Ch. 351..360
Life at the Top Chapter 351
Jasper’s comment changed everyone’s view of him.
In their opinions, Jasper, as Dawson’s future son-in-law, would not even have the right to enter the conference if it was not for Dawson.
However, right now, even Dawson was unable to do anything to Sebastian. What more Jasper?
‘Still being able to say such ruthless comments when both parties have demonstrated a huge gap in their capabilities only means that this is a brainless performance.’
Amongst the crowd, Chris shook his head. He thought to himself, ‘Dawson has always been a clever person so why did he get himself a stupid son-in-law?’
As for Sebastian, his gaze was dark. He stared at Jasper and let out a creepy smile, looking just like an emperor on his throne listening to the provocation of a beggar.
“Hey b*stard, who do you think you are?” Sebastian smirked while saying it.
“Even your father-in-law is just trash in my opinion, let alone you? If I were you, I’d just advise your father-in-law to know his standing and not go against me. Or else, the golden cash cow you’ve searched so hard for might just be destroyed by me.
“You really don’t fear anything. Isn’t it better to stay in your house and guard that tiny piece of land of yours? You’ll still gain tens of millions of profits annually. It’s more than enough for you to live your life. Why do you insist on taking the limelight?!”
Dawson stared at Sebastian coldly. His eyes gave off a sense of franticness and revealed a grudge that went all the way deep into his bones. “Sebastian, I, Dawson Schuler, swear that I’ll make you wish you were never born! I’ll make sure to avenge Linda!”
Sebastian laughed out loud and said, “You’re just a f*cking piece of trash to me, yet you still want to seek revenge? It’s better if you use this opportunity and go back and pack your stuff. Ensure all the cash in your bank account is secure. Perhaps you’ll still be able to live your last days in a better way as well!
“I, Sebastian Walker, will keep to my words. Once the industry standard is approved, the supermarket under you will immediately be the target of attack of the entire industry.
“Also, regarding your supermarkets within the province, even though I’m not interested in them, I believe others are. It just so happens that I can give them out to everyone as a gift from me.”
As Sebastian said, he shifted his gaze over to Jasper. He chuckled and said, “Do you see this, young man? Your useless father-in-law can only roar away, but what about it? With just a simple manner, I’ll be able to corner him to a state he can’t counter-attack.
“That’s all there is to your father-in-law, so what about you? Right now, have you come to realize just how cruel this community is? The world of the upper-class is way more dangerous than you think. The rich father-in-law in your eyes is nothing but a tiny ant.
“You’re even thinking of making me wish that I was never born? What a joke. How many years has it been since I met such a foolish person? Why don’t you look at yourself in the mirror? What a joke!”
As Sebastian was saying, he squinted his eyes and glanced at the surrounding crowd. He was using Dawson and Jasper as examples, punishing them so he could warn everyone.
Only in this way would he be able to take control of others, and in the meantime, he could proceed with his plan smoothly!
“You’re Dawson’s son-in-law, but don’t ever follow in his footsteps.”
Sebastian revealed an evil smile while saying it. He stared at Jasper and said thoughtfully, “Take good care of your wife, don’t let her follow her mother’s footsteps. If that time ever arrives, it’ll be too late to regret!”
After Sebastian finished talking, he lifted his head and laughed wildly. He was utterly arrogant.
The people surrounding them exchanged terrified looks with each other. They were all feeling depressed at the same time.
Even though they hated Sebastian’s dominance, they also pitied Dawson and Jasper for what they were experiencing. However, at this moment, they could only sigh internally.
It was because none of them dared step out and defend them both at that moment as it would also mean going against Sebastian.
Nothing good would follow it.
Chris also sighed. He looked at Jasper and noticed that the young man’s face did not carry a trace of remorse or any horrified emotions. His expression appeared calm.
“Could he be so mad that he’s gone crazy?” Chris shook his head. “He’s still too young. He needs to gain more experience.”
It was as if Sebastian was done showing off, so he said with a cold smile, “Still hoping that I’ll wish I was never born? Wait for a few more days and we’ll see who will have that wish! Stupid!”
After saying it, Sebastian spun around and returned to the podium for the meeting.
However, at that moment, Jasper suddenly pushed the few security guards who were blocking him with much force. He sprinted ahead, and his body pounced forth like a cheetah.
The distance between Sebastian and Jasper was only three to four meters apart. Jasper rushed over in a blink of an eye.
He raised his hand, clenched it into a fist, and threw his punch.
Life at the Top Chapter 352
All of the moves were done smoothly.
That heavy punch smashed right on Sebastian’s terrified face.
Before Sebastian could even let out a shriek, his entire body moved backward and his face tilted to the side after getting punched. Blood spat out from his mouth, splattering on the people beside him and on their meticulously custom-made suits, leaving striking marks on them.
Sebastian dropped to the floor, and only then did he let out a terrible shriek and roar.
Chaos suddenly broke out within the crowd of people. A few security guards who had recovered from the shock quickly pounced and grabbed hold of Jasper with everything they had.
However, even with that measure being taken, Jasper still managed to land a few kicks on Sebastian’s body.
