like it!” Niall declared angrily.
“But you just have to meet this man! He’s from the Suarez family in South City. No one can afford to offend him!” Winnie explained.
Soon, a car came to pick Niall, Yvonne, and a few other artistes up.
These ten people were all the pillars of Oriental Star Group.
CHAPTER 440
Zoey was fuming with rage but there was nothing she could do about it.
She had to wait for the movies to finish filming.
“Honey, is your company’s entertainment side short on manpower?” Levi queried.
Zoey nodded, “Yep, we’ve always been understaffed and were on the lookout for new talents!”
“Well, it happens that I’ve signed all of them for you during the interview yesterday. I’ve interviewed them all myself. Their acting skills are superb, but they don’t have a chance to showcase their talents!”
Levi told her about what happened during the interview earlier.
“What a pity. They were trained in acting and singing but had to find work elsewhere,” Zoey sighed.
“I’ll get them to look for you tomorrow!”
“Sure.”
The following day, shortly after Zoey arrived at her office, the four men hired by Levi appeared.
A man and a woman caught her attention immediately.
The man was Maurice Lorraine while the woman was Helena Engler.
At least, they had the looks.
Normally, they would both have an opportunity to become famous. However, they did not have the background since they were from rural areas, and at the same time, they were unwilling to play by the unspoken rules.
Hence, they ended up in this state.
Zoey got professionals from the entertainment department to interview them and they all passed.
After signing the contract, they officially became artistes under the Oriental Star Group. Even if they had to start from the bottom, the four of them were excited.
They also knew that with Oriental Star Group’s reputation in North Hampton, this would not have been possible without Levi’s help.
Helena immediately sent a message to Levi to treat him to a meal.
At the drama department, Niall, Yvonne, and the other top artistes were usually lazy and treated work lightly.
However, that day, they were slacking even more than usual.
Forgetting or memorizing the wrong lines were common.
At times, Niall’s expression even wandered and did not look at the camera at all.
The stage crew was furious, but there was nothing they could do about it.
After all, they were famous stars that no one could afford to offend.
They could only take scene by scene and hope for the best during editing.
Niall and Yvonne exchanged knowing looks and had an elated expression.
This had happened because of what occurred the previous night.
Both of them were angry at Zoey and wanted to get their revenge. At this point in time, Zachary called them up and strengthened their resolve. They were bent on getting revenge on the Oriental Star Group.
“Let me introduce everyone. These are artistes newly signed by the company. They graduated from North Hampton Film Academy and are very talented. That’ll reduce the burden on the drama department!” Gerry announced as he brought the four over.
Many were disgusted by the four daft-looking individuals. Most people disliked newcomers.
“Can we treat them as we like?” Niall asked.
Gerry responded, “Of course. Niall, you’re their senior. Ordering them around is a privilege to them!”
Helena and the others recognized stars like Niall and Yvonne. They were eager to be of help to them.
If they could establish a good relationship with them, their career would be set!
“Alright then! You, go get me some water!” Niall pointed towards Helena.
“Me? Sure!” Helena felt privileged by this gesture.
She immediately went to pour him a cup of water and carefully brought it in front of Niall.
“Senior, please have some water!” Helena offered him with a smile.
Niall scrutinized Helena carefully. This lass has got the looks. She isn’t inferior to Yvonne in any way.
“Ahem,” Yvonne cleared her throat. Only then did Niall take the glass of water.
Even Una was cursing angrily.
Right then, Winston’s convoy arrived at Bayview Garden’s entrance.
The security guard at the entrance was wondering, why has another convoy arrived? Is something going on?
“Thank you, Mr. Gonzales. I don’t think that you should come, as he dislikes strangers,” Percy smiled and thanked Winston.
“Okay, see you later, Mr. Covington!”
Winston and the others watched, as Percy walked into Bayview Garden.
However, they did not leave at once.
“Find out who’s the relative that Percy was talking about. I want details about that man!” Winston ordered.
“Yes, Sir!”
Winston summoned two of his men. “Come, let’s find out which building Mr. Covington is heading to.”
Meanwhile, Levi and Una were still glaring at each other.
Luke stepped forward with a mocking smile on his face. “I normally wouldn’t have to deal with nobodies like you, but as you’ve insulted the Gonzales family one too many times, I’m here to teach you a lesson!”
Una sneered, “If you’re willing to grovel at my feet, I might consider letting you off the hook.”
Levi fixated his gaze on Una.
Suddenly, he slapped Una across her face without warning.
Slap!
That was a crisp and loud slap. Everyone who saw that happened was stunned, let alone Una herself.
As Una felt a stinging pain on her cheek, she belatedly realized that he had slapped her.
“You… How dare you slap me?” Una held her cheek as she stared at Levi in disbelief.
“B******! Luke, get him!” she yelled in fury.
Upon receiving her order, Luke took action at once.
Boom!
He struck his fist out, which was accompanied by a blast of air.
The force generated from his punch caused everyone to take a step back.
His punch was so powerful!
It was no wonder that he was the top fighter in North Hampton!
Levi stood rooted to the spot as if he were dumbfounded, so Luke was certain that his powerful and swift punch would wound Levi badly.
Thud!
When Luke’s punch was about to land on Levi’s face, someone suddenly appeared in front of him and took his punch.
Luke immediately sensed a powerful energy attacking him.
He stumbled six steps back before he came to a stop.
His gaze was filled with shock as he stared at Percy, standing right before him.
Levi did not expect him to show up in person.
Percy might have retired because of his injury, but he was still a skillful soldier.
He was once a courageous soldier on the battlefield who had protected Erudia.
There were no wimps in the Iron Brigade!
“How dare you gather in public? Have you no respect for the law?” Percy inquired icily.
Una defended herself, “Ha! The Gonzales family is the law in North Hampton! You seem skillful. Do you want to work for us? We are going to beat this man up today. Get out of our way!”
Luke was still staring at Percy. It had been ages since he had encountered someone as skillful as him.
“I hate bullies, so I’ll intervene in this matter today!”
Levi might be the God of War, but he would also intervene, even if Levi was an ordinary citizen.
“Do you want to die?” Luke exclaimed in fury.
“Stop!”
When he was about to take action, someone reprimanded him.
Everyone looked back to see Winston approaching them.
“Grandpa, I thought that you’d gone to pick Mr. Covington up from the airport? Why are you here?”
CHAPTER 333
Una was curious.
Winston was close to exploding in anger.
Fools! Commander-in-Chief Covington is standing right in front of you!
“Grandpa, we were about to teach Levi a lesson when this fool had showed up. Luke, deal with him!” Una ordered.
Before Luke could take action, Winston strode up to her, slapping her, hard.
Una’s right cheek swelled up at once, and her pretty face was swollen like a pufferfish.
Una was dumbfounded.
She did not expect to be slapped twice in such a short time.
The others including Percy were astounded, too.
“Grandpa, why did you slap me?” Una wailed.
Luke questioned curiously, “Sir, what’s going on?”
Winston barked angrily, “Do you know who he is? He’s the commander-in-chief of the North Hampton Warzone, Percy Covington!”
Everyone gasped in shock upon hearing his words.
They were utterly flabbergasted!
It turned out that the man was a warzone’s commander-in-chief.
What a huge misunderstanding it was!
Luke belatedly realized what he had done.
He instantly broke out into a cold sweat.
Even Una was rendered speechless as she gazed at Percy.
She had never imagined that he would be the commander-in-chief.
S***, I’d even insulted him and claimed that the Gonzales family was the law in North Hampton!
After Percy figured out what was going on, he scoffed, “So you’re from the Gonzales family. You’re so different from Mr. Gonzales. He’s kind, yet you’ve acted like a tyrant, claiming that the Gonzales family was the law in North Hampton!”
Even Winston was shocked by Percy’s words.
Commander-in-Chief Covington is holding us accountable!
“Commander-in-Chief Covington, the ignorant are not guilty. It was a slip of the tongue. Please don’t take it to heart,” Winston apologized at once.
“Yes, Commander-in-Chief Covington, we’re sorry. Please forgive us!” Una and the others hurriedly apologized.
Luke was so frightened that he was about to grovel at Percy’s feet.
“Ha! You should be apologizing to him instead of me! How dare you bring so many people to disturb him in the morning?” Percy uttered in a wintry voice.
“Mr. Garrison, we’re sorry for disturbing you. Let’s call it even!”
Winston was a sly fox and hinted that he would stop finding fault with Levi over Park Guk-chang’s matter.
It was a show, for Percy’s sake.
“Yes, yes. Park Guk-chang and his son deserve to be beaten up!” Una chimed in.
“We’re sorry, Mr. Garrison!” Luke led his men to apologize to Levi.
Upon seeing their actions, Percy nodded in satisfaction.
“This is much better. Mr. Gonzales, I won’t pursue this matter again. Think of it as me returning your favor, as you’ve given me a ride here,” Percy announced.
If we were elsewhere, these people should die, for insulting my God of War!
Percy decided not to pursue the matter further as he did not want to make a big deal out of it.
“Err…” Winston seemed stumped.
It will be hard to bootlick Covington after what has happened.
“I will bring these fools away. See you later, Commander-in-Chief Covington!”
Winston was about to leave with the others when someone spoke up.
“Wait. Did I tell you to leave?”
It was Levi. He was glowering at Winston and the others.
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Percy won’t pursue the matter, but I will!
“What?” Winston and the others were incredulous.
Percy allowed us to leave, but Levi won’t?
Is he a leech? Who does he think he is? How dare he provoke our family?
“You’ve disturbed me this early in the morning. Do you think I am an easy target?” Levi uttered icily.
Winston and the others remained indifferent, but Percy was terrified.
He knew that Levi was mad.
Winston tried to suppress his anger as he inquired, “Mr. Garrison, then what should we do?”
“If you want me to let you off the hook, everyone in the Gonzales family should come and kneel in front of me for one day! Otherwise, you’ll suffer from the same ending as the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce by disappearing from North Hampton!”
Levi’s voice was like a sharp knife.
Percy was certain that Levi really meant it.
North Hampton is crumbling, and the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce will be taken down as well, he thought.
“Hahaha!” Una burst out laughing.
“Levi, do you think you’re an influential man? Are you using Commander-in-Chief Covington’s influence to threaten us? You’re nothing but a leech! Dream on!”
Winston was infuriated too. “Commander-in-Chief Covington and us, hold no grudges against each other. Don’t use him to threaten us!”
Levi merely sneered, “I’ve warned you the last time, but you’d refused to pay heed to my warning. Fine, go down together with the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce!”
Levi’s statement sent Winston and his men into fits of laughter.
It turned out that Levi was an ambitious man who’d wanted to take down both the Gonzales family and the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce!
“Haha! What a joke. No one in North Hampton can take down our family and the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce! Not even Mr. Nielsen can do so!”
“Yes, no one is capable enough of doing so!”
Winston and his entourage were full of pride.
Messing with them was akin to messing with North Hampton’s foundation!
Who was capable enough of doing so?
“Just wait and see how I’ll deal with your family,” Levi announced coldly.
“Alright. We’ll soon see about that,” Winston and his entourage chortled.
After bidding Percy goodbye, they left immediately.
They were unafraid of Levi. Instead, they were afraid of offending Percy.
“God of War, I am here to see you.”
Percy gazed at Levi excitedly and he was about to kneel.
Three years ago, before he retired, if Levi had not saved him on the battlefield, he would have been dead by now.
Levi was the one who had given him a new life.
“Covington, why are you here earlier than expected?” Levi asked.
“God of War, I am here to see both you and your wife,” Percy smiled and replied.
“Come on in!”
Levi brought him into the house.
Meanwhile, Zoey’s movements were still restricted by Iris.
“Hmm? Why is it so quiet out there?”
Iris went to the window, but realized that everyone was gone.
She ran out together with Zoey. Those people had already left.
“Is Levi in trouble?”
Zoey and Iris entered the house at once.
The moment they entered the house, they were stunned by what they saw.
Levi was talking to a stranger.
Percy spotted Zoey and stood up at once.
“This is?” Zoey asked curiously.
“Covington, this is my wife. That’s her best friend,” Levi introduced.
“Honey, this is my good friend, Percy Covington. He has just arrived from Vermond.”
Zoey greeted Percy warmly upon hearing Levi’s introduction, but Iris folded her arms arrogantly.
She was looking at Percy, her gaze full of disdain.
Levi’s friend? How good can his friend be?
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She had met plenty of people and thought that she saw right through Percy.
Percy might seem imposing, but he has lost his edge.
Judging from his outfit, he must be in dire straits.
Hence, she was uninterested in him.
“By the way, where’re the Gonzales family’s men? I’d thought that they were here to take revenge on you? Why are they gone?” Iris questioned.
“They’d scuttled away in fear. Just wait and see. They’ll come to apologize to me soon,” Levi declared.
“Ha! The Gonzales family? Apologizing to you? Dream on!” Iris refused to believe him.
Zoey was not going to believe him either.
Percy merely grinned, “I bumped into them, so I talked to Mr. Gonzales and he’d agreed to call it even.”
Iris scoffed, “Who do you think you are? Why would Winston listen to you?”
At once, Zoey made a call to confirm Percy’s claims.
“Iris, it’s true! The Gonzales family agreed to call it even!” Zoey exclaimed happily.
“What? Did that really happen?”
On second thought, Iris proclaimed, “Ha! Mr. Gonzales was kind enough to forgive you guys.”
Percy smiled and kept silent.
Meanwhile, at the largest and most luxurious villa in North Hampton.
“Sir, I’ve asked around, but no one knows who Commander-in-Chief Covington’s relative is,” the housekeeper reported in disappointment.
Winston answered, “That’s within my expectations. We would’ve found out about it if someone else had known about it.”
“We’ll send someone to spy on Commander-in-Chief Covington to find out who his relative is.”
“No, Sir!” Luke hurriedly cut in.
“Mm? Why?” Winston questioned.
“Commander-in-Chief Covington is someone who I had yet to grasp the depths of his abilities. He’s almost comparable to me! If you send someone to spy on him, he’ll discover for sure,” Luke explained.
“What? The commander-in-chief is that strong?” Clint drew in a sharp breath.
“I’ve heard that everyone in the Iron Brigade is horrifyingly strong. Looks like the rumor is true!”
“We should wait to attend the appointment ceremony.”
Winston shot a look at Una. “Una, dress up nicely. You must attend the event in your best attire!”
“Why so, Grandpa?” Una did not know what her grandfather was planning.
“I’ve heard that the God of War is in his twenties, and he’s still single. What if he fancies you?”
Winston’s words scratched at Una’s heart.
The God of War was the biggest hero in Erudia.
Every woman dreamt of marrying him.
Now that she was given a huge opportunity to meet him, of course, she was elated.
“Yes, we’ll set you up with him. You’ll be a perfect match for him. You can be the God of War’s wife!” Clint exclaimed in delight.
Winston stroked his chin. “Yes, now that we’ve gotten to know Commander-in-Chief Covington, we can ask for his help. That’s very likely to happen.”
Their words immediately stirred Una’s imagination.
She wished that the ceremony would start immediately, so she would get to see the God of War!
The Gonzales family’s plan was to marry Una to the God of War.
“What if the God of War doesn’t fancy her?” someone questioned.
Everyone was rendered speechless by that question.
That was highly likely, too.
Luke suggested, “I have an idea. We can trick the God of War to sleep with Ms. Una. He cannot undo his actions, so he would have to marry her after that!”
Winston’s eyes gleamed. “That is a brilliant plan!”
The Gonzales family was scheming so that Levi would end up marrying Una.
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While the Gonzales family schemed, the members of the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce were also busy making plans of their own.
After all, Morris Group was finally becoming a threat that they could no longer ignore. Things were getting out of their control, and they were running out of ideas for what to do.
The only plan they had was to somehow find a way to associate themselves with the God of War and Commander-in-Chief Covington.
That was why they had invited Grover Cooke over tonight. They hoped that he would be able to help them come up with an idea.
“Morris Group has been developing at a rapid pace recently. A lot of companies are offering them all sorts of preferential treatment! I guess since it’s helping the economy of North Hampton, that’s a good thing,” Grover mused.
“But at this rate, they’ll soon be taking over our market, which leaves us in a very precarious situation!”
“They’re so ambitious that they’re even going after the Gonzales family businesses! It’s only a matter of time before they come after us next.”
Eric and the others fretted.
“Do you have any ideas, Mr. Cooke?” Clifford asked.
The man in question shook his head helplessly. “Nothing much will come of working from the shadows. You have seen for yourselves their ability to resolve all problems thrown their way.” He paused before suggesting, “Maybe you should try forcefully buying over Morris Group?”
“That might just work!” Eric and the other men’s eyes gleamed viciously.
Baldwin seemed doubtful as he stated, “I don’t think it’s going to be that easy. I’ve heard about how mysterious the boss of Morris Group is. Nobody knows who he or she is.”
Shaking his head, Wallace rebutted, “It’s not that hard. Have you forgotten how we used to buy over the other companies?”
The men exchanged sly looks.
“Alright then, you guys should probably focus on preparing for the ceremony. I’ll have Jesse introduce you to the God of War and Commander-in-Chief Covington when the time comes. With those two supporting you, you’ll still be fine even if you dance a little too close to the illegal side of things,” Grover finished with a smile.
“Thank you so much, Mr. Cooke! The North Hampton Chamber of Commerce shall forever be grateful to you!” the men fervently expressed.
After the incident at the hospital, Morris Group had been flourishing at a quick pace.
The celebrities endorsing their products were also reaping the benefits of this with a huge upsurge of advertisement invitations.
By contrast, business for Everest Entertainment had been getting increasingly worse. It was only a matter of time before they went bankrupt.
Lil Lacey and her manager, Amelia, had it even worse. They had been blacklisted by the entire industry and had not been able to find a single way around the ban.
Their only options left were to either leave the country or change professions.
But there was no way they would just let this go. To them, this was all Levi Garrison’s fault. He had destroyed everything of theirs, and he had to pay!
He had to die!
They had been searching for an assassin to hire for several days now. Strangely enough, the underworld of North Hampton had been incredibly quiet, and they failed to find anyone.
In the end, they finally managed to locate a reliable killer who hailed from South City.
Presently, they were lounging on a luxuriously large bed in a five-star hotel. Both were stark naked as they cuddled against a man with a devil tattooed on his chest.
He was Quentin Lane, an underground boxer who they had only been able to hire through some connections.
Notorious in the illegal fighting rings for being ruthless, he had once killed forty-eight men in a single year.
Currently ranked number five in underground boxing, he was nicknamed ‘Devil’.
Other than boxing, he was also known for taking on contract jobs like killing or maiming someone. Whatever his mission was, he had never once failed.
Most people would not have been able to hire him. It was only because Lil Lacey and Amelia were willing to sleep with him that he had agreed to come. Of course, they still had to pay for his services.
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“Mr. Quentin, the underground in North Hampton has been strangely quiet recently. I couldn’t even find an assassin…” Lil Lacey pouted.
Quentin snorted and replied, “That’s because the God of War, Liam Macy, and the King of North Hampton, Jack Smith, have been taken out. Someone cleaned up the underworld, so that’s why nobody took up your contract.”
A worried look crossed her face, “Then are you sure you’ll be okay?”
“Hmph! The North Hampton rules can’t stop me. As long as I kill off the man and immediately return to South City, nobody can do anything to me!” Quentin said confidently.
In the past few years, a lot of rich people hired him to assassinate someone or another. It did not matter if it was within the nation or out; he had never once been caught after killing someone.
This time was no different to him, and he did not think much of his target.
With that, he pinned Lil Lacey beneath him…
One hour later, he got up to put on his clothes.
“Give me his photo. I’ll leave after I’m done with him,” he ordered.
Lil Lacey hastily handed a photo of Levi over to him.
Accepting it, he scrutinized the photo closely, memorizing the man’s features.
From beside him, Amelia piped up, “The money has already been transferred. Please check your account!”
“Alright. Wait for my good news; this shouldn’t take me more than an hour!”
Tossing that over his shoulder, Quentin left.
The two women exchanged gleeful expressions, their eyes shining coldly. “Levi Garrison, you dare to ruin us? Well, you can go to hell! This day next year would be the anniversary of your death!”
Quentin had not actually come alone. He had brought four men with him, each an excellent fighter themselves.
Stabbing a dagger through Levi’s photo to pin it to the table, he commanded, “Find out where he is!”
On the other side of things.
Levi was eating BBQ with Benny and Percy at the aptly named BBQ Street.
With his carefree personality, it was no surprise that Percy got along with Ben perfectly.
The three of them chatted happily about anything and everything under the sun, taking hearty gulps from their cups as they toasted each other.
Being a street that mostly sold food, the appearance of Quentin and his men did not attract too much attention.
However, the menacing aura they gave off had passers-by subconsciously backing away.
They stood just around the corner, spying on the three men drinking and eating BBQ.
One of the men Quentin had sent out came back to report, “Mr. Quentin, it’s confirmed. That man is Levi Garrison!”
Quentin nodded. “Okay. Everyone, wait for my signal!”
One of his subordinates queried, “What about the other two men?”
“Kill them too!” A bloodthirsty look entered Quentin’s eyes. Right now, Levi was nothing but another dead body in his mind.
“Three!”
“Two!”
“One!”
The group of five dashed toward Levi, with their hands tightly gripping the weapons hidden underneath their suit jackets.
Within seconds, they were upon the three unsuspecting men.
Or so they thought.
In truth, Levi and Percy had detected their presence long ago. They abruptly turned around, taking the five killers by surprise.
“Levi Garrison? Someone badly wants you dead. Now, die!”
Quentin pulled out a dagger from underneath his suit, the glade glinting coldly as he swung it toward Levi.
His four subordinates did the same, attacking Benny and Percy.
Their movements were as quick as lightning and as fluid as water. No wonder they were experts!
All Benny could see was the steel blade flying toward him as he froze to the spot in shock.
The speed was just too fast!
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A chill wrapped around Benny’s body, and he swore his blood was freezing in his veins.
At that moment, it was almost like his spirit had already left his body behind.
So this is what approaching death feels like!
Excitement coursed through Quentin at that moment. His weapon was less than one centimeter away from Levi’s neck now. All he had to do was stick it in, and his mission would be complete.
Ding!
The next instant, there was a ringing sound, and he could feel pressure being applied to the blade.
To his shock, Levi had halted the dagger by clenching it between two fingers.
Crack!
Unbelievably, all it took was a deft twist of his fingers, and the blade broke into two.
Squelch!
The broken dagger stabbed into Quentin’s body.
How terrifying!
Quentin had been underground boxing for twenty years, yet he had never seen a more terrifying man than Levi.
Thump! Thump!
…
Quentin stared in disbelief as his men were sent flying by Percy, blood spraying out of their mouths.
What kind of f***ing monsters are these two?
The five of them were some of the best fighters in the underworld, yet before these two men, they were practically trash!
Realizing there was no way they would win, he quickly called out, “Retreat!”
The five men scrambled to get out of there as fast as they could.
Before they could go far, a huge group of men came into sight at the end of the street ahead of them. There were at least a hundred men or more.
The veritable army of men charged toward Quentin and his ilk.
These were Nueve and Trey’s men. They had come to help the moment they caught wind of Levi being in trouble.
The assassins’ faces fell, and they turned around to head back in the other direction.
They had barely taken a few steps when another throng of men appeared before them.
These strongly-built men were different in that they had varying skin tones and were clearly foreigners.
Leading the group was none other than James.
“Holy c**p!”
Quentin could have torn his hair out with frustration as a cold sweat broke out all over his body.
Just who the hell did we ********? If I had known this man would be so powerful, I wouldn’t have come! Now I’m in deep sh**! Will I even survive this?!
“Lil Lacey, Amelia Mackie, you b**ches! You set me up!”
“Brothers, these men actually dared to attack Mr. Garrison! Get them!” James yelled.
Immediately, the two big groups of men swarmed the killers.
Even with their fighting prowess, Quentin and his men were already suffered injuries beforehand. There was also the fact that they were severely outnumbered. In no time at all, they were beaten till they were close to death. Countless bones had been broken, and their own blood stained them crimson.
To add insult to injury, they were tossed into dumpsters at the end.
Shortly after, Levi received a message and departed.
It was from Azure Dragon, who said he had already found out who sent the assassins.
At Hilton Hotel.
Lil Lacey and Amelia were growing more and more anxious as they waited in their hotel room.
One hour passed, and still, there was no news from Quentin.
Needless to say, they were more than a little worried.
“Why isn’t he reporting in?” Lil Lacey gripped her phone and stared at it intensely. It was as if by doing so, it would miraculously chime with a message or phone call.
Certain something was wrong, Amelia urged, “We should leave North Hampton right this instant! I keep getting the feeling like something bad is going to happen.”
“Alright!”
They quickly packed their bags before Amelia went to open the door.
Boom!
The door was slammed open with a kick from the outside.
Crash!
The force behind the kick was so much that Amelia was knocked unconscious by the door.
Azure Dragon and Levi appeared in the doorway.
“And where do you two think you’re going?” Levi asked with a smirk.
“What? How are you still alive?” Shock and fear shone in Lil Lacey’s eyes.
With a smile playing on his lips, he answered casually, “Hahaha, that’s because the men you sent to kill me are trash! I’m pretty sure they’re dead by now!”
“What? No, that’s impossible! He’s Quentin Lane, the Devil of the underground boxing ring. He’s supposed to be one of the best killers out there! There’s no way you could have survived him!” she shrieked madly.
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“You have been proven guilty of attempted murder. Men, take her away!”
At Levi’s words, Xavier Fields came into the room with a squad of police behind him. Within moments, Lil Lacey and the unconscious Amelia were arrested and dragged away.
Levi was not impressed by this so-called ‘Devil’.
The impudent fool thought he could kill him? Hah! He bit off more than he could chew.
Within the night, news of how the Devil of South City, Quentin Lane, had come to kill Levi but had been killed instead spread like wildfire.
“Hahaha! Does Garrison know no fear? Quentin Lane is the godson of Sebastian Lopez! Killing Lane is basically asking for death!” Winston Gonzales roared with laughter.
Una had an excited look on her face. “Grandpa, does this mean Garrison won’t be able to escape death this time?”
“Of course! Mr. Lopez doesn’t have any children of his own, so Lane was basically his everything. Garrison has really done it this time!” Winston stroked his beard as he chuckled.
“Hah! How dare he threatened our family? This is really karma coming to bite him in the ass!”
Una could already imagine what fate would befall Levi, and she just could not wait.
The appointment ceremony was three days away. Percy had gone back to North Hampton Warzone to prepare, so Levi also went back to work at the company.
Iris, who had just come out of a meeting, received a phone call. A few seconds later, she hung up with her face pale.
Everyone around her could tell something was off about her. One concerned staff asked, “Ms. Annabelle, is everything okay?”
She shook her head and replied, “I’m fine. Casey, could you prepare a car for me, please? I need to go out for a bit. Remember, no driver!”
After that, she left alone to head toward North Hampton International Airport.
When she arrived, a bespectacled man in a suit got in the car when he caught sight of her.
“Louis Lont, get out of my car! I never said you could come in. You’re going to dirty my seats!” she hissed furiously.
Louis took off his glasses and wiped his lens. A smile played on his lips as he said, “Iris, I’m your ex-boyfriend. You should be a little courteous at the very least, don’t you think? Why the sour attitude?”
Rage twisted her pretty face as she growled, “Hmph! Who would want to be courteous to a scumbag like you?”
When she went overseas, she had had a brief relationship with this man. To her disgust, it did not take her long to discover that he was a true scumbag. He had been with eight other women while they were still dating. Eight!
She had instantly demanded to break up and treated this incident as a matter of personal shame.
Proud as she was, she refused to let anyone know about her brief lapse in judgment. Hence, even Zoey did not know about him.
“Why did you come to pick me up at the airport if you didn’t still have any feelings toward me?” Louis chuckled.
He even had the audacity to try and grab Iris’ hand!
“Go away!”
She shoved him away violently and spat, “I didn’t come to pick you up. Just tell me what I have to do before you’ll hand over those things?”
“What’s the hurry? I’m a trustworthy person, really! I’ve helped you keep them secret for so many years and have never once shown them to anyone!”
“You – !” Iris gritted her teeth so hard her jaw ached.
Ever since they broke up, he had been holding a very personal secret of hers over her head and used it to blackmail her.
She had already given him several million in the past few years.
“Speak! How much before you’ll give them back to me?” she asked.
“What I want this time might be a little difficult for you, but you still have to agree. If you don’t, I can assure you that I’ll immediately release your secret to the public. You can be certain that your reputation will be ruined then!” he threatened.
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“You…” Iris was furious, yet there was nothing she could do about it.
She had thought she would be able to escape him by coming to North Hampton, yet here he was.
He was like a nightmare that she could never shake!
In a chilly tone, she queried, “What are your conditions? How much do you want this time?”
Snickering, he answered, “I don’t want money.”
Money was not something he was currently lacking. The North Hampton Chamber of Commerce had already paid him ten million to come here and had promised him forty million once he got the job done.
Indeed, they were going to use him to buy over Morris Group.
They had searched far and wide before they finally discovered him and his history with Iris. Realizing he held valuable blackmail material over her head, they had hired him to do their bidding.
This was one of the methods they loved to use to obtain other companies. They would either dig for blackmail material on the opposing company’s upper management or find the weakest link and use them to attack from within.
Another more ruthless method would be to threaten the upper management staff with their families’ lives.
When it came to forcefully buying over a company, loss of life was inevitable.
After all, the business world was like a battlefield.
Lives were lost and blood was shed.
…
This was why the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce was so confident in its ability to obtain Morris Group.
A confused expression crossed Iris’ face. “Huh? Then what do you want?”
Chuckling slyly, Louis stated, “I heard you’re some bigshot who controls Morris Group now. Your current net worth is probably more than one billion, right? You seem to be doing much better here than when you were overseas!”
A fissure of unease shot through the woman. In a cautious tone, she asked, “What do you want?”
“You’re in charge of Morris Group, aren’t you?”
“I’m only the vice president, but most of the decision-making power is in my hands.”
“So that would mean the president actually leaves you to deal with running the company?”
She nodded. “Yes, that’s right.”
“Great! Then you can make the decision right now if I want to buy over Morris Group, right?”
His words had the color draining from her face.
She shouted, “What? Are you crazy?! You want to buy over Morris Group? Do you have any idea how much the company is worth? Close to twenty billion! Where are you going to get that much money?”
“Well, not me per se, but my boss!” he amended.
The uneasy feeling in her grew, and she sensed there was something else going on here.
“Who’s your boss?”
“The North Hampton Chamber of Commerce! They deliberately sent me here to negotiate with you,” he declared as his eyes scrutinized her closely.
“What? The North Hampton Chamber of Commerce?” she repeated dumbly in shock.
The next second, realization dawned, and she could have slapped herself.
They were purposely using Louis to threaten her exactly because he held something of hers!
He uttered, “You have two options. One, Morris Group joins the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce and becomes one of their members. Two, they outright buy over Morris Group.”
Immediately, she shook her head. “No way! Morris Group and the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce are business competitors! Our company will never agree to join them.”
“They knew you wouldn’t agree. That’s why I’m here. You said you were in charge of Morris Group, didn’t you? Then I would suggest you seriously consider joining them. It would be better for you in the long run.” That infuriating smile was still curling his lips.
“Never! We’ll never join them no matter what! You can forget about it!” she refused.
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Tsking, Louis crooned, “Iris, do you seriously think you have a choice? If you don’t agree, I’ll share what I know with the public. I wonder what they’ll think about this rising star of the business world being such a s***ty woman in private?”
He casually glanced down at the magazine he held in his hands, where a picture of Iris smiled back at him.
It was the cover photo taken when the media had interviewed her previously.
Presently, she was probably even more popular than some other celebrities!
She knew if word got out about her secret, she would be ruined for life.
Thus, there was no way she could allow that to happen!
Foregoing her previous stubborn and hard attitude, she weakly protested, “No matter which option it is, I can’t make this decision for the company!”
He spoke up in a confident voice, “Who are you trying to fool? The North Hampton Chamber of Commerce is well-aware you call the shots in the company. All it takes is one sentence from you, and the company is sold!”
Iris felt her mind go blank. They had come after her specifically, which meant they had already planned out everything.
More importantly, she really did have the power to sell the company.
It would not be illegal either. She could just walk off without having to look over her back all the time.
Having given her the stick earlier, Louis thought he would give her the carrot now. “Think about it; even if you offend someone in the process of doing this, the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce will still back you up. They can also promise you the job position you want!”
“Oh yes, by the way, this offer only lasts for today. If you still can’t make up your mind, I’m going to release your secret!”
