Chapter 40

Marlondo and the two young men immediately stood, their expressions turning respectful. Even Stephen treated Carlos, a Zabinski family member, with deference.

Carlos pushed open the door and entered, laughing. "Ha-ha! Stephen, long time no see. You still look strong!"

Stephen's hands trembled. "Mr. Camidge, thank you. Please sit," he said, then ordered Marlondo, "What are you waiting for? Pour some coffee!"

Marlondo nodded.

Carlos smiled and waved. "It's okay, Stephen. No need for coffee. I'm here to pick up Mr. Zabinski."

His words stunned the four men. "Mr. Zabinski?"

Robert was the Zabinski son? They hadn't heard he was coming.

While they were stunned, Carlos approached Robert, bowing slightly. "Mr. Zabinski, my driver had a family emergency, so he left. Sorry for the wait."

The Hoffmans' eyes widened in shock. Carlos addressed Robert as "Mr. Zabinski"—he was the Zabinski son!

The realization stunned the Hoffmans. But Stephen, a veteran businessman, quickly recovered his composure and looked at Robert.

Robert smiled at Stephen. "Mr. Hoffman, I only came to celebrate your birthday. Since it's over, I'll leave now. I'll visit again soon."

Robert left.

Carlos waved to Stephen. "Stephen, let's catch up later. Mr. Zabinski has just taken over the family business and is very busy. We won't disturb you." He left with Robert.

Stephen slumped in his chair, incredulous. Robert was the Zabinski son! Carlos said Robert had been entrusted with the family business—he was the future head of the Zabinski family! Offending him was like offending the entire family!

The consequences of offending the Zabinskis were dire. Though the Hoffmans were among Navarre's top three families, Stephen knew their position was precarious compared to the Zabinskis. The Zabinskis could easily topple the other two leading families.

He had offended the future head of the Zabinskis. It was over.

The thought terrified him. He had considered Robert greedy, believing the three young men's lies and dismissing Robert as a liar!

Thinking of their treatment of Robert, Stephen felt a fresh wave of terror. If Robert told Carlos what happened, the Hoffmans were doomed.

Stephen slammed the table, making the three young men tremble. They lowered their heads, acutely aware of his rage.

"An insignificant internet celebrity? An actor? Amazing! You can make anything up!" Stephen gasped. "When the family needs help, you offer nothing. But you're suddenly so attentive to a successful young man!"