The crowd was thrown into havoc, and amidst the noise, Sebastian’s roar was heard. “You son of a b*tch, I want you dead so badly! I want you dead!”
Jasper freed himself from the restrictions of the few security guards. Seeing that they were still attempting to surround him, Jasper gave them a cold glare.
“Get lost!”
It was a low roar, yet Jasper had demonstrated his dominance. Ever since being reincarnated, his aura revealed that he was at the top of the hierarchy and asserted the power of his wealth that was worth billions.
In other words, one could easily feel the domineering aura from him even if he was not triggered.
What was more, Jasper was currently exasperated.
The few security guards looked at each other. They did not know why, but they felt frustrated even though they were dealing with someone who was almost the same age as them.
It was as if they would end up in deep trouble if they disobeyed him.
The security guards gulped their saliva and hesitated, not having the courage to move forth.
Jasper’s icy cold gaze then landed on Sebastian.
Sebastian had been disgraced, his face covered with blood. His left cheek was swollen after being punched by Jasper, while the other side of his face was covered with a red bloodstain. He also had a posterior molar tooth that fell out after the beating.
From the few kicks Jasper inflicted upon Sebastian’s body, his suit that he cared so much about was all full of shoe marks now.
Sebastian was currently looking even worse than a beggar who failed to snatch some food. At this moment, he was far from keeping his elegant composure.
Sebastian’s body was fumbling. After entering the industry for tens of years, he had never endured such a beating.
It was done in the public’s eye too! ‘How am I going to face the public in the future?’
Jasper did not continue going forth to beat up Sebastian.
At the end of the day, the business world had its way of settling grudges and arguments. Brawling was just because of a spark of emotional agitation.
Jasper’s intention was not to make Sebastian lose his pride nor suffer.
He wanted him to lose his fame and fortune as well as everything else he had!
At that moment, Dawson also pushed away the person who was yanking him and stepped into the scene.
Dawson looked at Sebastian delightfully and said to Jasper, “Let’s go. About the issue that’s coming up, we’ll have a thorough discussion about it later when we return.”
Jasper nodded, and together with Dawson, they spun around to leave.
The other people dared not block them.
As for Sebastian, he was staring at the back figures of the two men. His eyes were gleaming with deep-rooted cruelty and grudges.
“Just you guys wait and see! I’ll deal with you guys till you’re dead! I’ll make you both kneel before me and beg me!”
Life at the Top Chapter 353
After exiting the hotel, Dawson pulled Jasper over and casually found a stall to have supper.
Just like that, the father-in-law whose net worth was over tens of billions and his son-in-law casually sat at the stall selling supper and started drinking beer. They ate cheap grilled meat too.
Jasper knew that Dawson was not in a pleasant mood, so he did not say much and got the boss of the stall to serve some peanuts and pickles that need not be cooked. He also ordered a dozen bottles of cold beer.
Accompanying the father-in-law and getting drunk together was one of the things a qualified son-in-law should do.
They opened up the beer and gulped down half of the bottle. Dawson held onto the bottle and hit it hard on the oily table.
He loosened up his necktie and unbuttoned one of the buttons on his shirt collar. Dawson lifted his eyes and said to Jasper with a bitter smile, “Was I really that embarrassing today?”
Jasper shook his head and said seriously, “Not at all, you’re the man!”
Dawson smiled and said, “Wendy’s mother, Linda, had followed me since she was 19 years old. She was the daughter of a lecturer in a university. Back then, I was just a poor brat from the village with nothing.
“But it was nothing like those stories. Her whole family supported her decision and treated me very well. Besides, the very first fund I had for my business was also provided by her dad. He took out the money with his salary and savings to aid me.
“Even though Linda was born with congenital cardiovascular malformation, it wouldn’t affect her daily life. The doctor mentioned that there was no cure to this disease but she could at least be able to live up to 70 years old.”
At that time, the boss of the stall served the grilled meat. Jasper took two bites of it. Then, he lifted his bottle of beer and clinked it with Dawson’s before drinking. “It’s a wonderful story.”
Dawson drank all of the remaining beer in one shot and let out a long sigh before saying, “Yeah, it’s wonderful. Even though Linda’s parents were very supportive of us, their relatives and Linda’s pursuers and friends all looked down on me.
“With Linda’s status, she could definitely find a better husband. For the first few years after our marriage, all of her friends were living much better lives than us.
“In order not to let Linda feel that she was having it worse than others, I worked my *ss off to earn more money. It was then that I started to neglect her.”
Dawson’s hand was clenching the bottle of beer. His fingertips became white because he was exerting too much strength.
“Ten years ago, at the most crucial time when I was competing with Sebastian, I lost everything in a single night. All the outsiders were saying it was because Sebastian obtained the financial support of a big boss from Swallow Capital.
“But I know that it was only part of the reason. The most important thing is that Linda got a heart attack and she just passed away without any prior symptoms, leaving behind me and Wendy who was only very young at the time.”
Dawson’s gaze was filled with sufferings and remembrance. “Ever since Linda married me, she had never once lived a happy day. In the end, she just left the world like that. It was because of her passing’s impact on me that I failed to win against Sebastian.
