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)
I tensed.
“A week later, someone found his father dead in an alley.” A sad expression covered her face. “My aunt and uncle took Marcelo in, and. . .he was never really the same, so. . .whenever I came for visits, we hugged a lot and I did his hair, but there was no more kissing or touching. Just the sort of love and comfort that one would have for a family member.”
Chen turned to me. “Not to weaken this heartfelt moment but that's real power. She could at least help with the new development happening with Rowe Street Mob.”
Monique looked at him. “What new development?”
Stress laced Chen's voice. “They're surrounding the mountain.”
Monique rolled her eyes. “They wouldn't be doing that right now, if I had my phone yesterday.”
Chen spoke, “She has my vote for Friend of Four Aces however, I would like her negotiations to be limited to Rowe Street Mob until she has fully proven that she can represent us in the best manner and truly deliver with the position.”
“That's fair.” Monique nodded. “However, I want to have the right to return to Council and expand the title after a set amount of time.”
Chen rubbed his chin. “A year should do it.”
Fuck.
Everyone went silent and turned back to me, waiting for my signal to vote.
Monique was proven to be more than just a lusty interest—soft, warm, and wet; she was becoming a force to be reckoned with, a woman capable of standing on her own in the treacherous world we inhabited.
On edge, I dove my hands in my pockets.
This realization was both a source of pride and a bitter pill to swallow. It meant letting go of some of the control I had unconsciously sought over her, and instead, supporting her rise, even if it meant watching her shine from a distance.
In that moment, I understood this relationship with Monique was at a crossroads. How I chose to act now would define not just us, but the kind of leader I wanted to be after my father's death.
I broke the silence. “Alright. Let's put it to a vote.”
My gaze met Monique's.
Those beautiful eyes were a blend of hope and determination.
“It's traditional for the Mountain Master to be the final vote, but I'll go first.” I stepped forward.
She pursed her lips.
We were so close.
I yearned to touch her, but I remained professional. “This was a ballsy move, yet here you are, standing your ground, unflinching in the face of dangerous men. Wolves, as you said.”
She bit her lip.
“I know I have gone too far with you in these past days, still you've safely navigated through shit that would have broken many.” I let out a long breath. “And this morning. . .even though someone has clearly given you unauthorized text. . .”
I slowly turned and glared at Duck.
He returned to fidgeting with his sword's handle.
“Still. . .” I looked back at Monique. “With that, you've shown strength, wisdom, and a level of understanding that goes beyond the ordinary. You've stood toe-to-toe with us, not as a subordinate, but as an equal.”
I paused, allowing my words to resonate through the space.
Duck, Hu, and Chen watched intently.
“You've earned not just my respect, but clearly the respect of my top officials, which is no easy feat.” I crossed my arms over my chest. “So, Monique, you have my full support and vote to become a Friend of the Four Aces.”
But Marcy and everyone else better fucking know their place. . .
She widened her eyes in shock. “Thank you. . .Lei.”
I backed up, hoping that I hadn't made the wrong decision. “Deputy Mountain Master?”
She still needed another vote. Chen and Duck typically voted together. Meanwhile, Hu was always a wild card and at times, reserved the right to not vote at all.
Chen stepped forward. “Good arguments, Monique.”
She swallowed. “Thank you.”
“Your request to be a Friend of the Four Aces isn't just about a title; it's a recognition of your place among us.” He began speaking with his hands, twirling and twisting his fingers with each point.
That definitely was not a good sign.
Chen flickered his index finger. “While you've proven that you are more than capable of handling the responsibilities and expectations that come with it, I'm not comfortable with your taking on this position. Therefore, you do not have my vote.”
What?
Sadness flickered in her eyes.
I took a deep breath wanting to slap him.
Pressure pressed against my chest.
Granted, I hadn't been happy about her wanting the position in the first place.
I also didn't want her to fail at this Council or feel embarrassed in front of my men.
Monique's voice was shaky. “I understand.”
“However. . .” Chen continued, “I do finally see what Uncle Leo must have saw when he decided to place you at the center of his maneuverings and I believe that you will be an excellent Mountain Mistress and. . .we must start putting those steps in motion and preparing you for that path. Immediately.”