C15 Chapter 15

Two weeks later, Vandel summoned Rowen to his presence. Rowen approached, and Vandel gestured for him to take a seat.

"Boss, you called for me," Rowen inquired as he settled into the offered chair.

Vandel, a cigarette in hand, asked, "How's your injury?" He then produced a second cigarette, offering it to Rowen, and handed him a lighter.

"Thankfully, my injury is almost fully healed. It doesn't hurt much anymore," Rowen replied, accepting the cigarette and lighting it.

Vandel nodded in approval. "That's good to know," he remarked. "Actually, I don't say this often, but I really appreciate what you did for me. In this world, it's hard to find someone who would risk their life to save yours. I mean, you haven't been here for long, and yet you still did this for me. While those I trust were busy hiding their faces, you've proven that true loyalty still exists."

Rowen, trying to sound humble and earn Vandel's admiration, responded, "It's my pleasure, boss. You were in danger, and as one of your men, it was my duty to ensure your safety. I don't think I deserve any praise for it; I was simply doing my job."

"Loyal and humble, good... very good," Vandel praised, his tone genuinely appreciative.

Rowen, curious about the situation with Eduardo, inquired, "But boss, what about Eduardo? Do you think he might cause trouble for you in the future?"

Vandel leaned back, a triumphant glint in his eye. "You've been away for almost two weeks. You probably haven't heard. Eduardo is dead, along with all of his men. Their heads were served to me on the very day he made the mistake of going against me."

Rowen was taken aback by the news but understood the gravity of the situation. "I see now... tough days, I guess."

Vandel raised his glass, proposing a toast, "Well then, a toast to brighter days ahead."

"Cheers," Rowen replied, clinking glasses with Vandel, and they both took a sip of their drinks.

"If you don't mind me asking this boss, but why did you still choose to go in the first place when you clearly knew that it was all a trap to lure and kill you from the very beginning". Rowen asked.

"I did it for old time sake, cause no matter how much I may try to deny it, I wouldn't be here today if it wasn't for him. Back then, my uncle Don minandro took me as his son, he was also a drug dealer and Edurado was his best friend. One day, my uncle got into a clash with one of his rivals and he was killed, I was too young then to take over the business so, Eduardo handled it on my behalf.

At first, he treated me well but as time went by, he became too greedy to keep the power for himself, then he began to treat me like a slave for years, but luckily fortune smiled on me when the authorities began to investigate drug activities at El Paso, he couldn't bear the pressure anymore, so he ran like the coward he is leaving me behind.

That's how I was able to slowly build an empire of my own, I went there today to see him for the last time before I put an end to his miserable life, but unfortunately, he tried to kill me instead". Vandel explained giving a heavy sigh after ending his story.

Then came a knock at the door.

"Come in," Vandel commanded, placing his glass on the table.

Fernando entered and whispered something into Vandel's ear, then exited the room. Vandel sighed and stood up.

"Well, Bryson, I have somewhere important to be right now, but don't worry. When I come back, I'll reward you. And from now on, you'll be one of my personal bodyguards, serving directly under me," Vandel announced, taking his last sip of wine.

"Thank you, boss. I promise I won't fail you," Rowen replied, attempting to convey genuine enthusiasm.

"Alright then, bye for now," Vandel said before exiting the room. He got into his car and drove off, accompanied by his men.

As soon as Rowen left the room, he was immediately confronted by Antonio.

"And just who do you think you are, coming here and trying to win the boss's favor?" Antonio seethed with anger.

"I don't understand what you're talking about," Rowen replied cautiously, attempting to avoid any conflict.

Antonio continued to berate him, "You don't understand? Are you dumb or what? Do you really think no one can see through this fake act of yours? I see what you're trying to do here. You're attempting to gain the boss's favor and make the rest of us look bad. But I won't let you succeed with your plans."

Rowen remained composed and tried to defuse the situation, "I think you must be mistaken. I don't intend to do what you're accusing me of. Please excuse me." He attempted to leave to avoid further trouble.

Antonio's rage, however, was unrelenting, and he threatened, "It seems that after just a few weeks, you've already forgotten your place here. That's fine because today, I'm going to teach you a very good lesson."

With a sudden, cruel punch to Rowen's stomach, Antonio reopened his wound, causing it to bleed once more. The altercation was interrupted by the arrival of Miguel, who immediately intervened.

"What the heck do you think you're doing?" Miguel demanded, shocked by Antonio's brutality.

Antonio, unapologetic, responded defiantly, "I was just teaching this newbie here a lesson so that next time, he'll know where he truly belongs."

"If anything happens to him, i just hope you'll be able to explain to the boss when he returns because am not sure if I'll be able to plead on your behalf". Miguel warned as Antonio walked away filled with rage.

Miguel turned his attention to Rowen who was still trying to stop his wound from bleeding "The first aid box is in the store room, treat yourself". Miguel said trying to detach any form of emotions as he continued on his way.