“I’ve thought it through. As a man, we shouldn’t have the right to be talking about our careers if we can’t even take good care of our wives and children. Hence, I’m now placing more of my attention on Wendy. She’s my only hope.”
Dawson’s body slightly trembled when he was saying that. His tone started to sound like he was choking. “All this while, Wendy and I thought that the heart attack was just an accident that occurred coincidentally, but now I know that it’s all because of Sebastian. He was the one behind this entire incident!
“He ordered people to kidnap Linda. Linda, who was already frightened, was then told that I was met with an accident. How could she have accepted such a huge shock? It was no wonder that at the time, Linda’s main attending doctor said that before she died, she had suffered from a huge shock and torture. I couldn’t think things through at that point!
“But now I understand. I’ve thought through it. It was all because I was a fool who wanted to find success in my career, who self-proclaimed to be smarter than others, and who boasted about having never been defeated!”
Smack!
Dawson raised his hand and gave himself a tight slap.
Subconsciously, Jasper wanted to stop Dawson’s hand. When he raised his eyes, however, he saw the man who would never furrow his brows and always looked like nothing was able to defeat him with his face covered in tears.
It was not an embarrassing thing for a man to cry.
He was strong. It was just that the incident had triggered him to be depressed.
Seeing Dawson in such a miserable state, Jasper’s heart was dwelling with a sense of respect for him that he never had before.
He was a man who had lost his wife ten years ago, a man with a net worth of billions but never showed off.
He was a man who was able to feel regret and suffered because of his late wife who passed away ten years ago.
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Regardless of anything else, Jasper felt it was all worth showing some respect for.
“That is why, Jasp, you have to remember. As a man, you must protect your family well. Regardless of how tired you are or how you’re suffering, having a complete family and making your wife and children happy is what defines a successful man. Don’t be a failure like me!
“I’m leaving Wendy to you, so you must treat her well.
“Uncle Schuler, I’ll take revenge on your behalf. About your daughter, I’ll treasure her forever,” Jasper looked at Dawson with a serious look and said softly.
Dawson started at Jasper, absent-minded. After some time, he suddenly laughed out loud. He wiped off his tears and said, “Let’s drink!”
“Let’s drink!”
Jasper discarded his bottle and picked up a new one. The two men held their bottles of beer like they were holding glasses and drank.
That night, Dawson got drunk and was a mess after their drinking session. He passed out cold.
It was Jasper who piggybacked him all the way to the hotel room.
Wendy, who came back early, was puzzled. Seeing Dawson drunk and in that state made her anxiously run to him to look after him.
“Did you guys go for a conference or for a drinking session? My dad’s drunk to this state and why do you carry a strong scent of alcohol as well?”
Wendy took a warm towel and wiped Dawson’s face as she tilted her head to lecture Jasper.
Jasper spun around and headed toward the washroom to wash his face. After feeling slightly refreshed, he said, “We met a few old friends and our dad got excited, so he drank quite a lot.”
Jasper purposely emphasized the words ‘our dad’ with a teasing expression.
Wendy’s little ears twitched when she heard the words ‘our dad’. Her cheeks noticeably flushed red.
“What nonsense are you muttering about?!” Wendy took the towel and jumped up, glaring at Jasper as if she was blaming him.
After what had happened that day, Jasper’s emotions were unstable as well. At that moment, he saw the gentle Wendy under the lights. He suddenly stretched out his hands and held the shy lady in his arms, hugging her.
Wendy’s body was stiffened. Even though she was shy, ladies were born with a much more sensitive sense. Instinctively, she noticed that Jasper had something going on in his mind.
Wendy let down her guard and tried her best to use her gentleness to comfort Jasper. She said gently, “Is something troubling you? You can tell me.”
Jasper smiled and shook his head.
He did not want to reveal the truth to Wendy. That was the agreement he had made with Dawson.
After all, ten years ago, Wendy had already endured a huge shock once. Now, if he were to tell her that it was all an evil scheme and her mother’s death was caused by someone else, it would be too big of a burden for her to endure. It would be too cruel to her.
“You should take care of things around here first. I’ll head back for a moment,” said Jasper softly as he released Wendy.
Wendy blinked her eyes and nodded.
She was a bright lady and did not question any further. Every man would have their own burdens. All she had to do was provide him with warmth when he needed it and not pester him with questions.
As he walked out of the room and locked the door, Jasper’s smile on his face suddenly vanished. It was replaced with a quiet yet cold expression. Flames of rage were dwelling within him.
Julian, who was guarding outside the room, came over with a cold gaze. As a professional, it only took him one glance to know that Jasper was all set to lay a finger on someone.
“Who is it, Brother Laine?” Julian asked calmly, giving off a murderous aura.
Jasper tapped on Julian’s shoulder and said with a smile, “You don’t have to make a move for now. It’ll only soil your hands going against scumbags, and that will just make them look like someone of a higher status.”
Life at the Top Chapter 355
After returning to the room, Jasper thought it through.
‘It’s not going to be easy going against a supermarket company like Kaymaroon.