Face ashen, Iris asked, “One day is too short! Can’t you give me more time?”
“Sure! You just have to meet me at Wonder Hotel tonight. Also, remember to bring ten million with you. Otherwise, no dice!”
With that said, Louis exited the car without waiting for Iris to say anything.
As he walked off, he called Eric’s son, Phineas, “Mr. Robinson, it’s done! That b***h Iris will definitely sell off Morris Group within three days!”
“Good job. Have another ten million for your efforts!”
“Thank you, Mr. Robinson!”
Hanging up, he was beyond ecstatic.
“Looks like Lady Luck is smiling on me! At this rate, I’ll be able to earn 60 million AND sleep with Iris! What a wonderful day!”
Although he had Iris’ most personal secret as blackmail, the two of them had not actually slept together before she found out about him dating eight women simultaneously.
That was probably one of his biggest regrets, but it would seem he would finally have the chance.
Iris was slumped in her car seat with a look of absolute despair on her face.
If only she had not been so stupid as to allow him to find her secret…
But hindsight was twenty-twenty, and there was nothing she could do to change the past.
If she were being honest with herself, she felt like that secret of hers was more important than even her life.
She really would kill herself if that got out.
“What do I do? Should I really sell off Morris Group?”
She had no idea what she was supposed to do now.
“Either way, I should head back to the company first.”
She knew what Louis meant by tonight. He was forcing her to sleep with him to extend the time limit he gave.
Lost in a daze, she did not know how she managed to drive back to the company.
Screech! Bang!
Just in front of the company building, she rammed right into another car.
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The other driver got out of his car, yelling furiously, “What the hell? Are you blind or something? My signal lights were clearly on, yet why did you continue forward and crash into me? You – Eh? Iris?”
It took Levi several moments to register that the other driver was Iris.
To think he had just been cursing how the driver was swerving around the road like a drunken person!
Levi’s loud voice snapped Iris back to her senses. “Huh? What happened?”
His voice was cold as he demanded, “What the heck, you were out of it the whole time? You hit my car!”
He got the feeling something was not quite right with the woman today. She seemed incredibly distracted.
Had something happened?
“Oh. Sorry?” she apologized sheepishly.
After that, she called the garage, and the two cars were towed away.
Frowning slightly, he queried, “Hey, are you okay?”
“I’m fine!” she murmured vaguely.
Levi suddenly said, “Your bra strap is showing!”
“What? Where?” She turned her head to check over herself. It was several beats later before it occurred to her that he was lying.
Pushing this incident to the back of his mind, Levi made his way to his office in the technical department. As usual, he settled down to have some tea and a smoke.
Isaiah approached him, saying, “Mr. Garrison, we don’t have enough technicians in the department, so I wish to cultivate some more men.”
“Okay. Go ahead!” Levi answered.
Isaiah continued hesitantly, “But we would need a huge sum of money for that…”
“Money isn’t a problem. You can cultivate whoever you wish; just let me know, and I’ll arrange it!”
“Got it, Mr. Garrison!” Isaiah replied in a delighted tone.
He really enjoyed working with Levi.
Everybody could tell Iris had something on her mind as she seemed incredibly absent-minded today.
She had not reviewed a single document and had basically sat there in her chair dumbly for many hours.
Everyone who worked with her closely on a daily basis was worried about their boss. She used to be so passionate and energetic, nothing at all like the zombie she was today.
“Maybe she’s on her period?”
This was the only explanation anyone could come up with.
On the other side of things.
Having suddenly obtained twenty million in a day, Louis was currently enjoying himself at a nightclub.
There were more than a dozen beauties in the small private room he was in, and he had his arms wrapped around the closest two.
“Lont, you little sh**, you’ve really hit the jackpot this time!”
The voice who had spoken belonged to a bald man sitting near him. This was Zack, the boss of Bar Street. Some of the biggest bars in North Hampton were under his protection.
Around Zack were several of his most capable men, each built like an ox.
Last time, Louis used to lead an adulterous life and could often be found spending his nights in nightclubs. That was how he grew so familiar with all these thugs.
In the end, it was because of his gambling addiction that he had borrowed more than one million from Zack. Unable to pay the thug back, he ran off overseas to escape his clutches.
Now that he was back and had obtained such a huge sum of money, he wanted to return the money he borrowed.
“Zack, give me your account number, and I’ll transfer you the money immediately!”
One million was practically nothing to Louis now. He had plans to remain in North Hampton for the foreseeable future and would need to maintain a good relationship with Zack if he wanted to run a business here.
Zack puffed on a cigarette, a sleazy smirk on his lips. “By the way, I heard you’re planning on sleeping with Iris Annabelle from Morris Group tonight?”
“That’s right! I hold her deepest, darkest secret in my hands, so she has to spend the night with me!” Louis answered smugly.
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Zack chuckled and responded, “Just the thought of that b***h has me hungry!”
One of his subordinates piped up, “Yeah! She has a smoking hot body. With how cold and innocent she acts all the time, imagine how she would be like in bed!”
Ever since they saw Iris on the front of the magazine, they lost all interest in other women.
It did not matter that there were more than a dozen other beautiful women in the room with them now, all Zack wanted was her.
Compared to her, these women were nothing.
Zack smacked a meaty hand down on Louis’ shoulder. “How about this, Lont. You let us get a turn at her tonight, and I’ll forget all about the money you owe me! Also, from here on out, you’ll be my brother, and I’ll protect you from everything!”
Louis instantly agreed, “Sure! You can have first dibs, Zack, and I’ll go second. The rest of your men should come too! Let’s all see for ourselves how good she can be in bed, shall we? Hehehe…”
“Hahaha, good man!” Zack could not wait!
One of his men asked, “Boss, do we need to prepare some equipment?”
A wicked smile twisted Zack’s face in response. “But of course!”
…
In her office, Iris was staring off into space when her phone rang.
It was Louis.
“Iris, it’s nearly time for you to get off of work. Have you made up your mind yet?”
Clenching her teeth, she squeezed out, “I-I…I have…”
“Okay, then head to Wonder Hotel after you get off work. I’ll come down to personally escort you to my room.”
After he hung up, Louis told Zack and the rest about the good news.
They were absolutely delighted and anticipation had them hurrying to the hotel as quick as they could.
At last, it was time to get off work.
Iris transferred one million to a bank card and stuffed a pair of scissors into her bag before she left her office.
Her actions had the staff feeling puzzled.
Before, she would always work overtime till eleven or even twelve midnight. Yet today she’s leaving at six?
How strange…
But they were just her subordinates, so they did not bother themselves too much with her personal life.
At that moment, Levi finally woke up from his long nap. Stretching out the kinks in his back, he got ready to head back home.
“Don’t you guys think Ms. Annabelle has been acting so oddly today? She hasn’t gotten any work done at all and seemed strangely preoccupied with something.”
“I know, right? It’s so abnormal to see her like this. I’m sure she isn’t on her period either. It’s so weird!”
“I think it started this morning after she got that phone call…”
…
As Levi walked through the company, he overheard some women gossiping about Iris.
Their words had him freezing as a bad feeling rose in his gut.
“Oh no, I think she’s in trouble!” he muttered to himself.
He thought the car accident earlier this morning was a random event.
But it was starting to seem like there was really something strange going on here.
He hurriedly called Phoenix. “I need you to find out where Iris has been and who she’s talked to today!”
“Understood, Sir!”
…
At this time, Iris had arrived at Wonder Hotel.
Louis was already waiting for her in the lobby.
Taking a deep breath to steel herself, she headed toward him.
“We’re not in any hurry, so let me check the money first.”
Despite his eagerness to sleep with her, he still had his head on straight.
He had to get the ten million first before he would indulge himself.
Satisfied he had the money, he lead the way upstairs.
Clutching her handbag tighter, Iris followed along behind him meekly.
A few minutes later, they entered the presidential suite he booked.
Before she could say anything, five men walked out from the depths of the suite.
The baldheaded man at the front was watching her with a greedy smile on his lips…
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Sensing a bad vibe from these men, Iris backed away warily.
“Who are you guys? What do you want?”
Rubbing his hands together, Zack replied, “Babe, no need to be scared. I just wanna be friends with you! Hehehe…”
The rest of the men chortled as they neared her. “Yeah, baby! We all just want to be friends.”
“Louis Lont, you bastard! I’m leaving!”
Spinning around, Iris made to leave but was too slow.
In a flash, Zack had moved between her and the door. Locking it, he turned to step closer to her.
“Why the hurry to leave, babe? I promise I’ll be gentle!” he leered as his eyes seemed to be undressing her.
Louis sniggered and stated, “Iris, meet Zack. Don’t worry… He just wants to get to know you better!”
Feeling trapped, she shouted, “Louis, what the hell is the meaning of this? What are you trying to do? Have you already forgotten about the deal with the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce?”
Louis twitched slightly as he was reminded of his primary reason for being back in the country.
“Well, didn’t you say you wanted more time? Fine, I’ll make a deal with you! If you sleep with all of us tonight, I can give you three more days. Decline, and I’ll let the whole world see those photos of yours! Oh wait, I have a better idea. Zack, you guys wanna see her private photos? I can show them to you!”
Clearly impatient, Zack was quick to agree, “Of course! Hurry up and let me see them!”
“Wait!” Iris yelled in frustration and anger, “Louis Lont, you’re a devil!”
“Thank you for the compliment!” Louis laughed.
She insisted firmly, “I’ll pay you twenty million, but I’m not doing anything else with you.”
“Zack, just do it! This woman is very conservative and proud. She values her reputation above all else. So as long as we record everything, she’ll definitely listen to us from now on!” Louis revealed.
“Hell yeah! I’ve been waiting a long while for this!”
Zack was about to pounce on her when she pulled out the scissors from her bag.
“Don’t come any closer!” she threatened as she swiped at them with the weapon.
Zack took one step forward before he swiftly punched her wrist. The pain had her yelping and dropping the scissors.
Instantly, she was swarmed by the men, and they dragged her to the bedroom.
Thump!
Zack tossed her unceremoniously on the bed.
Tears of shame and fear dripped down her face.
Despair!
Utter despair!
She had underestimated how heartless Louis could be.
Now there was no one to help her.
All kinds of recording equipment had been set up in the room as well.
She was doomed!
Just the thought of what was about to happen had her wishing to commit suicide.
Eager to get started, Zack hastily undressed and swallowed some pills.
“Let’s begin, eh, boys?”
Just as he was about to crawl on the bed, a voice drawled from behind them.
“What fun this looks like. Do you guys mind if I join the party?”
Louis, Zack, and the other men whipped around in shock, only to see Levi standing there smoking.
“Who are you? What are you doing in my room?” Louis demanded.
A savage expression crossed Zack’s face, and he snarled, “Get him, boys! Beat him up good! I absolutely loathe it when people interrupt me just as I’m getting down to business!”
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At Zack’s order, his four subordinates lunged toward Levi.
A bloodthirsty look flashed through his eyes. His hand came up in a fist, and he punched the first thug.
Thump!
The thug sailed back a dozen meters before crashing against the wall heavily. When he fell to the floor, he did not move to get up again.
Wham!
Another punch sent another thug flying back.
The last two had it the worst.
Two vicious kicks to the crotch downed them like two sacks of potatoes.
They rolled around on the floor, clutching their lower bodies while letting out pained howls.
Everyone present was dumbfounded.
Who knew that Levi would be so brutal in his attacks?
Schick!
Zack yanked out a dagger from nowhere and stabbed it toward Levi, who dodged it with ease.
Wanting to have another ago, Zack abruptly found his wrist squeezed in a pincer-like grip.
Snatching the dagger from the thug’s hand, Levi threw it aside before punching the man.
Agony exploded through Zack’s body, and he screamed in pain.
All the blood had drained from Louis’ face, and he was as pale as a ghost.
Huge beads of sweat dripped down the sides of his face, wetting his already soaked shirt.
How frightening!
Levi’s deadly gaze slowly moved to land on him.
“I-I…It wasn’t me…I d-didn’t…T-this has nothing to do with m-me…”
He was so terrified that he was babbling.
Levi questioned, “You have some personal secret of Iris’, don’t you?”
Louis shook his head furiously. “N-no, I-I don’t…”
Levi did not speak, merely cracked his knuckles menacingly.
“Y-yeah, I d-do…”
Stretching his hand out, Levi wiggled his fingers. “Give it here.”
“Well…” Louis hesitated.
“Pfft!” Levi’s fist smashed into Louis, causing the man to scream in pain.
“Give it to me,” Levi repeated.
Knowing the consequences of his hesitation, Louis handed his briefcase over to Levi.
“They’re in my briefcase!”
Accepting it, Levi opened it up to reveal a stack of photos and a USB drive.
“Do you have any more copies?” He punched the other man for added measure.
Wailing in pain, Louis truthfully replied, “No! I already planned on giving her everything! With her strong personality, I knew she would kill herself if I pushed any further!”
“That’s good.” A cold glint appeared in his eyes, and his leg lashed out.
“AHHHH!” At that moment, Louis experienced what all men dreaded the most as excruciating pain flared in his body. His whole body was flushed red as he cradled his family jewels, rolling around on the floor.
Struggling to look at Levi, he gasped out, “Y-y-you went back o-on your w-word!”
An innocent smile curled Levi’s lips. “Did I ever say I wouldn’t touch you after you gave me the items?”
“I…” By then, the pain was getting too much, and Louis was close to passing out.
The last thing he heard was Levi saying, “Since you guys can’t seem to control your desires, I’ll help you!”
Lighting up a cigarette, he watched the moaning men on the floor with a grin tugging at his lips.
Just then, the unconscious Iris woke up.
The first person she saw was Levi, standing there calmly as he smoked.
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Then, Iris saw how Louis and the rest of the men were holding their crotches and whimpering in pain.
Scared and confused, she scurried to Levi’s side.
She asked, “D-did you save me?”
Smiling, he nodded and replied, “Yeah. Of course I was the one who saved you.”
Glancing around, she could not help disbelieving him. “Impossible! There’s no way you’re my savior!”
He frowned at her words.
Is there something wrong with this woman? Does she see anyone else around here?
“It must be the big boss! Yes, he must have rescued me!” she cried out in agitation.
Speechless and annoyed, he muttered, “Yeah, that’s right. He was the one who saved you.”
Technically, he was the big boss, so what she said was true.
“Is he here?” she asked eagerly while scanning the room.
“Nope. The men he sent here have already left. He told me to take you back home.”
“Alright then, let’s go!”
As Iris moved to take a step forward, her knees buckled, and she couldn’t walk an inch. Then, she turned to look at Levi helplessly.
Shaking his head wryly, he mumbled, “How troublesome.”
In the end, he had no choice but to carry her on his back.
Before he left, he made sure to confiscate Louis’ phone.
Sprawled against his back, she felt oddly warm and safe.
Maybe he’s not such a bad person after all.
Even though the person who had saved her was the big boss, the one who was bringing her away from this hell was still Levi.
She burst into tears when she recalled how her secret was still in Louis’ hands.
As if realizing what she was crying about, he handed her a briefcase.
When she saw the contents of the bag, her tears stopped.
“You didn’t sneak a peek, did you?” she asked suspiciously.
“I’m not interested in you at all!” was his reply.
She seethed furiously, “You…”
But what was more important was that she had finally gotten these items back.
These were actually photos of her in revealing clothing or other more explicit photos.
For someone as conservative and proud as her, she did not want her image ruined by having these leaked out.
Louis had copied these from her computer without her knowing when they had still been dating.
Ever since then, he used these as blackmail material for all these years to ransom money from her.
“By the way, don’t tell Zoey about this matter!” she suddenly uttered.
Getting a little annoyed with her, he said impatiently, “I don’t have time to gossip about you.”
She fell silent, pressing her face against his back.
While she felt like Levi was a useless person and did not have many praiseworthy traits, it was incredibly hard to find a man as reliable as him nowadays.
No wonder Zoey refused to let him go no matter what.
After sending Iris back home, Levi went back as well.
“Hmm? Why do I smell a woman’s perfume on you? And blood?” Zoey’s sharp nose immediately detected these unusual smells.
“Huh? Really?” He did not smell anything.
“You even have a woman’s hair on you!” she accused as she plucked a long hair from his shirt.
He hurriedly explained, “It belongs to Iris!”
“Why were you two so close?” She puffed her cheeks up in anger and glared at him. Jealousy flashed in her eyes.
She did not care that it was her best friend; nobody was allowed to be in such close contact with him!
“I-I…”
He did not know what to say. He wanted to explain what had happened, but Iris had insisted he keep her secret.
“I see. Can’t explain it, can you? Well, since you two are so intimate with each other, we should get a divorce! You can go live with her then!”
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Levi was dumbstruck at the extent of Zoey’s jealousy.
She was even packing her stuff and getting ready to leave!
Fortunately for him, Iris arrived at that moment.
She was traumatized by her earlier experience and was scared to sleep alone tonight. That was why she had come to find Zoey.
Seems like the two of them are arguing over me.
Hastily fabricating a lie, she explained, “Zoey, please don’t misunderstand! I twisted my ankle, and it took me a lot of effort to convince him to carry me back home.”
Zoey relaxed. “Oh. Darling, I’m so sorry for wrongfully blaming you!”
Smiling, he replied, “Honey, you never have to worry. I’m not interested in this woman at all!”
“As if I would be interested in you!” Iris retorted.
Yet somehow, those words seemed wrong the moment they left her lips.
That night, the two women shared a bed while Levi slept in another room.
At the same time.
At Emperor Hotel, Phineas Robinson was busy hosting a very esteemed guest.
This guest came from the Lopez family and held a venerable position in the family.
Only someone from the main Robinson family had the rights to host this person.
It was none other than Wesley. He was here on behalf of the Lopez family for an event.
“Phineas, do you know who Nueve, Trey, and Levi are?” he asked curiously.
The other man replied, “Of course! Levi is currently the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce’s enemy number one!”
“How powerful are they?” Wesley pressed.
“Not that weak, but nothing compared to the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce. Why the sudden interest in these insignificant men?” Phineas wondered.
Wesley sighed. “Well, you know how my second uncle’s godson was killed here in North Hampton two days ago? These three are the culprits.”
Phineas nearly jumped out of his seat in shock. “What? Mr. Lopez’s godson was killed here in North Hampton? I thought his godson was Quentin Lane, the Devil of the underground boxing ring!”
Wesley sighed again. “Yeah. Quentin was supposed to be one of the best fighters out there, yet he still croaked. That’s why I’m asking you about those three men.”
“Well, I would say there’s nothing extraordinary about them. They probably used some sly tricks to kill off Lane. Does Mr. Lopez want revenge? I can help him!”
Wesley shook his head. “No! Quentin is Uncle’s favorite, and now that he’s dead, Uncle is way beyond furious. He vows to get revenge personally! I’m only here as a scout to find out some things for him. As for how we’re going to get revenge on Garrison, that will have to wait for Uncle’s arrival.”
“Mr. Lopez is coming to North Hampton? That would really shake things up!”
Just the thought of it had Phineas shuddering in fear.
Garrison has really done it this time! Of all the men he could have pissed off, he had to ******** the one with the title of Hades!
“Oh, by the way, Wesley, I’m not sure if you know this, but Levi Garrison is part of Morris Group. I’m guessing this incident has something to do with them. Otherwise, why else would he have dared to touch a hair on Lane’s head?”
Phineas deliberately brought Morris Group into the mix, wanting to shift the other man’s ire toward the company.
There was a frosty look in Wesley’s eyes when he answered, “I know. Someone must be backing Garrison up, or he wouldn’t have had the guts to make such huge waves. I don’t care who it is; we’ll deal with them as well!”
Phineas chuckled.
After Wesley left, Phineas abruptly thought of Louis.
“I wonder how things are going on his side? We’re in a hurry here!”
He dialed the other man’s number. Before the latter had a chance to speak, he queried, “How are things, Louis?”
“I’m afraid Louis has been, ah, crippled.”
The voice coming from the other side of the phone had Phineas tensing.
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In a terrified voice, Phineas demanded, “Who are you?”
“Levi Garrison!”
“What? You’re Levi Garrison?” The shock he was feeling bled into his voice.
Speak of the devil indeed.
“W-what did you do to Louis?”
“I already told you. I crippled him,” Levi said with a chuckle.
Just then, one of Phineas’s men came hurrying over with a box. “Mr. Robinson, somebody sent this to you.”
Curious, he ordered, “What is it? Open it!”
When he saw the bloody contents of the box, he turned as white as a sheet.
“This is…”
Levi’s voice spoke up from the phone, “Louis’ manhood, of course.”
Sucking in a breath, Phineas felt sick. “Garrison, you sick man!”
Levi laughed before saying, “He couldn’t control his lower body, so I took the liberty of controlling it for him.”
A thought occurred to Phineas, and he questioned, “Does this mean Iris’ secrets are with you now?”
“Yup. You should give up on trying to buy over Morris Group.”
“Damn you, what the hell does this have to do with you? You’re just an insignificant staff member!”
Phineas was infuriated. Things had been going so well until that damned Garrison had come along to mess it up!
“You went after my wife’s best friend. Enough said. Besides, I’m a part of this company too! Who do you think got them all those medical supplies?”
A look of confusion descended on Phineas’ face. “What? I was wondering how Morris Group managed to obtain all those technologies. It was you!”
In the next instant, he understood.
It was not Neil Atkinson who had dipped his finger in the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce’s pie, nor was it the mysterious boss of Morris Group.
It was Levi Garrison!
He had somehow gotten his hands on all those technologies!
This guy has to die!
“I’ll say this again. You better not have any ideas about Morris Group!” Levi warned.
“Fine! I’ll admit defeat this time. But this isn’t the end of this matter!”
After Phineas hung up, he knitted his brows deeply.
There was no way he could let Levi go just like that.
But with the appointment ceremony coming up, this would be a bad time for the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce to be involved in any shady business.
“That’s right! Wesley!”
That night, he rushed to meet with Wesley.
“Wesley, I know you said you were only here to find out more information on Levi Garrison, but I think you should just get rid of them once and for all. That way, you could take credit for their deaths. I’m sure Mr. Lopez will be incredibly grateful to you for that!” Phineas suggested.
Wesley’s eyes gleamed. Although Sebastian Lopez was not the head of the Lopez family, his words still carried a lot of weight. Other than the head of the family, he did not respect anyone else.
If he, Wesley, really did resolve this matter, then Mr. Lopez would definitely hold him in high regard. When that happened, the chances of him becoming the man’s heir would be very high.
“You have any ideas, Phineas?” he asked.
Phineas chuckled slyly. “I’m sure you’ve heard about what’s been going on with the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce recently, so you should also know that now is a bad time for us to do anything. I can lend you my men to deal with Garrison.”
Still uncertain, Wesley asked worriedly, “But they must be pretty strong if they can kill Lane.”
“Relax! The men I’m loaning you are all top-notch fighters. The Robinson family went to great lengths and spent a lot of money on cultivating these killers. All thirty of them have been raised since young to be the perfect killers and have learned all kinds of fighting skills. I bet you even the elites of the military are no match for them!”
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“These men are stone-cold killers. As long as you pay them, they’ll be willing to kill anyone you want! Nueve and Trey are nothing compared to them!”
Phineas snapped his fingers, and thirty men filed into the room.
Each was solidly built with bulging muscles, not a hint of fat on any of them. Their faces were blank, but a murderous look was apparent in their eyes.
Even Wesley was taken aback at the intense and menacing aura they projected.
Never had he ever seen such malicious-looking men, even in the South Warzone.
Excitement coursed through him and he exclaimed, “Alright! If this mission succeeds, I promise I’ll make it up to you in the future!”
For the rest of the night, he was so excited that he could hardly sleep.
The next day.
Levi, Zoey, and Iris left the house together to head to work.
“I’ll make an exception today and take you to work,” Iris offered as she opened the car door and gestured for the man to get in.
Zoey nodded in permission, asking him to get in as well.
At that moment, in a private villa somewhere.
Nueve was lying on a bed with two women snuggled up on each side.
Crash!
The window was smashed open before ten men charged inside aggressively.
Nueve leaped to his feet, shouting, “Who are you?”
Wham!
The man in the lead, an expert in Muay Thai, knocked Nueve unconscious with one blow.
Meanwhile, in another private condominium apartment.
Trey had just gotten out of bed when someone knocked on his front door.
He had barely opened the door when several men barged inside. Before he could react, they knocked him out cold.
Back at Bayview Garden, Iris had only just started up the car and driven a few meters when –
Screech!
A van suddenly blocked her way, causing her to slam on the brakes.
Ten men exited the van before making their way to her car.
“Roll down the windows, now!”
Terrified, Iris did as ordered with trembling hands.
By contrast, Levi seemed completely unfazed. He still had an arm hanging out the window lazily.
The man in charge took out a photo and glanced between it and Levi. “You’re Levi Garrison?”
Levi nodded. “That’s me. What’s up?”
“Come with us quietly, or suffer the consequences!”
“Why should I?” Levi retorted.
“Because you pissed off someone!”
Frowning, Levi mused, “Who did I offend?”
Getting impatient, the man growled, “Hurry up and come with us! Don’t force our hands!”
“I can go with you, but at the very least tell me who it is?”
“Listen closely! You pissed off Sebastian Lopez of the South City Lopez family. Thus, you have to die today!”
The man directly yanked open the car door and dragged Levi out.
Levi did not resist, allowing himself to be taken to the van. He wanted to get a look at who was after him this time.
Slam!
The van door slammed shut before departing swiftly.
Iris could only stare off into space in shock.
Just then, Zoey came driving past.
Iris quickly hailed her. In a teary voice, she cried out, “Zoey! Something terrible has happened; Levi has been kidnapped!”
Zoey paled rapidly. “What? Levi was abducted?”
She felt herself grow faint at the thought.
Anxiety swamped her as she demanded, “Who did it? We have to save him!”
Iris repeated what she had heard earlier, “I think they said it was Sebastian Lopez of the South City Lopez family. I wonder who he is? The man also said that Levi had to die today!”
Zoey’s eyes brightened at the name. “The South City Lopez family? I have to find Grandpa; he’ll know what’s going on!”
Equally worried, Iris insisted, “Let me come too! Nothing must happen to Levi!”
Ever since he had saved her last night, she had changed her views on the man.
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The moment Levi was pushed into the van, his captors had blindfolded him to prevent him from seeing where they were going.
He took this chance to rest his eyes as his posture slowly relaxed.
Soon, the van drove through the gates of a private villa.
This was the personal property of the Lopez family in North Hampton, and nearly no one knew about it.
Levi was pulled out of the car before being taken to the basement.
When his blindfold was taken off, he saw Nueve and Trey kneeling beside him. Their faces were swollen badly, showing they had taken a beating before he had arrived.
The two men were clearly surprised to see him. “Mr. Garrison, you too?”
Levi shot them a smile but did not speak.
Though, the sight of him served to relax the two men.
They had been worried about whether they would survive this, but now that he was here, there was nothing to worry about anymore.
Nueve bellowed, “Who are you? Do you have any idea who we are?”
The thirty men remained silent, merely staring at them with killer intent in their eyes.
At that moment, the door swung open, and several men walked inside.
The middle-aged man walking at the front was dressed in a black suit, with a pair of golden-rimmed glasses perched on his nose.
He sneered, “Levi Garrison, Trey, and Nueve, right?”
“Who the f*** are you?” Trey demanded.
“Let me introduce myself. I am Wesley Lopez of the South City Lopez family!”
“What? The South City Lopez family?” Nueve and Trey exchanged glances with grim expressions.
Comparing the Robinsons to the Lopez family was like comparing a kitten to a tiger. The latter was the biggest family in South City.
While North Hampton took the lead in economic development, South City was just better in general for everything else.
“You know the guy you killed, Quentin Lane? He’s my uncle’s godson.”
Nueve and Trey nodded. “Yeah, we did. However, we only retaliated because he tried to kill Mr. Garrison first!”
Wesley’s expression darkened at their words. “The way you phrase it makes it sound like you both answer to him?”
The two men snickered before Trey spoke up, “But of course! We live to serve Mr. Garrison!”
“It doesn’t matter what you do to us, but your biggest mistake was going after Mr. Garrison!” Nueve added meaningfully.
“Hmm? Why?” A sliver of unease rose in Wesley.
…
Zoey and Iris got to the Lopez family residence as fast as they could.
When Harry caught sight of Zoey, he snorted. “Why have you decided to grace us with your presence so early in the morning?”
“Grandpa, I need your help!” Zoey said tearfully.
At her words, Harry and the rest of the family guffawed.
“To think a day would come where you come asking us for help! You’re the great president, Ms. Lopez, aren’t you?” Henry mocked.
If she had to, Zoey would get down on her knees and beg. As it was, she pleaded, “Grandpa, Levi has been kidnapped! Please save him!”
“Hahaha! Isn’t this just perfect? He pissed off someone he shouldn’t have and is going to get killed for it!”
“Yeah! Good riddance, I say! Rather than leave such trash lying around in the family, might as well get rid of him as soon as possible!”
…
Everyone was chortling merrily at the news of Levi’s misfortune.
Harry took this chance to suggest, “Zoey, Grandpa thinks what has happened to Levi is a good thing as well. You can use this opportunity to divorce him and marry someone else.”
“Grandpa, I won’t divorce him, ever! All I want to do know is save him. Only you can help him now! Please, help us!”
With a thump, Zoey fell to her knees before Harry.
“Zoey Lopez! Have you gone mad? You’re actually kneeling for a rapist?”
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“Yeah! What’s so great about that little weasel? Is it really worth it for you to resort to this?” Everyone muttered angrily.
Harry furrowed his brow and asked, “Did you say I was the only one who could save him? What did you mean by that?”
“Grandpa snatched a member of the South City Lopez Family! He got on the bad side of someone named Sebastian!” Zoey truthfully reported.
“What? The South City Lopez family? Sebastian?”
Fear struck Harry like a bolt of lightning, turning his legs to jelly.
“What’s wrong with the South City Lopez family. Grandpa?” Shaun asked, puzzled.
“You may be unaware, but we are distantly related to the South City Lopez family. We’re part of the massive Lopez clan. Let me put it this way. We, the South Hampton family, are still leagues away from the South City Lopez family. They would not even grace us with a second look, much less permit us to recognize them as blood relatives! This Sebastian character is even more frightening. His nickname is Hades, and he’s notorious for slaughtering people without mercy! Offending him is the equivalent of earning a ticket to hell!”
After Harry’s elucidation of the situation set in, chills ran up Zoey’s spine.
Levi pissed off such a demon?
This is even more terrifying than the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce!
What do we do now?
“Grandpa, you’re familiar with the South City Lopez Family. You have to know of a way to save Levi!” Zoey burst out, her voice tinged with anxiety.
Harry only shook his head. “Impossible! I’m but a mere bug in the eyes of the South City Lopez Family! I have no right to vouch for Levi at all!”
“I’m begging you, Grandpa! I can’t let anything happen to Levi! Please!” Zoey pleaded desperately, tears raining down her cheeks.
“It’s too difficult! It might end up causing trouble for our family!” Harry shook his head helplessly.
“Grandpa, please help me out just this once! I want to give it our best shot at the very least!” Zoey was out of options.
Harry was unconvinced.
“Please try Grandpa! I’ll agree to anything!” Zoey’s tears gushed out of her eyes.
At her words, Harry’s eyes lit up. “Okay. You said it yourself. You’ll really agree to anything I say?”
Zoey nodded vigorously. “Yes. I will. Grandpa, as long as you save Levi, I swear I’ll do anything you want!”
“Okay then. I’ll see what I can do! If Levi makes it out, you are to transfer the entire company to me and back out of your own accord!” Harry announced.
Zoey froze. Sadness crept over her heart.
Even at a time like this.
Grandpa still chose to plot against her.
“Fine. You have my word!”
She was ready to sacrifice everything in order to save Levi.
“Your word isn’t enough. We’ll sign a contract to seal the deal!” Harry said.
Henry immediately typed out a contract.
After reading through the terms, Zoey signed it.
The Lopezes were delighted.
All of Zoey’s inheritance was finally theirs.
It had been a long and arduous wait for this day.
They trusted Harry inexplicably.
Since he had given his word, success was guaranteed.
Harry was extremely confident.
Decades ago, he had attended one of the Lopez family’s annual meetings. He was granted assurance that the South City Lopez family would support all the family branches.
The South City Lopez family promised to help them with one instance.
Harry had been holding on to this chip for years.
He was wisely biding his time in order to wait for the perfect opportunity.
A window of opportunity had finally shown itself.
After all, Zoey’s inheritance was worth close to a billion.
