Chapter 9 - The True Ruler of RavenportTwo days later, the financial district of Ravenport was buzzing with frantic news reports. The Hawthorne crew had disintegrated overnight following a massive federal sweep and coordinated asset freezes. Dozens of corrupt politicians and rival bosses had been arrested or forced into hiding.
At the top floor of Vale Holdings, the sun was shining brightly through the floor-to-ceiling glass windows, drying up the memory of the rainy night.
Adrian sat behind his massive mahogany desk, reviewing a stack of clean, legitimate acquisition documents.
The door opened softly, and Claire walked in.
She was wearing a sharp, impeccably tailored navy suit that fit her perfectly. Her hair was tied back in a neat bun, and she carried a fresh cup of black coffee and a neatly organized schedule in her hand.
She placed the coffee cup down on the desk without a sound.
"Councilman Pierce called twice," Claire said smoothly, her professional tone returning as if nothing had ever happened. "He wants to reschedule that breakfast meeting for tomorrow morning."
Adrian looked up from his papers. He leaned back in his leather chair, studying her for a long moment.
"Tell him I'm busy," Adrian said.
Claire raised an eyebrow. "He’s the head of the city planning committee, Adrian. You can't just ignore him indefinitely."
"Watch me," Adrian smirked.
Claire didn't argue. A faint, knowing smile touched the corner of her lips. She turned to walk toward the door.
"Claire," Adrian called out softly.
She stopped, looking back over her shoulder. "Yes, Mr. Vale?"
"Next time," Adrian said, his eyes locking onto hers with a dangerous, affectionate warmth, "if someone makes you feel unsafe... you don't have to call me as your boss."
May you like
Claire’s smile widened just a fraction.
"I know," she replied. "I have your private number."