‘The important thing is its size which places it in a very cumbersome position.
‘If it was smaller, then I could just squash it immediately.
‘If its volume is any larger and is listed, then by just using capital means and a few days of tradings, it’ll be enough to take them down.’
However, Kaymaroon was not lacking in any cash. Besides, the supermarkets could be found in many other cities and the only way to defeat them in the shortest time frame would be by using an unusual method.
Jasper’s first call was made to Jim.
Even though Jim was still in the hospital, he had almost recovered.
After understanding Jasper’s intention, Jim did not give it another thought and immediately gave his word that he would present all the business information regarding Kaymaroon in front of Jasper.
“Actually, with such a huge company, it’s easy for us to investigate because their territory is very wide and they’ve communicated with lots of people. It’ll be a piece of cake to check on them. One night’s time is all I need.
“On the other hand, those small companies from small areas will be much more troublesome because they’re not famous and have only communicated with a limited amount of people.”
After listening to Jim’s explanation, Jasper nodded in astonishment.
Even though he possessed the memories from his previous life, it was just an advantage. At the end of the day, he was still a human and not some kind of god. There were still lots of industries that he was not familiar with.
For example, the industry of a business consulting company was very important, but in Jasper’s previous life, he was not involved in it at all. On the other hand, Jim was very familiar with the industry.
Jasper suddenly felt that he had made the right choice by investing in Jim. In the future, following the development of JW Real Estate, there would definitely be more enemies who would show up. Having Jim’s strength would allow him to have miraculous effects when handling most of the cases.
Besides, Jim had earned lots of money now and even taken over George’s company. It would only be a matter of time before he occupied the top position among similar industries in Swallow Capital.
The next morning when Jasper woke up, he was informed by Julian that someone from Jim’s company had been waiting for some time.
Jasper had the hotel serve breakfast and met up with the assistant chairman of Jim’s company while he was at it.
“Nice to meet you, Mr. Laine.”
The assistant chairman had a very polite attitude. It was obvious that he had been reminded by Jim beforehand.
Jasper nodded and said, “Let’s hear about the situation.”
The assistant chairman presented a very thick folder of documents. After Jasper took out the documents from inside, he glanced through the information while listening to the assistant chairman’s report.
“According to the information that we found, Kaymaroon currently has 123 supermarkets throughout the nation, excluding the six supermarkets that are under renovation and two other supermarkets that are undergoing a negotiation regarding investments.
“All these supermarkets are mostly located in the first and second-tier cities. Among them, 60% of the supermarkets are operating very well, 33% have a monthly revenue of more than 20 million, and only about 15% are making a loss.
“According to our professional estimation, the overall market value for Kaymaroon won’t be less than four billion while the company’s current financial flow is around 1.5 billion. Their monthly profit is about 40 million.”
Jasper looked at the information, nodded, and said, “Not bad, the report is very professional and detailed.”
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The assistant chairman wore a delighted expression and dared not delay a single moment.
“However, it’s not that Kaymaroon doesn’t have any problems. We found out that they’re facing a very high risk of getting themselves involved with a huge debt.
“First of all, each of their supermarkets closes their cyclical accounts with their suppliers every six months, which is four months more than the standard compared to other businesses of the same industry. Changing the period of each cycle to half a year is still in the midst of being approved by the public. Regarding this point, because of their large sales volume and strong ability to conduct sales, all the suppliers can only go along with it.
“Every half a year, they will have to spend at least two billion for the payment. According to our investigation, it’ll be time for them to make their payment after another half a month, at most.”
Jasper tapped on the documents while listening and said, “You’re saying that currently, the assets in Kaymaroon’s account are actually not adequate to make the payments to the suppliers? Even after taking into account all of the income from all the supermarkets for this coming half a month, they’re just barely managing?”
The assistant chairman nodded and said, “Basically that’s it. Also, they got a 600 million loan from Commercial Bank, which they have three years to pay back. Beginning next year will be their last term to pay back the remaining amount which is 220 million including interest.
“According to the data from the investigation, Kaymaroon also has a very serious debt to bear from the private loans they took. The total amount of it is still under investigation, but we can be sure it’s more than 800 million, which is a very heavy burden.”
“A company which has a market value of four billion turns out to have a debt of 1.4 billion, and from this amount, at least 800 million were taken from private loans with high interests. Sebastian really is one daredevil,” said Jasper calmly.
“Initially, Kaymaroon was just a huge company with a strong ability to gain profits, but the main issue with the company lies with the person named Sebastian. He’s a gambler. He’s famous for being a brazen boss in Owl City. He goes to Owl City once a month. Each trip he makes, he either wins or loses billions of dollars.”
Jasper’s brow was slightly raised, and he circled the word ‘gamble’ on the information sheet.
“I remember he has someone backing him up back in Swallow Capital. Did you manage to look that up?” asked Jasper calmly.
Ten years ago, during the battle between Dawson and Sebastian, someone from Swallow Capital offered a helping hand to Sebastian by providing funds at the eleventh hour. Jasper would be sure to include that point in as well.
“I’ve looked into it.”
