Total pages in book: 108
Estimated words: 108768 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 544(@200wpm)___ 435(@250wpm)___ 363(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 108768 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 544(@200wpm)___ 435(@250wpm)___ 363(@300wpm)
Hu gazed at Monique. “Consider it a test, if you will, to gauge your readiness for any position within the Four Aces, be it a Friend or Mountain Mistress.”
Monique nodded. “I'm listening.”
Hu leaned forward slightly. “Imagine there's a significant tension between Rowe Street Mob and us, the Four Aces. Given your unique position and perspective, how would you approach smoothing relations between both groups? What steps would you take to ensure peace and mutual benefit?”
I shook my head. “That's unfair. This is a situation that would require a lot of thought and—”
“I can answer it, Lei. I've already been considering this.” Monique raised her index cards, shuffled through a few, and then stopped at one.
We waited as she glanced over her notes.
Well. . .she's really been doing her homework this whole time.
Most women would have simply enjoyed the luxury of the tent—lobster and expensive chocolates, jewelry and whatever else she required.
Monique put the cards back at her side. “First, I think that understanding the root cause of the tension is essential. Is it a matter of territory, respect, or perhaps a miscommunication?”
Not bad.
“Once I identified that, I would arrange a meeting with key figures from both sides, in a neutral location, to encourage an environment of open dialogue.”
Duck smiled.
Chen whispered to me. “She could be Mountain Mistress.”
I shifted my weight to my other foot.
She paused as if considering her next words carefully. “During the discussion, I would emphasize shared interests and the potential for mutual gain. I've seen in Four Aces' history that it's important to not only acknowledge past grievances but to focus on moving forward.”
Hu nodded, listening intently.
“Furthermore,” Monique checked her notes, “I would propose a joint venture or project that benefits both parties, something that requires cooperation and builds trust.”
Hu's expression softened.
“And finally,” Monique concluded, “I would monitor the new project and maintain regular communication, making sure everyone is at ease.”
Good job.
It was as if she’d been my father’s helper long ago, assisting him with writing the rules.
Hu nodded again, this time with a hint of respect in his eyes. “That's a solid approach.”
He turned towards me and the rest of the council. “Based on this, she has my vote, not just for the title of Friend of the Four Aces but for her potential to be much more in the far future.”
A wave of relief washed over me.
I hadn't realized how much I was invested in the outcome.
I looked at Monique.
She let out a long breath and smiled. “I've got the votes.”
“You do.” Pride swelled in my chest. “Congratulations. You are now a probationary Friend of the Four Aces.”
She blinked. “Probationary?”
“You still have the Oath of Loyalty and the Blood Bond which will not be able to occur until after the final battle with my father.”
“Okay.” She nodded. “That's fine.”
“However, you will have an advisor to help you in the future. Take this extra time to figure out who that will be and Chen will assist with making it happen. You have a few weeks to decide and if you need more time that would be fine. But, while you're in the East get to know many of the officials in the palace and—”
“Oh no. I've got it.” Monique took out another card. “I already know who I want to advise me with future negotiations and meetings.”
Stunned, I blinked. “You do?”
“Yes. My understanding is that it should be a person that knows enough about the Four Aces and the Diamond Syndicate to help me.” She handed the card to Chen. “I believe this person has historically acted intelligently in dealings and conflicts.”
Who the fuck does she want?
Chen took the card, checked the names, and then wheezed as if he were about to have an asthma attack.
“What?” I eyed the card. “Who is it?”
She spoke for him, “Dimitri Ivanov.”
Chen looked at her. “Monique, Dima is not exactly the most-friendly person, and he can be. . .a lot to handle.”
“I think he would want to advise me.”
Duck snorted, “That's an understatement. He would love to advise you on tons of things like his cock going—”
“That’s enough.” Chen stuffed the index card in his pocket. “Dima has lots of ladies but he’s not exactly a lady’s man. The problem with Dima is that he is. . .”
She stared at him. “What?”
Chen frowned. “Odd.”
Duck shrugged. “Very odd.”
“That’s fine with me.” Monique smirked. “Please connect us, Chen.”
Goddamn it. Hopefully, Dima will stay out of this.
“Fine.” Chen nervously ran his fingers through his hair. “I believe this Council is done. Monique, I would appreciate your calling Banks or even Marcy—”
“Don’t call him that.” Monique scowled. “But I’ll call and have them back their men away from the mountain.”
“Perfect.” Chen gave a half bow. “Now, we can get you both to your date.”
Monique turned her view to me. “Date?”
“Date.” I gestured at that dress. “Now please put on a blue dress, Friend of the Four Aces. And make sure that dress is just as sexy as this white one.”