“Okay, let me call and try!” Harry grabbed the receiver of the landline.
“Hello Sir, I am Harry from North Hampton. Unfortunately, I’m calling to trouble you. I would like to activate the promise given to me at the annual meeting!”
“Are you certain you want to use it now, Harry? You only get one chance!” The voice on the other end of the call coldly warned.
“Yes, I’m sure!” Harry nodded enthusiastically.
“Okay then. What do you need?”
Harry recounted Levi’s situation to the Lopez family.
A moment later, a call was returned.
“The matter has been settled. Sebastian agreed to let him go!”
The South City Lopez family was unaware of Wesley’s scheme. Sebastian only agreed to let the matter regarding Levi rest.
Harry was absolutely overwhelmed by this result.
Both Zoey and Iris let out sighs of relief.
Levi was safe.
“Someone print the final contract for the transfer! Once Levi shows his face, we’re signing it!” Harry could not be more eager.
Although bitterness pricked her, Zoey had no regrets.
If Levi’s safe, losing him for the company is worth it!
Meanwhile, in the underground cellar of the Lopez family’s private manor.
Wesley glared daggers at Levi and the rest. “I don’t care who you are! No matter what it takes, I’m taking your decapitated heads to my uncle! Someone come and chop their heads down now!”
After issuing his order, Wesley turned to avoid the imminently gruesome scene.
Thirty men lunged forward, poised to strike Levi and the rest.
With a loud bang, Levi managed to escape his bonds and struck his attacker.
His victim was sent flying across the room.
Another loud bang resonated. This time, he had launched a spinning kick which propelled another attacker backwards.
Levi was taking on the battle by himself.
He weaved into the crowd, throwing a series of rapid attacks. Each extension of his limb resulted in the collapse of at least one of his opponents.
Within thirty seconds, all thirty mercenaries were sprawled over the ground.
All of them had at least seven or eight broken bones.
Nueve and Trey were frozen in shock.
They had never seen Levi in action and assumed he was a regular man.
Neither expected him to be a master of combat!
Wesley sensed that something was wrong and slowly turned around.
The moment he turned, terror seized him.
All the trained experts were defeated?
It’s insanely impressive!
“Sebastian was it? Send him a gift on my behalf!” Levi stalked over and came to a stop right in front of Wesley.
Wesley spluttered, “What gift?”
Bang!
One swift kick to the shin and a horrible cracking sound echoed through the room.
Crack!
Crack!
Crack!
Three more kicks followed in succession. All of Wesley’s limbs had been broken.
With a strangled howl of agony, Wesley finally understood what Levi meant by ‘gift’.
He succumbed to the darkness shortly after.
“Dig into the identities of these people! They were no ordinary men!” Levi instructed Nueve and Trey.
Once they departed the manor, Levi started on his journey back to Zoey.
In the Lopez family residence.
“Grandpa, is Levi out of danger yet?” Zoey urgently pressed.
“I’m sure he’s fine, Sebastian gave his word that he would drop the matter!” Harry muttered dismissively.
“Let’s give it a while more. As a last resort, we’ll just call the police!” Iris did not trust the Lopez family at all.
Just then, Levi strolled in.
“See? I told you he was fine!” Harry grinned triumphantly.
The rest of the family gazed at Harry with unadulterated admiration.
Grandpa is amazing. He managed to convince the South City Lopez family to release Levi after a single phone call.
Even Iris had to admit Harry was impressive.
The moment Zoey laid eyes on Levi, she leapt into his arms, pulling him close.
CHAPTER 353
Zoey had never been more fraught with worry in her life.
“I’m fine! There’s no need to cry! Let’s go back!” Levi murmured comfortingly.
“Why don’t you head to work with Iris? I have some business to discuss with Grandpa.” Zoey said.
“Okay.”
Iris led Levi out and they made their way to the office.
Zoey signed the transfer papers and Harry insisted on taking them to a lawyer’s office for verification.
“From now on, Ms. Lopez will have nothing to do with Imperial Meadows.” The lawyer declared.
“Yes, yes, I know.” Zoey could not stop the tears which surged and overflowed.
“Wait, you’re so capable Zoey. Why don’t you come work for my company?” Harry offered facetiously.
“No thanks!” Zoey resolutely turned him down and left the family residence, her cheeks wet with tears.
“Hahaha…”
Uproarious laughter erupted from the rest of the family.
Only a few months till Zoey’s inheritance becomes all ours!
At long last, the day has finally come!
“Tonight, we’re celebrating at the best hotel in town!” Harry was at peak jubilance.
“Father, should we invite Aaron?” Harry giggled smugly.
“Of course! We need to let the unfilial maggot see for himself how I’ve gained control of his family’s properties! Hahaha…” Harry guffawed gleefully.
Zoey scurried back to Bayview Garden.
She had lost everything.
She would most likely be unable to afford the rent from then on.
But she had no regrets.
Levi was safe, and that was all that mattered to her.
Iris neglected to inform Levi of this development, hence he was none the wiser.
“Mr. Garrison, we’ve found the information you requested! Those people were trained assassins who belong to the Robinson family!” Nueve reported.
Things instantly clicked for Levi. The Robinsons were the ones pulling the strings.
“Good. Once the swearing-in ceremony is over, you guys will be the first to go!” A flash of steely hostility crossed Levi’s gaze.
After work, Iris brought Levi back.
Before she exited the car, Iris issued an austere remark, “Treat Zoey well. The burden of the family rests on your shoulders from now on!”
Levi found her words strange.
I’ve always been good to Zoey!
Back home.
Zoey looked like she had been crying.
“What’s wrong, honey? Why the tears?” Levi asked with curious concern.
“It’s nothing. I just felt like crying for some reason…” Zoey dried her eyes.
“You have a weird hobby…” Levi smiled.
Suddenly, someone pounded on their door.
When Levi opened the door, Aaron and Caitlyn bolted past him straight towards Zoey.
“What’s wrong with you, Zoey?” They asked in surprise.
Zoey’s voice caught in her throat and she struggled to come up with a reply.
“What’s wrong? Did something happen to Zoey?” Levi was bewildered by their reactions.
Aaron shot Levi a glare. “Don’t you know what happened? Because of you, Zoey gave her entire inheritance to the Lopez family!”
“Exactly! She’s now penniless!” Caitlyn roared.
“Wait. What?” Levi was floored.
“You were captured by the South City Lopez family so, in order to save you, Zoey agreed to Father’s terms. Your safe return in exchange for her entire inheritance!”
“Since you were saved, Zoey had to make good on her word!”
“It’s all your fault! We were beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel, but you wrecked it! Why did you have to offend the Lopez family?”
Aaron and Caitlyn were ready to unleash their fury on Levi.
CHAPTER 354
“I admit to pissing off the South City Lopez family. But Harry was not the one who saved me. I managed it by myself! It had nothing to do with him!” Levi explained in frustration.
He turned his attention to Zoey. “You’ve been tricked. It really wasn’t Harry who saved me. Why didn’t you just ask me?”
Zoey was stunned.
She believed Levi.
“As if! Don’t you know who Sebastian is? They’re on par with the most elite family from North Hampton. How would you be able to make it out on your own after incurring their wrath?”
“Exactly! We all saw Father make the call to Sebastian, who promised to let you off!” Aaron and Caitlyn snapped.
Zoey was also looking at Levi suspiciously.
None of them would believe his claims.
Levi did not bother to explain himself any further.
After all, regardless of what he said, his words would not be taken seriously.
Harry had chosen the perfect opportunity to wrap everyone around his finger.
Further elaboration was futile.
“Levi, please reflect on yourself! Zoey made the ultimate sacrifice all for your sake! She lost a multi-million company!” Aaron was close to tears in distress.
Levi was visibly touched by Zoey’s sacrifice.
She really loves me.
After all, a few million is more than enough to test one’s loyalty.
Yet, she chose to save me even if it meant losing a few billion.
“Since the company has already been transferred, there’s no point in crying over spilt milk! I’ll help Zoey start up a whole new company, one which will take the world by storm!” Levi asserted.
It aligned perfectly with the plan he was about to execute.
Soon, he would be purging North Hampton.
When the time came, there would be a surplus of resources in the market.
It would be the perfect opportunity for Zoey to step in.
She would also be helping Morris Group to share the load.
Then, no one would care about the crummy company the Lopez family stole.
“You’re all talk. Luckily, you work for Morris Group, else I would beat you to a pulp!” Aaron and Caitlyn smiled wryly as they exited.
Zoey beamed. “Stop teasing me, honey! As if I would be able to take the world by storm!”
“I’m serious! North Hampton is about to undergo a big shift! Just wait and see!” Levi announced.
He’s just trying to comfort me. I need to smile for his benefit.
“The Lopez family better watch their backs! I won’t let them get away with it so easily!” Levi’s eye glinted menacingly.
As the sun slowly disappeared below the horizon, the Lopez family was enjoying a stupendously lavish banquet.
“They didn’t even bother to show up!” Henry and a few other people screeched.
“Father, I suggest we scratch their names entirely off the family register! They’re as poor as church mice now!” Henry suggested.
Fabian nodded in agreement. “Yes, that’s right. We’ve milked them for all they’re worth! What’s the point in keeping them around!”
“Yes yes! The Lopez family is now worth over a billion! How could we accommodate people like Aaron? How humiliating!”
“They’ll definitely come crawling back for help in the future. How bothersome!”
The rest of the people jabbered and brayed.
Harry was slightly tipsy and he nodded excitedly. “Okay! We’ll remove them from the family register at the family meeting tomorrow! From then on, we won’t have anything to do with them!”
“Hahaha. That’s great!” Henry and the rest applauded delightedly.
The next day.
Zoey and Levi were still slumbering.
An urgent call woke them abruptly and tore them from away Morpheus’ realm.
The call was from Aaron, who told them to hurry down to the Lopez family ancestral home.
CHAPTER 355
By the time Levi and Zoey rushed to the scene, Aaron and Caitlyn had already arrived.
The location had been intentionally picked to be the family ancestral halls.
“Dad, Mum, what’s wrong? What’s the rush?” Levi asked, puzzled.
“We don’t have a clue either! We were just told to meet at the ancestral halls. I think they’re announcing something big!” Caitlyn answered.
Aaron knitted his brows. “My right eyelid won’t stop twitching!”
Shortly later, Harry arrived with the rest of the Lopez family party at the ancestral halls.
Henry and the rest smirked sinisterly.
An uneasy feeling settled in the stomachs of Levi and the other three.
But they were certain of one thing. Nothing good could come out of this.
Harry seated himself on the wooden chair in front of the shrine and the rest took their seats according to seniority.
Harry quickly scanned the scene and sternly boomed, “Is everyone here?”
Fabian nodded in response. “Everyone is here Father!”
Harry was the first to offer up a joss stick.
“It’s been some time since we had a family meeting at the ancestral hall! Today’s meeting was called to announce…” Harry’s gaze fell on Aaron.
“After a long discussion with the family, I, of the North Hampton Lopez family, have decided to expel Aaron and his family from our clan!” He stated plainly.
Once the last word left his lips, every person present gaped in astonishment.
Levi and his family’s faces fell.
“What? Kicked out?”
The news was earth-shattering for the three of them. They could almost see their world crumbling around them.
We’re being removed from the family register!
What could be worse?
Such a blow threatened to push them off the cliff into the chasm of insanity.
Aaron looked at Harry in utter disbelief.
Caitlyn immediately dissolved into tears.
Tears were brimming in the rims of Zoey’s eyes.
Grandpa just robbed me of my assets worth close to a billion. How could he go so as far as to burn all our bridges? How could he force us out of the family?
She could only sigh in resignation.
“All in favor, raise your hands!” Aaron yelled.
In a flurry of movement, the hands of Fabian and many others shot into the air.
“It’s settled! The move to remove Aaron and his family has the majority vote!” Henry chuckled.
He was completely indifferent to the feelings of the four people in question.
“Good luck to you guys. From now on, the North Hampton Lopez family shall have absolutely nothing to do with you! Please do not involve us in your matters from here on out!”
“I, Harry Lopez, are henceforth severing all ties with you! We shall be no better than strangers from now on!”
“Get out!” Harry ordered cruelly.
“Get out of the family! Get out of the family! Get out of the family!” The rest of the people chanted with ruthless determination.
“Might I suggest you change your last names? You’re undeserving of the Lopez name!” Henry sneered.
Zoey’s body was shaking with the force of her wails.
She was indignant!
She had never been wronged to such an extent in her life.
I don’t even deserve the Lopez family name now.
This is even worse than losing all my assets.
My own grandfather wants nothing to do with me.
Right after he snatched away close to a billion from me!
Caitlyn was not doing any better.
But neither of them was in worse shape than Aaron.
His birth father had cut ties with him and he was erased from the family register.
What more could be worse?
Seized by rage, Aaron spat out blood.
“Father, Aaron…”
Zoey and Caitlyn rushed to catch the teetering Aaron.
Aaron did not speak. He only glared directly at Harry.
“What? Haven’t given up?” Harry leered.
“Right. It’s not over!” Levi exclaimed.
CHAPTER 356
“What does useless scum like you have to be upset about? You’re grossly unfit to be part of the Lopez family!”
“Exactly! Get out of the Lopez family! You useless scum!”
“You have no right to be here! Get out and stay away!”
Levi opened his mouth and the room fell silent.
“Harry, would you believe me if I said you’ll live to regret this?” Levi hissed, his lips curled upwards in a malevolent smirk.
“Haha. Me? Regret? Impossible! I hold all of Zoey’s assets. What do I have to regret?” Harry retorted with an equally hostile smirk of his own.
The rest of the people stared at Levi like he was an idiot.
Aaron wiped away the blood at the corner of his mouth and fixed his eyes on Harry incredulously. “Father, must you go this far? What did I do wrong that you insist on kicking me out from the family?”
“Yes! The Lopez family has always had strict rules. Erasing anyone’s name from the family register can only be a punishment for something egregious. What did Aaron and I do?” Caitlyn asked, choking back sobs.
Zoey’s gaze was also boring into Harry.
Harry exchanged a look with Henry before coldly replying, “Don’t you even know what you did? I worked to raise you and even opened a company for you. What about you guys? You contributed nothing to the family! You even committed deplorable acts! But you want to leave the Lopez family! It’s the equivalent of betraying your ancestors!”
“Yes! Zoey’s company leaving the Lopez family is the equivalent of betraying the ancestors!”
“The punishment for betraying your ancestors is expulsion form the family!”
“Get out of the Lopez family!”
Henry and the rest chided and raged. They even shoved the four of them.
Aaron gazed at Harry despondently and asked, “Father, I’ll ask you one last time. Must you take it this far?”
“Leave! Never call me Father ever again! You’re no longer part of the Lopez family!” Harry rebuffed heartlessly.
He struck off the names of Aaron and the rest from the family register.
Aaron was no longer a member of the Lopez family. It was official.
At that moment, despite being a picture of masculinity, Aaron broke down into bawls of agony.
“Dad, Mum, Zoey. Let’s go!” Levi dragged the three of them out.
Despite trying to saunter away, their figures appeared forlorn.
“Hahaha…”
The Lopez family guffawed and laughter resonated throughout the room.
We’ve finally got rid those burdens!
“From this day onwards, our family shall prosper!” Harry bellowed.
In the car.
Aaron and his family huddled together, sobbing.
This was the darkest hour of their existence.
They never would have imagined that the day would come where their names were erased from the family register.
They no longer belonged to the Lopez family.
Levi could only offer warm words. “The three of you are too nice! You’ve suffered silently at their hands for ages! All this time, you prioritized family, and allowed them to step all over you! If you think about it, they’re the ones who aren’t fit to be related to you! Look at how they treated you. After leaving you with nothing, they even kicked you out of the family! But this might be a good thing. From now on, you can focus on working hard without anything holding you back! I’ll make them pay! You can just sit back and wait for the day when I make them kneel before you and beg for forgiveness!”
The trio was in the throes of despair and merely took Levi’s words and passing remarks of comfort.
The Lopez family did not stop there.
The news spread like wildfire through the North Hampton media outlets.
‘Aaron Lopez and family betrayed the Lopez family and plotted to get ahold of all the Lopez family estates.’
‘Harry Lopez had no choice but to harden his heart and expel them from the family.’
Countless savage condemnations fell upon them.
Page after page depicted Aaron as a callous fiend, an ungrateful bastard.
CHAPTER 357
“Such scum should just be sentenced to death! Why keep him around?”
“Yes! He even betrayed his family. He’s no better than a traitor!”
Aaron and Caitlyn did nothing to defend themselves.
Any attempt to do so would just result in more rebuttal and insults.
They were slandered!
Such malignance!
After getting wind of the news, Una could not hold back her broad grin.
“Who would’ve thought even Levi would come to this? Even your wife has fallen from her grace. Let’s see how you crawl out of this hole.” She sniggered spitefully.
Even Winston was elated to receive the news.
A man of Levi’s position would normally never have caught Winston’s eye.
But he caused trouble one too many times and Winston was practically boiling with rage.
“All I had to do was dangle some meat in front of the mutts and they took the bait” Winston grinned widely.
Oh, I can’t imagine there exists joy greater than this!
Not only was he attending the next day’s swearing-in ceremony for the commander-in-chief, but to receive such news as well, he was bursting with happiness.
“Now everyone, focus on preparations for tomorrow’s swearing-in ceremony!”
That night, these powerful figures of North Hampton struggled to get some shut-eye.
In a luxurious mountain villa somewhere.
The kingpin behind the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce, Eric Robinson, who also stood at the head of four noble families, invited Grover Cooke and Xander Hoyles over.
“Mr. Cooke, Mr. Hoyles, I ask for your assistance tomorrow!” Eric appealed.
“How do you want us to help?” Xander asked warily.
“Tomorrow you are to arrange a meeting between us, the God of War and Mr. Quinton. Winston Gonzales cannot, under no circumstances, know about it! I’ll leave this matter in your hands! The North Hampton Chamber of Commerce is in grave danger!”
The faces of the men in front of him soured.
“Okay, leave it to us! I’ll also have Jesse come up with a plan to help the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce!” Grover replied calmly.
“That’s great!” Eric and the rest were thrilled.
Their fates rested on the shoulders of Xander and Grover.
“Hehe. When the time comes, we’ll have both Morris Group and the Gonzales family under our thumb!”
They could not wait for the next day to arrive.
The next day.
The North Hampton Warzone had completed all preparations and were more than ready. The commander-in-chief’s swearing-in ceremony would begin at exactly 9 o’clock.
Andy, who was in charge of the event, bustled about incessantly.
The last step was to ensure the God of War would be making an appearance to formally introduce Percy as the new commander-in-chief.
Andy was overwrought with emotion.
Even the God of War had to follow the schedule he set out.
How wonderful was that!
In the morning.
Levi addressed the family before him, “Dad, Mum, Zoey, let’s go out and have some fun!”
The trio did not protest and obediently climbed aboard the car.
Soon, Levi had driven them out of the suburbs.
Zoey did not pay much mind. She assumed Levi was taking them to the countryside or to a scenic location.
But as the ride went on, she sensed something was off.
There were many cars on the road, most of which were of high-end brands like Maybach and Rolls-Royce.
They were all moving in the same direction as Levi.
Is there an event going on?
“Honey, where are you taking us?” Zoey enquired.
“I’m bringing you to see the world, and enjoy yourselves while we’re at it!” Levi grinned.
After about two hours, they were almost out of North Hampton.
They had finally arrived at their destination.
When they took in the surroundings, the three Lopezes were stunned.
They were at an army camp!
We’re actually at an army camp!
The car had only just halted when soldiers came marching over for inspection.
The soldiers were all armed to the teeth. Zoey and her parents could not help but feel on edge.
CHAPTER 358
“Sir, as this car is not sanctioned by the Warzone, you are to park there, on the left. You may enter afterwards!” The soldier informed Levi.
“Sure!” Levi drove the car to an empty slot and parked.
After they got out of the car, Zoey and Aaron scanned their surroundings with fascination.
How are we allowed to be in such a solemn and sacred place?
What are we doing here?
They were burning with curiosity and fear as they held the military in high regard.
Zoey also spotted the luxury cars which they passed on the road, parked around them.
Something’s definitely going on!
“Levi?”
At this moment, a shocked voice called out.
Levi turned to see the Gonzales family making their way over to him.
There were a large number of members present, ten of them to be exact.
Una walked right up to Levi and asked with a smile plastered on her face, “What are you doing here? Is this a place you’re allowed to be at?”
Winston broke out into a smile as well.
After all, it was no easy task getting an invitation to the ceremony.
It had posed somewhat of an issue even for an elite such as Winston, much less for commoners.
Yet, Levi came?
What kind of joke is this?
Levi replicated their expressions. “I’m here for the swearing-in ceremony of course!”
“Hahaha…”
The Gonzales erupted into peals of laughter.
There were ‘regular’ people who were given invitations to the event, but they were gentries such as Winston and the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce.
The Rogers family, who were worth five billion, might stand a chance.
But Levi was far from being included in the realm of possibilities.
He had nothing to his name and was even kicked out of the Lopez family.
“You seem to be in a good mood Mr. Gonzales! Why are you laughing?”
The heads of the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce appeared.
Winston smiled. “Do you know Levi, Robinson?”
Eric and his three companions froze momentarily before regaining his gait. “Of course I know him!”
Phineas Robinson kept his eyes trained on Levi.
The lucky bastard. Wesley was this close to ending his life.
Who would have expected Sebastian to drop the case?
Thanks to him, my thirty masters are gone.
Wesley must have brought them back to South City.
“Levi is also here to attend the swearing-in ceremony.”
After Winston’s revelation, the Robinsons dissolved into cackles.
“Who gave him the right to show his face here? Ha!”
The Robinsons scoffed before departing.
Levi was worth nothing in their eyes.
Before the Robinsons left, they made a slicing gesture across their necks. “Sooner or later, your head will roll, Levi Garrison.”
They sauntered off.
Aaron and the rest were breathing raggedly.
The tension from the interaction with North Hampton’s elite had been too overwhelming. They felt almost suffocated.
They could not believe Levi had made enemies of such people.
The last few seemed to bear intense hatred for Levi as well.
Just how much trouble did he cause?
“I have to say, hats off to you! You managed to ******** so many big-shots with one swing!” Aaron smiled wryly as he did not know how to react to this.
“Dad, Mum, it’s fine. After today, those people will all fall!” Levi chuckled confidently.
“Moving on, can you take us in? To the swearing-in ceremony?” Zoey asked.
“No problem!”
Levi led them into the camp with no problems.
A representative from the camp greeted them and gave them a tour.
CHAPTER 359
Levi decided that he didn’t want them to attend the Grand Opening Ceremony in the end.
He felt that it wasn’t worth going, and they might as well have a tour around.
Winston and his group made their way into the hall of the barracks. He started to interrogate his son, Andy when he finally sat down.
“Is Levi or Aaron on the guests’ list?”
Andy shook his head, “Nope. The list had long been ready. But Levi’s name is nowhere to be found.”
“Hahahaha…”
Winston and a few others laughed.
“Besides, Levi and the others aren’t even here in the hall. How is he supposed to attend the Grand Opening?” asked Andy.
Winston grinned brightly.
Levi was just a clown in their eyes.
Besides sheer luck, that clown had nothing else.
When the Gonzales family was dealing with Levi, Percy happened to be there to resolve the crisis.
And Harry was there when the Lopez family from South City intended to deal with Levi.
……
“Your good luck is going to be used up one day!” Una sneered.
Inside the hall arranged by the North Hampton Warzone, guests who were there for the ceremony flocked to their pre-arranged seats.
Winston and the other upper-class members of the society were seated in the first row.
Governor Jesse Nielsen and his men were also in the front seats. Even though Grover had stepped down, he was still more than qualified to be seated in the first row.
Xander Hoyles and Benny Quinton had also arrived and were seated.
Soon, most of the seats were filled up.
But there were still six empty seats in the first row.
Everyone knew what this meant.
These six seats were reserved for the God of War and his subordinates, the Five Great Wars Regiment.
Any one of them alone was enough to make the North Hampton tremble in fear.
Not to mention the God of War.
This is exciting!
This is really, really exciting!
Winston had never been so excited in his life. He was about to meet the legendary God of War!
Oh, how long have I waited for this day to come…
And it finally came!
There was a different meaning to it today.
The God of War and Benny Quinton were going to make their appearance together.
The commander-in-chief in charge was also the famed general of the Iron Brigade.
This would be quite a historic moment to witness.
Winston kept glancing towards the passageway. The anticipation he was feeling was overwhelming.
The younger generations of the Gonzales family were feeling honored and prideful from the bottom of their hearts.
Among all those from the younger generation of the North Hampton, who else was fortunate enough to attend such a ceremony?
This was the power of the resources they had.
The experience and networking they had accumulated were definitely enough to crush their competitors.
The billionaires of the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce were of no exception.
Compared to Winston, the God of War was relatively more like their last hope.
Because the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce was in distress and the markets were disintegrating.
They would suffer if there wasn’t anyone to back them up.
The attendees quietened down after a short while.
Not long after, Percy marched into the venue with his military uniform on.
The attendees slowly stood up and welcomed Percy.
After all, he was going to be the commander-in-chief of the North Hampton Warzone after today.
But Percy didn’t walk over to the stage. He waited at the passageway instead.
Soon, Azure Dragon, Kirin and Phoenix arrived.
They were the Five Great Wars Regiment!
Their intimidating aura overwhelmed the audience in the hall.
This was the first time the famous Five Great Wars Regiment were onstage together.
Even Xander felt his blood boiling with anticipation.
Just the five of them was enough to kill an army of a thousand men.
Azure Dragon and the others stopped at the passageway too. Six of them including Percy stood in two rows as they waited.
Everyone knew what this meant.
They’re waiting for the arrival of the God of War!
Everyone stood up as they held their breaths and paid full attention to the passageway.
Tap…tap…tap…
Sounds of footsteps could be heard shortly after.
A mighty silhouette had appeared at the passageway!
CHAPTER 360
“Salute!” Percy yelled and gave a standard military salute.
All the soldiers followed suit.
Once the figure returned the salute, he began to walk into the hall with Percy and the others flanked beside him protectively.
Everyone’s hearts were pounding as it wasn’t an exaggeration that the seven people in front of them could save the world.
This is exciting!
He’s the God of War!
He’s Erudia’s one and only 5-star rated God of War!
Una’s heart thumped as she watched the tall figure from afar.
Now that’s a true hero!
He’s the man of every woman’s dream!
Una fell in love with the man just by the sight of him.
The Gonzales family had also planned to do whatever it took to get Una to sleep with the God of War that night.
Una was very confident that she was going to be the God of War’s wife soon.
I’m going to be the wife of Erudia’s most respectable God of War.
Una could already see the bright future she was going to have.
The faces of Winston and his group were glowing. After today, I, Winston Gonzales, am going to be the Grandpa of the God of War!
The Gonzales family is going to prosper and become Erudia’s most powerful aristocratic family!
Before long, Levi and his group were finally in the hall and got to their reserved seats.
The attendees in the hall could only see the back of the God of War. He sat in a tall and upright manner, like the backbone of the nation; the Great Wall of Erudia.
The five stars on his shoulder shined brightly.
Right now, he was the biggest focus of the audience.
“One should have a son like the God of War!” exclaimed Winston.
“Don’t you think the God of War looks familiar?”
Winston and his group who were sitting a bit further behind couldn’t see quite as clearly.
So Winston, Eric, and the others started to put on their glasses.
“His back seems really familiar… I feel like I’ve seen him somewhere before!” said Winston.
“That’s right! He looks familiar to me too, but I just can’t remember who he is…” said Una.
Meanwhile, Xander and Andy, who were sitting in the first row, broke out in cold sweat just after a glance at the God of War.
They had seen photographs of Levi before.
But they didn’t expect Levi to be the God of War.
Thud!
Andy didn’t sit tight and fell onto the ground, attracting the attention of everyone in the room.
“What’s wrong with Andy? How can he make such a rudimentary mistake?” said Winston angrily.
The Gonzales family wore an unsightly expression on.
The ceremony finally began.
Almost an hour had passed since the ceremony started and Percy stood on the stage as he waited.
“Lastly, let’s welcome the God of War!” announced Xander.
Xander stood up and shouted to the audience, “Salute to the God of War!”
“To the God of War!”
Thousands of officers and soldiers shouted in unison.
Levi got on the stage in the midst of the shouts and stood facing everybody.
The attendees went crazy when they saw the face of the God of War as their dream finally came true.
All these years, the God of War was the military spirit of the soldiers.
They could die without any regrets now that they finally saw the God of War in person.
“I want to take a good look at how the God of War really looks like.”
Una and those who were younger immediately paled as they were shocked to see who the God of War really was.
Boom!
Everyone was shocked at the revelation. It was like a bolt that came out of the blue sky.
Levi Garrison!
No one had expected Levi to be the God of War.
It was beyond their wildest imagination.
It’s actually Levi!
Una was dumbfounded.
Clint was dumbfounded.
Robinson was dumbfounded.
……
“Huh? What’s wrong with you guys? Are you shocked?”
CHAPTER 361
Winston and the rest were confused as to why the younger ones were so shocked.
“We should take a look too!”
They turned.
Winston, Eric, and the others almost fainted when they saw Levi’s face.
“Levi? It’s Levi?”
“No way! How could it be Levi?”
“I don’t believe it! I must’ve seen it wrongly.”
Winston and the others couldn’t accept the reality. They just couldn’t believe it even though they saw it with their own eyes.
Even North Hampton’s highest leader, Grover Cooke, paled upon seeing Levi.
“This- Isn’t this Levi Garrison? Levi is the God of War? I’m not dreaming, am I?”
Those who knew Levi felt as though their life was about to collapse soon.
The young man who had once been imprisoned had transformed into an unparalleled general in a blink of an eye!
He was a capable and powerful person now!
It was unimaginable!
The scene before their eyes was just too shocking.
The upperclassmen were absolutely dumbfounded, it was as if they had been struck by lightning.
Levi, who was still on stage, said with a smile, “Sorry to disappoint you! But I am indeed the God of War!”
Boom!
The audience from the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce was about to go crazy when they heard Levi admitting it.
They finally understood why Morris Group’s progress had skyrocketed.
The Morris Group had the God of War backing them up all along!
Who the hell would be able to stand against them? And there was Neil Atkinson too. They saw Neil’s name on the guests’ list.
Neil is Kirin!
Pfft!
Winston couldn’t stand it anymore and coughed out a mouthful of fresh blood.
The God of War was the one who saved him from his sudden heart attack previously.
Winston tried to repay the God of War by offering him money so that the latter could live a new and better life, but Winston was rejected which lead to the Gonzales family thinking that Levi was a scoundrel and a hypocritical clown.
The Gonzales family thought that Levi was going to use the incident to gain more money.
So the Gonzales family had constantly been targeting Levi. They even tried to kill him!
Winston was about to suffer from a brain hemorrhage due to the shock and fear he was feeling.
So the person I’ve been targeting constantly has been the God of War all along!
He really didn’t care about my repayment at all! After all, the God of War wouldn’t be lacking any money! Of course he wouldn’t need me to give him a new life!
The Gonzales family is finished!
Winston suddenly recalled all those times Levi had warned him.
Besides someone with a status like Levi, no one else would be brave enough to force the Gonzales family to kneel in front of him and apologize.
Back then, when commander-in-chief Covington said that he was going to visit his relative, he must be referring to Levi!
I’m such a fool!
I should’ve figure it all out earlier!
Pfft!
Pfft!
……
Winston continuously coughed out a few more mouthfuls of blood.
The truth hit Una harder than anyone else.
She had always been in contact with Levi and had the greatest conflict with him.
Una had even hit Levi with money previously!
It was an act of impiety!
What have I done?
I’ve been humiliating the God of War all this time?
Una immediately burst into tears.
She had single-handedly ruined the Gonzales family!
Up on stage, Levi held the Decree of Appointment and announced, “I hereby appoint Percy Covington as the commander-in-chief of the North Hampton Warzone!”
Percy accepted the Decree of Appointment while the attendees clapped.
It was the most glorious moment of his life!
I thought I had left the Iron Brigade, but I didn’t expect that I would be personally appointed by the person I respect the most!
Levi didn’t get down from the stage immediately. Instead, he scanned through the audience and said with a smile, “I’m going to use this opportunity to say a few words to some of you.”
Boom!
The attendees were stunned by Levi’s words, especially Winston and his group.
Their expressions had changed drastically.
They realized that something bad was about to happen soon.
Sh*t!
CHAPTER 362
Percy and the higher-ups of the North Hampton Warzone looked at Levi with curious eyes.
