SWNOVELXO Chapter 12: Boss Meeting
"The man of the hour is finally here," a woman's voice called from inside.
Vincent froze. He immediately recognized that voice—it was the woman from last night. Even if he'd only heard it once, he knew he'd never forget it.
Inside, along with her handsome blonde bodyguard, were five other people.
"Welcome, Don Angel," a man with dark hair and piercing green eyes greeted. A tattoo of two snakes curled up the side of his thick neck.
"Thank you, Bishop," Don Angel replied coolly.
"And it seems you've brought a different plus one this time," Bishop added, giving Vincent a slow, deliberate scan from head to toe.
"I don't suppose that's any of your business?" Don Angel shot him a sharp glare. "Let's stick to the reason we're all here, so we can get back to our own business."
"I meant no offense," Bishop said, unfazed. "But you are standing in my base. Some level of respect for your host would be expected."
"That's enough, Bishop," another man interjected, his tone diplomatic. "We were the ones who invited Don Angel. It would be rude to threaten a guest."
"Can we drop the theatrics and get to the point?" the woman said with thinly veiled disgust.
Vincent recognized the second man to speak. It was Hon. Park Min, the city's Commissioner for Housing and Urban Planning. He was known for frequenting Zone 13—a flashy politician famous for his love of jewelry, women, and extravagant parties.
Seeing him here, among gangsters, only confirmed what Vincent had long suspected—his lifestyle was bankrolled by crime.
"This is a gathering of all the bosses in K-City," the commissioner began. "An alliance that has kept the peace between us, allowing each of us to focus on our operations without stepping on toes. Today, we officially invite Don Angel to join our association."
"In our circle, we support one another—financially, logistically, politically. That way, we all grow richer without unnecessary conflict."
"You already know Bishop, caretaker of the port. This is Madame Freya, one of the three heads of the Triad. And that's Mr. Wang, leader of the Gang Wu Clan."
Mr. Wang was a small man with a narrow face, a funny mustache, and a thin ponytail.
"First, I want to thank you all for considering me an equal," Angel said. "It takes courage to do something like that—especially since no new member has joined this group since its formation. Being the first is an honor."
"But honestly, I'm not sure what any of you can offer me. I got this far without your help. So why should I start needing it now?"
Bishop's expression tightened. "Listen here, boy. We control this city. If we wanted to, we could make your life a living hell. Do you really think you can stand against all of us?"
"Is that a threat?" Angel's voice dropped, his eyes narrowing. "I don't take kindly to threats."
Bishop stepped forward, towering over Angel slightly. "And what if it is?"
He was an older man but he looked like he was still very much in his prime.
They locked eyes—two predators staring each other down. The tension in the room thickened.
Vincent could feel it in the air. These two were on a completely different level. Their presence alone shifted the energy in the room.
"That's enough, Bishop," the commissioner said firmly, diffusing the heat.
"Don Angel, I assure you—there's more to gain than lose by allying with us. We have deep ties to government and law enforcement. They say there's no honor among criminals, but here, we pride ourselves on the opposite. If we can keep our egos in check, we can all watch each other's backs."
"Your words are like sugar," Angel chuckled. "You really are a politician. You make this whole setup sound noble—like we're forming friendships. But let's be real: you're all predators that prey on the weak. The moment one of you shows weakness, the rest will pounce."
"Fortunately for you, I'm a predator too. And I do like the idea of allies. You know what they say, more friends, more money and how can I say no to more money,"
The commissioner smiled broadly and extended a hand. "Then welcome to the association."
Don Angel shook it.
"Now, onto our second order of business. Did you bring the product?"
Angel smirked and pulled out a small transparent sack filled with red and blue pills.
"They're made from a compound called V2. It'll give your clients an experience they won't forget. I have thirteen bags outside ready for distribution."
The bosses passed the sachet around, each taking out a pill to examine.
"You can sell them at your clubs and parties. They're safe—just a mild hallucinogen that lasts a few minutes. Think of it like morphine, but better."
"I've heard of V2," Bishop said. "Rumor is, the Russian military's been experimenting with it. Isn't it dangerous?"
"It can be—if made wrong," Don Angel replied. "But in controlled doses, hospitals in some parts of the world are already using it. My suppliers can assure hospital-grade quality."
"And who are these suppliers?" Madame Freya asked sharply, her elegant voice cutting through the room. "You don't expect us to trust an unknown source, do you?"
It was then Vincent noticed how stunning she was. She wore a long black dress that displayed her curvy figure, with a tailored white coat draped over her shoulders.
"Unfortunately, I can't reveal their identity without permission," Angel said. "But I trusted this group enough to come here unarmed. That should tell you I'm serious about doing business."
"How about this—I'll give you all the bags for free. Once you've sold them, bring me what you believe they're worth. We can negotiate from there. Sound fair?"
The bosses exchanged glances. It was a smart move—low risk for them, possible reward.
"A very charitable offer, Don Angel," the commissioner said with a wide smile, shaking his hand again. "I like how you think."
Angel returned the smile. "Before I forget there's one more thing I think you all should know…"