The assistant chairman did not let Jasper down and said with a low voice, “It’s mentioned on the very last page.”
Jasper immediately flipped to the very last page of the document. He looked at the contents on it and an expression that no one expected to see was plastered on Jasper’s face.
“The Combe family?! Hendrik Combe?!”
The assistant chairman nodded and said, “Hendrik and Sebastian have a relationship that no one is aware of. They’re brothers-in-law. Sebastian‘s wife and Hendrik’s wife are siblings.
“Also, it was Sebastian’s nephew, Hector, who introduced him to Owl City. They both don’t just share a simple nephew-uncle relationship but they’re also gambling buddies. Or else, how would a brat from the village come to know about places like Owl City?”
After more than ten minutes, the assistant chairman left the hotel suite politely. After closing the door cautiously, he left the scene joyfully.
In the suite, Jasper gradually squinted his eyes and dialed Hector’s number.
After half an hour, Hector, with a perturbed look on his face, and Jacob slowly made their way to the entrance of the hotel room.
“Brother, Jasper is looking for us, but what’s the reason behind it? Haven’t we settled the grudge between us?
“Even Erick Turner was squashed by him. I heard that it was Brad Turner who showed up in the end and paid huge compensation to Jasper. Only then was the issue resolved. I’m really scared of him now.”
Hector said with a teary face.
Jacob was calm and said, “You’re the one who he called. How am I supposed to know when you don’t even know the reason? Anyway, let’s just go in. Remember, we need to behave appropriately later. Don’t go around calling him by his name. You must greet him as Mr. Laine!”
As the brothers were talking, the sound of the hotel room door being knocked on was heard.
Life at the Top Chapter 357
Julian opened the door and the Combe siblings bowed to Julian with smiling faces.
As the second generation of a rich family, they were well aware that it was easy to meet up with the lord but the assistant beside the lord would be difficult to deal with. If they were to offend Julian, this bodyguard of Jasper’s could easily speak ill of them in front of Jasper from time to time. That would be the worst case that they would be regretful of.
“Come in, Brother Laine is waiting for you guys.”
Julian said it calmly and did not bother with the two of them.
Hector and Jacob dared not waste a single second and ran into the waiting area. They stood politely in front of Jasper and asked, “Nice to meet you, Mr. Laine.”
Jasper spun around and looked at the siblings. ‘I haven’t seen them in a few days. They don’t seem to be different but their attitudes have changed drastically.
‘They suddenly have the desire to live now.’
“Are you guys so scared of me?” said Jasper playfully.
Hector smiled awkwardly and said, “To tell you the truth, Mr. Laine, we’re slightly afraid.”
Hector also added in a better manner, “Previously, us siblings, especially me, did not know our standings and offended you, Mr. Laine. Fortunately, Mr. Laine was generous enough to forgive us and let us off the hook. Now that we’re meeting you again, we do feel a little scared.”
Jasper smiled but did not doubt the sincerity of the two siblings.
“That’s right. As children of rich families, you have your targets set high up and are able to trample over others with the authority of your family background, but it’s also because of this that you’ll feel fear more than the ordinary person. You’ll even be able to see through things better.
“I have a small favor to request from you two. I believe you’ll be able to get it done properly.”
After listening to Jasper’s comments, both Hector and Jacob were delighted and sorrowful at the same time.
They were delighted because they were able to get on Jasper’s good side. Regardless of the consequences to themselves or their family, it was definitely a good thing.
At the same time, they were sorrowful because Jasper had requested them to do him a favor. ‘Regardless of how small the favor is, I don’t think it’ll truly be such a small favor?’
Given Jasper’s capability, they no longer dared to be suspicious of him.
It was just like what Jasper said. They would fear outstanding figures like Jasper more than the average person because they were very well aware of the authority possessed by the likes of Jasper. They could easily crush the Combe siblings.
Hector and his brother were feeling anxious. After hesitating for a long time, it was Jacob as the elder brother who took the lead and spoke, “Please name your order, Mr. Laine. As long it’s within our capabilities, we brothers will be sure to settle the matter for you.”
Jasper sat on the sofa and pointed to the opposite, beckoning Hector and Jacob to have a seat.
Jasper asked while looking at Hector, “Do you know how to gamble?”
Hector was dumbfounded. Subconsciously, he nodded. “I know a bit of the game.”
“Do you know how to set up a gambling event?” asked Jasper.
Hector reacted to his words. Jasper wanted him to set up a gambling event to set others up.
Regarding the issue of setting others up, as long as one had spent quite some time gambling, they would come to realize it as well. ‘As long as it involves gambling, there will definitely be set-ups.’
It all depended on how large the bet was and the tactics of the banker.
“I do!” Hector said ruthlessly through gritted teeth.
Jasper snapped his fingers and Julian walked over while presenting a copy of the documents. From the documents, he took out a sheet of information and threw it on the coffee table in the middle of the three people.
That sheet of information was the biodata of Sebastian with his picture on top of it.
Upon glancing at Sebastian’s name and picture, Jacob and Hector’s pupils immediately shrunk.
“Your uncle will be the target of the set-up this time,” said Jasper calmly.
