Chapter 1754: Fine and Dandy

Jack scrutinized the captain. The captain lowered his head, fear and humility etched on his face. He shuddered at the thought of angering Jack. Cautiously, he explained, "Sir, we encounter unpredictable issues at sea, but my crew is highly experienced. You won't have to wait long."

Jack's expression softened. "How much longer?" he asked. "Give me an estimate."

The captain breathed a sigh of relief. "Half an hour at most! It's almost noon. If you're hungry, I'll have the kitchen prepare lunch. Afterward, we'll set sail!"

Jack wasn't interested in a meal. He waved impatiently. "No need. Coffee will do."

The captain hummed in agreement and turned to give the order. Minutes later, someone served Jack his coffee.

He grew increasingly restless, repeatedly checking his suitcase to alleviate his anxiety. When the coffee arrived, he gulped it down without looking. The next second, he nearly spat it out, repulsed by the taste.

"What is this garbage? You call this coffee?" Jack exploded, smashing the cup. "This is the treatment I get after paying you so much? You deadbeats can't even be punctual!"

He slammed his suitcase shut, picked it up, and headed for the door. "Get out of my sight! I'm hiring someone else!"

A mocking voice cut through the air. "My mistake. Mr. Damaris possesses a stomach of refined gold. How could it tolerate cheap, expired instant coffee?"

Jack, blinded by fury, spun around. He saw Jonathan at the doorway, a hand in his pocket, mockery etched on his face. Lucian and Roxanne stood beside him, impassive.

Jack froze, staring at the ferry crew, then back at the trio. It was them! What were they doing here? He'd planned his escape alone; even his assistant knew only that he was fleeing. How had they found him?

"Planning to hire someone else, Mr. Damaris?" Jonathan arched an eyebrow. "Consider me. I'm skilled at operating a boat, though my sense of direction needs work. We might not reach open seas, but we might end up at the police station."

Jack stumbled back. "How did you know?"

Jonathan smirked, gesturing toward Lucian. Jack's shock deepened. Lucian? How had he found him?

Lucian finally broke the silence, his tone chilling. "Surely you didn't think everything would be fine and dandy after what you did to Roxanne, Mr. Damaris?"

Lucian's gaze was colder than the night before. Jack remembered their previous encounter, the pain radiating from his unhealed wound. His face paled.

"Even at the edge of the world, I won't let you off the hook," Lucian stated emotionlessly. "And I won't give you the chance to flee."