Ch. 441..450
Life at the Top Chapter 441
Old Master Law smiled, his expression lamenting as he took Old Master Tuner’s outstretched hand and replied, “You’re right. Time flies. I can’t believe it’s already been more than a decade.
“We’re both growing old and it’s getting difficult for us to move about. With you in Swallow Capital and I in Harbor City, who knows when we’ll meet again if not for this?”
Old Master Turner smiled. “Any extra day we have is a blessing considering our age, and every time we meet is one less time for the future. Who knows when the last time we meet will be? We’ve lost quite a number of our friends since we last met.”
Old Master Law then pulled Jasper over and smiled. “In that case, then we’ve really got to thank this young man here. I wouldn’t have had a reason to come to Swallow Capital if not for the beautiful celebratory banquet he hosted. He’s the one hosting this dinner as well.”
Old Master Turner turned to Jasper, and before the former could speak, Jasper immediately greeted him courteously, “Hello, Old Master Turner. I’m Jasper Laine.”
Old Master Turner smiled and nodded before replying enthusiastically, “Good, very good. I’ve heard of you before. It was a very beautiful banquet you hosted. It’s a shame that I was still in treatment and couldn’t come to see it for myself, but a few of my old friends told me about you. You’ve done well, young man.”
Jasper smiled. “The banquet was indeed a success, but I can’t take all the credit. It was a joint effort with my colleagues, and I wouldn’t have been able to host it so successfully without the higher-ups’ help and leadership. There’s still a lot I have to learn. I wouldn’t dare take all the credit myself.”
Old Master Turner chuckled. “A young man like you should’ve gone to work for the government, not in business.”
After a little more small talk, Jasper found an opportunity to suggest, “The wind’s a little strong tonight, old masters. Perhaps we could move this conversation upstairs?”
Both Old Master Turner and Old Master Law easily agreed.
The small group made their way into the hotel, and not even the manager of the InterContinental Hotel had the level of importance to approach them. They had no choice but to maintain a distance from the group of stern strong men in black.
They shuddered internally at the identities of the two old masters, knowing that each of these seemingly normal bodyguards was palace guards. Specifically, they were the kind one could not push against, for they could very well legally kill you on the spot.
Looking past the guards’ shoulders, they saw the two old masters laughing and joking as they walked in front. They left the formidable figures like Brad and Zachary to walk behind them as their juniors.
However, speaking with the two old masters was a young man like Jasper.
This scene had the managerial level of the InterContinental Hotel remembering Jasper’s appearance and name deeply in their hearts. This man was the last person they could offend.
The two old masters conversed deeply throughout the way and there were no signs of any potential conflict between the two families at all.
There were no mocking undertones or targeting subtexts at all.
If anything, the two seemed like old friends catching up with one another.
Jasper listened quietly beside them and added a few comments from time to time when given the opportunity. The atmosphere around them was harmonious.
Between Zachary and Brad who were following behind them, they did not share looks, scoff, turn away, or anything of the like even though the two were not given any chance to join in their fathers’ conversation.
If anything, Brad merely looked at Jasper’s back with slight uncontrolled envy seeing as how the youth could easily join the two old masters’ conversations.
‘How did Zachary find such treasure?’
Brad felt his chest clench thinking about how disappointing his son was despite being the same age as Jasper.
It was a relief that Jasper was a Laine and not a Law, or that would give him a true headache.
Entering the Imperial Ballroom, everyone inside collectively stood to greet the two old masters.
Especially Norman and Ian. The two felt their hearts thump erratically when they saw how Jasper stood beside the two old masters when Zachary and Brad could only follow behind them.
‘The importance of those two old masters…
‘No one would oppose to considering them national treasures!
‘So just what had Jasper done to be so adored by both old masters?’
“I see that everyone’s already here.”
Life at the Top Chapter 442
Old Master Turner smiled widely and spoke. Turning to Ian, he suddenly asked, “You’re Ian Gardner?”
Ian had not expected Old Master Turner to call out his name and took two steps forward in surprise before replying courteously, “Yes, Old Master Turner. I’m Ian Gardner.”
Old Master Turner nodded. “Haddock’s Chamber of Commerce has been developing rather well these years. You’ve contributed a lot to your local economies. Especially the Waterhoof Branch, I heard that you pay hundreds of millions for tax now?”
Ian hurriedly replied, “Thank you for keeping an eye out for us, Old Master. It’s thanks to having a good environment and policies from the higher-ups that we’re allowed to develop.”