Hearing Jasper pointing out their relationship made Hector reply with a bitter smile, “Mr. Laine, I wonder what my uncle has done to offend you? Can I apologize to you on his behalf?”
Jasper raised his hand to stop Hector from talking and replied calmly, “This is not a matter of me taking offense. It’s something related to revenge, involving someone’s life. You guys can’t afford to be the middleman for this. The same goes to your dad, Hendrik Combe.”
Hearing the comment made Hector and Jacob exchange looks at each other. Both of them felt a chill crawling up their spines, all the way to the depths of their souls.
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”From what I know, the relationship between you guys is not that good, right?” said Jasper calmly.
The corners of Hector’s eyes twitched, and he said with a dry smile, “Well, we did have a huge fight two years ago, and it ended with an unpleasant outcome. But after all, as someone of the younger generation like us, to be so calculative with our own seniors seems to be rather—”
“I won’t make you guys do it without any rewards. I’ll give you 20% of shares of Jim’s business consulting company. I plan to develop that company aggressively in the future, so don’t think that the 20% of shares look trivial. Once it develops in the future, it’ll grow to be much better than those trivial products you guys make.”
Jasper raised one of his fingers, and after he was done saying, he raised a second finger.
“After you’ve settled this issue, whatever amount Sebastian loses from this set-up, you guys will take away 30% of it.”
After saying it, Jasper looked at Hector and Jacob calmly with a composed expression.
Hector and Jacob exchanged looks with each other. They could no longer reject the temptation of the huge profits.
The cash was the second reason. It was way more meaningful to them to be able to have shares in Jim’s company.
‘What does this even mean? It means that Jasper is willing to take us for a ride with him.’
Regardless of it being Jasper or Henry, with these two mighty beings here, Hector and Jacob would have a bright future. They would gain benefits whenever they were any leftovers from them.
“Mr. Laine, can I give my dad a call?” Hector said.
Jasper extended his arm, showing that he could leave to make the call.
Hector bowed with the utmost respect. Then, he filed out the room.
After a few minutes, Hector returned. He took in a deep breath and said to Jasper with a deep voice, “Mr. Laine, when are we going to start?”
Jasper smiled and got to his feet, saying, “The earlier the better. Also, I admire the fact that you guys know what’s the right thing to do now. The Combe family will be sure to have a bright future if it’s in the hands of you two.”
…
After seeing the Combe siblings off, Jasper came to Dawson’s room and briefly explained the entire incident.
“You’ve already contacted Jim?” He could not help but ask after hearing from Jasper that he had promised to give out 20% of the shares of Jim’s company to the Combe siblings.
Jasper said with a smile, “Yes, I’ve already contacted him. Uncle Yapp is very satisfied with it. You might think that he’s on the losing end because of the 20% of shares, but in the future, it’ll be guaranteed as insurance in Capital City. The Combe family will never let him be on the losing end.”
“You have your point. After all, you won’t have the time to keep an eye on him. This plan might just work out,” said Dawson while nodding his head.
Dawson praised and looked at Jasper while adding, “You’re getting the hang of it. I’m relieved.”
Jasper said calmly, “One should be flexible at using tactics. There are lots of methods to go against someone like Sebastian. But in order to achieve the greatest effect in the shortest amount of time, I will only have to resort to using methods that he can’t see coming.
…
At another hotel, Sebastian was frantically calling his underlings in his company.
“Hurry and come up with a plan for me. I want to take over the market that belongs to that b*stard, Dawson Schuler!
“I don’t care what price I need to pay! Within half a year, I want Schuler Group to go bankrupt!
“Contact all our resources. We have to crush the supply route of Schuler Group. Whichever supplier dares to supply to the supermarkets of Schuler Group will be going against Kaymaroon!”
After putting down his phone, Sebastian loosened his necktie. His face revealed a scary smile.
“Dawson Schuler, you’re 100 years away from challenging me!
“Also that brat named Jasper. You two sons of b*tches, I’ll see just when you’ll come to kneel before me and plead with me!”
Coincidentally at that moment, his phone rang.
After looking at the incoming call, a smile was plastered on Sebastian’s face. His tone was extremely gentle as well. “Oh Hector, are you looking for me to head over to Owl City with you? I’m rather busy these two days.”
“Uncle, I know you’re very occupied but I’ve got a spot for a game in Swallow Capital. They’re all big bosses and they’re betting a very huge sum. I’m asking to see if you’re interested to join?”
Life at the Top Chapter 359
Sebastian’s eyes were sparkling after hearing Hector’s comment.
He had not been gambling all because of the conference and the issue of going against Dawson. He had been itching to gamble that he could barely hold it any longer.
Even though he had a serious gambling addiction, he was still considered to be quite rational.
“That doesn’t sound like a good idea with everyone there being a stranger.”
Sebastian’s tone was slightly hesitant. He was not a fool who had just entered society. He was aware that even family members would also end up arguing when it came to gambling. As such, he thought he should be more cautious when gambling with strangers.
