The Mafia & The Billionaire

AlexAll text © NôvelD(r)a'ma.Org.

“You really didn’t want me to come with you?” Serene asked, and I shook my head. I was about to meet Richard, and she wanted to come along, but I knew she’d get angry if she heard him talk, which I wanted to avoid. I want her to turn over a new leaf, along with her friends and her team, so as much as possible, I try to keep her away from situations that might trigger her anger.

“I can handle him just fine, honey. You don’t need to worry.” I cupped her cheek, gently stroking it like I often do, even while we were in the car. I was dropping her off at her company before heading to my office. I’ve gotten used to this setup; the important thing is that she has something to keep her occupied.

“Goodbye, take care,” she said as the car stopped before her company building. But before she could step out, I pulled her back because there was no way she could leave without kissing me. I ensured our kiss was deep and long, knowing we wouldn’t see each other again until later this afternoon.

“Take care, honey. I love you,” I said after the kiss.

“I love you, too.” She smiled, looking even more beautiful. I waited until she was safely inside the building before telling the driver to go. I could drive myself, but it’s more convenient to have someone with me so I don’t have to pull Von from his break just to drive me.

When I arrived at my company, my assistant greeted me with a pile of work, which I immediately began tackling. But my thoughts kept drifting to Richard and our upcoming meeting. I knew he had prepared for it because he’d be underestimating me too much if not.

Before noon, Von came into my office. “Just a reminder, sir, your meeting with Mr. Richard is at 1 PM. I’ve also ordered your lunch, which will be delivered soon.”

“Okay, thank you.”

“You’re welcome, sir.” He left to attend to his tasks while I continued until my food arrived. I ate while on a video call with Serene, and I couldn’t help but feel giddy like we were teenagers just getting to know each other. At my age, after all the women who came and went in my life – all of them just physical attractions with nothing serious – I never thought I’d enjoy this kind of relationship with my wife.

At 1 PM, Von knocked and entered, followed by Richard, who smiled but still didn’t seem trustworthy. “Good afternoon, Mr. McGregor,” he said, extending his hand, which I reluctantly shook to keep up appearances. However, I was ready for whatever he might be planning.

“I’m really sorry about our first meeting. My schedule was hectic, and I barely made it.”

“I’d like to say it’s fine, but I’d be lying. Just make sure it doesn’t happen again because I really hate tardiness. I’ve never been late for work and expect everyone to do the same.” He nodded as if he understood, but I knew he was pretending.

“I understand, Mr. McGregor.” He seemed to come here to make amends, but I noticed him glancing around before smiling and continuing. “I’d like to learn more about the company. I think I’ll understand it better if I hear it directly from you.”

“Like what?”

“How it all started,” he quickly replied.

“This company was built by my parents. They poured their blood and sweat into it, and I saw it firsthand as I grew up, with my mom juggling my needs and helping my dad.”

“Your parents must have really loved each other,” he commented.

“They did, and that’s why my dad did everything to succeed-he wanted to give my mom and me a good life.” I only told him basic information, things anyone could read, hear, or see on social media, TV, radio, newspapers, or magazines. I had no intention of giving him free access to important details.

“You’re married, right? I heard your wife is quite wealthy, too.”

“What about her?” I suddenly grew irritated at the mention of my personal life, especially my wife.

“I recently found out she’s somewhat-amazing.” I raised an eyebrow at his vague words.

“Do you mean something by that?”

“Huh? Nothing. Someone just told me before I came here. They said she’s a very brave woman.”

“What’s your real intention in talking to me?” I asked directly, not liking people who beat around the bush.

“I heard she’s an organization leader and has committed crimes here and abroad.”

“And who told you that?” I was surprised by his statement since I hadn’t prepared for it. If he knew Serene’s true identity, I was certain now he might be connected to her enemies or Juancho’s.

“People talk, Mr. McGregor. You know, it’s hard to keep secrets these days.” He grinned as if he had already won.

“If that’s true, aren’t you scared?” I asked, not breaking eye contact.

“Why would I be afraid of her? I haven’t even met her.”

“You’re misunderstanding, Richard. What I mean is, aren’t you afraid of me?”

He was at a loss for words, almost gaping. He couldn’t understand why he should fear me.

“Why would I fear you?”

“As you said, you’ve heard my wife is an organization leader who committed crimes in and out of the country. Don’t you think someone like me, who can handle someone like her, is someone to fear?”

He just stared at me, and I held his gaze. He was mistaken if he thought Serene was the one to be afraid of. I wouldn’t be this powerful and confident if I didn’t have something to back it up.

“Ahem, I think we’re straying from the topic,” he said, trying to laugh it off.

“I was just kidding, Richard. Actually, I don’t know where you got your information. Still, I can assure you my wife is the sweetest, kindest, most thoughtful, and, above all, the most beautiful woman I’ve ever met.” I smiled at him sweetly while he gave me a nervous smile.

“Richard, as part of the board, there are rules we follow.” I turned serious because I didn’t want him to think I was taking him lightly. “If you want to learn more about the company, you can do so. If you have questions, you can ask. But you should do it in front of the other board members. Everyone knows that because I don’t want us to hide things from each other. I want them to know I’m sincere and determined in leading and managing this company. So, if you want to be part of it, I suggest you start by asking the people you bought your stocks from.”

Richard didn’t respond, and I knew he understood that I didn’t trust him. I didn’t need to pretend anymore because I don’t deceive fools. When I get home, Serene will be surprised when I tell her about this conversation.