They knew nothing of the upheavals of the North Hampton.
But Xander, Grover, and a few others already knew that something was up.
They broke into cold sweat.
“Winston is here, right?” Levi asked suddenly.
Boom!
Winston was about to have a heart attack at that moment.
He coughed out another mouthful of blood!
“Is Winston here?” Levi increased his volume into a thunderous roar.
Everyone in the room felt the powerful aura Levi exuded.
“H-here… I’m here…”
Winston almost fell on his knees out of fear.
“How did you treat me when I saved your life the other day?”
Thud!
Both Winston and Una fell onto their knees.
“How dare you repay my kindness with enmity? Your granddaughter threw money at me to humiliate me. She kept provoking me and even tried to kill me!”
The attendees were shell-shocked upon hearing what Levi had said.
The leaders of North Hampton looked at the Gonzales family in disbelief.
Where did they find the courage to do that?
They actually tried to kill the God of War?
Who on earth could bear with that?
It seems like even Xander Hoyles would have to destroy them!
“Will the Gonzales family retreat on your own, or do you need me to use my powers to make you disappear?” Levi asked coldly.
Levi said the words as though he was on a trial.
Crap!
We’re really doomed!
North Hampton would never have stories about Winston the billionaire anymore!
“There’s also a personal grudge with the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce. Six years ago when my business start-up became successful, you coveted my skills and techniques. So you purposely set me up. You crippled me and sent me to jail. You coveted what I had so you took everything away from me!”
“What kind of punishment do you think you deserve?” asked Levi.
Thud!
Eric Robinson and the others fell on their knees one after another.
At this very moment, they finally knew why Levi didn’t go against them right away.
He wanted to slowly replace North Hampton with Morris Group!
“You’re all the same as the Gonzales family!”
Levi looked at Jesse, “Nielson, arrest all those who are in the wrong!”
Boom!
Eric and the others paled and they started to break into cold sweat.
They had done many things that violated the regulations in the years of expanding their business to its current state.
It was enough to get them all locked up!
Not to mention that there was solid evidence of them making a move against Levi Group. They couldn’t escape from evidence.
The group of people quickly looked towards Xander and Grover, hoping that they could save the day.
However, both of them lowered their heads.
They could at least have a say if it was the North Hampton.
But this is the freaking God of War!
He could stand his ground simply based on his strength and the law!
Grover quickly said, “The North Hampton Chamber of Commerce is problematic!”
Jesse nodded as he said, “God of War, I’ll definitely get it done!”
“Alright, dismissed!”
No one had expected the Appointment Ceremony of the new commander-in-chief to end in this way.
The world of North Hampton had changed after an hour.
The most powerful North Hampton Chamber of Commerce and the Gonzales family are ruined!
After they left the hall, Levi changed into casual clothes while Percy followed by his side.
The duo found Zoey and her group.
“Today has really been an eye opener!”
Aaron was in a great mood after a tour around the military camp. All the sorrow he felt earlier was gone.
“Mom, Dad, let me introduce you to my friend. This is Percy Covington. It’s all because of him that I’m able to get here today.” Levi said as he introduced Percy to the elderly.
Aaron shook Percy’s hands excitedly.
They were shocked.
Levi has friends like this too?
“May I know what your position is, Covington?” asked Aaron curiously.
CHAPTER 363
“I’m just a lowly commander. It’s not worth mentioning,” said Percy with a smile.
Caitlyn nudged Aaron and said, “That’s classified information! Why are you asking that?”
“Haha. That was rude of me!”
Aaron laughed.
The few of them enjoyed their dinner together afterward.
Aaron still had questions on the way out, “I think a new commander-in-chief was appointed today!”
“That’s right!”
“Well, we don’t need to think about people like him. But you did really well today, Levi. We’re really happy for you!”
Aaron grinned as he spoke.
“Let us have good fortune and happy events happening one after another after today!”
Levi smiled at that.
Zoey was swiping through her phone as they spoke. Suddenly, an alarmed look appeared on her face and she almost dropped her phone onto the floor.
“What’s wrong, sweetie?”
Everyone looked at her curiously.
“Something big happened! North Hampton is crumbling!”
Zoey took a deep breath.
“Winston Gonzales and all from the Gonzales family opted to quit Gonzales Group! North Hampton Chamber of Commerce announcing dissolution! Eric Robinson of the four noble families from the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce and dozens of higherups have been arrested due to commercial crimes!”
……
The eye-catching headlines were shown on the phone.
Zoey, Aaron, and the others were about to go insane.
This was definitely the biggest news of North Hampton!
Both the Gonzales family and the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce had crumbled at the same time.
This is unbelievable!
Zoey’s puzzled eyes landed on Levi. There was something mysterious about this man.
Can he predict the future?
He even told me that the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce and the Gonzales family were doomed!
It came true in a blink of an eye!
“Levi, is there anything that you know of?” asked Aaron.
“I heard from Percy that the God of War got back at them at the Appointment Ceremony earlier.”
Levi smiled.
“Oh, I see! They offended the God of War. I told you so. No one else in North Hampton would be able to destroy them!”
Aaron felt a sense of relief.
The news of North Hampton’s powerful figures crumbling had quickly spread all over Quebec.
Two mighty mountains had collapsed in an instant.
This meant that the North Hampton market was currently vacant. Anyone would want a share of the pie.
In just a blink of an eye, South City and multiple other places were preying on that pie.
In the meantime, Morris Group, which had received orders from their boss, expanded their business and took up the market share.
North Hampton was too big. It wasn’t possible for them to take over it completely in a short period of time.
In any case, Levi’s plan was simple. It was to quickly restore North Hampton’s order without shaking up its economy.
Rogers Group had also gotten the order from Levi and had joined in as well.
All of a sudden, Rogers Group became the richest aristocratic family in North Hampton.
Glenn had never expected all these to happen.
Levi did it out of respect for Abigail. It was also because he wanted to stabilize North Hampton as soon as possible.
“Zoey, do you still remember what I said previously? I’m going to help you rise to the top again. Just you wait!” Levi said with a smile.
Zoey was actually looking forward to it when she saw how mysterious Levi was acting.
The Lopez family was also really excited at this particular moment.
They had earned so much money and properties recently. Now that the North Hampton market was empty…their opportunity was finally here!
As long as the Lopez family worked hard, having a corporate with a hundred million of net worth wouldn’t be a dream anymore.
“As expected, once we chased Aaron out of the family, our luck has been good!” Henry said while laughing.
Harry looked up to the sky and cried out, “God bless the Lopez family!”
“We’re in big trouble! Something bad has happened!”
CHAPTER 364
Shaun and Melanie Lopez shouted.
“What are you up to? Why are the both of you so frantic? Didn’t I tell you to move the company?” said Harry as he frowned, obviously displeased.
After he took over Zoey’s company, the first thing he did was to move his company to Union Square.
After all, Union Square was at the center of the city.
It feels good to have a company building in the middle of the city.
“Grandpa, the company has been moved. But there’s some other stuff…”
“Grandpa, we don’t know what happened but… Just this morning, large numbers of the Company’s workers resigned. What’s more, it was none other than the executives who led them to resign! It’s a huge loss to the company!”
Shaun panted.
Melanie’s face was extremely sullen.
“What? Did all these really happen?”
Harry and the others’ expressions changed.
It wouldn’t matter much if it were only low-ranking workers who left.
But it would be a huge problem if the executives left.
Melanie’s phone rang.
“What? Seven more executives left?”
Melanie was stunned.
Henry’s phone rang too.
“What? The construction team of the West City Ecological Park Project canceled the contract and all of the workers left? Even the security and the guard dog left?”
Henry’s eyeballs were about to pop out upon hearing the news.
The West City Ecological Park Project had become a complete mess.
Shaun received a text message. He was immediately left dumbfounded after he read the text.
“What? The company is insolvent? The funds have long been used up in the development and now the company doesn’t have any cash flow?”
Shaun was about to have a breakdown soon.
The person in charge of the project from Morris Group called Harry right at this moment.
“Hello Mr. Lopez, why is the project we’re collaborating with Imperial Meadows Limited halted?” Morris Group asked.
“Uh… Due to some recent internal affairs of the company, there has been a delay in the progress. It’ll be back to normal soon!” Harry said and smiled awkwardly.
Morris Group was like the God of Wealth to the Lopez family now.
“Mr. Lopez, please take a good look at the contract. There’s still two days’ time. If the project invested can’t resume, you’ll have to compensate us due to breach of contract! According to the contract, you’ll have to pay one billion if that happens.”
Harry almost peed himself upon hearing what the person in charge from Morris Group had said.
Harry was trembling when the call ended.
“What’s happened? Have the collaboration projects with Morris Group been halted?” asked Harry.
Fabian quickly went to check.
Fabian was sweating buckets when he was done checking.
“Father, the collaboration project with Morris Group is just too big! If we want to continue, we’ll have to dump in more money!” said Fabian.
“What happened? Didn’t Zoey’s company get a big investment fund? How did this happen?”
Harry was about to vomit blood.
“The treasury department of Zoey’s company is currently empty. Not only have the funds been cut off, it seems like the company is also in debt…”
What Shaun said made the Lopez family tremble in fear.
“Huh? That’s not possible! Zoey’s company had been growing so well! Her company even moved to the Union Square!”
“That’s right! The company’s market value of almost a billion isn’t fake!”
The faces of Harry’s and the rest were full of disbelief.
“I understand now! It’s all an illusion made by Zoey! She deliberately made a good financial report and crafted a perfect company image just to attract investments and collaborations!”
“Yes! There have been quite a few companies looking to invest and collaborate with us. It must be because they were attracted by the financial report made by Zoey!” analyzed Fabian.
CHAPTER 365
“God damn it! I thought we actually had a billion in our hands. But who knew all we got is this mess?” said Harry furiously.
In the meantime, a car stopped in front of the Lopez family’s residence.
There were a few men and women in suits.
“Which one of you is Mr. Harry Lopez?”
“That’s me. And you are?”
Harry had an unsettling feeling.
“Hi, we are the person in charge of Union Square. We’re here to inform you that the lease contract of the company is a temporary contract. This is the official contract. Naturally, the prices will be revised accordingly.
It will be revised from the previous ten million every five years to a hundred million every five years. Please pay as soon as possible or you will be ordered to excavate within three days!” One of the persons in charge from Union Square said coldly.
Boom!
A wave of shock washed over Harry and he almost lost his balance.
Shaun took the new contract with trembling hands and read through it.
The more he read, the darker his face got.
The Lopez family was at the verge of going mad.
Isn’t this just too unlucky?
Zoey’s lease was only ten million, yet it became a hundred million for them.
“Hurry up and settle this!”
With that, those from the Union Square left.
But this was only the beginning.
Someone came again.
“Hello, I’m Hailey, the general manager of the North Hampton Bank. Imperial Meadows Limited had previously loaned eighty million from us.
Now the total amount is a hundred and ten million including interest. Lopez Group will have to settle everything within seven days! Otherwise, you’ll have to go through judicial processes!” said Hailey relentlessly.
Thud!
Harry was shocked and fell onto the ground.
We owe the bank more than a hundred million?
Is Zoey crazy?
More importantly, the Lopez family has to clean up this mess!
Hailey left soon after.
But someone else came again.
They were a dozen other companies who came at once.
“Hi, Mr. Harry Lopez. I’m from Harper Investment. I’m here to collect your debt of twenty million!”
“Hi Mr. Harry Lopez, I’m from Allison Corporation. I’m here to collect your debt of fifteen million!”
“Hi Mr. Harry Lopez, I’m from Hilton Group. I’m here to collect your debt of thirty million!”
……
Thirteen companies, all without exception, were here to recover the debts.
Together with Union Square and the bank, the Lopez family had a debt amounting to a total of four hundred and eighty million!
Everyone from the Lopez family was about to faint.
They didn’t gain a single cent, yet they have to settle a debt of approximately five hundred million now?
Pfft!
Everyone was about to cough up blood soon.
“Hang on. Zoey’s Imperial Meadows Limited is the one that owes you the money. It’s none of Lopez Group’s business!” Shaun immediately tried to justify themselves.
“Hmmph! Why are you still trying to come up with excuses? Lopez Group officially bought over Imperial Meadows Limited. So naturally, the debt of Imperial Meadows Limited will have to be settled by you!”
“That’s right. What does this have to do with Ms. Lopez?”
“Hurry up and pay us back! Or you’ll have to go through the judicial process. Everyone from the Lopez family will have to go to jail by then!”
The representatives from all thirteen companies were tough. They didn’t even give the Lopez family a chance to breathe.
“Seven days! We’ll only give you seven days!”
When all representatives from the thirteen companies left, everyone in the Lopez family were deathly silent.
Everyone was soaked in cold sweat and was breathing heavily.
Tap…tap…tap…
Suddenly, footsteps could be heard from the outside.
A group of workers wearing safety helmets rushed into the Lopez family’s residence.
They were contractors from Imperial Meadows Limited. It was payday.
When the workers heard that the company was in a crisis, they had rushed to the Lopez family to get their pay.
“Harry Lopez! Pay us immediately!”
“Right! Quickly pay us, or you won’t be able to handle the consequences!”
CHAPTER 366
A hundred men or more had the Lopez family completely surrounded.
They made a big ruckus out of it.
The Lopez family were completely stunned.
Did a bunch of workers come out to protest?
Previously Zoey had arranged for the contractors to be paid at the end of the month and it just so happened that today was the payday.
The Lopez family might have to foot the bill in her stead.
“Zoey is the one who had your money! Find her if you must but it has nothing to do with us!” yelled Shaun angrily.
“What nonsense is this? Shouldn’t it be the opposite? Ms. Lopez has nothing to do with the company anymore!”
“That’s right! Ms. Lopez has already been disowned by the Lopez Group. How could she be a part of this?”
“We won’t leave until we receive what we were owed!”
The workers were starting to be unreasonable.
“You are trespassing on private property. Get out of my sight or I’ll have the cops arrest you!” warned Shaun.
“Even better. I’ll have them know that our wages are due!”
The contractors did not seem to mind at all.
“Fine, I’ll do just that!”
Shaun believed that the contractors were only putting on a facade.
“Wait! Don’t be rash and think this through. Should you get the police involved, things might just blow out of proportion. Wouldn’t it be bad if the media finds out about this?” said Fabian as he attempted to stop Shaun.
Shaun came to his senses immediately.
Indeed. If such a scandal were to reach the ears of the media, the Lopez Group would be in deep trouble.
“Then what should we do?” asked Shaun.
“Settle it!” said Fabian unambiguously.
“But uncle…”
Shaun was unwilling to give these people money, especially not on behalf of Zoey.
“My word is final,” responded Fabian coldly.
Shaun, Melanie and the CFO of the company wasted no time in auditing the accounts.
There were a total of seven contractors, they would have to fork out at least 5.7 million this month.
It wasn’t until both parties had agreed to settle things cordially that the contractors finally left with their workers.
The Lopez family could finally take a breather.
More than five million gone in the blink of an eye.
Oh, how much it hurt!
The main thing was that this wasn’t a business investment, so they wouldn’t be able to get a single cent out of it.
The Lopez family slumped helplessly on the floor, drenched in cold sweat ever since this morning.
This was the biggest predicament they have ever faced.
A debt of five hundred million!
Even if they had Harry sold, would they even be able to pay off this debt?
How did things turn out this way?
They just couldn’t fathom what happened.
“How did this happen? Are you guys stupid? Why did you investigate Zoey’s company beforehand?” yelled Harry.
“Well…The Imperial Meadows appeared to be doing great. They had a few billions of highly liquid assets and some big-name investors backing them up. There was no doubt that the company had a bright future ahead,” whimpered Shaun.
“How would you explain this then?” asked Harry.
Everyone had their heads lowered, no one seemed to have an apparent answer to that question.
They did not expect this to happen at all!
“So what are we going to do now?” Harry shouted.
“I knew it, this is the doing of Zoey! Ten billion in exchange for Levi’s life, it isn’t that hard of a choice for her to make, is it?”
“That’s right, knowing how despicable this little harlot is, she would definitely have made that choice! In order to climb the ranks of society, she was even willing to sleep with countless older men!”
“If she were given the choice between Levi and five million, she would have undoubtedly chosen the latter. Not to mention this is ten billion that we are talking about right now. It is definitely intentional!”
As Shaun and Melanie were busy badmouthing Zoey, Harry’s eyes gleamed and appeared to be in dismay.
“Are you saying that Zoey was searching for a scapegoat as she could no longer keep up with the operations of the company, and we just so happened to be there?”
“That is certainly the case! A wicked woman like her would be all too glad to witness our downfall!”
CHAPTER 367
“I swear I’m going to kill this harlot!”
“Pfft!”
Harry was seething with anger.
“Zoey you little b*tch! You tricked me?”
At this moment, the Lopez family were all sold with the idea that Zoey was having them clean up her mess.
But she had no idea at all.
When she was at the helm of Imperial Meadows, things were doing well. The business was growing and the company had sufficient capital.
Little did they know that Levi was actually the one behind it.
Within the span of a night, he had changed the fate of Imperial Meadows for the worse.
“Grandpa, I think it would only be reasonable for Zoey to return and clean up her own mess!” suggested Henry.
“Yes, we should do just that! We’ll let her solve her own problems!” responded the crowd angrily as they agreed to Henry’s proposition.
Zoey was currently at the Morris Group.
Even though she had lost her company, her abilities were . She planned to put her skills to good use at the Morris Group.
However she was stopped by Levi.
Levi had plans for her to start her own company.
Zoey was sulking at Levi for not letting her to do what she wanted.
At that very moment, she received a call from Harry.
“Zoey you ******* harlot! How dare you trick me! Don’t you dare tell anyone that you are related to Lopez family!”
Just as the call was connected, Harry was blasting at Zoey with full force.
“What happened, grandpa?”
Zoey seemed to be puzzled.
“What happened you say? Imperial Meadows of yours a debt of four billion! Your company’s senior management have collectively resigned. This is such a huge matter, don’t you dare pretend that you don’t know about that!”
“Huh? How did it end up like this? I don’t have the tiniest inkling about that!”
Zoey was stunned, that wasn’t surprising as she did not know what had unfolded behind the scenes.
“You are driving me crazy!”
Harry was on the verge of exploding in rage as he thought that Zoey was feigning ignorance at such a point in time.
“There were times where I had restless nights, feeling guilty for exiling you from our family. Who would have thought that you were actually plotting against us the whole time. A pox on my pity!” yelled Harry from the other side of the phone.
“Grandpa, what are you talking about? I really don’t know anything about that.”
Her company was doing well, how could it incur such a huge amount of debt?
Impossible!
“Zoey you little harlot, how dare you play me for a fool! If only I could slap the hell out of you!”
Harry was boiling with rage.
“Also stop calling me your grandpa, I don’t have a vile granddaughter like you!”
Zoey was in a bind, she did not know what to do.
“However I’ll give you a chance to redeem yourself! Reinstate yourself as the director of Imperial Meadows and clean up your own mess. I’ll welcome you and your family back if you do so!”
Harry was employing the stick and carrot method.
He knew Zoey’s and Aaron’s personality like the back of his hand. They perceived the honor of the family being more important than their own lives.
When they had their names removed from the family registry, Aaron cried in agony.
To them, there are things that worth more than their own lives.
Harry firmly believed that if he were to mention the reinstating them back into the family, they would immediately seize the opportunity.
“As long as you agree to return and solve your company’s issues, I’ll have your family reinstated right now. I’ll even promise that I won’t interfere with your company’s affairs from now on!”
“Grandpa might have overreacted for a bit, but I hope you will understand my circumstances as your company is currently in deep trouble.”
Harry had gone to great lengths to manipulate his granddaughter.
And indeed, Zoey was moved by his words.
Not only would she be able to get her company back, but she would also be reinstated to the Lopez family.
That would be killing two birds with one stone!
Zoey bit her lips, she couldn’t resist agreeing on such a good deal.
CHAPTER 368
“Zoey should you agree to it you may now come to the Lopez family residence and I’ll personally reinstate your family!”
Harry had foreseen that it wouldn’t take long for her to agree, she just needed a little push.
“Grandpa, I…”
Just as Zoey was about to agree on it, Levi snatched her phone away from her hands.
“Who the hell are you? It would be best for you to stop harassing my wife or I’ll beat you up!” said Levi angrily.
“Levi, it’s me! Did you not recognize your grandpa?”
Harry was furious but he had no choice other than to hold it in.
“Grandpa? Never heard of him. Now scram!” shouted Levi before he hung up the phone.
He even blocked all the contacts of the Lopez family.
Harry tried to call her again, but to no avail.
The others tried but they had the same result.
“Zoey has blocked us all!”
“It was Levi! That man had berated me!” said Harry.
His complexion was eerily pale.
“What is the meaning of this, Levi? Why did you scold grandpa?” asked Zoey.
There was a tinge of discontent in her tone.
“What did I just tell you that day? Are you going to just let them walk all over you?” said Levi angrily.
Zoey bit her lips, before stuttering for a bit. “But…It seems that the company…”
“Is that even your company in the first place? What does it have to do with you now? Or are you a member of the Lopez family? If my memory serves me right you have already been exiled from the Lopez family!”
“But grandpa said that he will reinstate us…”
“Are you really that dumb? He only agreed to reinstate you back to the family because he wanted you to clean up his mess. After you are done, he’ll get rid of you without hesitation!
Zoey bit her lips a little harder this time. It took her a while before she came back to her senses.
“Fine, I’ll go along with what you had in mind,” responded Zoey.
Levi immediately ordered Aaron and Caitlyn to block the contacts of the Lopez family.
Not only that, but Levi had also even arranged a holiday trip for Caitlyn and Aaron.
It won’t be so easy for you Harry!
“People will only take advantage of your kindness. You need to know that the Lopez family has nothing to do with you right now.” ranted Levi as he shook his head.
When will Zoey realize she’s too kind for her own good?
Or else she would be bullied by the Lopez family for the rest of her life!
The Lopez family was in a state of panic as they couldn’t contact Zoey or her family at all.
“Grandpa, no matter where I looked I just couldn’t find Zoey’s whereabouts. Not to mention Caitlyn and Aaron are on a vacation to god knows where. It would take them at least ten days to come back!” said Shaun who was panting heavily.
“The heavens want us dead!”
Harry was on the verge of tears.
“Curse that bastard Levi! Zoey was about to agree to it!”
“Why am I not at all surprised that Levi was backing Aaron and his family?”
“I really want Levi dead!”
Just when the Lopez family was about to descend into madness, a few cars came to the family residence.
“Allow us to make a brief introduction. We are the co-developers for West City Ecological Park. What happened to the construction of Ecological Park? I’ve heard that the construction workers and even the security guards had all left. What is the meaning of this? Did you intend to run away with our money?” asked one of the co-developers.
Their pressure was overwhelming, there were at least twenty brawny brutes behind them.
“Huh? No, that has nothing to do with us!”
Shaun could feel his sanity slipping away.
“What do you mean it has nothing to do with you? The contract says that the Lopez Group is now fully in charge of the West City Ecological Park!”
That rendered Shaun speechless.
CHAPTER 369
“With the project coming to a halt, the construction workers gone and your company facing cash flow issues, we would like to terminate the contract. Of course, it goes without saying that you will have to pay us back the amount that we have invested!”
“We have already appointed our lawyers, why don’t you have a nice long talk with them?”
It seems that the co-developers had already made their preparations.
“Why would you involve the lawyer at such an early stage? Did we say that we disagree to it?”
Shaun was about to lose himself.
“Thump!”
A brute had stepped forward and threw a punch at Shaun’s nose, causing blood to spew everywhere.
“How dare you hit me!” said Shaun angrily.
“Just you wait, I’ll call the cops!”
The brute gave Shaun a cold sneer before saying, “Call the cops if you wish, but I’m just a passerby. I just couldn’t bear to look at you.”
“You…”
Needless to say the Lopez family was enraged by this, but there was nothing that they could do.
A phone call cut the tension that was starting to build up.
It was Mr. Jennings from the Ministry of Construction. “Mr. Lopez what’s the matter? What in the world happened to the West City Ecological Park? If I were you I would refund the money to the co-developers, or else there would be a hell of a price to pay!”
It was an order from the Ministry of Construction.
“Shaun, give the money back to them!” said Harry as he did not dare to defy orders.
“Alright, grandpa!”
They had no choice but to give them their refund.
Fortunately, the payable amount was slightly lower than the previous one, totaling up to 12 million.
Just today they had already given out at least 20 million and this wasn’t even a major part of the debt.
If this goes on, the Lopez family would inevitably fall.
They thought they could rise higher by forcefully acquiring the company, but who would have thought that things would end in tragedy.
Tears were flowing out of the rim of Harry’s eyes.
Greed!
Greed was the main cause of their downfall!
Or else why would this even happen in the first place?
Harry started to sob.
The others followed him soon after.
If this goes on, not only would their future be ruined, but they might also even end up in jail.
It was at this moment Henry ran in with long strides while panting heavily. “Dad, I’ve found out where Zoey and Levi are! They are at Morris Group!”
“Great, we’ll meet them at once! Zoey is our last hope!”
Harry brought along the other members of Lopez family as they headed towards Morris Group.
As Zoey and Levi looked out of the window of their office, they could see a bunch of unexpected visitors right at the gate.
“Why are they here?” asked Zoey puzzledly.
“Of course it is to make you the scapegoat! Why else would they be here? The burden of the failing Imperial Meadows could only be thrown to you!” explained Levi as he let out a few laughs.
It wasn’t until now they Zoey understood the situation of the Lopez family. “Why did all sorts of problems occur once I had left the Imperial Meadows? It is as if someone is behind this!”
“You know you are not as slow-witted as you have led me to believe! Yes, I was the one behind this.” answered Levi as he laughed.
Levi seemed to be having a little too much fun.
“You? That’s impossible! If you were capable of this you wouldn’t be spending all day sipping tea over here!” said Zoey as she shook her head in exasperation.
Meanwhile, Harry was leading his family hurriedly towards the Morris Group’s front building. As they attempted to trespass, they were met with several shouts.
“Hold it, hold it! Do you think you own this place? Coming in as you please?” yelled the security guards as they attempted to block the trespassers.
“Mate, I’m here to see Zoey” said Harry as he gave out a few fake laughs.
“Zoey? Have you mistaken? There’s no one with that name over here! What are you all here for?” yelled the captain of the security angrily.
“Oh no, we are actually looking for Levi. Could you please tell him that we are here?” said Harry as he rephrased his words.
He even slipped in an envelope to the security guard, it was full of cash.
“Did you say Levi? I’ll help you ask.”
Levi and Seth had a close relationship, and so he was able to dial his number directly.
“Mr. Garrison, there is someone looking for you!”
“Tell him that I’m busy!”
CHAPTER 370
As Seth had his phone on speaker mode, Harry and his family members could hear it clearly.
What? He is not going to meet us?
“Hey Levi, it’s me! Your grandpa!” said Harry immediately.
“Who the hell do you think you are? Why don’t you call me grandpa instead!”
And with that, Levi hung up immediately.
“This…”
The Lopez family were dumbfounded.
It was a force of habit that these words had slipped from his mouth.
Seth stared at Harry and the people behind him before saying, “You all are not here to seek for trouble, are you? I can’t believe you just called yourself Mr. Garrison’s grandfather.”
The other guards were also staring at them.
While Levy was given the cold shoulder by Iris and the upper management inside the company, he could get along well with the security guards and also the janitors.
They were always seen hanging around smoking or chatting during tea breaks.
So naturally, Levi had a good reputation among them.
To be hearing someone calling himself as Levi’s grandfather, the security guards immediately turned hostile.
“That’s right! They don’t look like people with good intentions!”
The other guards also chimed in.
Shaun was in a bad mood before arriving here, and to be picked on by the security guards, he could no longer hold it in. “Did you mistake yourself for someone important? You are just some lowly guards! Now scram!”
“That’s right, who the hell do you think you are! It would be in your best interest to summon Levi right now or I’ll see to it that you lose your jobs!” said Henry.
After all, the Lopez family had a net worth of around ten billion.
How could they stomach the humiliation of being ridiculed by security guards?
Anger stirred within Seth when those words reached his ears.
“These thugs are trying to mess around, throw them out!”
Seth had given the order.
A number of guards gladly obeyed the orders of their captain and threw them out of the compound.
Shaun had been beaten up once before, and now again.
Harry was exasperated. He had never experienced something like this in his entire life.
“Slap! Slap! Slap!”
The slaps landed perfectly on the face of Shaun and Henry.
“What did you come here for? We came to ask for a favor! Not to act like a gangster!”
Harry was so close to losing it.
He went forward and filled the captain’s pocket with a lot of cash.
Seth happily accepted it.
He gave Levi a call once again.
“Tell them that if they wanted to meet me, it would only be right for them to show some sincerity by prostrating themselves on the ground,” said Levi from the other side of the phone.
“Did you hear that? If you really wanted to ask Mr. Garrison for a favor, then prostrate on the ground right now!”
“Levi you piece of shit!”
Just when Shaun and Harry were about to burst from rage, their father stopped them.
“What are you doing? Have you not come back to your senses yet? On your knees!”
Under the instruction of the head of the household, Fabian, Shaun, Harry and the rest all knelt before the building.
How humiliating!
Words can’t describe such humiliation!
To think that there would be a day where they would have to kneel before Levi.
The passers-by were amused by such a scene and some even took pictures of them.
This made the Lopez family feel even more humiliated!
Their pride and honor were being trampled on publicly.
Each and every one of them swore to take vengeance on Levi.
They would give it back to him tenfold!
Harry felt humiliated despite not being the one kneeling down.
The Lopez family’s honor was tarnished.
But in order to meet Zoey, he could only endure the pain.
Zoey and Levi were watching from the window of their office, they had the best front-row seat all to themselves.
Looking upon the scene of her arrogant uncles kneeling before her, Zoey found it especially entertaining.
But she also felt bad for them.
“Levi, don’t you think that we have gone too far? They might not be able to recover from this mental anguish after all!”
CHAPTER 371
Zoey was just too kind for her own good.
“Are you actually feeling sorry for them? Don’t you know what the Lopez family meant by kicking you out of the family? They wanted you out of their sight!” Levi chided.
Zoey slowly nodded.
That was not false…
“Hey, Seth? Why is he still standing? Tell him to kneel!”
Levi was visibly annoyed while Zoey began to panic.
“W-what are you doing? He’s my Grandpa! How can you tell him to do that?”
Zoey’s breaths quickened as her heart was gripped by horror.
“He has never thought of you as a granddaughter, has he? Don’t get yourself involved. Leave it to me!”
There was a tone of finality in Levi’s voice.
Meanwhile, on the plaza, Seth approached Harry slowly.
“Can they see me?” Harry asked.
“Of course! Why aren’t you kneeling? Get down now!” Seth demanded.
“Me?”
Harry shot him a look of confusion.
He had not expected to be forced to kneel as well.
He had thought that getting Fabian to kneel before Zoey was already sincere enough.
Why are they after me now? He thought.
Are the two of them crazy?
Do they even care about their seniors?
Such unfilial children!
“Hey! Did you hear me? Stop acting like you’re so special! You’re here to plead someone to do your bidding, for goodness’ sake!”
Seth was visibly enraged.
Harry began to tremble uncontrollably. “A-are you telling us to get on our knees?”
“Obviously! Kneel now or scram!”
Seth glared at Harry impatiently.
Crash!
As the Lopez family looked on in horror, Harry fell to his knees in front of Seth.
The pride of the Lopez family fell with him.
What a shame!
Levi Garrison! We’re going to kill you!
That was the thought coursing through every Lopez family member’s minds.
Even Harry felt utterly humiliated when he knelt in front of Seth.
He had admitted defeat to Levi Garrison!
Harry could feel his self-confidence crumbling into the ground when he noticed the passersby’s curious looks.
He wished he could bang his head against a wall and kill himself.
However, he had to stay strong for the sake of the Lopez family.
Zoey, who had been sitting in her office, was shocked by the sight before her.
Harry Lopez was on his knees!
She began to feel guilty but could not help but look at Levi curiously.
This man seems different after coming out of jail… She thought.
He had become a literal fortune teller.
He had predicted the fall of the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce and the Gonzales family.
He had speculated Harry Lopez to show up, kneel before them, and plead for their help.
…
Is he God?
Is he a prophet?
She started to wonder if the whole thing had been orchestrated by Levi and the entire Lopez family.
However, that seemed almost impossible.
“What are we going to do now?” Zoey asked.
“Leave them there.”
By the end of the workday, Harry and company had been kneeling outside the office for a good three hours.
