Rise and shine

Chapter 5.

Tom's POV

Let me express the sentiment that being a billionaire entails a remarkable level of control and influence, where one possesses the ability to command anything they desire and have it at their disposal, essentially reigning supreme.

This extraordinary feeling currently permeates my being. With an air of elegance, I descend majestically from my luxurious car, its door promptly opened for me.

The staff members, already lined up, eagerly await my arrival.

Flanking me are two bodyguards, standing steadfastly by my side, as well as my ever-loyal secretary, Riley, who is the very reason I find myself in this place.

As I pass through the line of staff members, making my way into the office, I inquire about the state of affairs from Riley.

"How are things?" I ask with a sense of authority.

She responds with a smile, assuring me that everything is going according to plan. Then she adds, "Sky lord wants to see you." Having just returned, I hope that no problems have arisen in my absence.

"What does he want now?" I question, slightly annoyed.

"He wants you to use your influence to secure the release of some of his associates from jail," she informs me. Frustrated, I mutter to myself,

"That bastard always orders me around, forcing me to clean up his mess." With those thoughts lingering in my mind, I enter my office, where I am now, ready to exact revenge on those who once belittled me.

Curious about the commencement of my plan, Riley inquires, as she is one of the few people privy to my revenge plot, "When will it begin?"

I reply confidently, "It has already begun. I will make them kneel before me and witness their tears."

Riley warns me of the challenges that lie ahead, reminding me that Mr. Ray, the target of my revenge, is a highly influential person with three major investment companies and numerous politicians under his sway.

"I am well aware of his power, but I will dismantle his empire and leave him utterly miserable and powerless," I assert.

"So, where shall we start?" I ask Riley.

"Let's take it slow, starting with the sky lord," she suggests.

"Very well. He will be delighted to see me," I respond, envisioning the satisfaction our collaboration will bring.

****

Mr. Ray has summoned his family for a grand dinner, an occasion that has been long overdue.

As they gather around the table, Mr. Ray reflects on the rarity of their shared meals. His wife, Aiden, Jeremy, Max, Ariana, engage in cheerful conversations, laughter permeating the room.

Mr. Ray decides to initiate a discussion, urging each family member to share their current endeavors and aspirations.

As he speaks, silence descends upon the room, drawing the attention of all present.

Mr. Ray begins, "Allow us to talk about what we have been up to and what we are currently working on."

His gaze settles upon Aiden, his eldest son, as he declares his intention to retire and entrust the control of his vast assets to him.

Aiden, overwhelmed by this unexpected announcement, conceals his astonishment, aware that soon the entire company will be under his command.

Mrs. Ray, interjecting with humor, adds, "As for me, I desire to spend my remaining years dedicated to cooking for my retiring husband, who is generously passing on his assets to our son."

Laughter fills the room, except for Jeremy and Ariana, whose expressions reveal a different sentiment, perhaps disapproval or discontent.

Now, it is Aiden's turn to share his contributions to the family empire.

"I have been working tirelessly to support my father and manage the company," he reveals. Lowering his voice to a hushed tone, he divulges a secret project that promises to yield immense wealth.

Unbeknownst to him, Jeremy, silently scoffs at his sibling's ambitious claim. Eager for details, Mr. Ray inquires about the potential magnitude of this project. Aiden confidently responds,

"Billions, father." The entire family reacts with awe and admiration.

"You take after me, my son," Mr. Ray proudly remarks, urging caution and wise financial decisions.

Mrs. Ray joins in, praising Aiden's intelligence and professionalism.

Next, all eyes turn to Max, awaiting his contribution to the conversation.

"Not much, just the usual work," he modestly states.

"Hunting down predators and bringing them to justice. However, I am currently investigating a prominent entrepreneur's son involved in drug-related activities."

Jeremy raises an eyebrow at this revelation.

"Oh, that sounds like a substantial catch. Do I know this person?" Mr. Ray asks, his curiosity piqued.

With a subtle smile, Max hints at the familiarity without revealing specifics.

"You might be acquainted, but it remains confidential," he replies.

Mr. Ray nods in agreement, acknowledging the need for discretion.

"Indeed, you are a prosecutor and must act accordingly," he remarks.

As the focus shifts to Jeremy, he remains silent, engrossed in his meal. 

Mr. Ray calls out to him once, then twice.

