Chapter 108 Can’t Keep His Mouth Shut
Chapter 108 Can’t Keep His Mouth Shut
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Kendrick pouted but didn’t say anything. That was as good as admitting he’d accepted the mission. Growing up–well, all of them had gone through it at some point. Aside from Louis and Quinton, the other two had all been whipped into shape by Asher too.
“By the way, Asher,” Baylon asked with a touch of curiosity, “what’s your next move? Taking over the Collins Corporation might not be hard for you, but what about the people inside the company? What’s your plan for them?”
Only a best friend like Baylon could ask something like that. Anyone else would’ve gotten shut down immediately. Asher had always been a tough guy, but when it came to his best friends, he was surprisingly patient.
“My grandpa’s still around. I’ve got to leave him a little dignity. If things get too ugly, I’m afraid it’ll be too much for his health.”
The others fell silent, understanding how much Asher cared for his grandfather. It was a little unfair to him, sure–but there was nothing they could do. No one had the right to make that call for him.
Louis turned slightly and refilled Asher’s glass. “Mr. Luke’s been in good health lately. Even if you start making bigger moves, he should be able to handle it. Don’t hold back too much–you don’t need to shoulder everything alone.”
“I’m not holding back. There’s a lot in this world that’ll leave you with no way to speak your pain.” Asher took a sip, his eyes briefly darkening before he changed the subject. “By the way, Quinton–your medical skills have really leveled up. Back when I was in the military, I kept hearing Mr. Wayne mention you. His son only made it out alive thanks to you.”
Quinton smiled quietly. Though outwardly refined, there was something vaguely threatening in the way he smiled–like a tiger behind a mask. “I did what I could. I’m not some great success, just good with my hands. Mr. Wayne gave a lot to the country over the years. The least I could do was save his son. Otherwise, I wouldn’t feel right.”
Asher grinned. “Alright, no need to be modest. That plot of land in Sagebrook–consider it your birthday gift from me.”
Baylon shivered dramatically, rubbing his arms like he had chills. “Quinton, could you not smile like that? Every time you do, I feel like my whole body’s going cold. That Winston family kid’s going to be bedridden for the rest of his life–and you’re the only guy who could screw him over and still have him thanking you for it.”
Waylon suddenly leaned sideways, slinging an arm around Baylon’s shoulders. “Baylon, didn’t I tell you once? You’ve always had a real knack for running your mouth. What–just because you studied abroad for a while, you forgot how to keep your mouth shut even when you see through something?”
“I’m just saying, it’s only us in here. Quinton’s trying so hard to maintain his persona–I’ve gotta play along, right? Otherwise it’d be rude.”
Quinton gave Baylon a chilly glance. “You’ve been staying up late a lot lately, haven’t you? Poor rest leads to poor liver function. It’s not serious, but I’ve got some rare supplements that’ll help. I’ll have someone send them over. You need to take care of yourself–can’t keep walking around advertising how depleted you are.”
“I’m not depleted!” Baylon snapped without hesitation–only to be shoved down into his seat by Waylon.
“Sure you are. No shame in it, we’re all best friends here–no one’s judging. We all know taking over Quez Corp’s been rough. Quinton’s just looking out for you.”
Louis watched his friends bicker and joke, then met Asher’s eyes across the table. The two shared a look, both with faint smiles.
Ever since Asher had joined the military, it had been a long time since they’d all gathered like this. Moments like this–noisy, chaotic, full of laughter–were one of life’s quiet joys.