Levi told Zoey to get in Iris’ car and leave the scene.
Meanwhile, he waltzed out of the entrance to the office.
Everyone in the Lopez family grinned from ear to ear when they saw him.
Their last lifeline had arrived!
Levi headed straight for Harry and smiled at him. “Well, old man, you’re an obedient one, aren’t you?”
“Weren’t you and Zoey the ones who told us to kneel here? Where is she? Has she agreed to our requests?” Harry hurriedly asked.
“That’s right! We’re still waiting for her to come back and deal with the situation!”
The others began to panic as well.
Levi simply smiled. “I’m sorry, but I think you’ve misunderstood us. This has nothing to do withthwmZoey.”
“Are you certain you want to use it now, Harry? You only get one chance!” The voice on the other end of the call coldly warned.
“Yes, I’m sure!” Harry nodded enthusiastically.
“Okay then. What do you need?”
Harry recounted Levi’s situation to the Lopez family.
A moment later, a call was returned.
“The matter has been settled. Sebastian agreed to let him go!”
The South City Lopez family was unaware of Wesley’s scheme. Sebastian only agreed to let the matter regarding Levi rest.
Harry was absolutely overwhelmed by this result.
Both Zoey and Iris let out sighs of relief.
Levi was safe.
“Someone print the final contract for the transfer! Once Levi shows his face, we’re signing it!” Harry could not be more eager.
Although bitterness pricked her, Zoey had no regrets.
If Levi’s safe, losing him for the company is worth it!
Meanwhile, in the underground cellar of the Lopez family’s private manor.
Wesley glared daggers at Levi and the rest. “I don’t care who you are! No matter what it takes, I’m taking your decapitated heads to my uncle! Someone come and chop their heads down now!”
After issuing his order, Wesley turned to avoid the imminently gruesome scene.
Thirty men lunged forward, poised to strike Levi and the rest.
With a loud bang, Levi managed to escape his bonds and struck his attacker.
His victim was sent flying across the room.
Another loud bang resonated. This time, he had launched a spinning kick which propelled another attacker backwards.
Levi was taking on the battle by himself.
He weaved into the crowd, throwing a series of rapid attacks. Each extension of his limb resulted in the collapse of at least one of his opponents.
Within thirty seconds, all thirty mercenaries were sprawled over the ground.
All of them had at least seven or eight broken bones.
Nueve and Trey were frozen in shock.
They had never seen Levi in action and assumed he was a regular man.
Neither expected him to be a master of combat!
Wesley sensed that something was wrong and slowly turned around.
The moment he turned, terror seized him.
All the trained experts were defeated?
It’s insanely impressive!
“Sebastian was it? Send him a gift on my behalf!” Levi stalked over and came to a stop right in front of Wesley.
Wesley spluttered, “What gift?”
Bang!
One swift kick to the shin and a horrible cracking sound echoed through the room.
Crack!
Crack!
Crack!
Three more kicks followed in succession. All of Wesley’s limbs had been broken.
With a strangled howl of agony, Wesley finally understood what Levi meant by ‘gift’.
He succumbed to the darkness shortly after.
“Dig into the identities of these people! They were no ordinary men!” Levi instructed Nueve and Trey.
Once they departed the manor, Levi started on his journey back to Zoey.
In the Lopez family residence.
“Grandpa, is Levi out of danger yet?” Zoey urgently pressed.
“I’m sure he’s fine, Sebastian gave his word that he would drop the matter!” Harry muttered dismissively.
“Let’s give it a while more. As a last resort, we’ll just call the police!” Iris did not trust the Lopez family at all.
Just then, Levi strolled in.
“See? I told you he was fine!” Harry grinned triumphantly.
The rest of the family gazed at Harry with unadulterated admiration.
Grandpa is amazing. He managed to convince the South City Lopez family to release Levi after a single phone call.
Even Iris had to admit Harry was impressive.
The moment Zoey laid eyes on Levi, she leapt into his arms, pulling him close.
CHAPTER 353
Zoey had never been more fraught with worry in her life.
“I’m fine! There’s no need to cry! Let’s go back!” Levi murmured comfortingly.
“Why don’t you head to work with Iris? I have some business to discuss with Grandpa.” Zoey said.
“Okay.”
Iris led Levi out and they made their way to the office.
Zoey signed the transfer papers and Harry insisted on taking them to a lawyer’s office for verification.
“From now on, Ms. Lopez will have nothing to do with Imperial Meadows.” The lawyer declared.
“Yes, yes, I know.” Zoey could not stop the tears which surged and overflowed.
“Wait, you’re so capable Zoey. Why don’t you come work for my company?” Harry offered facetiously.
“No thanks!” Zoey resolutely turned him down and left the family residence, her cheeks wet with tears.
“Hahaha…”
Uproarious laughter erupted from the rest of the family.
Only a few months till Zoey’s inheritance becomes all ours!
At long last, the day has finally come!
“Tonight, we’re celebrating at the best hotel in town!” Harry was at peak jubilance.
“Father, should we invite Aaron?” Harry giggled smugly.
“Of course! We need to let the unfilial maggot see for himself how I’ve gained control of his family’s properties! Hahaha…” Harry guffawed gleefully.
Zoey scurried back to Bayview Garden.
She had lost everything.
She would most likely be unable to afford the rent from then on.
But she had no regrets.
Levi was safe, and that was all that mattered to her.
Iris neglected to inform Levi of this development, hence he was none the wiser.
“Mr. Garrison, we’ve found the information you requested! Those people were trained assassins who belong to the Robinson family!” Nueve reported.
Things instantly clicked for Levi. The Robinsons were the ones pulling the strings.
“Good. Once the swearing-in ceremony is over, you guys will be the first to go!” A flash of steely hostility crossed Levi’s gaze.
After work, Iris brought Levi back.
Before she exited the car, Iris issued an austere remark, “Treat Zoey well. The burden of the family rests on your shoulders from now on!”
Levi found her words strange.
I’ve always been good to Zoey!
Back home.
Zoey looked like she had been crying.
“What’s wrong, honey? Why the tears?” Levi asked with curious concern.
“It’s nothing. I just felt like crying for some reason…” Zoey dried her eyes.
“You have a weird hobby…” Levi smiled.
Suddenly, someone pounded on their door.
When Levi opened the door, Aaron and Caitlyn bolted past him straight towards Zoey.
“What’s wrong with you, Zoey?” They asked in surprise.
Zoey’s voice caught in her throat and she struggled to come up with a reply.
“What’s wrong? Did something happen to Zoey?” Levi was bewildered by their reactions.
Aaron shot Levi a glare. “Don’t you know what happened? Because of you, Zoey gave her entire inheritance to the Lopez family!”
“Exactly! She’s now penniless!” Caitlyn roared.
“Wait. What?” Levi was floored.
“You were captured by the South City Lopez family so, in order to save you, Zoey agreed to Father’s terms. Your safe return in exchange for her entire inheritance!”
“Since you were saved, Zoey had to make good on her word!”
“It’s all your fault! We were beginning to see the light at the end of the tunnel, but you wrecked it! Why did you have to offend the Lopez family?”
Aaron and Caitlyn were ready to unleash their fury on Levi.
CHAPTER 354
“I admit to pissing off the South City Lopez family. But Harry was not the one who saved me. I managed it by myself! It had nothing to do with him!” Levi explained in frustration.
He turned his attention to Zoey. “You’ve been tricked. It really wasn’t Harry who saved me. Why didn’t you just ask me?”
Zoey was stunned.
She believed Levi.
“As if! Don’t you know who Sebastian is? They’re on par with the most elite family from North Hampton. How would you be able to make it out on your own after incurring their wrath?”
“Exactly! We all saw Father make the call to Sebastian, who promised to let you off!” Aaron and Caitlyn snapped.
Zoey was also looking at Levi suspiciously.
None of them would believe his claims.
Levi did not bother to explain himself any further.
After all, regardless of what he said, his words would not be taken seriously.
Harry had chosen the perfect opportunity to wrap everyone around his finger.
Further elaboration was futile.
“Levi, please reflect on yourself! Zoey made the ultimate sacrifice all for your sake! She lost a multi-million company!” Aaron was close to tears in distress.
Levi was visibly touched by Zoey’s sacrifice.
She really loves me.
After all, a few million is more than enough to test one’s loyalty.
Yet, she chose to save me even if it meant losing a few billion.
“Since the company has already been transferred, there’s no point in crying over spilt milk! I’ll help Zoey start up a whole new company, one which will take the world by storm!” Levi asserted.
It aligned perfectly with the plan he was about to execute.
Soon, he would be purging North Hampton.
When the time came, there would be a surplus of resources in the market.
It would be the perfect opportunity for Zoey to step in.
She would also be helping Morris Group to share the load.
Then, no one would care about the crummy company the Lopez family stole.
“You’re all talk. Luckily, you work for Morris Group, else I would beat you to a pulp!” Aaron and Caitlyn smiled wryly as they exited.
Zoey beamed. “Stop teasing me, honey! As if I would be able to take the world by storm!”
“I’m serious! North Hampton is about to undergo a big shift! Just wait and see!” Levi announced.
He’s just trying to comfort me. I need to smile for his benefit.
“The Lopez family better watch their backs! I won’t let them get away with it so easily!” Levi’s eye glinted menacingly.
As the sun slowly disappeared below the horizon, the Lopez family was enjoying a stupendously lavish banquet.
“They didn’t even bother to show up!” Henry and a few other people screeched.
“Father, I suggest we scratch their names entirely off the family register! They’re as poor as church mice now!” Henry suggested.
Fabian nodded in agreement. “Yes, that’s right. We’ve milked them for all they’re worth! What’s the point in keeping them around!”
“Yes yes! The Lopez family is now worth over a billion! How could we accommodate people like Aaron? How humiliating!”
“They’ll definitely come crawling back for help in the future. How bothersome!”
The rest of the people jabbered and brayed.
Harry was slightly tipsy and he nodded excitedly. “Okay! We’ll remove them from the family register at the family meeting tomorrow! From then on, we won’t have anything to do with them!”
“Hahaha. That’s great!” Henry and the rest applauded delightedly.
The next day.
Zoey and Levi were still slumbering.
An urgent call woke them abruptly and tore them from away Morpheus’ realm.
The call was from Aaron, who told them to hurry down to the Lopez family ancestral home.
CHAPTER 355
By the time Levi and Zoey rushed to the scene, Aaron and Caitlyn had already arrived.
The location had been intentionally picked to be the family ancestral halls.
“Dad, Mum, what’s wrong? What’s the rush?” Levi asked, puzzled.
“We don’t have a clue either! We were just told to meet at the ancestral halls. I think they’re announcing something big!” Caitlyn answered.
Aaron knitted his brows. “My right eyelid won’t stop twitching!”
Shortly later, Harry arrived with the rest of the Lopez family party at the ancestral halls.
Henry and the rest smirked sinisterly.
An uneasy feeling settled in the stomachs of Levi and the other three.
But they were certain of one thing. Nothing good could come out of this.
Harry seated himself on the wooden chair in front of the shrine and the rest took their seats according to seniority.
Harry quickly scanned the scene and sternly boomed, “Is everyone here?”
Fabian nodded in response. “Everyone is here Father!”
Harry was the first to offer up a joss stick.
“It’s been some time since we had a family meeting at the ancestral hall! Today’s meeting was called to announce…” Harry’s gaze fell on Aaron.
“After a long discussion with the family, I, of the North Hampton Lopez family, have decided to expel Aaron and his family from our clan!” He stated plainly.
Once the last word left his lips, every person present gaped in astonishment.
Levi and his family’s faces fell.
“What? Kicked out?”
The news was earth-shattering for the three of them. They could almost see their world crumbling around them.
We’re being removed from the family register!
What could be worse?
Such a blow threatened to push them off the cliff into the chasm of insanity.
Aaron looked at Harry in utter disbelief.
Caitlyn immediately dissolved into tears.
Tears were brimming in the rims of Zoey’s eyes.
Grandpa just robbed me of my assets worth close to a billion. How could he go so as far as to burn all our bridges? How could he force us out of the family?
She could only sigh in resignation.
“All in favor, raise your hands!” Aaron yelled.
In a flurry of movement, the hands of Fabian and many others shot into the air.
“It’s settled! The move to remove Aaron and his family has the majority vote!” Henry chuckled.
He was completely indifferent to the feelings of the four people in question.
“Good luck to you guys. From now on, the North Hampton Lopez family shall have absolutely nothing to do with you! Please do not involve us in your matters from here on out!”
“I, Harry Lopez, are henceforth severing all ties with you! We shall be no better than strangers from now on!”
“Get out!” Harry ordered cruelly.
“Get out of the family! Get out of the family! Get out of the family!” The rest of the people chanted with ruthless determination.
“Might I suggest you change your last names? You’re undeserving of the Lopez name!” Henry sneered.
Zoey’s body was shaking with the force of her wails.
She was indignant!
She had never been wronged to such an extent in her life.
I don’t even deserve the Lopez family name now.
This is even worse than losing all my assets.
My own grandfather wants nothing to do with me.
Right after he snatched away close to a billion from me!
Caitlyn was not doing any better.
But neither of them was in worse shape than Aaron.
His birth father had cut ties with him and he was erased from the family register.
What more could be worse?
Seized by rage, Aaron spat out blood.
“Father, Aaron…”
Zoey and Caitlyn rushed to catch the teetering Aaron.
Aaron did not speak. He only glared directly at Harry.
“What? Haven’t given up?” Harry leered.
“Right. It’s not over!” Levi exclaimed.
CHAPTER 356
“What does useless scum like you have to be upset about? You’re grossly unfit to be part of the Lopez family!”
“Exactly! Get out of the Lopez family! You useless scum!”
“You have no right to be here! Get out and stay away!”
Levi opened his mouth and the room fell silent.
“Harry, would you believe me if I said you’ll live to regret this?” Levi hissed, his lips curled upwards in a malevolent smirk.
“Haha. Me? Regret? Impossible! I hold all of Zoey’s assets. What do I have to regret?” Harry retorted with an equally hostile smirk of his own.
The rest of the people stared at Levi like he was an idiot.
Aaron wiped away the blood at the corner of his mouth and fixed his eyes on Harry incredulously. “Father, must you go this far? What did I do wrong that you insist on kicking me out from the family?”
“Yes! The Lopez family has always had strict rules. Erasing anyone’s name from the family register can only be a punishment for something egregious. What did Aaron and I do?” Caitlyn asked, choking back sobs.
Zoey’s gaze was also boring into Harry.
Harry exchanged a look with Henry before coldly replying, “Don’t you even know what you did? I worked to raise you and even opened a company for you. What about you guys? You contributed nothing to the family! You even committed deplorable acts! But you want to leave the Lopez family! It’s the equivalent of betraying your ancestors!”
“Yes! Zoey’s company leaving the Lopez family is the equivalent of betraying the ancestors!”
“The punishment for betraying your ancestors is expulsion form the family!”
“Get out of the Lopez family!”
Henry and the rest chided and raged. They even shoved the four of them.
Aaron gazed at Harry despondently and asked, “Father, I’ll ask you one last time. Must you take it this far?”
“Leave! Never call me Father ever again! You’re no longer part of the Lopez family!” Harry rebuffed heartlessly.
He struck off the names of Aaron and the rest from the family register.
Aaron was no longer a member of the Lopez family. It was official.
At that moment, despite being a picture of masculinity, Aaron broke down into bawls of agony.
“Dad, Mum, Zoey. Let’s go!” Levi dragged the three of them out.
Despite trying to saunter away, their figures appeared forlorn.
“Hahaha…”
The Lopez family guffawed and laughter resonated throughout the room.
We’ve finally got rid those burdens!
“From this day onwards, our family shall prosper!” Harry bellowed.
In the car.
Aaron and his family huddled together, sobbing.
This was the darkest hour of their existence.
They never would have imagined that the day would come where their names were erased from the family register.
They no longer belonged to the Lopez family.
Levi could only offer warm words. “The three of you are too nice! You’ve suffered silently at their hands for ages! All this time, you prioritized family, and allowed them to step all over you! If you think about it, they’re the ones who aren’t fit to be related to you! Look at how they treated you. After leaving you with nothing, they even kicked you out of the family! But this might be a good thing. From now on, you can focus on working hard without anything holding you back! I’ll make them pay! You can just sit back and wait for the day when I make them kneel before you and beg for forgiveness!”
The trio was in the throes of despair and merely took Levi’s words and passing remarks of comfort.
The Lopez family did not stop there.
The news spread like wildfire through the North Hampton media outlets.
‘Aaron Lopez and family betrayed the Lopez family and plotted to get ahold of all the Lopez family estates.’
‘Harry Lopez had no choice but to harden his heart and expel them from the family.’
Countless savage condemnations fell upon them.
Page after page depicted Aaron as a callous fiend, an ungrateful bastard.
CHAPTER 357
“Such scum should just be sentenced to death! Why keep him around?”
“Yes! He even betrayed his family. He’s no better than a traitor!”
Aaron and Caitlyn did nothing to defend themselves.
Any attempt to do so would just result in more rebuttal and insults.
They were slandered!
Such malignance!
After getting wind of the news, Una could not hold back her broad grin.
“Who would’ve thought even Levi would come to this? Even your wife has fallen from her grace. Let’s see how you crawl out of this hole.” She sniggered spitefully.
Even Winston was elated to receive the news.
A man of Levi’s position would normally never have caught Winston’s eye.
But he caused trouble one too many times and Winston was practically boiling with rage.
“All I had to do was dangle some meat in front of the mutts and they took the bait” Winston grinned widely.
Oh, I can’t imagine there exists joy greater than this!
Not only was he attending the next day’s swearing-in ceremony for the commander-in-chief, but to receive such news as well, he was bursting with happiness.
“Now everyone, focus on preparations for tomorrow’s swearing-in ceremony!”
That night, these powerful figures of North Hampton struggled to get some shut-eye.
In a luxurious mountain villa somewhere.
The kingpin behind the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce, Eric Robinson, who also stood at the head of four noble families, invited Grover Cooke and Xander Hoyles over.
“Mr. Cooke, Mr. Hoyles, I ask for your assistance tomorrow!” Eric appealed.
“How do you want us to help?” Xander asked warily.
“Tomorrow you are to arrange a meeting between us, the God of War and Mr. Quinton. Winston Gonzales cannot, under no circumstances, know about it! I’ll leave this matter in your hands! The North Hampton Chamber of Commerce is in grave danger!”
The faces of the men in front of him soured.
“Okay, leave it to us! I’ll also have Jesse come up with a plan to help the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce!” Grover replied calmly.
“That’s great!” Eric and the rest were thrilled.
Their fates rested on the shoulders of Xander and Grover.
“Hehe. When the time comes, we’ll have both Morris Group and the Gonzales family under our thumb!”
They could not wait for the next day to arrive.
The next day.
The North Hampton Warzone had completed all preparations and were more than ready. The commander-in-chief’s swearing-in ceremony would begin at exactly 9 o’clock.
Andy, who was in charge of the event, bustled about incessantly.
The last step was to ensure the God of War would be making an appearance to formally introduce Percy as the new commander-in-chief.
Andy was overwrought with emotion.
Even the God of War had to follow the schedule he set out.
How wonderful was that!
In the morning.
Levi addressed the family before him, “Dad, Mum, Zoey, let’s go out and have some fun!”
The trio did not protest and obediently climbed aboard the car.
Soon, Levi had driven them out of the suburbs.
Zoey did not pay much mind. She assumed Levi was taking them to the countryside or to a scenic location.
But as the ride went on, she sensed something was off.
There were many cars on the road, most of which were of high-end brands like Maybach and Rolls-Royce.
They were all moving in the same direction as Levi.
Is there an event going on?
“Honey, where are you taking us?” Zoey enquired.
“I’m bringing you to see the world, and enjoy yourselves while we’re at it!” Levi grinned.
After about two hours, they were almost out of North Hampton.
They had finally arrived at their destination.
When they took in the surroundings, the three Lopezes were stunned.
They were at an army camp!
We’re actually at an army camp!
The car had only just halted when soldiers came marching over for inspection.
The soldiers were all armed to the teeth. Zoey and her parents could not help but feel on edge.
CHAPTER 358
“Sir, as this car is not sanctioned by the Warzone, you are to park there, on the left. You may enter afterwards!” The soldier informed Levi.
“Sure!” Levi drove the car to an empty slot and parked.
After they got out of the car, Zoey and Aaron scanned their surroundings with fascination.
How are we allowed to be in such a solemn and sacred place?
What are we doing here?
They were burning with curiosity and fear as they held the military in high regard.
Zoey also spotted the luxury cars which they passed on the road, parked around them.
Something’s definitely going on!
“Levi?”
At this moment, a shocked voice called out.
Levi turned to see the Gonzales family making their way over to him.
There were a large number of members present, ten of them to be exact.
Una walked right up to Levi and asked with a smile plastered on her face, “What are you doing here? Is this a place you’re allowed to be at?”
Winston broke out into a smile as well.
After all, it was no easy task getting an invitation to the ceremony.
It had posed somewhat of an issue even for an elite such as Winston, much less for commoners.
Yet, Levi came?
What kind of joke is this?
Levi replicated their expressions. “I’m here for the swearing-in ceremony of course!”
“Hahaha…”
The Gonzales erupted into peals of laughter.
There were ‘regular’ people who were given invitations to the event, but they were gentries such as Winston and the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce.
The Rogers family, who were worth five billion, might stand a chance.
But Levi was far from being included in the realm of possibilities.
He had nothing to his name and was even kicked out of the Lopez family.
“You seem to be in a good mood Mr. Gonzales! Why are you laughing?”
The heads of the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce appeared.
Winston smiled. “Do you know Levi, Robinson?”
Eric and his three companions froze momentarily before regaining his gait. “Of course I know him!”
Phineas Robinson kept his eyes trained on Levi.
The lucky bastard. Wesley was this close to ending his life.
Who would have expected Sebastian to drop the case?
Thanks to him, my thirty masters are gone.
Wesley must have brought them back to South City.
“Levi is also here to attend the swearing-in ceremony.”
After Winston’s revelation, the Robinsons dissolved into cackles.
“Who gave him the right to show his face here? Ha!”
The Robinsons scoffed before departing.
Levi was worth nothing in their eyes.
Before the Robinsons left, they made a slicing gesture across their necks. “Sooner or later, your head will roll, Levi Garrison.”
They sauntered off.
Aaron and the rest were breathing raggedly.
The tension from the interaction with North Hampton’s elite had been too overwhelming. They felt almost suffocated.
They could not believe Levi had made enemies of such people.
The last few seemed to bear intense hatred for Levi as well.
Just how much trouble did he cause?
“I have to say, hats off to you! You managed to ******** so many big-shots with one swing!” Aaron smiled wryly as he did not know how to react to this.
“Dad, Mum, it’s fine. After today, those people will all fall!” Levi chuckled confidently.
“Moving on, can you take us in? To the swearing-in ceremony?” Zoey asked.
“No problem!”
Levi led them into the camp with no problems.
A representative from the camp greeted them and gave them a tour.
CHAPTER 359
Levi decided that he didn’t want them to attend the Grand Opening Ceremony in the end.
He felt that it wasn’t worth going, and they might as well have a tour around.
Winston and his group made their way into the hall of the barracks. He started to interrogate his son, Andy when he finally sat down.
“Is Levi or Aaron on the guests’ list?”
Andy shook his head, “Nope. The list had long been ready. But Levi’s name is nowhere to be found.”
“Hahahaha…”
Winston and a few others laughed.
“Besides, Levi and the others aren’t even here in the hall. How is he supposed to attend the Grand Opening?” asked Andy.
Winston grinned brightly.
Levi was just a clown in their eyes.
Besides sheer luck, that clown had nothing else.
When the Gonzales family was dealing with Levi, Percy happened to be there to resolve the crisis.
And Harry was there when the Lopez family from South City intended to deal with Levi.
……
“Your good luck is going to be used up one day!” Una sneered.
Inside the hall arranged by the North Hampton Warzone, guests who were there for the ceremony flocked to their pre-arranged seats.
Winston and the other upper-class members of the society were seated in the first row.
Governor Jesse Nielsen and his men were also in the front seats. Even though Grover had stepped down, he was still more than qualified to be seated in the first row.
Xander Hoyles and Benny Quinton had also arrived and were seated.
Soon, most of the seats were filled up.
But there were still six empty seats in the first row.
Everyone knew what this meant.
These six seats were reserved for the God of War and his subordinates, the Five Great Wars Regiment.
Any one of them alone was enough to make the North Hampton tremble in fear.
Not to mention the God of War.
This is exciting!
This is really, really exciting!
Winston had never been so excited in his life. He was about to meet the legendary God of War!
Oh, how long have I waited for this day to come…
And it finally came!
There was a different meaning to it today.
The God of War and Benny Quinton were going to make their appearance together.
The commander-in-chief in charge was also the famed general of the Iron Brigade.
This would be quite a historic moment to witness.
Winston kept glancing towards the passageway. The anticipation he was feeling was overwhelming.
The younger generations of the Gonzales family were feeling honored and prideful from the bottom of their hearts.
Among all those from the younger generation of the North Hampton, who else was fortunate enough to attend such a ceremony?
This was the power of the resources they had.
The experience and networking they had accumulated were definitely enough to crush their competitors.
The billionaires of the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce were of no exception.
Compared to Winston, the God of War was relatively more like their last hope.
Because the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce was in distress and the markets were disintegrating.
They would suffer if there wasn’t anyone to back them up.
The attendees quietened down after a short while.
Not long after, Percy marched into the venue with his military uniform on.
The attendees slowly stood up and welcomed Percy.
After all, he was going to be the commander-in-chief of the North Hampton Warzone after today.
But Percy didn’t walk over to the stage. He waited at the passageway instead.
Soon, Azure Dragon, Kirin and Phoenix arrived.
They were the Five Great Wars Regiment!
Their intimidating aura overwhelmed the audience in the hall.
This was the first time the famous Five Great Wars Regiment were onstage together.
Even Xander felt his blood boiling with anticipation.
Just the five of them was enough to kill an army of a thousand men.
Azure Dragon and the others stopped at the passageway too. Six of them including Percy stood in two rows as they waited.
Everyone knew what this meant.
They’re waiting for the arrival of the God of War!
Everyone stood up as they held their breaths and paid full attention to the passageway.
Tap…tap…tap…
Sounds of footsteps could be heard shortly after.
A mighty silhouette had appeared at the passageway!
CHAPTER 360
“Salute!” Percy yelled and gave a standard military salute.
All the soldiers followed suit.
Once the figure returned the salute, he began to walk into the hall with Percy and the others flanked beside him protectively.
Everyone’s hearts were pounding as it wasn’t an exaggeration that the seven people in front of them could save the world.
This is exciting!
He’s the God of War!
He’s Erudia’s one and only 5-star rated God of War!
Una’s heart thumped as she watched the tall figure from afar.
Now that’s a true hero!
He’s the man of every woman’s dream!
Una fell in love with the man just by the sight of him.
The Gonzales family had also planned to do whatever it took to get Una to sleep with the God of War that night.
Una was very confident that she was going to be the God of War’s wife soon.
I’m going to be the wife of Erudia’s most respectable God of War.
Una could already see the bright future she was going to have.
The faces of Winston and his group were glowing. After today, I, Winston Gonzales, am going to be the Grandpa of the God of War!
The Gonzales family is going to prosper and become Erudia’s most powerful aristocratic family!
Before long, Levi and his group were finally in the hall and got to their reserved seats.
The attendees in the hall could only see the back of the God of War. He sat in a tall and upright manner, like the backbone of the nation; the Great Wall of Erudia.
The five stars on his shoulder shined brightly.
Right now, he was the biggest focus of the audience.
“One should have a son like the God of War!” exclaimed Winston.
“Don’t you think the God of War looks familiar?”
Winston and his group who were sitting a bit further behind couldn’t see quite as clearly.
So Winston, Eric, and the others started to put on their glasses.
“His back seems really familiar… I feel like I’ve seen him somewhere before!” said Winston.
“That’s right! He looks familiar to me too, but I just can’t remember who he is…” said Una.
Meanwhile, Xander and Andy, who were sitting in the first row, broke out in cold sweat just after a glance at the God of War.
They had seen photographs of Levi before.
But they didn’t expect Levi to be the God of War.
Thud!
Andy didn’t sit tight and fell onto the ground, attracting the attention of everyone in the room.
“What’s wrong with Andy? How can he make such a rudimentary mistake?” said Winston angrily.
The Gonzales family wore an unsightly expression on.
The ceremony finally began.
Almost an hour had passed since the ceremony started and Percy stood on the stage as he waited.
“Lastly, let’s welcome the God of War!” announced Xander.
Xander stood up and shouted to the audience, “Salute to the God of War!”
“To the God of War!”
Thousands of officers and soldiers shouted in unison.
Levi got on the stage in the midst of the shouts and stood facing everybody.
The attendees went crazy when they saw the face of the God of War as their dream finally came true.
All these years, the God of War was the military spirit of the soldiers.
They could die without any regrets now that they finally saw the God of War in person.
“I want to take a good look at how the God of War really looks like.”
Una and those who were younger immediately paled as they were shocked to see who the God of War really was.
Boom!
Everyone was shocked at the revelation. It was like a bolt that came out of the blue sky.
Levi Garrison!
No one had expected Levi to be the God of War.
It was beyond their wildest imagination.
It’s actually Levi!
Una was dumbfounded.
Clint was dumbfounded.
Robinson was dumbfounded.
……
“Huh? What’s wrong with you guys? Are you shocked?”
CHAPTER 361
Winston and the rest were confused as to why the younger ones were so shocked.
“We should take a look too!”
They turned.
Winston, Eric, and the others almost fainted when they saw Levi’s face.
“Levi? It’s Levi?”
“No way! How could it be Levi?”
“I don’t believe it! I must’ve seen it wrongly.”
Winston and the others couldn’t accept the reality. They just couldn’t believe it even though they saw it with their own eyes.
Even North Hampton’s highest leader, Grover Cooke, paled upon seeing Levi.
“This- Isn’t this Levi Garrison? Levi is the God of War? I’m not dreaming, am I?”
Those who knew Levi felt as though their life was about to collapse soon.
The young man who had once been imprisoned had transformed into an unparalleled general in a blink of an eye!
He was a capable and powerful person now!
It was unimaginable!
The scene before their eyes was just too shocking.
The upperclassmen were absolutely dumbfounded, it was as if they had been struck by lightning.
Levi, who was still on stage, said with a smile, “Sorry to disappoint you! But I am indeed the God of War!”
Boom!
The audience from the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce was about to go crazy when they heard Levi admitting it.
They finally understood why Morris Group’s progress had skyrocketed.
The Morris Group had the God of War backing them up all along!
Who the hell would be able to stand against them? And there was Neil Atkinson too. They saw Neil’s name on the guests’ list.
Neil is Kirin!
Pfft!
Winston couldn’t stand it anymore and coughed out a mouthful of fresh blood.
The God of War was the one who saved him from his sudden heart attack previously.
Winston tried to repay the God of War by offering him money so that the latter could live a new and better life, but Winston was rejected which lead to the Gonzales family thinking that Levi was a scoundrel and a hypocritical clown.
The Gonzales family thought that Levi was going to use the incident to gain more money.
So the Gonzales family had constantly been targeting Levi. They even tried to kill him!
Winston was about to suffer from a brain hemorrhage due to the shock and fear he was feeling.
So the person I’ve been targeting constantly has been the God of War all along!
He really didn’t care about my repayment at all! After all, the God of War wouldn’t be lacking any money! Of course he wouldn’t need me to give him a new life!
The Gonzales family is finished!
Winston suddenly recalled all those times Levi had warned him.
Besides someone with a status like Levi, no one else would be brave enough to force the Gonzales family to kneel in front of him and apologize.
Back then, when commander-in-chief Covington said that he was going to visit his relative, he must be referring to Levi!
I’m such a fool!
I should’ve figure it all out earlier!
Pfft!
Pfft!
……
Winston continuously coughed out a few more mouthfuls of blood.
The truth hit Una harder than anyone else.
She had always been in contact with Levi and had the greatest conflict with him.
Una had even hit Levi with money previously!
It was an act of impiety!
What have I done?
I’ve been humiliating the God of War all this time?
Una immediately burst into tears.
She had single-handedly ruined the Gonzales family!
Up on stage, Levi held the Decree of Appointment and announced, “I hereby appoint Percy Covington as the commander-in-chief of the North Hampton Warzone!”
Percy accepted the Decree of Appointment while the attendees clapped.
It was the most glorious moment of his life!