Hector said with a smile, “Uncle, we all know each other very well. We’ll be doing it at my villa on the outskirts. It’s extremely safe. It’s just that we lack a player. That’s why I’m asking to see whether you’re interested. If you’re not, then forget about it.”
Hearing it made the hesitancy in Sebastian’s heart vanish into thin air. He quickly replied, “I’m interested!”
At seven in the evening on that day, Sebastian arrived at the villa in the car Hector had sent with one million in cash.
“Uncle, only one million? Won’t you embarrass yourself here?”
Hector greeted Sebastian at the entrance of the villa. He looked at the box in his hand and said disdainfully.
Sebastian burst into laughter and said, “It’s just to play for fun. I don’t plan to gamble with a huge sum. I’ll return once I’ve lost it all.”
Hector chuckled and said, “Alright then. My brother is also inside. Let’s go in, everyone has arrived.”
Hector let out a cold smile when he saw Sebastian’s back figure that was entering through the door eagerly.
Sebastian was still being cautious with Hector, and the latter noticed it. However, Hector knew best what sort of attitude Hector would have on the gambling table.
This time, he had gotten the top ‘actors’ in the industry to help him out with this set-up and he was fully confident in it.
Sebastian entered the villa. The gambling table was set up, and three men were sitting on the sofa chit-chatting.
There were also a few gorgeous ladies who were in charge of serving drinks.
“Allow me to introduce you. This is my uncle, the boss of Kaymaroon.”
Jacob immediately got up and said with a smile when he saw Sebastian entering.
“Uncle, this is the boss of Hayes Mining Company from the Southwest Province, Hayes Lawson. There are tens of coal mines under him. He’s truly a big boss.”
“This is the boss of an investing company, Jordan Zinn. There are two listed companies under his name.”
Hearing the introductions sent Sebastian’s heart pumping hard.
‘These two people have a net worth that’s comparable to mine.’
He then looked at the chips that they brought. Each of them was starting with five million as the minimum bet.
At that moment, Sebastian regretted bringing so little cash and felt as if he had lost his dignity.
Hayes urged with his southwest slang. “Let’s begin since everyone has arrived.”
Hector came over as well and the four of them went to sit at their respective seats.
Each of them brought their boxes, opened them, and placed them at the side of their legs. With the four boxes combined, there was a total of 150 million in betting funds. When piled up, the money was stacked into a few piles and was eye-catching.
Hector waved his hand, and a middle-aged man who looked like the dealer walked out. He was in charge of distributing the cards.
Hector leaned on the chair and giggled while saying, “The old rules. We’ll be starting with 100,000. There’s no limit to winning, and those who have lost everything will withdraw. Who wants to check the cards with the dealer?”
Jordan immediately raised his hand and said, “Young Master Combe, you’re the one organizing this gambling session, so of course, there won’t be any problem with it. There’s no need to check.”
Hector noticed that Hayes and Sebastian were not saying anything. He then said with a smile, “Old rules, we’ll change the cards after every ten rounds. Even though everyone is friends here and no one will pull any tricks on each other, but still, we have to follow the rules.”
After talking, Hector gave the dealer the signal to distribute the cards.
Jacob sat on the sofa and took his sweet time to make himself a cup of tea. He squinted his eyes and witnessed the gambling session unfold with a calm expression.
…
It was the next day and the sky was slightly bright. The villa was misty, and the floor was full of teacups and cigarette buds.
However, the four men were still very energetic.
Hayes was exasperated and shoved the cards in his hands away. He said unsatisfactorily, “What the f*ck, I’m so unlucky today! Three players losing to one player?!”
Hector and Jordan’s expressions looked awful.
Only Sebastian was laughing out loud.
At that moment, the boxes beside the three men’s legs were empty except for Sebastian’s. The bundles of cash could not fit in his box and were scattered all over the floor by his feet.
He had won 16 million in cash.
Sebastian did not expect himself to be this lucky. That night, he got whatever card that he desired. Even if he occasionally got fewer points, it was either his opponents had even fewer points than him, or they dared not bet with him and immediately forfeited that round.
“Oh my, I’m just lucky today. It’s been a while since I’ve had a good time gambling.” Sebastian had a delightful expression and looked refreshed.
“Well, we’ve lost everything. Why don’t we call it a day for today?” Hector said calmly.
Jordan got up and said in an unpleasant tone, “End it, end it. I’ve long ago been feeling sleepy. Next time, I’ll be sure to win against you!”
Sebastian also got up and smiled. He said, “You’re always welcome.”
As they were talking, the gambling session came to an end.
At the entrance, Hayes and Jordan’s cars had already left. Hector was slightly envious as he looked at Sebastian ordering his chauffeur to move the money. He said, “Uncle, you really are lucky.”
Sebastian smiled proudly and said, “Those two fools don’t even know how to play. Even though I only had a few points, they still didn’t have the guts to bet with me. I got lucky a few times.”
“It’s all because you’re great at it, Uncle,” Hector said with a smile.
At that moment, all of the cash was moved to the car. Sebastian got in and stretched his head out, saying to Hector, “Next time, remember to invite me.”
“Sure, will do.”
Hector squinted his eyes as he smiled while watching Sebastian’s car drive away.