Finally, he raises his voice, demanding attention. Irritated, Jeremy finally responds, unleashing his pent-up frustrations.

"What? What do you want me to say? I am working on nothing. Absolutely nothing. All I see is you granting my brother everything while I receive mere scraps. I watch as you prepare for retirement, bequeathing all your assets to him," he exclaims bitterly.

His mother's voice rises in a panicked tone, calling out his name, while Mr. Ray stares at his son in disbelief.

Jeremy, consumed by anger, abruptly stands up and storms out of the room, leaving behind a trail of tension and confusion.

Attempting to maintain a jovial atmosphere, Mr. Ray comments, "Let's not allow him to spoil the fun." Then, turning his attention to Ariana, he asks, "What about you?"

Ariana, preoccupied with her food, hesitates before finally speaking up.

"It's probably best if I don't say anything," she murmurs. Intrigued by her enigmatic response, 

Mr.Ray implores her to share her thoughts. With a suspenseful pause, she addresses her parents, "Mom, Dad, I want a divorce." 

Max's gaze abruptly shifts, his attention captured by this unexpected revelation.

*********

The figure known as Sky Lord has undergone a remarkable transformation over the course of the past five years.

No longer resembling the man I once knew, his visage is now adorned with the telltale signs of aging, evident through the emergence of wrinkles upon his countenance.

Furthermore, his physical strength, which was once formidable and awe-inspiring, seems to have waned, rendering him a mere shadow of his former self.

Upon my arrival, Sky Lord greeted me with a remark, exclaiming,

"Oh, look at my delivery boy!" This playful jest prompted his loyal goons to offer their salutations and haul their allegiance, a sight that never failed to amuse me.

Reciprocating their gesture, I returned their salute, after which I embraced Sky Lord, feeling a profound sense of warmth and familiarity akin to that of a father figure.

Curious about my recent endeavors in Switzerland, Sky Lord inquired, "How were your days in Switzerland?".

"They were fine. And what about you? I hope the Brotherhood remains as strong as ever." 

Sky Lord expressed concerns about his own mortality and the subsequent fate of the organization.

Listening attentively, I nodded understandingly and offered reassurance, stating, "You still have a long way to go in life, so that should be less of a worry for you at present."

Undeterred by my response, Sky Lord admitted,

"I can die anytime. Having witnessed countless deaths, fear of my own demise eludes me. I've contemplated passing the mantle to Tiger, but he possesses a headstrong and stubborn nature, lacking the necessary acumen to guide the organization towards a prosperous future. That's why I want you to take over."

With reluctance to assume such a position, I said, "It's probably better to let Tiger assume the role, and I will stand by his side."

Respecting his wishes, I conceded, "I will support Tiger in his leadership role." 

Our conversation then shifted to matters of immediate concern, as Sky Lord informed me about the arrest of some of our gang members. Eager to rectify the situation, I assured him.

"Yes, I will take care of their release." As if on cue, one of the goons brought forth two glasses of beer, further solidifying the sense of camaraderie and shared purpose within our clandestine organization.

Suddenly, Tiger arrived on the scene, exclaiming, "Ohh... look who it is!" In response, I opened my arms wide, embracing his arrival with open arms.

Engaging in a brief exchange, he greeted me with the familiar phrase, "Brother, long time no see." 

Curious about the state of affairs on the streets, I inquired, "How have things been on the streets?" To which Tiger responded, "Deadly as ever."

Seizing the opportunity, I outlined a task for Tiger, urging him to conduct a thorough investigation into the activities, associations, and potential illegal pursuits of a certain individual, I handed him Aiden's picture.

Contemplating a more aggressive approach, Tiger proposed, "Should we abduct him and bring him here to meet his demise?".

Resolute in my intentions, I clarified,

"No, I don't want him dead. I want him utterly devastated, to experience the weight of defeat and humiliation."

Acknowledging my desires, Tiger agreed, "Okay, let's get to work."

With that, he rose from his seat, followed closely by the remaining goons, as they embarked on their assigned tasks.

Observing this unfolding scene, Sky Lord couldn't help but comment on my persistent thirst for revenge, questioning, "You still harbor this need for revenge. Can't you embrace the simplicity of the life you currently lead?".

Understanding his concern for my well-being, I responded firmly, "No, I refuse to relent until they are at my mercy, desperately pleading for forgiveness—an apology I shall never grant."

Wait and see.