I thought I had left the Iron Brigade, but I didn’t expect that I would be personally appointed by the person I respect the most!
Levi didn’t get down from the stage immediately. Instead, he scanned through the audience and said with a smile, “I’m going to use this opportunity to say a few words to some of you.”
Boom!
The attendees were stunned by Levi’s words, especially Winston and his group.
Their expressions had changed drastically.
They realized that something bad was about to happen soon.
Sh*t!
CHAPTER 362
Percy and the higher-ups of the North Hampton Warzone looked at Levi with curious eyes.
They knew nothing of the upheavals of the North Hampton.
But Xander, Grover, and a few others already knew that something was up.
They broke into cold sweat.
“Winston is here, right?” Levi asked suddenly.
Boom!
Winston was about to have a heart attack at that moment.
He coughed out another mouthful of blood!
“Is Winston here?” Levi increased his volume into a thunderous roar.
Everyone in the room felt the powerful aura Levi exuded.
“H-here… I’m here…”
Winston almost fell on his knees out of fear.
“How did you treat me when I saved your life the other day?”
Thud!
Both Winston and Una fell onto their knees.
“How dare you repay my kindness with enmity? Your granddaughter threw money at me to humiliate me. She kept provoking me and even tried to kill me!”
The attendees were shell-shocked upon hearing what Levi had said.
The leaders of North Hampton looked at the Gonzales family in disbelief.
Where did they find the courage to do that?
They actually tried to kill the God of War?
Who on earth could bear with that?
It seems like even Xander Hoyles would have to destroy them!
“Will the Gonzales family retreat on your own, or do you need me to use my powers to make you disappear?” Levi asked coldly.
Levi said the words as though he was on a trial.
Crap!
We’re really doomed!
North Hampton would never have stories about Winston the billionaire anymore!
“There’s also a personal grudge with the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce. Six years ago when my business start-up became successful, you coveted my skills and techniques. So you purposely set me up. You crippled me and sent me to jail. You coveted what I had so you took everything away from me!”
“What kind of punishment do you think you deserve?” asked Levi.
Thud!
Eric Robinson and the others fell on their knees one after another.
At this very moment, they finally knew why Levi didn’t go against them right away.
He wanted to slowly replace North Hampton with Morris Group!
“You’re all the same as the Gonzales family!”
Levi looked at Jesse, “Nielson, arrest all those who are in the wrong!”
Boom!
Eric and the others paled and they started to break into cold sweat.
They had done many things that violated the regulations in the years of expanding their business to its current state.
It was enough to get them all locked up!
Not to mention that there was solid evidence of them making a move against Levi Group. They couldn’t escape from evidence.
The group of people quickly looked towards Xander and Grover, hoping that they could save the day.
However, both of them lowered their heads.
They could at least have a say if it was the North Hampton.
But this is the freaking God of War!
He could stand his ground simply based on his strength and the law!
Grover quickly said, “The North Hampton Chamber of Commerce is problematic!”
Jesse nodded as he said, “God of War, I’ll definitely get it done!”
“Alright, dismissed!”
No one had expected the Appointment Ceremony of the new commander-in-chief to end in this way.
The world of North Hampton had changed after an hour.
The most powerful North Hampton Chamber of Commerce and the Gonzales family are ruined!
After they left the hall, Levi changed into casual clothes while Percy followed by his side.
The duo found Zoey and her group.
“Today has really been an eye opener!”
Aaron was in a great mood after a tour around the military camp. All the sorrow he felt earlier was gone.
“Mom, Dad, let me introduce you to my friend. This is Percy Covington. It’s all because of him that I’m able to get here today.” Levi said as he introduced Percy to the elderly.
Aaron shook Percy’s hands excitedly.
They were shocked.
Levi has friends like this too?
“May I know what your position is, Covington?” asked Aaron curiously.
CHAPTER 363
“I’m just a lowly commander. It’s not worth mentioning,” said Percy with a smile.
Caitlyn nudged Aaron and said, “That’s classified information! Why are you asking that?”
“Haha. That was rude of me!”
Aaron laughed.
The few of them enjoyed their dinner together afterward.
Aaron still had questions on the way out, “I think a new commander-in-chief was appointed today!”
“That’s right!”
“Well, we don’t need to think about people like him. But you did really well today, Levi. We’re really happy for you!”
Aaron grinned as he spoke.
“Let us have good fortune and happy events happening one after another after today!”
Levi smiled at that.
Zoey was swiping through her phone as they spoke. Suddenly, an alarmed look appeared on her face and she almost dropped her phone onto the floor.
“What’s wrong, sweetie?”
Everyone looked at her curiously.
“Something big happened! North Hampton is crumbling!”
Zoey took a deep breath.
“Winston Gonzales and all from the Gonzales family opted to quit Gonzales Group! North Hampton Chamber of Commerce announcing dissolution! Eric Robinson of the four noble families from the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce and dozens of higherups have been arrested due to commercial crimes!”
……
The eye-catching headlines were shown on the phone.
Zoey, Aaron, and the others were about to go insane.
This was definitely the biggest news of North Hampton!
Both the Gonzales family and the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce had crumbled at the same time.
This is unbelievable!
Zoey’s puzzled eyes landed on Levi. There was something mysterious about this man.
Can he predict the future?
He even told me that the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce and the Gonzales family were doomed!
It came true in a blink of an eye!
“Levi, is there anything that you know of?” asked Aaron.
“I heard from Percy that the God of War got back at them at the Appointment Ceremony earlier.”
Levi smiled.
“Oh, I see! They offended the God of War. I told you so. No one else in North Hampton would be able to destroy them!”
Aaron felt a sense of relief.
The news of North Hampton’s powerful figures crumbling had quickly spread all over Quebec.
Two mighty mountains had collapsed in an instant.
This meant that the North Hampton market was currently vacant. Anyone would want a share of the pie.
In just a blink of an eye, South City and multiple other places were preying on that pie.
In the meantime, Morris Group, which had received orders from their boss, expanded their business and took up the market share.
North Hampton was too big. It wasn’t possible for them to take over it completely in a short period of time.
In any case, Levi’s plan was simple. It was to quickly restore North Hampton’s order without shaking up its economy.
Rogers Group had also gotten the order from Levi and had joined in as well.
All of a sudden, Rogers Group became the richest aristocratic family in North Hampton.
Glenn had never expected all these to happen.
Levi did it out of respect for Abigail. It was also because he wanted to stabilize North Hampton as soon as possible.
“Zoey, do you still remember what I said previously? I’m going to help you rise to the top again. Just you wait!” Levi said with a smile.
Zoey was actually looking forward to it when she saw how mysterious Levi was acting.
The Lopez family was also really excited at this particular moment.
They had earned so much money and properties recently. Now that the North Hampton market was empty…their opportunity was finally here!
As long as the Lopez family worked hard, having a corporate with a hundred million of net worth wouldn’t be a dream anymore.
“As expected, once we chased Aaron out of the family, our luck has been good!” Henry said while laughing.
Harry looked up to the sky and cried out, “God bless the Lopez family!”
“We’re in big trouble! Something bad has happened!”
CHAPTER 364
Shaun and Melanie Lopez shouted.
“What are you up to? Why are the both of you so frantic? Didn’t I tell you to move the company?” said Harry as he frowned, obviously displeased.
After he took over Zoey’s company, the first thing he did was to move his company to Union Square.
After all, Union Square was at the center of the city.
It feels good to have a company building in the middle of the city.
“Grandpa, the company has been moved. But there’s some other stuff…”
“Grandpa, we don’t know what happened but… Just this morning, large numbers of the Company’s workers resigned. What’s more, it was none other than the executives who led them to resign! It’s a huge loss to the company!”
Shaun panted.
Melanie’s face was extremely sullen.
“What? Did all these really happen?”
Harry and the others’ expressions changed.
It wouldn’t matter much if it were only low-ranking workers who left.
But it would be a huge problem if the executives left.
Melanie’s phone rang.
“What? Seven more executives left?”
Melanie was stunned.
Henry’s phone rang too.
“What? The construction team of the West City Ecological Park Project canceled the contract and all of the workers left? Even the security and the guard dog left?”
Henry’s eyeballs were about to pop out upon hearing the news.
The West City Ecological Park Project had become a complete mess.
Shaun received a text message. He was immediately left dumbfounded after he read the text.
“What? The company is insolvent? The funds have long been used up in the development and now the company doesn’t have any cash flow?”
Shaun was about to have a breakdown soon.
The person in charge of the project from Morris Group called Harry right at this moment.
“Hello Mr. Lopez, why is the project we’re collaborating with Imperial Meadows Limited halted?” Morris Group asked.
“Uh… Due to some recent internal affairs of the company, there has been a delay in the progress. It’ll be back to normal soon!” Harry said and smiled awkwardly.
Morris Group was like the God of Wealth to the Lopez family now.
“Mr. Lopez, please take a good look at the contract. There’s still two days’ time. If the project invested can’t resume, you’ll have to compensate us due to breach of contract! According to the contract, you’ll have to pay one billion if that happens.”
Harry almost peed himself upon hearing what the person in charge from Morris Group had said.
Harry was trembling when the call ended.
“What’s happened? Have the collaboration projects with Morris Group been halted?” asked Harry.
Fabian quickly went to check.
Fabian was sweating buckets when he was done checking.
“Father, the collaboration project with Morris Group is just too big! If we want to continue, we’ll have to dump in more money!” said Fabian.
“What happened? Didn’t Zoey’s company get a big investment fund? How did this happen?”
Harry was about to vomit blood.
“The treasury department of Zoey’s company is currently empty. Not only have the funds been cut off, it seems like the company is also in debt…”
What Shaun said made the Lopez family tremble in fear.
“Huh? That’s not possible! Zoey’s company had been growing so well! Her company even moved to the Union Square!”
“That’s right! The company’s market value of almost a billion isn’t fake!”
The faces of Harry’s and the rest were full of disbelief.
“I understand now! It’s all an illusion made by Zoey! She deliberately made a good financial report and crafted a perfect company image just to attract investments and collaborations!”
“Yes! There have been quite a few companies looking to invest and collaborate with us. It must be because they were attracted by the financial report made by Zoey!” analyzed Fabian.
CHAPTER 365
“God damn it! I thought we actually had a billion in our hands. But who knew all we got is this mess?” said Harry furiously.
In the meantime, a car stopped in front of the Lopez family’s residence.
There were a few men and women in suits.
“Which one of you is Mr. Harry Lopez?”
“That’s me. And you are?”
Harry had an unsettling feeling.
“Hi, we are the person in charge of Union Square. We’re here to inform you that the lease contract of the company is a temporary contract. This is the official contract. Naturally, the prices will be revised accordingly.
It will be revised from the previous ten million every five years to a hundred million every five years. Please pay as soon as possible or you will be ordered to excavate within three days!” One of the persons in charge from Union Square said coldly.
Boom!
A wave of shock washed over Harry and he almost lost his balance.
Shaun took the new contract with trembling hands and read through it.
The more he read, the darker his face got.
The Lopez family was at the verge of going mad.
Isn’t this just too unlucky?
Zoey’s lease was only ten million, yet it became a hundred million for them.
“Hurry up and settle this!”
With that, those from the Union Square left.
But this was only the beginning.
Someone came again.
“Hello, I’m Hailey, the general manager of the North Hampton Bank. Imperial Meadows Limited had previously loaned eighty million from us.
Now the total amount is a hundred and ten million including interest. Lopez Group will have to settle everything within seven days! Otherwise, you’ll have to go through judicial processes!” said Hailey relentlessly.
Thud!
Harry was shocked and fell onto the ground.
We owe the bank more than a hundred million?
Is Zoey crazy?
More importantly, the Lopez family has to clean up this mess!
Hailey left soon after.
But someone else came again.
They were a dozen other companies who came at once.
“Hi, Mr. Harry Lopez. I’m from Harper Investment. I’m here to collect your debt of twenty million!”
“Hi Mr. Harry Lopez, I’m from Allison Corporation. I’m here to collect your debt of fifteen million!”
“Hi Mr. Harry Lopez, I’m from Hilton Group. I’m here to collect your debt of thirty million!”
……
Thirteen companies, all without exception, were here to recover the debts.
Together with Union Square and the bank, the Lopez family had a debt amounting to a total of four hundred and eighty million!
Everyone from the Lopez family was about to faint.
They didn’t gain a single cent, yet they have to settle a debt of approximately five hundred million now?
Pfft!
Everyone was about to cough up blood soon.
“Hang on. Zoey’s Imperial Meadows Limited is the one that owes you the money. It’s none of Lopez Group’s business!” Shaun immediately tried to justify themselves.
“Hmmph! Why are you still trying to come up with excuses? Lopez Group officially bought over Imperial Meadows Limited. So naturally, the debt of Imperial Meadows Limited will have to be settled by you!”
“That’s right. What does this have to do with Ms. Lopez?”
“Hurry up and pay us back! Or you’ll have to go through the judicial process. Everyone from the Lopez family will have to go to jail by then!”
The representatives from all thirteen companies were tough. They didn’t even give the Lopez family a chance to breathe.
“Seven days! We’ll only give you seven days!”
When all representatives from the thirteen companies left, everyone in the Lopez family were deathly silent.
Everyone was soaked in cold sweat and was breathing heavily.
Tap…tap…tap…
Suddenly, footsteps could be heard from the outside.
A group of workers wearing safety helmets rushed into the Lopez family’s residence.
They were contractors from Imperial Meadows Limited. It was payday.
When the workers heard that the company was in a crisis, they had rushed to the Lopez family to get their pay.
“Harry Lopez! Pay us immediately!”
“Right! Quickly pay us, or you won’t be able to handle the consequences!”
CHAPTER 366
A hundred men or more had the Lopez family completely surrounded.
They made a big ruckus out of it.
The Lopez family were completely stunned.
Did a bunch of workers come out to protest?
Previously Zoey had arranged for the contractors to be paid at the end of the month and it just so happened that today was the payday.
The Lopez family might have to foot the bill in her stead.
“Zoey is the one who had your money! Find her if you must but it has nothing to do with us!” yelled Shaun angrily.
“What nonsense is this? Shouldn’t it be the opposite? Ms. Lopez has nothing to do with the company anymore!”
“That’s right! Ms. Lopez has already been disowned by the Lopez Group. How could she be a part of this?”
“We won’t leave until we receive what we were owed!”
The workers were starting to be unreasonable.
“You are trespassing on private property. Get out of my sight or I’ll have the cops arrest you!” warned Shaun.
“Even better. I’ll have them know that our wages are due!”
The contractors did not seem to mind at all.
“Fine, I’ll do just that!”
Shaun believed that the contractors were only putting on a facade.
“Wait! Don’t be rash and think this through. Should you get the police involved, things might just blow out of proportion. Wouldn’t it be bad if the media finds out about this?” said Fabian as he attempted to stop Shaun.
Shaun came to his senses immediately.
Indeed. If such a scandal were to reach the ears of the media, the Lopez Group would be in deep trouble.
“Then what should we do?” asked Shaun.
“Settle it!” said Fabian unambiguously.
“But uncle…”
Shaun was unwilling to give these people money, especially not on behalf of Zoey.
“My word is final,” responded Fabian coldly.
Shaun, Melanie and the CFO of the company wasted no time in auditing the accounts.
There were a total of seven contractors, they would have to fork out at least 5.7 million this month.
It wasn’t until both parties had agreed to settle things cordially that the contractors finally left with their workers.
The Lopez family could finally take a breather.
More than five million gone in the blink of an eye.
Oh, how much it hurt!
The main thing was that this wasn’t a business investment, so they wouldn’t be able to get a single cent out of it.
The Lopez family slumped helplessly on the floor, drenched in cold sweat ever since this morning.
This was the biggest predicament they have ever faced.
A debt of five hundred million!
Even if they had Harry sold, would they even be able to pay off this debt?
How did things turn out this way?
They just couldn’t fathom what happened.
“How did this happen? Are you guys stupid? Why did you investigate Zoey’s company beforehand?” yelled Harry.
“Well…The Imperial Meadows appeared to be doing great. They had a few billions of highly liquid assets and some big-name investors backing them up. There was no doubt that the company had a bright future ahead,” whimpered Shaun.
“How would you explain this then?” asked Harry.
Everyone had their heads lowered, no one seemed to have an apparent answer to that question.
They did not expect this to happen at all!
“So what are we going to do now?” Harry shouted.
“I knew it, this is the doing of Zoey! Ten billion in exchange for Levi’s life, it isn’t that hard of a choice for her to make, is it?”
“That’s right, knowing how despicable this little harlot is, she would definitely have made that choice! In order to climb the ranks of society, she was even willing to sleep with countless older men!”
“If she were given the choice between Levi and five million, she would have undoubtedly chosen the latter. Not to mention this is ten billion that we are talking about right now. It is definitely intentional!”
As Shaun and Melanie were busy badmouthing Zoey, Harry’s eyes gleamed and appeared to be in dismay.
“Are you saying that Zoey was searching for a scapegoat as she could no longer keep up with the operations of the company, and we just so happened to be there?”
“That is certainly the case! A wicked woman like her would be all too glad to witness our downfall!”
CHAPTER 367
“I swear I’m going to kill this harlot!”
“Pfft!”
Harry was seething with anger.
“Zoey you little b*tch! You tricked me?”
At this moment, the Lopez family were all sold with the idea that Zoey was having them clean up her mess.
But she had no idea at all.
When she was at the helm of Imperial Meadows, things were doing well. The business was growing and the company had sufficient capital.
Little did they know that Levi was actually the one behind it.
Within the span of a night, he had changed the fate of Imperial Meadows for the worse.
“Grandpa, I think it would only be reasonable for Zoey to return and clean up her own mess!” suggested Henry.
“Yes, we should do just that! We’ll let her solve her own problems!” responded the crowd angrily as they agreed to Henry’s proposition.
Zoey was currently at the Morris Group.
Even though she had lost her company, her abilities were . She planned to put her skills to good use at the Morris Group.
However she was stopped by Levi.
Levi had plans for her to start her own company.
Zoey was sulking at Levi for not letting her to do what she wanted.
At that very moment, she received a call from Harry.
“Zoey you ******* harlot! How dare you trick me! Don’t you dare tell anyone that you are related to Lopez family!”
Just as the call was connected, Harry was blasting at Zoey with full force.
“What happened, grandpa?”
Zoey seemed to be puzzled.
“What happened you say? Imperial Meadows of yours a debt of four billion! Your company’s senior management have collectively resigned. This is such a huge matter, don’t you dare pretend that you don’t know about that!”
“Huh? How did it end up like this? I don’t have the tiniest inkling about that!”
Zoey was stunned, that wasn’t surprising as she did not know what had unfolded behind the scenes.
“You are driving me crazy!”
Harry was on the verge of exploding in rage as he thought that Zoey was feigning ignorance at such a point in time.
“There were times where I had restless nights, feeling guilty for exiling you from our family. Who would have thought that you were actually plotting against us the whole time. A pox on my pity!” yelled Harry from the other side of the phone.
“Grandpa, what are you talking about? I really don’t know anything about that.”
Her company was doing well, how could it incur such a huge amount of debt?
Impossible!
“Zoey you little harlot, how dare you play me for a fool! If only I could slap the hell out of you!”
Harry was boiling with rage.
“Also stop calling me your grandpa, I don’t have a vile granddaughter like you!”
Zoey was in a bind, she did not know what to do.
“However I’ll give you a chance to redeem yourself! Reinstate yourself as the director of Imperial Meadows and clean up your own mess. I’ll welcome you and your family back if you do so!”
Harry was employing the stick and carrot method.
He knew Zoey’s and Aaron’s personality like the back of his hand. They perceived the honor of the family being more important than their own lives.
When they had their names removed from the family registry, Aaron cried in agony.
To them, there are things that worth more than their own lives.
Harry firmly believed that if he were to mention the reinstating them back into the family, they would immediately seize the opportunity.
“As long as you agree to return and solve your company’s issues, I’ll have your family reinstated right now. I’ll even promise that I won’t interfere with your company’s affairs from now on!”
“Grandpa might have overreacted for a bit, but I hope you will understand my circumstances as your company is currently in deep trouble.”
Harry had gone to great lengths to manipulate his granddaughter.
And indeed, Zoey was moved by his words.
Not only would she be able to get her company back, but she would also be reinstated to the Lopez family.
That would be killing two birds with one stone!
Zoey bit her lips, she couldn’t resist agreeing on such a good deal.
CHAPTER 368
“Zoey should you agree to it you may now come to the Lopez family residence and I’ll personally reinstate your family!”
Harry had foreseen that it wouldn’t take long for her to agree, she just needed a little push.
“Grandpa, I…”
Just as Zoey was about to agree on it, Levi snatched her phone away from her hands.
“Who the hell are you? It would be best for you to stop harassing my wife or I’ll beat you up!” said Levi angrily.
“Levi, it’s me! Did you not recognize your grandpa?”
Harry was furious but he had no choice other than to hold it in.
“Grandpa? Never heard of him. Now scram!” shouted Levi before he hung up the phone.
He even blocked all the contacts of the Lopez family.
Harry tried to call her again, but to no avail.
The others tried but they had the same result.
“Zoey has blocked us all!”
“It was Levi! That man had berated me!” said Harry.
His complexion was eerily pale.
“What is the meaning of this, Levi? Why did you scold grandpa?” asked Zoey.
There was a tinge of discontent in her tone.
“What did I just tell you that day? Are you going to just let them walk all over you?” said Levi angrily.
Zoey bit her lips, before stuttering for a bit. “But…It seems that the company…”
“Is that even your company in the first place? What does it have to do with you now? Or are you a member of the Lopez family? If my memory serves me right you have already been exiled from the Lopez family!”
“But grandpa said that he will reinstate us…”
“Are you really that dumb? He only agreed to reinstate you back to the family because he wanted you to clean up his mess. After you are done, he’ll get rid of you without hesitation!
Zoey bit her lips a little harder this time. It took her a while before she came back to her senses.
“Fine, I’ll go along with what you had in mind,” responded Zoey.
Levi immediately ordered Aaron and Caitlyn to block the contacts of the Lopez family.
Not only that, but Levi had also even arranged a holiday trip for Caitlyn and Aaron.
It won’t be so easy for you Harry!
“People will only take advantage of your kindness. You need to know that the Lopez family has nothing to do with you right now.” ranted Levi as he shook his head.
When will Zoey realize she’s too kind for her own good?
Or else she would be bullied by the Lopez family for the rest of her life!
The Lopez family was in a state of panic as they couldn’t contact Zoey or her family at all.
“Grandpa, no matter where I looked I just couldn’t find Zoey’s whereabouts. Not to mention Caitlyn and Aaron are on a vacation to god knows where. It would take them at least ten days to come back!” said Shaun who was panting heavily.
“The heavens want us dead!”
Harry was on the verge of tears.
“Curse that bastard Levi! Zoey was about to agree to it!”
“Why am I not at all surprised that Levi was backing Aaron and his family?”
“I really want Levi dead!”
Just when the Lopez family was about to descend into madness, a few cars came to the family residence.
“Allow us to make a brief introduction. We are the co-developers for West City Ecological Park. What happened to the construction of Ecological Park? I’ve heard that the construction workers and even the security guards had all left. What is the meaning of this? Did you intend to run away with our money?” asked one of the co-developers.
Their pressure was overwhelming, there were at least twenty brawny brutes behind them.
“Huh? No, that has nothing to do with us!”
Shaun could feel his sanity slipping away.
“What do you mean it has nothing to do with you? The contract says that the Lopez Group is now fully in charge of the West City Ecological Park!”
That rendered Shaun speechless.
CHAPTER 369
“With the project coming to a halt, the construction workers gone and your company facing cash flow issues, we would like to terminate the contract. Of course, it goes without saying that you will have to pay us back the amount that we have invested!”
“We have already appointed our lawyers, why don’t you have a nice long talk with them?”
It seems that the co-developers had already made their preparations.
“Why would you involve the lawyer at such an early stage? Did we say that we disagree to it?”
Shaun was about to lose himself.
“Thump!”
A brute had stepped forward and threw a punch at Shaun’s nose, causing blood to spew everywhere.
“How dare you hit me!” said Shaun angrily.
“Just you wait, I’ll call the cops!”
The brute gave Shaun a cold sneer before saying, “Call the cops if you wish, but I’m just a passerby. I just couldn’t bear to look at you.”
“You…”
Needless to say the Lopez family was enraged by this, but there was nothing that they could do.
A phone call cut the tension that was starting to build up.
It was Mr. Jennings from the Ministry of Construction. “Mr. Lopez what’s the matter? What in the world happened to the West City Ecological Park? If I were you I would refund the money to the co-developers, or else there would be a hell of a price to pay!”
It was an order from the Ministry of Construction.
“Shaun, give the money back to them!” said Harry as he did not dare to defy orders.
“Alright, grandpa!”
They had no choice but to give them their refund.
Fortunately, the payable amount was slightly lower than the previous one, totaling up to 12 million.
Just today they had already given out at least 20 million and this wasn’t even a major part of the debt.
If this goes on, the Lopez family would inevitably fall.
They thought they could rise higher by forcefully acquiring the company, but who would have thought that things would end in tragedy.
Tears were flowing out of the rim of Harry’s eyes.
Greed!
Greed was the main cause of their downfall!
Or else why would this even happen in the first place?
Harry started to sob.
The others followed him soon after.
If this goes on, not only would their future be ruined, but they might also even end up in jail.
It was at this moment Henry ran in with long strides while panting heavily. “Dad, I’ve found out where Zoey and Levi are! They are at Morris Group!”
“Great, we’ll meet them at once! Zoey is our last hope!”
Harry brought along the other members of Lopez family as they headed towards Morris Group.
As Zoey and Levi looked out of the window of their office, they could see a bunch of unexpected visitors right at the gate.
“Why are they here?” asked Zoey puzzledly.
“Of course it is to make you the scapegoat! Why else would they be here? The burden of the failing Imperial Meadows could only be thrown to you!” explained Levi as he let out a few laughs.
It wasn’t until now they Zoey understood the situation of the Lopez family. “Why did all sorts of problems occur once I had left the Imperial Meadows? It is as if someone is behind this!”
“You know you are not as slow-witted as you have led me to believe! Yes, I was the one behind this.” answered Levi as he laughed.
Levi seemed to be having a little too much fun.
“You? That’s impossible! If you were capable of this you wouldn’t be spending all day sipping tea over here!” said Zoey as she shook her head in exasperation.
Meanwhile, Harry was leading his family hurriedly towards the Morris Group’s front building. As they attempted to trespass, they were met with several shouts.
“Hold it, hold it! Do you think you own this place? Coming in as you please?” yelled the security guards as they attempted to block the trespassers.
“Mate, I’m here to see Zoey” said Harry as he gave out a few fake laughs.
“Zoey? Have you mistaken? There’s no one with that name over here! What are you all here for?” yelled the captain of the security angrily.
“Oh no, we are actually looking for Levi. Could you please tell him that we are here?” said Harry as he rephrased his words.
He even slipped in an envelope to the security guard, it was full of cash.
“Did you say Levi? I’ll help you ask.”
Levi and Seth had a close relationship, and so he was able to dial his number directly.
“Mr. Garrison, there is someone looking for you!”
“Tell him that I’m busy!”
CHAPTER 370
As Seth had his phone on speaker mode, Harry and his family members could hear it clearly.
What? He is not going to meet us?
“Hey Levi, it’s me! Your grandpa!” said Harry immediately.
“Who the hell do you think you are? Why don’t you call me grandpa instead!”
And with that, Levi hung up immediately.
“This…”
The Lopez family were dumbfounded.
It was a force of habit that these words had slipped from his mouth.
Seth stared at Harry and the people behind him before saying, “You all are not here to seek for trouble, are you? I can’t believe you just called yourself Mr. Garrison’s grandfather.”
The other guards were also staring at them.
While Levy was given the cold shoulder by Iris and the upper management inside the company, he could get along well with the security guards and also the janitors.
They were always seen hanging around smoking or chatting during tea breaks.
So naturally, Levi had a good reputation among them.
To be hearing someone calling himself as Levi’s grandfather, the security guards immediately turned hostile.
“That’s right! They don’t look like people with good intentions!”
The other guards also chimed in.
Shaun was in a bad mood before arriving here, and to be picked on by the security guards, he could no longer hold it in. “Did you mistake yourself for someone important? You are just some lowly guards! Now scram!”
“That’s right, who the hell do you think you are! It would be in your best interest to summon Levi right now or I’ll see to it that you lose your jobs!” said Henry.
After all, the Lopez family had a net worth of around ten billion.
How could they stomach the humiliation of being ridiculed by security guards?
Anger stirred within Seth when those words reached his ears.
“These thugs are trying to mess around, throw them out!”
Seth had given the order.
A number of guards gladly obeyed the orders of their captain and threw them out of the compound.
Shaun had been beaten up once before, and now again.
Harry was exasperated. He had never experienced something like this in his entire life.
“Slap! Slap! Slap!”
The slaps landed perfectly on the face of Shaun and Henry.
“What did you come here for? We came to ask for a favor! Not to act like a gangster!”
Harry was so close to losing it.
He went forward and filled the captain’s pocket with a lot of cash.
Seth happily accepted it.
He gave Levi a call once again.
“Tell them that if they wanted to meet me, it would only be right for them to show some sincerity by prostrating themselves on the ground,” said Levi from the other side of the phone.
“Did you hear that? If you really wanted to ask Mr. Garrison for a favor, then prostrate on the ground right now!”
“Levi you piece of shit!”
Just when Shaun and Harry were about to burst from rage, their father stopped them.
“What are you doing? Have you not come back to your senses yet? On your knees!”
Under the instruction of the head of the household, Fabian, Shaun, Harry and the rest all knelt before the building.
How humiliating!
Words can’t describe such humiliation!
To think that there would be a day where they would have to kneel before Levi.
The passers-by were amused by such a scene and some even took pictures of them.
This made the Lopez family feel even more humiliated!
Their pride and honor were being trampled on publicly.
Each and every one of them swore to take vengeance on Levi.
They would give it back to him tenfold!
Harry felt humiliated despite not being the one kneeling down.
The Lopez family’s honor was tarnished.
But in order to meet Zoey, he could only endure the pain.
Zoey and Levi were watching from the window of their office, they had the best front-row seat all to themselves.
Looking upon the scene of her arrogant uncles kneeling before her, Zoey found it especially entertaining.
But she also felt bad for them.
“Levi, don’t you think that we have gone too far? They might not be able to recover from this mental anguish after all!”
CHAPTER 371
Zoey was just too kind for her own good.
“Are you actually feeling sorry for them? Don’t you know what the Lopez family meant by kicking you out of the family? They wanted you out of their sight!” Levi chided.
Zoey slowly nodded.
That was not false…
“Hey, Seth? Why is he still standing? Tell him to kneel!”
Levi was visibly annoyed while Zoey began to panic.
“W-what are you doing? He’s my Grandpa! How can you tell him to do that?”
Zoey’s breaths quickened as her heart was gripped by horror.
“He has never thought of you as a granddaughter, has he? Don’t get yourself involved. Leave it to me!”
There was a tone of finality in Levi’s voice.
Meanwhile, on the plaza, Seth approached Harry slowly.
“Can they see me?” Harry asked.
“Of course! Why aren’t you kneeling? Get down now!” Seth demanded.
“Me?”
Harry shot him a look of confusion.
He had not expected to be forced to kneel as well.
He had thought that getting Fabian to kneel before Zoey was already sincere enough.
Why are they after me now? He thought.
Are the two of them crazy?
Do they even care about their seniors?
Such unfilial children!
“Hey! Did you hear me? Stop acting like you’re so special! You’re here to plead someone to do your bidding, for goodness’ sake!”
Seth was visibly enraged.
Harry began to tremble uncontrollably. “A-are you telling us to get on our knees?”
“Obviously! Kneel now or scram!”
Seth glared at Harry impatiently.
Crash!
As the Lopez family looked on in horror, Harry fell to his knees in front of Seth.
The pride of the Lopez family fell with him.
What a shame!
Levi Garrison! We’re going to kill you!
That was the thought coursing through every Lopez family member’s minds.
Even Harry felt utterly humiliated when he knelt in front of Seth.
He had admitted defeat to Levi Garrison!
Harry could feel his self-confidence crumbling into the ground when he noticed the passersby’s curious looks.
He wished he could bang his head against a wall and kill himself.
However, he had to stay strong for the sake of the Lopez family.
Zoey, who had been sitting in her office, was shocked by the sight before her.
Harry Lopez was on his knees!
She began to feel guilty but could not help but look at Levi curiously.
This man seems different after coming out of jail… She thought.