He spun around to enter the house. Jacob was already awake and having his breakfast. He had one of his legs over the other.
“Has he left already?” asked Jacob.
“Yeah.”
Hector nodded and said with a cold smile, “Right now, he must be looking forward to the next gambling session.”
“Even though Mr. Laine is not here, it’s like he has predicted that Sebastian will have a change in mindset. His confidence in human psychology is way too creepy.”
Jacob shook his head and said, “Hurry and give Mr. Laine a call. Report the current situation to him. We have to take the next step soon.”
…
In the office of Easy Media, Jasper was on his phone as he threw a dart right at the bullseye. He said calmly, “If you want to fish, obviously you have to give the fish some bait. In the afternoon, I’ll get someone over to deliver another 300 million.
“This 300 million…”
Jasper pulled out the dart on the red bullseye and continued calmly, “…is the hook to kill Sebastian.”
After hanging up the call, Jasper spun around. Someone was already standing behind him politely.
“Mr. Laine, you ordered me to get in touch with those private loan companies who loaned to Kaymaroon. They’ve already given us a reply.
“As long as we can pay one million to each of the companies, they’ll immediately ask Kaymaroon to pay their debts.
“The debt is theirs in the first place. We’re spending money to make them ask for their debts in advance. In this world, no one will reject such a great offer, let alone these vampires who give out loans with high interest.”
Jasper sat on the boss’ chair and said calmly, “Give them the money. Once they receive the money, they should bear in mind what they’re supposed to do!”
Life at the Top Chapter 360
On the third day, Sebastian was subconsciously looking at his phone.
There was no message on it.
He was feeling slightly frustrated.
Winning money through gambling could be addictive. Besides, the addiction was a very wonderful experience.
Ever since he won that 15 million during the previous gambling session, Sebastian had been waiting for Hector’s call every day.
However, in these two days, it was as if Hector had gone missing. He had not received any news from him.
This made Sebastian anxious.
Even though he kept telling himself that it was great enough to have won 15 million and it would be best to stop now as he had earned this amount effortlessly.
However, Sebastian kept thinking that if he were to continue gambling, he would have won more.
The last time, the capital he brought was way too little, which made him scared when placing his bets. I made him unable to feel the thrill of the game.
Just as he was thinking about it, Sebastian’s phone rang.
It was from Hector!
Sebastian immediately felt joyful and quickly answered the call.
“Uncle, Hayes and Jordan lost a lot of money during the last gambling session and they’re not satisfied with it. They’ve accumulated some funds during these few days. Same old place this time, and they’re saying that it’s to be a revenge game. But this time, their capitals are a bit too high. They’re determined to win their money back. Are you coming?”
Sebastian laughed out proudly and said, “Would I be scared of them? They’re just people who have lost to me!”
…
It was still in the same villa. The gambling session had started, and the game was heating up.
It was just that this time, Sebastian was not that lucky.
It had just been an hour since the start of the gambling session and he already lost two million.
Even though it was just a small figure when compared to the 15 million he had won previously, it was still a bad start.
“Eight points, big,” the dealer said calmly. He seized all the chips from Hayes and Jordan, passing them on to Sebastian.
Seeing that he was able to win a round made Sebastian let out a sigh of relief.
With just one round, he had won 400,000.
The degree of excitement in the game could be seen.
“What the f*ck, this is ridiculous! You’re able to win this as well?” Jordan frowned and said unpleasantly.
In the previous round, he only had seven points. He barely made it but still lost the round.
Sebastian chuckled and said, “You can’t stop it when luck just decides to rush to you.”
“Better not be too full of yourself,” said Jordan with a stony look.
The gambling session continued. After three hours, Sebastian did not just win back the money he had lost previously, but he also made more than ten million.
“Today’s the day I make a fortune.” Sebastian laughed arrogantly as he managed to gobble up all the cash.
Hayes slammed the table and said through gritted teeth, “Son of a b*tch! I don’t believe I’ll continue being unlucky. Change the damn cards!”
Hector raised his eyelids and said calmly, “Mr. Lawson, you can’t do this. We’ve already agreed on the rules to change the cards every ten rounds. This is just the eighth round and you’re requesting to change the cards? Are you suspecting that I’m pulling a trick on you?”
Hayes said with his eyes reddened, “You both are uncle and nephew. How can I be sure that there are no tricks up your sleeves?”
Hector squinted his eyes and stared at Hayes, saying, “Mr. Lawson, you’d better talk with facts. If we wanted to set you up, we wouldn’t have exposed our relationship at the beginning. I let you know about it to prove that we’re innocent. You shouldn’t play if you can’t afford to lose!”
At that moment, Jordan came to take control of the situation. He said, “Please refrain from getting violent. You two, please calm down. Well, it’s unavoidable that we’ll be angry since we’re losing money during this session. Anyway, Mr. Lawson doesn’t mean it that way.”
“How about this, Young Master Combe? Just change the deck of cards. There’s no big deal about it.”
Hector snorted and said, “This will be the only exception.”
After he spoke, he ordered the dealer to open up a new deck of cards that was still sealed up.