Chapter 380
Andrew checked the timeโit was already 8:30 p.m. He wondered if Natasha and Dylan had made their move yet, though he knew he would hear about it in the morning.
Just then, a group of people sat down nearby, their laughter carrying across the space.
โAspen, youโre absolutely brilliant! I canโt believe you managed to strike a deal with Atlas Giordano, the king of the Northern District!โ
โYes, yes! Aspen, youโre truly worthy of being from the main Stevens family branch. Even here in Jayrodale, youโre already dealing with all the major players as equals. Iโm truly impressed!โ
The fawning voices sounded familiar to Andrew.
Glancing over, he recognized Leroy and Irene. At their table sat Aspen and Christina.
Aspen replied with practiced modesty, โPlease, Leroy, Aunt Irene, youโre too kind. Atlas is just a street thugโanyone with enough money can work with him. Though Iโm new to Jayrodale, with Christieโs help and the Stevens family influence, most people are willing to work with me.โ
Andrew almost laughed. While Aspenโs words seemed humble, they dripped with the arrogance of a Stevens family heiress. Only social climbers like Leroy and Irene would grovel so shamelessly.
โAspen, dear, Christie mentioned you invested ten million in your partnership with Atlas?โ Irene probed.
Aspen nodded. โYes, Atlas will be my biggest partner in Jayrodale. Through him, the Stevens family will make our grand entrance hereโone that will shock everyone!โ
Leroy exclaimed excitedly, โAspen, everyone knows Atlas is the most powerful underground boss in Jayrodale. You really have an eye for partnerships!โ
Aspen laughed condescendingly. โOh, little boy, your vision is still limited. I didnโt choose Atlas just because heโs currently the strongest. I chose him because heโs about to unite all of Jayrodaleโs underworld! And Iโll be his exclusive business partner for all his territory.โ
Leroy drew in a sharp breath of admiration. โI understand completely! Aspen, your foresight is incredible. Iโm absolutely floored by your brilliance!โ
Christina frowned. โLeroy, thatโs enough. Donโt you think itโs pathetic for a grown man to grovel like this? If you really admire Aspen, learn from her instead of just spouting empty praise.โ
Leroy protested. โChristie, who says Iโm not learning? Aspen, I have two million dollarsโitโs all I have left. Can I invest in your business?โ
Irene jumped in eagerly. โDonโt forget about me, Aspen dear! I want to invest too. Just throw a few million my way later for my retirement fund.โ
Her cackling laugh made Andrewโs stomach turn.