He had become a literal fortune teller.
He had predicted the fall of the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce and the Gonzales family.
He had speculated Harry Lopez to show up, kneel before them, and plead for their help.
…
Is he God?
Is he a prophet?
She started to wonder if the whole thing had been orchestrated by Levi and the entire Lopez family.
However, that seemed almost impossible.
“What are we going to do now?” Zoey asked.
“Leave them there.”
By the end of the workday, Harry and company had been kneeling outside the office for a good three hours.
Levi told Zoey to get in Iris’ car and leave the scene.
Meanwhile, he waltzed out of the entrance to the office.
Everyone in the Lopez family grinned from ear to ear when they saw him.
Their last lifeline had arrived!
Levi headed straight for Harry and smiled at him. “Well, old man, you’re an obedient one, aren’t you?”
“Weren’t you and Zoey the ones who told us to kneel here? Where is she? Has she agreed to our requests?” Harry hurriedly asked.
“That’s right! We’re still waiting for her to come back and deal with the situation!”
The others began to panic as well.
Levi simply smiled. “I’m sorry, but I think you’ve misunderstood us. This has nothing to do withthwmZoey.”
“What? Are you saying she doesn’t know a thing about this?”
Harry was dumbfounded.
“That’s right. What requests did you have, by the way?” Levi asked.
The entire Lopez family froze for a moment.
Indeed, they had been kneeling for three hours without mentioning their requests.
“Are you messing with us right now?”
Harry glared at Levi, disbelief evident in his eyes.
The members of the Lopez family felt as though they could go crazy any moment.
“What? No, of course not! It’s not like you told me anything before you kneeled!” Levi sneered.
The Lopez family looked like they were about to burst into tears at any moment.
“Alright then. If there’s nothing else, I shall take my leave,” Levi declared, before turning around to walk away.
“Wait! Where’s Zoey!” Shaun yelled after him, rushing forward to stop him.
“Why should I tell you? Go away!”
“I’m not letting you leave until you spit it out!” Shaun yelled.
“Get out! Are you tired of living?”
Seth and his army of security guards soon rushed to the scene.
Within seconds, Shaun and his subordinates were lying face-down on the floor with their hands behind their backs.
That was the third beating he had received that day.
The Lopez family could only watch in despair as Levi left the scene.
The people of Morris Group had been overworked recently, the lights in their office staying on even in the wee hours of the morning.
That was because the market was no longer saturated after the collapse of the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce and the Gonzales family.
Morris Group needed to expand as quickly as possible to snatch the newly-available market shares.
Recently, companies from South City and Quebec have flocked to North Hampton in an attempt to get a slice of the cake.
At that moment, Levi received a call from Aidan Wright, his former subordinate.
“Mr. Garrison, I’ve just come across a promising company that might be of interest to Ms. Lopez.”
“Tell me about it,” Levi said.
“It’s the Oriental Star. Its biggest shareholder used to be the Gonzales family, and it has several different projects under its management, including its recent ventures into the entertainment industry. The collapse of the Gonzales family has left it with close to no sponsors. They’ll be auctioning off the company tomorrow at the suburb resorts. Do you need me to buy it over?” Aidan asked.
“No need. I’ll go there myself,” Levi answered, smiling.
He wanted to take Zoey on a vacation to escape from her unreasonable family members anyway.
Zoey was still fretting over the matter when she got home.
“Pack your things!” Levi exclaimed suddenly.
“What? Why?” Zoey asked, widening her eyes in surprise.
“We’re going on a vacation!”
“Why are we going now?” Zoey questioned doubtfully.
She was worried about her job, her future and her family.
Going on vacation was the last thing on her mind.
Even so, Levi insisted on taking her along to the Clear Sky Resort, where the auction would take place.
She was still in the dark about his true intentions.
By the time they arrived at the resort, it was already late at night.
Even so, the parking space outside the resort was packed with luxury cars, making even Zoey’s Audi RS7 look cheap.
“Wow! Isn’t that Cloudscape’s chairperson? Why is he here too?”
“That’s Fortune Source’s CEO…”
Zoey looked excited to see so many tycoons gathered in one place.
At the same time, she could not help but wonder why they were all there.
She finally got the answers to her questions after the registration.
Oriental Star Group was going to hold an auction at that venue the next day.
Those tycoons were there to compete for its ownership.
“Looks like I’ve underestimated the number of conglomerates that fell with the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce and the Gonzales family!” Zoey sighed.
CHAPTER 373
“What do you think of the Oriental Star Group?” Levi asked.
“It’s an extraordinary corporation! I’m just amazed at how they managed to break into both the property and the entertainment industry. Look at how well their artistes were doing!” Zoey exclaimed happily.
Levi stroked her head lightly. “Alright then, it will belong to you tomorrow!”
“Hahaha!” Zoey laughed loudly.
“Stop joking! It’ll cost you at least two billion to even stand a chance!”
Levi had indeed promised to help her rise to the top, but buying the entire Oriental Star would be impossible.
She figured he was just trying to comfort her.
“Let’s just treat the auction as a learning opportunity, shall we?” She smiled.
Just as the two of them were about to take the lift to their hotel room, a voice rang from behind them. “Are you Zoey?”
They turned around to see a young man dressed impeccably in a suit. Despite looking like he was in his thirties, he gave off the aura of a business veteran.
“Hm? Terence Gibson?”
Zoey recognized him immediately.
He was the son of one of Aaron’s classmates.
Aaron’s classmate had once tried to matchmake Terence with Zoey, but she had rejected him outright.
“It’s really you! I thought I might have gotten the wrong person.”
Terence smiled and glanced at Levi scornfully.
“Are you working here, Terence?” Zoey asked.
Terence stood upright and put on a proud expression. “That’s right! I’m the general manager of the Clear Sky Resort. Here’s my name card.”
He proceeded to hand over a copy of his name card to both Zoey and Levi.
“Wow, Terence! You seem to be doing great!” Zoey said politely.
“A few million a year, perhaps? I can’t compare with you,” Terence said arrogantly.
“Oh, that reminds me. I heard your company has been taken over by the Lopez family a few days ago, and that your name has been crossed out from the genealogy book. My sincere condolences!”
He glanced at Levi once again and continued, “Besides, your husband is pretty useless this whole time. Didn’t he just come out of prison?”
Seeing that both of them were silent, Terence continued his speech, “Bro, aren’t you embarrassed that you’re living off a woman’s salary? Just divorce her already. You’re dragging her down!”
“What makes you think you’re a better husband than me?” Levi retorted.
Perfect! Terence thought.
It looks like he knows he doesn’t deserve her…
Terence’s gaze was deep as he looked at Zoey with starry eyes. “Zoey, I’m thirty-two this year but I’m still single. I’ve been waiting for you this whole time! If you’re willing to marry me, I can take you back to one of my mansions immediately. I have all the money you will ever need, and a Porsche at home!”
Zoey felt her cheeks heat up in embarrassment.
In Terence’s eyes, her flushed cheeks were a sign that she was moved by his show of wealth. He began to fantasize about their future adventures in bed.
“You can take over Clear Sky Resort once you marry me! I’ll establish another resort for myself,” Terence promised, smiling.
He was sure Zoey would not be able to resist such a lucrative offer.
“How much is this resort worth?” Levi asked while smiling.
“Two hundred million!” Terence answered proudly.
Levi took out his phone and dialed a number. “Hello? It’s me, Levi Garrison. We’re buying Clear Sky Resort!”
CHAPTER 374
Levi’s straightforward words came as a shock to Zoey and Terence.
However, Terence started to chuckle after a few moments.
“Bro, have you been watching too many movies? Are you sure you can afford to buy my resort?” Terence scoffed.
Hahaha! What a maniac! Who does he think he is? A millionaire or something? He’s just an attention-seeking jerk!”
The group of resort employees standing nearby began to poke fun at Levi.
He’s being ridiculous! Zoey thought.
She did not care about her own dignity in front of Terence, but Levi just had to make a massive joke out of the two of them…
“We’re heading to our room, Terence! See you around!”
At that moment, Zoey wanted nothing more but to escape from the hellhole she was in.
She dragged Levi away by the arm.
“Zoey! Keep my name card on you! Come and look for me if you need anything. I’ll be keeping my promises!” Terence yelled after them.
Afterwards, he turned around and told his employees, “Find out which room they’re in and give me a spare room card.”
A lewd smile appeared on Terence’s face.
That was not the first time he had fantasized about getting intimate with her.
The chance had come, and he was not going to miss it.
“Hmph! Just you wait, Zoey!” He snickered inwardly as the flame of desire inside of him began to burn unbearably bright.
Meanwhile, Levi and Zoey had arrived at their room.
Levi received a call from someone just moments later.
“Hello? Is it done? Alright, send me the contract tomorrow. I’ll deal with it then,” He said into the phone.
Zoey rolled her eyes. “There’s no one here but me. Can you stop with your acts?”
She was still convinced Levi was making things up.
However, what she did not know was that the Rogers family had already done Levi’s bidding. They had purchased the entire Clear Sky Resort on his behalf.
Afterwards, they went to a restaurant to have dinner.
The employees that had been stalking the two of them ran back to report their movements to Terence.
This is my chance! He thought gleefully.
He walked into the kitchen.
“Where are the orders from Table 8?” He asked casually.
“They’re here!” the chef answered, pointing to a tray of food sitting on the table by the side.
Terence took out a packet of powder and emptied it into a couple of dishes discreetly.
That was from his stash of sleeping drugs.
He had used it several times over the years.
Every time a pretty girl came to his resort, he would spike her food with that drug and sneak into her room at night.
None of them would remember anything the next day.
Terence walked over to Table 8 with one of the waiters.
“Zoey, here’s a gift from me to you. Enjoy!”
“Thank you!” Zoey said.
Levi was still skeptical of Terence.
He bent down to take a whiff of the food and the wine, and lo and behold, both the food and the wine had been spiked.
However, he did not say anything about it.
He dug in with Zoey as though nothing had happened.
Terence watched everything unfold before his eyes from the other end of the restaurant.
Time to have some fun tonight! He thought.
The sleeping drug would take effect in about an hour, and Zoey would be his in no time.
…
Still ignorant of her precarious situation, Zoey poked Levi’s arm and gestured for him to look to the side.
After Levi took one look at the table next to them, he almost spit his food out.
There were three men sitting by the neighboring table.
The three of them were tall and muscular, but their faces were caked with makeup.
To Levi’s bewilderment, the men sounded and acted like women.
They would even kiss each other from time to time…
They’re gay!
That was the only thing Levi could think of as he watched those men go about their business.
CHAPTER 375
Not only were the young, handsome guys coming out as gay, but even the most manly-looking men might also surprise everyone with their sexual identity.
The contrast between their appearance and their demeanor was astonishing.
The more Levi looked at the three men flirting with one another, the more uneasy he felt.
Zoey could feel goosebumps appearing on her arm.
“Let’s finish our food and leave, darling!” Zoey whispered.
“Alright,” Levi answered.
They stuffed the rest of their food into their mouths and left afterwards.
Zoey began to feel drowsy soon after the meal, and she collapsed onto the bed in their room as soon as they returned.
The sleeping drug had, without a doubt, taken effect.
However, Levi seemed immune to its effects, and he decided to sit on the sofa to wait for his prey.
Meanwhile, Terence was getting jittery as he sat waiting in his office.
He had waited for an additional half an hour to make sure that the drug had taken effect.
Walking on his tiptoes, he slowly made his way to Levi and Zoey’s room.
He pressed the doorbell a couple of times, only to receive no reply.
He proceeded to bang on the door loudly – still no response.
Relieved, he took out his spare keycard and let himself in.
He turned on the lights to see Zoey lying on the bed, fast asleep.
Lustful thoughts overtook his mind, but not before he noticed Levi’s absence.
“Wait…where’s Levi?”
He began to search for the man.
Bam!
Suddenly, someone popped out from behind his back and smacked a heavy object onto his head, knocking him out cold.
Levi stood behind his limp body, taking his own sweet time to smoke a cigarette.
Afterwards, he dragged Terence by the arm to the door of another room.
He pressed the doorbell lightly.
That room had belonged to the three gay men they had encountered earlier.
The door flew open in seconds.
To the three men’s surprise, there was no one outside, except for a young man stripped to his birthday suit.
It was none other than Terence, still out cold from the blow that Levi gave him.
The three men exchanged dirty grins.
In a flash, they picked Terence up and disappeared into their room.
For the rest of the night, everyone in the vicinity could hear terrified screams coming from the three men’s room.
The other guests assumed they had been watching horror movies and decided to ignore them.
Meanwhile, the employees of the resort were huddled together in a gossip circle. “Is Mr. Gibson up to something again?” One of them asked.
“Yeah! Haven’t you heard? It’s his dad’s classmate’s daughter this time around! She’s gorgeous!”
“I bet he’s having a whale of a time right now. I saw him slip into her room just moments ago!”
However, the reality was far from what they had thought. Rather than bliss, Terence was in a state of confusion.
He could not tell if he had been dreaming or not.
He vaguely registered getting manhandled by three muscular men.
His entire body was throbbing in pain.
The next morning, he woke up to white-hot streaks of pain coming from his backside. He slowly opened his eyes to find himself lying on a large bed.
Did I succeed last night?
Terence was overcome by joy for just a second.
Did I finally get to spend a night with my goddess?
I don’t seem to remember anything about it though…
Terence rubbed his throbbing head.
Afterwards, a wave of fatigue washed over him like a tsunami.
He could feel stabs of pain from every part of his body; his lips, his neck, his arm, and even his backside. He felt as though he had been torn open from the inside.
What even happened last night?
Was Zoey crazier than I thought?
Terence could not figure out why he was feeling that way.
He blinked to clear his vision before reaching out to check if there was anyone next to him.
The flesh his fingers came into contact with was as hard as a rock.
He froze when he realized who had been sharing a bed with him.
CHAPTER 376
“Ahhhhh!”
Terence let out a piercing scream that could almost tear the roof of the building.
He began to wonder how he had gotten himself into that situation.
Where did my clothes go?
What happened here?
Who can tell me what’s going on?
Terence felt like breaking down there and then.
His scream jolted the three men awake.
They looked at him flirtatiously and cooed, “Oh, baby, you’re awake?”
“Urgh…”
Terence almost puked his dinner out when he heard those words.
Disgusting!
Terence stumbled off the bed and glared at the three men warily. “Who are you? Why are you here?”
“Baby, you came here yourself! You were completely naked!”
“Are you running away after enjoying yourself? Ew! What a jerk!”
…
Terence could feel his sanity slipping away as he stared at the three men.
What in the world happened between us?
He knew he had to get out of there.
Terence wrapped a blanket around himself and made a run for the door, but before he could get there, the three men formed a line and blocked his way.
“Did we say you could go, baby?”
“What the hell are you doing? I’m going to kick the three of you out later on!” Terence threatened as bolts of pain continued to shoot through his flesh.
“Why don’t you take a look at what happened last night yourself, baby?”
One of them handed a camera over to Terence.
The more he watched the sinful action unfold, the more he wanted to wither into the ground.
He had indeed been manhandled by the three men!
“Argh! I can’t stand it anymore!
He was going crazy from anger.
“Levi Garrison! He must have tricked me! I’m going to kill him!” He yelled the moment he put two and two together.
I have to leave this place!
Terence knew he had to get out no matter what.
“Baby, don’t leave! If you leave, we’ll put this video online!” The three men threatened.
Terence was scared out of his wits when he heard them.
If that video ended up online, he might just be left with no choice but to disappear from the face of the earth.
His parents would die of embarrassment!
Crash!
Just like that, the three men threw Terence onto their bed again and resumed their roughhousing.
Terence gripped the sheets tightly as angry tears flowed down his cheeks.
It was the most shameful moment of his life.
No man would be able to stand being humiliated like that!
When Terence was finally released from that prison, he could not even walk straight. He had no clothes to wear, so he ended up borrowing one of the men’s clothes before he could go out.
His tears never stopped flowing, and he felt numb all over.
He wished he could just end it all.
How could this happen to me? He thought sorrowfully.
“Hm? Terence? Why are you limping around? Are you crying?”
Zoey’s voice rang down the hallway all of a sudden.
Terence looked up, only to jump in shock as Zoey and Levi appeared before him.
Levi piped up as well. “Yeah, bro! Why are you crying? What happened?”
“Why are your lips bleeding? And what’s with the hickeys, lipstick marks and perfume…” Levi asked, frowning.
Every word of Levi’s was like a grain of salt on Terence’s wounds, reminding him of the suffering he had gone through.
All those markings were remnants of the three men’s crimes towards him!
“Where were you last night? Are these clothes even yours?”
More tears spilled out of Terence’s eyes when he heard that.
His chagrin grew when he noticed Zoey’s revolted expression.
This is it.
This is the end!
She’s going to hate me forever!
Levi suddenly leaned forward and sniffed Terence’s body before turning to Zoey, saying, “Honey, can you smell that? Doesn’t he smell like those three gay men we saw yesterday?”
CHAPTER 377
Boom!
Terence could feel his head exploding.
Levi, you’re going too far!
Why are you rubbing salt on my wounds?
If anyone hears about the tragedy he had gone through, death might just be the only option left for him.
In particular, his dignity would be reduced to naught if Zoey found out.
Zoey breathed in deeply and said, “Yeah! It smells familiar! I remember that scent!”
“Oh dear, bro! Don’t tell me you slept with those three men last night? Gosh, I didn’t know you had such a kink. No wonder you aren’t married yet!”
Levi’s exaggerated tone attracted the attention of everyone around them.
“Yeah! I remember those clothes as well. It belongs to one of them! Don’t tell me you’re…”
Zoey looked at Terence quizzically.
Terence’s dignity was in shambles; he decided to make a run for it.
Pitter patter…
He scampered down the hallway with his head down.
Tears of despair ran down his cheeks as he ran off.
“Ew! I didn’t know he was interested in that! Hubby, I don’t want to see him ever again,” Zoey snarled.
“I know, right? I almost puked my guts out when I saw him!” Levi chuckled while smiling.
Terence ran back to his room and burnt the clothes on his body.
He dived into the shower room and used up a whole bottle of body wash to scrub every inch of his skin down after that.
He finally got out of the shower after a long, long time.
He had been trying to wash the marks of humiliation the men had imprinted on his skin.
He put on a fresh set of clothes and showered himself in perfume in an attempt to mask the scent of those three men.
“It must have been you, Levi Garrison!” He snarled to himself.
His mind was clearer than it had ever been.
From Levi’s reaction just moments ago, Terence could tell that he had been the mastermind behind all this.
After all, he had passed out just moments after entering Levi and Zoey’s room.
It must have been him!
He ran over to the security room and pulled out the CCTV footage from last night.
When he saw Levi dragging his limp body to the three men’s room, he banged his fist on the table in a fit of anger.
“I’m going to kill you, Levi Garrison!” He growled loudly.
He could almost explode on the spot.
He deleted the footage immediately afterwards.
The security guards in charge of the CCTV footage began to snicker amongst themselves. “Boss, how was last night? Why don’t you tell us about her? We heard she’s as pretty as a goddess!” One of them quipped.
Slap!
“Shut up!”
Terence slapped the person who had just spoken across the face.
He had just been violated by three men!
There was no way he was going to tell them about such a thing!
Afterwards, Terence rushed to Levi and Zoey’s room with a group of security guards behind him.
“Zoey Lopez! Your husband is a thief! We caught him stealing the belongings of other customers on camera!” Terence bellowed.
He did not care about his image anymore.
All he wanted to do was to beat Levi into a pulp.
Even so, he needed an excuse to do so.
“Huh? That’s impossible. He was with me all along!” Zoey argued.
“Move aside! Take Levi Garrison away!” Terence yelled.
The guards rushed forward to tackle Levi.
“Terence! What are you doing?”
A loud voice boomed down the hallway, followed by hurried footsteps.
“Hm? Mr. Zielger? Why are you here?”
Terence turned around, utterly confused.
The boss of the resort strode down the hallway and stopped in front of him.
“Someone has bought over the resort. I’m here to settle the paperwork,” Mr. Ziegler said.
CHAPTER 378
“What? Someone bought the resort?”
Terence froze in his tracks.
Zoey was shocked as well.
Could this be a coincidence?
Did Levi actually buy the resort last night with that phone call?
“That’s right. The paperwork was done last night, but he only requested to see it today.”
Mr. Ziegler’s words hit Zoey like a train.
She tossed Levi a quizzical look. Was it you? She questioned with her eyes.
“M-Mr. Ziegler, w-who bought the resort?”
Terence began to stammer as the scary truth dawned upon him.
“He’s right in front of you!” Mr. Ziegler said, smiling.
Mr. Ziegler took one step forward and bowed low to Levi. “Mr. Garrison, the ownership of the Clear Sky Resort has now been transferred to you. Here is the contract for your reference.”
Boom!
It was as though a meteorite had landed upon Terence when Mr. Ziegler spoke those words.
He felt as though he had been cracked open from the head down.
It was him all along!
He actually bought the resort last night!
He had thrown out two hundred million in exchange for the resort with just one phone call!
Terence was utterly dumbfounded.
Wasn’t he just an imbecile who leeches off his wife’s fortune?
Even Zoey could not believe her ears.
Did he actually buy the resort?
She stared at Levi, absolutely stupefied.
Levi simply smiled. “Never mind with the paperwork. The resort belongs to me now, doesn’t it?”
“That’s right!”
“They answer to me now, right?” Levi asked, pointing at the group of security guards behind Terence.
“Of course!”
Levi suddenly raised his voice and hollered, “Well then, why don’t you tell me what valuables were lost last night?”
The security guards and Terence felt as if they could suffocate on the spot.
The security guards exchanged looks before glancing at Levi and Terence.
Noticing something was amiss, Mr. Ziegler began to grow agitated. “Say something! Spill the truth!”
The leader of the security team was the first to speak up. “Nothing of such sort happened Sir! Terence told us to use this as an excuse to beat you up, Sir!”
Flop!
Terence collapsed onto the ground.
“I’m sorry! Mr. Garrison, Zoey, please forgive me! I won’t do it ever again!” Terence cried.
Levi smirked. “Can someone send him to room 1409 for me?”
Terence began to panic the moment he heard the room number.
His eyes were swollen as his body began to tremble like a leaf.
“No…no, no! No!”
“Please! Let me go!”
“Send him there now!” Levi snarled.
“No!”
Terence turned around to run away, but his unstable gait made it difficult for him to do so.
Within seconds, he was tackled onto the floor by the security guards.
That room was hell to him.
As he struggled against his restraints, the security guards dragged him to room 1409 and threw him inside.
“Um…what’s with room 1409?” Zoey asked curiously.
“Remember the three men? That’s their room!” Levi whispered.
“Huh?”
Zoey decided not to ask any further.
Levi’s eyes held a dangerous glint.
That was the least he could do to punish Terence for drugging his wife.
Soon, the time came for the auction of the Oriental Star Group.
The participants filed into the venue as soon as the doors opened.
Zoey and Levi headed in as well.
Just as they had expected, the room was filled with the tycoons of the city.
Not only were the prominent businessmen of the local economy present, but Zoey also caught sight of several foreign investors in the crowd.
The Oriental Star Group was a lucrative business that anyone would long to have a piece of.
“Hey, beautiful! Care to be my friend?”
Suddenly, a group of people rushed towards Levi and Zoey.
CHAPTER 379
The man leading the group smiled brightly at Zoey while completely ignoring Levi.
Zoey returned a smile. “Apologies. I’m already married.”
“Well, that doesn’t mean we can’t get to know each other! I’m Zayn Suarez of the South City Suarez family!”
The man handed Zoey a copy of his name card.
Everyone was shocked to hear his name.
“What? Zayn Suarez? The third Young Master of the South City Suarez family? Why is he here? They’re just as affluent as the Rogers family! Were they after the Oriental Star as well?”
“What’s the point of competing with them? We should just give up.”
The tycoons around them looked defeated.
They knew that many tycoons from South City have come to North Hampton to snatch a portion of the Oriental’s shares.
However, they had not expected to meet someone from the Suarez family in person.
Zayn seemed satisfied with this reaction.
The prominent families of South City were treated like royalty in North Hampton. It was as though they were visiting monarchs from faraway kingdoms.
“Do you think I’m good enough for you?” Zayn asked proudly.
The young masters of South City have long been looking forward to paying a visit to North Hampton, where there was a large population of beautiful women.
Zayn had fallen for Zoey the moment he saw her.
She was prettier than any movie star he had ever seen!
He did not care if she was married or not, as he just wanted a taste of her sweetness.
“No!”
Levi spat a single word of rejection into Zayn’s face and pulled Zoey over to their designated seats.
Zayn watched them leave with an evil grin on his face. “Fine then, wait till the auction’s over! You can’t escape from me, woman!”
Soon, the seats were filled, and the Oriental Star Group representatives filed into the room.
After a brief introduction of the Oriental Star Group, the auction officially began.
“The starting bid is one and a half billion. Bidding starts now!” The auctioneer announced.
“1.53 billion!” The Cloudscape chairperson yelled, raising his paddle.
“1.55 billion!” The Fortune Source CEO hollered, raising his paddle as well.
…
Soon, the bid rose to 1.7 billion.
Everyone raised their bids tentatively, each bid only a little higher than the previous one.
“Is this a joke? Why are they increasing their bids by only ten million at a time?” Levi growled, visibly annoyed.
Zoey grinned. “We’re just here on a learning journey. There’s no need for us to get involved.”
After that, she glanced in the direction of Zayn and his party. “Besides, I think it’s pretty obvious that he’s going to win the auction in the end!”
“Oh, really?” Levi said, smirking.
“Two billion!”
Zayn, who had been silent the whole time, raised his paddle and shouted his bid without warning.
The sudden addition of three hundred million shook everyone to the core.
More than half of the participants could no longer afford to go any higher.
Zayn glanced at the crowd, warning them to stay back with his piercing gaze.
“2.1 billion!” Someone yelled, refusing to back down.
“2.2 billion!”
…
The tycoons decided to give up if the price went over two and a half billion.
“Three billion!”
Zayn yelled out an astronomical sum yet again.
The crowd roared, and everyone turned to stare at Zayn in shock.
“The Suarez family really is scary!”
“I knew we wouldn’t be able to win the moment I saw him!”
…
The crowd chattered amongst themselves fearfully.
Even the Oriental Star Group representatives were getting excited.
They had not expected the bid to go so high.
Zoey smiled bitterly and looked at Levi. “I knew it. They’re going to win.”
However, her face fell the very next second.
Levi had raised his paddle!
Is he going to bid?
CHAPTER 380
Zoey had wanted to stop him, but it was too late.
Everyone’s eyes were trained on him the moment he raised his paddle.
“Three billion, one!”
The entire crowd froze for a moment when they heard that.
By the time Zayn had given his three billion bid, most of the tycoons had already given up.
They were ready to accept the reality that the Oriental Star Group was going to belong to Zayn.
To their surprise, however, someone was still going!
He had increased the bid by just one!
It was obviously a move to provoke Zayn Suarez.
The Oriental Star Group representatives began to panic.
Who even does that?
Besides, there was an unspoken agreement amongst the bidders to increase the price by ten million with each bid.
Everyone from Zayn’s party stared at Levi in anguish.
How dare they provoke us?
Zayn, however, merely kept his evil grin on his face.
You dare threaten me?
You’re asking for trouble!
“3.1 billion!”
Zayn raised the bid by another hundred million and glared at Levi.
Let’s see how long you can keep up!
“3.1 billion, one!”
Levi did not give up.
“You…”
Zayn was about to explode from anger.
This man is definitely messing around with me!
Everyone else could only stare at Levi in shock.
Where did he get the guts to mess around with the Young Master of the Suarez family?
He’s dead meat for sure…
Zoey was concerned as well.
She knew exactly how powerful the Suarez family was, and she did not want to get into their bad books.
Levi was playing with fire!
However, it was too late for her to stop him.
“3.2 billion!”
Zayn continued to increase the bid.
His family had budgeted for a three million bid, but Levi’s appearance had forced him to scrap their plan.
He had no choice but to add another two hundred million.
I’m going to kill you and sleep with your wife once this is over! He snarled inwardly.
Levi remained unfazed. “3.2 billion, one!”
“You…you b*****d!”
Zayn stomped his foot on the floor while the rest of his party fumed in silence.
Hasn’t he had enough?
Meanwhile, everyone else in the crowd looked on with frowns on their faces.
This boy is doing it to the extreme!
“Fine then. Let’s see if you can take this!”
Zayn raised his paddle again and yelled, “3.5 billion!”
“Woah…”
The crowd drew in a collective gasp when he announced his bid.
The Oriental Star Group representatives were ecstatic.
That was way more than they had expected!
Zayn glared at Levi again arrogantly.
3.5 billion was the most he could afford as there were other expenses the Suarez family had to take care of.
All he wanted to see was if Levi had the guts to increase the bid any further. If he did not, Zayn would get the Oriental Star Group like he was supposed to.
If Levi were stupid enough to bid any higher, Zayn would step aside and watch his desperate attempts to produce 3.5 billion worth of cash.
All eyes were trained on Levi at that moment.
Zoey held her breath anxiously.
To everyone’s surprise, Levi raised his paddle slowly and yelled, “Four billion!”
“What?”
“Four billion?”
The room went deathly silent after Levi announced his bid.
Everyone had been expecting him to increase the bid by just one.
Who knew he would add another five hundred million instead?
Boom!
Zayn and his party could only gawk at Levi.
Looks like he had not been messing around after all…
Zoey, on the other hand, began to panic.
Is he crazy?
Four billion?
Where is going to get the money from?
Is he joking?
“Going once…going twice…sold! Oriental Star Group has been purchased by Mr. Levi Garrison for 4 billion!”
CHAPTER 381
The auction ended as quickly as it started.
The Oriental Star Group representatives had reaped almost twice the amount they had planned for.
It made them jittery with excitement.
Bang! Bang! Bang!
Zayn slammed his fist against the chairs over and over again.
Veins began to appear on his neck as his face contorted into an ugly scowl.
The Suarez family had planned to take over the Oriental Star Group as a crucial first step to break into the North Hampton market.
He had failed his entire family.
Zayn raised his head and glared at Levi coldly. “Well, Sir, may I ask how you’re going to produce the four billion you promised?”
Everyone snapped out of their shocked trance when they heard that.
It’s four billion!
Does he really have that much money?
Even Zoey was not convinced.
Since when did he have four billion?
A few members of the staff walked up to Levi. “Sir, you need to prove your assets to take part in the bidding. You are the only one here who has yet to do so. We hope you understand,” They explained with a smile.
Levi took out a black card and said, “I’m paying by card.”
No one believed him.
It’s four billion, for goodness’ sake!
What kind of credit card could hold so much money?
All of their expenses came directly from their companies’ reserves.
Five minutes later, a huge group of staff members rushed over to Levi’s side.
They looked as though they were ready to kowtow to him.
“Mr. Garrison! The transaction was successful! Oriental Star Group now belongs to you!”
“Here is your card.”
The manager bowed deeply and handed the bank card to Levi with two hands.
The crowd let out a collective gasp.
“It…It went through?”
“He paid four billion by card?!”
Zayn and his party’s eyeballs looked as though they were going to pop out of their sockets.
They had not expected to meet such a plutocrat on their first trip to North Hampton.
However, no one could compare to Zoey in terms of how bewildered she was.
She was still reeling from the shock of witnessing Levi buy over the entire resort that morning.
She could not believe her eyes when he had thrown out another four billion to buy the Oriental Star Group.
Where did he even get that money?
He was completely broke six years ago!
“Mr. Garrison, please come with us to settle the paperwork,” The manager said politely.
“Oh, before I forget, I bought Oriental for my wife. Let her sign the paperwork,” Levi said.
“What? It’s all for his wife?”
“She’s so lucky! Who even gifts a whole company to their wife?”
Everyone at the scene were shocked.
“I…”
Zoey covered her mouth with hands, unable to make a sound.
She was touched and moved to tears by this gift.
He had promised to help her rise to the top ever since she had been chased out of the Lopez family.
She had not expected anything like this.
Zoey stared at Levi lovingly, tears spilling from her eyes onto her porcelain cheeks.
“Let’s go, honey! Time to sign the paperwork!”
Levi took Zoey’s hand and followed the staff backstage.
Zayn watched as they left the scene with a gloomy expression.
“No, I can’t just let him go so easily! I have to secure the Oriental Star for my family! I want that woman for myself too…”
“What should we do, Young Master?” His subordinate Harold Walker asked.
“How many people did we bring this time round?” Zayn asked.
“Thirty fighters!” Harold replied.
“Alright. Tell them to get ready and intercept Levi and Zoey when they’re about to leave. I’m not going to let them get back to the city!” Zayn ordered.
A bloodthirsty glint flashed across Zayn’s eyes.
CHAPTER 382
Backstage…
It took them half an hour to settle the paperwork.
Zoey Lopez had officially become the owner of the Oriental Star Group.
Her hands could not stop shaking even after she signed her name on the contract.
It was unbelievable.
She felt as though she had been living in a fantasy all along.
Zoey stroked Levi’s face lightly. “Hubby, are we still asleep?”
“Are you confused?” Levi asked.
“Does it hurt if I pinch you?” Zoey asked before pinching Levi’s skin with all her strength.
“Ow! It hurts! You should have tested it on yourself…”
Levi took a step to the side to avoid her fingers.
My wife is so silly!
It took a while, but Zoey finally registered the situation.
Everything had been real!
“Did you just buy an entire corporation for me? You’re too nice…” Zoey sobbed, hugging Levi tightly.
“Where did you get so much money from? Are you hiding something from me?”
Zoey furrowed her eyebrows and stared at him with much doubt in her eyes.
“I…” Levi began. But he was cut off by the ringing of Zoey’s phone.
It was a call from Iris.
“You’re really happy now, aren’t you Zoey?” Iris asked, smiling.
“Huh? How did you know I’m happy now? Are you at the resort too?” Zoey asked, puzzled.
“Haha…our mysterious boss took notice of your exceptional talent and bought the Oriental Star Group for you! He needs your help urgently, so do your best!”
Upon hearing Iris’ explanation, Zoey’s face fell.
She looked at Levi with a grim expression.
She had thought he had a stash of cash somewhere that he used to be her hero.
The last thing she expected to hear was that the person who had secured the deal was the boss of the Morris Group.
Levi took advantage of the Morris Group to accomplish all this!
Despite her disappointment, she was touched by his sheer determination.
Instead of exposing him outright, she smiled and said, “Levi, you’re amazing! You should work hard so you can climb the ranks at Morris Group!”
Levi was utterly befuddled by her words.
I’m already the boss of Morris Group…
Why do I still need to climb the ranks?
The couple took their leave after signing the contract.
They passed by a group of people carrying Terence on a stretcher headed for the hospital as they exited the resort.
Levi scoffed. I could have killed you for plotting against my wife, so be grateful that I let you live.
As soon as Levi and Zoey got onto their car, Zayn appeared behind them.
“What? They already left? Kill the man and bring me the woman! I want to force them to hand over the Oriental to the Suarez family!”
A cruel grin appeared on Zayn’s face.
Even his companions shuddered at the sound of that. “Third Young Master, are you suggesting we take over the Oriental Star Group without spending anything?”
“Why not? We’ve only just started our conquest of North Hampton. We have to be as dominating as we can! We need everyone in North Hampton to fear the Suarez family!” Zayn declared.
“Let’s get going!”
Meanwhile, Zoey was nodding off in the car.
The effects of the sleeping drug had long worn off, but she still felt very sleepy after getting on the car.
Levi glanced at the vehicles following them through the rearview window and grinned.
Are they looking for trouble?
After a short while, a car appeared right in front of Levi’s car and stopped him in his tracks.
The cars behind them also picked up speed and had their Audi surrounded within seconds.
CHAPTER 383
A few dozen people gushed out of the cars.
All of them were armed with metal sticks as they charged towards Levi and Zoey’s car.
Levi slipped out of the car quietly to avoid waking Zoey up.
Harold stormed over to Levi and snarled, “You’re a brave one, aren’t you? Didn’t expect you to get out and face us rather than running away!”
Levi calmly lit a cigarette and breathed out a ring of smoke before replying, “My wife is sleeping. Get out of my face, or else.”
“Hahaha!”
Harold and his group of fighters burst into raucous laughter.
“That’s enough! Let’s beat him up!”
The group of fighters charged forward at Harold’s command.
Bam!
Levi sent a flying kick at the first person.
Pow!
The person launched into the air before crashing onto the ground with a loud thud. His limbs spasmed for a few seconds before he went limp.
Everyone froze for a second after witnessing Levi’s strength.
“Beat him up!” Harold yelled, enraged.
At the same time, Levi began to fight back.
With two mighty punches, he sent another two people flying.
Within seconds, he had appeared right in front of Harold and grabbed him by the shoulders.
Bang!
Levi raised his knee and knocked it against Harold’s face.
“ARGH!” Harold screamed.
Blood and gore smeared all over his face by the time he fell to the ground, making him almost unrecognizable.
Afterwards, Levi went into full battle mode.
Within a minute, the dozens of men Harold had brought along were all lying on the ground, unable to move.
Their limbs had all been broken and rendered useless.
He’s strong!
He’s way too strong!
Harold and his fighters had grossly underestimated his strength; Levi was unbelievably skilled.
Although Harold and his fighters were masters of underhanded tactics, they had been defeated in minutes.
They watched in horror as Levi dragged the cars they had used to block his path away with nothing but his bare hands.
Those cars weigh several tons!
Is he even human?
Harold’s eyeballs were going to pop out from their sockets the more he stared at Levi.
His gaze was filled with fear.
The last thing he had expected to meet in North Hampton was a superhuman!
Suddenly, James rushed over to Levi’s side with a few of his men.
“I’m sorry for coming late, Mr. Garrison!” He apologized.
“Don’t worry. They were just a bunch of thugs,” Levi said.
“Stay here and beat up anyone they send as reinforcements. Oh, and remember to spare one of them to act as a messenger,” Levi stated before getting on his car and leaving the scene.
Zoey had been fast asleep the whole time.
An affectionate smile appeared on Levi’s face at the sight of her.
He would have buried those people alive if they woke his wife up!
Meanwhile, Zayn was getting anxious.
He felt starved whenever he thought of her beautiful features, as well as his failure to obtain the Oriental Star Group for his family.
“Hurry up! I’m sure Harold and his men have already settled things!”
Zayn gave Harold a call, but it went unanswered.
“He must be beating that scumbag up,” He snickered.
Zayn arrived at the scene five minutes later.
He grinned evilly when he saw the wreckages of cars strewn about the road.
“Get ready to die, Levi Garrison!”
Zayn rushed into the fray, only to be horrified by the sight that appeared before him.
The broken forms of Harold and his thirty fighters were all lying lifelessly on the ground.
“What happened?”
Zayn could not believe his eyes.
He could not see Levi’s car anywhere.
Bang!
Suddenly, the door to the car right next to him opened.
Several foreigners alighted from the car, their huge bodies making them look like mountains of flesh.
The leader, James, stared at him in mild interest.
CHAPTER 384
“Who are you? Where are Levi and Zoey?” Zayn asked.
“Well, Mr. Garrison told me to take care of you,” James answered, baring his teeth in a cruel grin.
“W-what do you want?”
Zayn began to panic as the muscular guys began to close in on him.
He was tiny compared to them…
Slap!
James slapped Zayn across his face without warning.
That slap almost knocked him out cold.
A buzzing sound ensued as he struggled to recover from it.
Crack!
The slap was not the end of it.
James stomped his foot into Zayn’s leg, breaking it into pieces with a loud snap.
Crack!
His other leg was broken as well.
Crack!
Crack!
His arms were gone in seconds.
Zayn could do nothing but scream at the top of his lungs.
Not only did he lose an entire company to someone else, but he also got crippled by some foreign jerk.
Within minutes, all of Zayn’s men were lying on the floor and writhing in pain.
Only one person remained.
“Let me remind you that North Hampton isn’t a place you can just waltz into and call yourself the king!” James spat before turning around and taking his leave.
After just a few hours, word spread far and wide amongst the Quebec nobility. Not only did the Suarez family fail to snatch even a portion of the Oriental shares, but its Third Young Master and his men had also been beaten severely and thrown out of North Hampton.
It was the breaking news of the day.
Many people had considered going to North Hampton to vie for its market shares, but that incident had scared them off.
North Hampton had no shortage of leaders despite the collapse of the North Hampton Chamber of Commerce and the Gonzales family.
The Morris Group, for one, was a rising star.
It was rumored that someone from the Morris Group had crippled the Third Young Master of the Suarez family.
For a long time after, the Suarez family disappeared from public view, as though they had retreated to observe the situation from the sidelines.
The other families followed suit.
…
Meanwhile, Levi and Zoey made their way to the Oriental Star Group as quickly as they could.
The higher-ups of the Oriental rushed out of the building to welcome their new boss.
The media was contacted, and a press conference was held.
When Zoey arrived, a succession ceremony was being held, followed by the press conference.
On the other hand, the Lopez family continued to suffer.
“All of you! Get out!”
The manager of Union Square kicked the Lopez Group out of the office building.
They even went as far as throwing their things out of the door.
The Morris Group continued to bombard them with phone calls, reminding them that they only had one day left.
If they failed to evict themselves by the deadline, they would have to pay a fine of one billion.
The companies the Lopez Group had taken loans from continued to pester them for their repayment.
The Lopez family spent the night trying to contact Zoey to no avail.
By the next morning, Harry’s hair had turned snowy white.
“What are we going to do? Are we going to jail for this?” Harry muttered.
Everyone else looked as though they had not slept in days, with their dark eye bags and tired expressions.
They were running out of ideas.
Suddenly, a piece of news on the TV caught their attention.
“Hey! Isn’t that Zoey?” Melanie exclaimed.
“What? Zoey?”
Everyone looked towards the TV to see Zoey sitting behind the desk at the Oriental Star Group press conference.
The channel was reporting about the Oriental Star Group’s transfer of ownership to Zoey, as well as her appointment as the chairperson and CEO of the company.
“According to estimations, the Oriental Star Group is worth around five to six billion. Ms. Lopez’s spectacular leadership skills would help the Oriental grow and flourish even more!” The reporter said, smiling.
“What? She’s the chairperson of the Oriental Star Group now?”
“How can it be? Wasn’t it worth at least five billion?”
CHAPTER 385
“How did she do it? Am I dreaming?”
…
The members of the Lopez family could feel themselves going crazy.
They had not expected to be caught in this situation.
They had envisioned Zoey begging in the streets after being thrown out of the family, yet she had defied their expectations. She had become the chairperson of a huge company worth billions!
They regretted it immensely.
Harry, in particular, wished he could turn back time and right his wrongs.
Slap!
Slap!
He slapped Henry and Fabian across the face roughly.
“How dare you suggest that I cut Aaron’s family out of our lives? Look at Zoey now! We’re never going to be able to bask in her glory now! I bet buying the company was easy for her!” Harry yelled.
Henry and Fabian fell silent.
Weren’t you the one who made the decision?
Why are you pushing the blame onto us now?
What were you doing before that?
“How did she even do it?” Melanie asked, confused.
“I bet she got in bed with some tycoon! I can’t think of any other way she would be able to accomplish that!” Henry huffed.
“Yeah! That’s disgusting!”
“Luckily, she isn’t part of our family anymore! We would’ve been so embarrassed by her!”
“She’s so shameless!”
…
The Lopez family continued to rant about Zoey.
Harry nodded. “We all know what underhanded methods she used, but she’s the boss of the Oriental Star Group now. What can anyone do about it?”
“There’s only one way left, and that is to beg her for help!”
They made their way to the Oriental Star Group immediately.
They managed to bump into Zoey the moment they arrived at the office.
Though the members of the Lopez family despised her, they still plastered a smile on their faces as they approached her. “Oh Zoey, we’ve finally found you!” Harry exclaimed. “I’m sorry for everything that’s happened to you before. It was all your uncles’ fault! I’ve punished them severely.”
“As long as you’re willing to come back, you’ll be a part of our family again! Can you help us out, for my sake? Look at how crippled I look now!” He continued pleadingly.
Harry indeed looked about ten years older after just a couple days of separation.
“Zoey, you’re the boss of the Oriental Star Group now, so you have the power to help us out! It’ll be good for you in the future too!” Harry pleaded as the rest of the family looked on pitifully.
Zoey genuinely felt sorry for them.
“Hey, honey, what are you doing? Let’s go home!”
Just as she was wondering if she should help them, Levi appeared behind her.
The Lopez family fumed in silence when they saw him.
He’s up to no good again!
“Zoey, let’s talk about this in private. This has nothing to do with Levi,” Harry said hurriedly.
Levi quickly took Zoey’s hand and led her away. “Didn’t I tell you to ignore these people? Have you forgotten what I said?”
“I…”
Zoey bit her lip, unsure of what to say.
“You’re no longer a member of the Lopez family. Why care about their matters?”
When will she realize she’s too kind for her own good?
“What the hell do you mean, Levi Garrison?” Shaun yelled in a panicked voice as Zoey was dragged further away from them by Levi.
“Get out! We won’t help you!” Levi declared.
“Fine then! Do you want to know how Zoey got hold of her position at Oriental Star?” Shaun snickered.
“How?”
“She slept with another man!”
CHAPTER 386
Shaun pointed a finger at Levi as he scoffed, “You don’t know about it, do you? How do you think Zoey managed to convince those investors? How do you think she paid for that office in Union Square? She did all that by sleeping with other older men! You have been cheated on!”
“Hahaha! That’s right! Levi Garrison, you idiot. Did you really think Zoey would wait six years for you? In your dreams! She’s slept with countless men during that period.”
“Yeah, that’s right! Zoey is a hooker who brings shame to the Lopez family!”
“You disgusting b****! Do your parents know you are a slut?”
The situation had already turned sour, so the Lopez family could not care less anymore. They jumped in and kept insulting Zoey.
Sob! Sob!
Zoey teared up immediately after being ridiculed by her family.
Shaun scoffed, “What are you crying for? You don’t actually feel wronged, do you? Don’t think we don’t know about all the vile things you’ve done! We only kept quiet because it’s embarrassing, idiot.”
Shaun felt a chill run down his spine as soon as he finished speaking.
It felt as if he had been kicked into icy water.
When Shaun turned and saw Levi’s gaze, the former got so frightened that he almost fainted.
What the hell is that?
A monster?
A murderer?
That kind of gaze could puncture anyone’s heart, and one look was sufficient to trigger nightmares.
Boom!
Levi was standing in front of Shaun at the very next second.
The former kicked a leg out forcefully.
Spat!
Shaun spat blood after crushing into the wall and falling.
He hadn’t even stood up before Levi showed up right in front of him.
Levi lifted Shaun, pressing him against the wall.
Levi’s right hand was on Shaun’s neck; it was becoming tighter and tighter…
“Urgh.. Argh…”
Shaun’s face turned purple soon after, and his eyes turned white as his legs kicked around aimlessly.
He was suffocating!
Levi is going to kill him!
The Lopez family came around quickly. They hurried over to stop Levi.
Unfortunately, Levi kicked every single one of them away before they could stop him.
It was hopeless.
Levi was intent on killing Shaun.
Shaun’s face was turning dark…
“Levi, no! You’ll get in trouble for that!”
Zoey rushed over and pried Levi away.
Thump!
Shaun fell onto the floor after Levi loosened his grip. Unfortunately, Shaun fainted as he had been out of air for too long.
“Hurry and take him to the hospital!”
The Lopez family quickly carried Shaun and rushed him to the hospital.
Harry and the others wanted to threaten Levi, but when they saw Levi’s murderous gaze, they became so frightened that they couldn’t speak.
That’s a lunatic. We can’t mess with him.
Zoey shouted angrily, “I will no longer be a part of the Lopez family! Don’t come looking for me again because I won’t help any of you!”
Zoey and Levi left the place after.
If Zoey hadn’t stopped Levi, he would’ve killed them for what they said.
How could he let anyone insult his wife like that?
The Lopez family were utterly hopeless.
Zoey had mercilessly rejected them; their last shred of hope was gone.
They were on their own. They would have to pay a debt of one hundred million and a legal damage claim of one billion…
That was enough to land all of them in jail.
Harry gave up and readied himself to be taken into custody.
Still, he was angry because the other members of the Lopez family were still too young.
Shaun and the others were still in their twenties!
That was one of the most torturous nights for the Lopez family.
Many of them had aged a decade within that one night.
Everyone sat together the next day as they waited for the inevitable.
A few cars drove up to the house.
When the Lopez family heard those cars coming, they turned devastated.
CHAPTER 387
A group of people entered the house soon after.
Harry looked up and realized that he did not know any of the intruders.
The middle-aged man who looked like he was the boss came in and saw everyone looking devastated.
He yelled furiously, “What is the meaning of this? Why is the Lopez family of North Hampton in such a terrible state? You lot bring shame to our family!”
“Huh?”
Harry and the others were stunned.
Were those men not here to demand payment?
“Excuse me, but who are you?” inquired Harry.
“You don’t even recognize me, Harry Lopez? I am Dustin Lopez from South City!” Dustin barked.
“What? The Lopez family from South City?”
Harry stood up immediately; he would’ve gone on his knees out of respect if that was appropriate.
Henry and the others stood up politely too.
It was a member of the Lopez family from South City!
As far as Harry and the others were concerned, that family were like royalty.
It was as if the kings and queens were visiting when members of the Lopez family from South City came to visit.
“What happened?” asked Dustin cruelly.
Harry quickly shared everything with him.
After learning everything, Dustin scoffed, “Fine, the Lopez family from South City will deal with it.”
“Huh?”
Harry and the others were flabbergasted.
The Lopez family from South City will deal with everything?
Is this a gift from heaven?
“We want to expand our business into North Hampton. You lot will play an important role, so your troubles must be solved,” Dustin clarified.
That made the others even happier.
The Lopez family from South City is coming to North Hampton? Does that mean we would benefit from their expansion too?
The Lopez family of North Hampton would play an important role in South City’s Lopez family’s development into North Hampton.
North Hampton’s Lopez family had great connections in the city. That would help the South City’s Lopez family build a strong foundation when they came.
Hence, it didn’t matter if Harry owed over a billion. The South City’s Lopez would help anyway because they would be earning hundreds of billions in the future with Harry’s help.
A mere billion didn’t mean much under those circumstances.
It took Dustin less than a day to solve all of Lopez Group’s troubles.
Harry and his family’s net worth also grew exponentially because the Lopez family of South City would be heading over soon.
With an ally that powerful, they didn’t need to care about Zoey anymore.
“What? Zoey is that unfilial?” Dustin growled in fury after hearing exaggerated and misleading stories from Harry and the others.
“Yeah, but this is all my fault. I did not guide her well, and that brought shame to the Lopez family.”
Harry looked like he was about to cry.
“Why didn’t you demand her to renounce her family name? Women like that have no right to use our surname!” said Dustin.
Harry complained in tears, “I have no right to do so. I could only remove her from our family tree. She would not agree to change her surname, and that bitch has risen to be a CEO by sleeping with others. We have no choice.”
Slam!
Dustin slammed his hand on the desk and growled, “Damn it! That woman brings shame to our entire family. I must force her and her family to change their surname. I will personally go after her since you lot can’t do it!”
“Also, my uncle, Sebastian, will be here soon. I want this matter solved before he reaches, so that minor issues like these don’t bother him,” added Dustin.
“What? Sebastian is coming? Thank heavens,” said Harry excitedly.
Dustin’s eyes shone with cruelty when he instructed, “You will come with me tomorrow, and we will solve this issue with Zoey together.”
CHAPTER 388
The Lopez family never thought they would see the day when they reached a new level.
They were under the protection of the Lopez family from South City.
That night, they were so excited that they could barely sleep.
They were all looking forward to hurting Zoey the next day.
They could finally their revenge.
The next day.
The Lopez family’s fleet of cars marched proudly to Oriental Star Group.
“Excuse me, do you have a reservation?” asked the receptionist immediately when she saw the group of people coming.
“I am here to talk to Zoey Lopez!” scoffed Dustin, who was leading the way.
“Oh, you’re here for Ms. Lopez? Have you made an appointment? Ms. Lopez just joined us, so she is extremely busy now,” replied the receptionist with a smile.
They had seen Zoey clocking in before 7 a.m. that day.
Dustin scoffed, “As if I need an appointment to talk to her?”
“Wait, sir. You must call ahead if you want to talk to Ms. Lopez. I just looked into the system. Ms. Lopez doesn’t have any appointments with anyone today. Please do leave,” the receptionist said politely.
Slap!
Dustin suddenly slapped the receptionist.
That slap was so hard that the receptionist fell onto the floor and teared up…
Everyone was surprised.
No one thought Dustin would be that cruel.
“Security. Someone call security!”
Some spectators shouted instantly.
A group of security guards showed up soon after.
“Who’s the troublemaker?”
Dustin scoffed and instructed, “Take them down.”
The four muscular men standing behind him attacked.
Moments later, over twenty security guards were lying on the floor and groaning in pain.
Harry and the others were delighted to see that sight.
The Lopez family from South City truly was something else.
They were too cool!
They were so powerful that they didn’t need to care about anything!
Dustin demanded cruelly, “Have Zoey Lopez come see me right away!”
More and more people gathered around the living room, and they stared at Dustin with their guard up.
Everyone saw just how powerful the four men with him were.
The situation became so dire that Zoey was alerted, and she and a few top managers went over.
Zoey’s expression changed when she saw Harry and the others there.
“That’s Zoey! That’s the unfilial woman who has been tarnishing and destroying our family name.”
Shaun and Melanie informed right away.
Dustin’s domineering gaze turned to Zoey. “You’re Zoey Lopez?”
“And you are?” asked Zoey curiously.
Shaun scoffed, “Listen up, Zoey. This is Mr. Dustin Lopez from South City, and by right, you should refer to him as grandpa. However, you are not worthy of doing so!”
“Huh? The Lopez family from South City?”
Zoey’s expression changed, and her eyes shone as she had her guard up.
“Zoey Lopez, you will change your surname today. You are not allowed to keep it because your claim has been revoked!”
Dustin glared evilly at Zoey.
“Excuse me? My surname is revoked?”
Zoey refuted, “Well, it’s true that I have been removed from the family tree, but my name is Zoey Lopez, and no one can change that. The law accepts my name, and the name on my identity card and account will remain as Zoey Lopez!”
“No one can change that!”
Henry and the others stoked the fire by adding, “See? She has always been that unreasonable!”
Zoey’s attitude infuriated Dustin, and he shouted, “This is not up to you! The country has its laws, but the family has rules too! I represent the Lopez family from South City, and I say that you are changing your surname!”
CHAPTER 389
Zoey was angry too, and she insisted, “And I say that it will not happen! My name is Zoey Lopez, and no one can change that!”
“Fine, you forced me to do this. Guys, take her away! She will change her surname one way or another!” commanded Dustin.
The four men who had come with Dustin took Zoey away forcefully.
Oriental Star Group was in a mess.
Still, their opponent was a powerful figure from South City, so what could they do?
“This is our family’s internal matter, and if anyone dares to butt in, the Lopez family from South City will show no mercy!” threatened Dustin before he left.
That frightened everyone even more.
In the end, Zoey was dragged back to the family’s home.
They forced Zoey to kneel in front of the Lopez family’s’ ancestral hall.
“Sir, we have talked to the related departments, and Zoey’s surname can be changed at any time.”
Upon hearing that report, Dustin turned to Zoey and scoffed, “Pick any other surname. You are not worthy to be called a Lopez.”
Zoey shook her head. “That will never happen! My name is Zoey Lopez, and I will not stand idly by even if you have the departments legally change my name. I will just change it back.”
Everyone was shocked by Zoey’s persistence.
“Damn you, Zoey Lopez. How dare you disregard the family rules?”
Dustin could feel his authority being challenged, and that infuriated him.
“Sir, that is how she has always been. She has never respected the Lopez family in North Hampton or in South City.”
Shaun and the others kept stoking the fire from the side.
“I will order you one last time. Change your freaking surname!”
Dustin growled as he forced his anger down.
Zoey remained stubborn and ignored her safety then.
“No freaking way! You can demand a hundred times, but my answer will remain the same.”
Dustin didn’t look angry. Instead, he laughed and commented, “Fine then, you’re being stubborn! Guys, prepare the whips in accordance with the family rules. I will hit her until she bows down!”
Dustin had just finished speaking when two of his subordinates approached with a long whip.
The more powerful a family was, the crazier and stricter their rules were.
Those in the family who disobeyed the rules would inevitably be whipped.
The whip would be so strong and harsh that its victim would need at least ten days of bed rest to recover.
Even Harry trembled at the sound of it.
He had seen the consequences of being whipped before.
One whip was sufficient to break its victim’s skin and tear its victim’s flesh.
Harry had seen a man suffer ten whips; he had taken a month to recover.
Harry never thought Dustin would do that to Zoey.
Zoey’s stubbornness had obviously triggered Dustin, and the latter said, “I will carry that punishment out!”
Dustin took the whip and grinned like a cruel demon when he turned to Zoey.
“Zoey Lopez, you are an unfilial member of the Lopez family and have ignored our rules. You even abandoned our ancestral teaching, and as such, you will be punished.”
“You will be removed from the family tree and will change your surname!” commanded Dustin cruelly.
“We will start with ten whips!”
Dustin could already see how horribly Zoey would bleed after being whipped.
Harry grew nervous then.
It didn’t matter how angry or disappointed he was at Zoey.
She was still his granddaughter, and he had seen just how terrible the whips were.
Zoey would have trouble surviving if she were to be whipped ten times!
“Hang on. Let me talk to her first.”
Harry then walked to Zoey and advised, “Zoey, listen to me. Just agree to his terms. It’s just a surname, isn’t it? It’s not a big deal. You won’t be able to handle the whips.”
Zoey’s expression remained dark, and she scoffed, “Thanks, grandpa, but I will never agree to it. Come at me! I’m not afraid.”
“Then so be it!”
Dustin was extremely furious as he lifted his whip to attack Zoey.
CHAPTER 390
Harry was so scared that he closed his eyes.
Zoey closed her eyes too and felt hopeless as she readied to suffer through everything.
Boom!
Bang!
A surprising incident happened at that moment.
The heavy living room door had been kicked down, causing dust to fly everywhere.
Dustin was so surprised that he paused and stared stupidly.
When the dust settled, a figure walked out slowly.
“Huh? Levi?”
Shaun blurted in surprise.
When Zoey saw Levi there, she quickly broke free and rushed to him.
Sob! Sob!
Despite Zoey standing her ground earlier, she had been terrified.
Levi didn’t say anything. He simply narrowed his eyes and glared at the Lopez family.
Anyone who knew Levi would be frightened because Levi was looking absolutely terrifying and cruel at that moment.
If they were on a battlefield, Levi’s enemy would meet their end.
There was a saying about Levi that went, “When the God of War is angry, a million hidden soldiers will rise!”
“Are you the one who was going to hit my wife?” demanded Levi.
“Yes, that’s me. You’re Levi Garrison? How convenient! My uncle is coming after you too, so I will destroy you in advance. That would make an excellent gift for my uncle,” sneered Dustin.
The Lopez family from South City knew all about the notorious Levi Garrison.
That man was partially responsible for killing Quentin Lane.
He had also been there when Wesley became a cripple.
“Take him down,” ordered Dustin.
Dustin’s four subordinates walked towards Levi slowly.
“Step aside for now, honey. I’ll deal with this.”
Levi led Zoey aside.
Boom!
Levi saw one man coming at him, so he rushed forward too and punched the man’s face. That punch broke over ten of the man’s teeth and distorted half of his face.
Boom!
Another left hook swept across another man’s face.
Pfft!
The man fell down and fainted from that one punch.
Boom!
Boom!
The two remaining men were punched too and would need at least one month of bed rest.
“What? He’s that strong?”
Levi’s strength surprised everyone.
He’s that good of a fighter?
The one who was most afraid was none other than Dustin Lopez.
He knew just how powerful the four men he had brought with him were.
Dustin felt a little scared when he saw Levi approaching him.
“Do you even realize what you’re doing?”
Dustin had the whip in his hand when he warned, “Levi Garrison, you are dead because you kept challenging the Lopez family of South City! My uncle is coming all the way over just to defeat you. If you go down on your knee and beg for my forgiveness now, I might think about letting you go.”
Levi sneered.
He snatched the whip away from Dustin the very next second.
Levi checked the whip out and chuckled, “So this is the whip for carrying out the punishment? It’s quite sturdy.”
Dustin couldn’t help but sweat in fear as he scolded, “I’m warning you, Levi Garrison! Calm down! Don’t act impulsively or you and your wife will suffer dire consequences.”
Levi grinned, “I heard that you were going to whip my wife ten times. Is that right?”
“Huh? No, I…”
Whip!
Levi suddenly slashed the whip at Dustin.
One whip was all it took to tear through Dustin’s clothes and leave a deep and bloody wound.
“Ahhh!”
Dustin screamed in agony.
That painful shout got Harry and the others to back away.
Whip!
Levi whipped Dustin once more.
That second whip got Dustin’s clothes to fall from his body, and the second bloody mark on his fat body gave everybody goosebumps.
CHAPTER 391
“Ahhhhh!”
Dustin was rolling on the floor and screaming in pain.
Whip!
The third whip landed.
Dustin was dying of pain at that moment.
All he could feel was agony, and he had shouted so much that he lost his voice.
He felt as if his soul had left his body.
Whip!
Whip!
……
Levi kept whipping until all ten whips had been delivered.
Dustin soon stopped screaming. His body had been so mercilessly whipped he stopped moving. He curled up in agony.
He didn’t die, but everyone could tell that Dustin was basically crippled.
Those ten whips had kicked the life out of him, and he would be on bed rest for at least a year!
“How weak,” Levi scoffed before he tossed the whip aside and left.
“Quick, call the ambulance and take him to the hospital!”
Harry got nervous.
Things had gotten out of control.
Dustin was the next in line to inherit the Lopez family’s estate in South City!
Yet, he had been gravely injured in North Hampton, and Harry and the others will likely be punished harshly for what had happened.
“That Levi is too freaking stupid and brave. How dare he attack a member of the Lopez family from South City?” Shaun gaped as he grinned.
“You know, you’re right. Under these circumstances, there is no way the Lopez family from South City will let him live!”
“Right. Isn’t the famous Sebastian coming to destroy him?”
Melanie and the others were anticipating the future fight excitedly.
In the end, Dustin survived the incident, but the hospital reported that he would have a lot of complications in the future.
For example, Dustin might go into a coma and never wake up.
It was also likely Dustin would become a lunatic.
…….
Neither situation was what the Lopez family of South City wanted.
That was their next commander.
It would be a total joke if he turned into a lunatic!
The Lopez family could not accept a humiliation like that.
When the Lopez family in South City learned of what had happened, they got angry.
They announced they would avenge Dustin, even if it meant toppling the entire North Hampton.
Three men were in line to succeed and lead the next generation of the Lopez family.
Quentin had been killed.
Wesley was crippled.
And Dustin might be comatose!
Who would be okay with something like that?
The famous Sebastian was going to head to North Hampton in the following week, but he showed up the following day after hearing about what had happened.
In a backyard of a mansion in South City.
An elderly man in an old-fashioned outfit was sitting by the table, enjoying his tea.
That man was the renowned Sebastian.
There was a saying in South City that went, ‘One would rather face the devil than go against Sebastian’.
That proved just how powerful and terrifying Sebastian truly was.
His title as the man who could overthrow the devil was not unfounded.
He had been cruel and bloodthirsty when he was younger, and his hands had taken countless lives.
They say that the number of people he killed was equivalent to the number of stars in the sky.
Sebastian later stepped back to settle into retirement. He would drink tea, do some gardening every day, and would go to the temple on some occasions.
He did that to be Zen and to change his violent life.
Unfortunately, he overdid it.
The incident with his godson, Quentin Lane, had turned him back to his former self.
He was even angrier after his two nephews got hurt.
“Everything is ready, sir. We can head to North Hampton tomorrow,” reported Sebastian’s servant, Simon.
Simon was actually a skilled fighter, too.
Sebastian sipped some tea before instructing calmly, “Go get the Black and White Guards out from prison.”
“Huh? Are you sure you want to do that?” Simon trembled.
The Black and White Guards were simply too terrifying.
“Yes!”
“Okay. I will arrange for that right away,” replied Simon.
After that, Simon took a deep breath and left.
Sebastian’s fame and the fear he inspired was partially owed to the Black and White Guards.
Those two men were crueler than him; they were cannibals.
The two of them had gotten into a battle with two hundred men and won. That battle made them famous.
Chapter 1
Velador country.
Over the airport in Case York city.
A private jet is about to land.
There are hundreds of fighter jets circling and escorting around!
The airport was blocked even earlier.
The special fighters with live ammunition stood everywhere, three floors inside and three floors...
Has anyone heard or read the novel Awakening of War God, I have read around 20 chapters and looking for more. If anyone has any information kindly share, you have my gratitude in advance🙏