Old Master Turner pointed at Ian and smiled at Old Master Law. “See? These people are the backbone of our country’s business world. Not bad, right?”
Old Master Law asked intently, “Who’s Gale Hurlbutt to you?”
Ian’s expression turned solemn as he quickly replied politely, “Old Master Hurlbutt is the spirit of Haddock’s Chamber of Commerce. He has already retired because of old age but he’ll always be the honorary president of Haddock’s Chamber of Commerce nationwide. He’s my teacher.”
Old Master Law nodded and ignored Ian’s politeness, opting to turn to Old Master Turner instead. “Hurlbutt is a very sly man. He promised to send me some superior grade rosemary tea long ago but I haven’t received it yet. You ought to ask him for me the next time you meet.”
Old Master Turner smiled. “I didn’t know you two had such a past.”
Old Master Law ushered Old Master Turner to his seat. “It’s already been years since then. He was doing business with foreigners and ended up getting kidnapped all the way there. I paid his ransom.”
Old Master Turner replied intently, “You saved his life. Hurlbutt isn’t being very kind then.”
Ian, by the side, and Norman, who could not add to the conversation, felt their knees go weak at the words.
‘This was Gale Hurlbutt they were talking about!
‘Haddock’s first rich businessman!’ Both Ian and Norman were still children when the man dominated the business world.
Even though Gale had already retired, the man’s students were all over the world. Ian and Norman were just two unremarkable students among all the others.
After the two old masters took their seats, everyone else began to take theirs according to their statuses and identities.
People could not randomly sit as they wished on such an occasion.
The two old masters sat in the middle, with Zachary, Henry, and Anna on Old Master Law’s right.
Meanwhile, on Old Master Turner’s left was Brad and Erik respectively.
Ian and Norman went to sit with the Turners without another thought.
This left Jasper to take the furthest seat from the old masters despite being the host.
As such, he had Anna on his left and Lisa on his right.
Seeing such a seating plan, Lisa suddenly stood up and said coldly, “I don’t want to sit with a broke beggar!”
Lisa did not seem to have registered the dark void-like glares Norman and Ian were giving her.
After all, envy could turn a man crazy while hatred blinded all rationality.
She turned to Old Master Law and spoke, “You’re a very respectable senior, Old Master Law, and it’s precisely so that I must tell you. You and your family have been deceived by Jasper! He’s a liar!”
Lisa then pointed at Jasper and shouted, “This man! While he flirts amorously with your granddaughter, he also has a girlfriend! How could someone like him appear here?
“He’s dating two girls at once. He’s treating the Law family like they’re a bunch of fools!
“Wise as you are, Old Master, how could you be deceived by the likes of him?”
Life at the Top Chapter 443
The banquet’s atmosphere immediately turned extremely weird.
Brad and Erik, the father-and-son duo, were looking at Lisa with complicated gazes.
Brad glanced at Lisa, then at Jasper, and suddenly felt the urge to thank the man.
Had it not been for Jasper, Erik and Lisa’s wedding might have become a reality and he would end up having this thoughtless and brash woman as his daughter-in-law. It would wreak havoc on his peace.
‘Thank goodness, thank f*ck!’
Brad let out a sigh of unexpected relief.
Meanwhile, Erik looked at Lisa as if she was a goddess.
Ignoring the words that she had said outside, it was a different story to claim that a wise man like Old Master Law had been deceived by Jasper and before two old masters too, no less.
Frankly speaking, Erik was not brave enough to do so.
Yet Lisa had done so and very clearly too. She seemed to be going all out, hoping to pull Jasper with her as she screwed herself over.
Norman felt the urge to slap this daughter of his, but he could not nor did he dare do so here.
In such a situation, no one dared to speak before Old Master Law spoke.
There was only one sole exception.
Anna.
Everyone watched as Anna slowly turned to look at Lisa and asked casually, “Who are you?”
Lisa stared at Anna, thinking that she had moved the other. She replied excitedly, “I’m Lisa Gardner. I take the same MBA class at Swallow Capital University with Wendy. That’s how I know what kind of disgusting things Jasper, this b*stard of a man, have done!
“You would all have continued to be deceived by him had it not been for me! I’m helping you expose his true character!
“This man’s just a playboy. He doesn’t deserve your affections at all!
“Who is he to deserve them?”
Lisa’s rapid-fire accusations came so fast one would think she said it all in one breath. Then, Lisa turned to look at Jasper, hoping to see humiliation and anger on his face.
Yet all there was on Jasper’s features was serene calmness, and perhaps a bit of mockery one would have when they watched a clown make a fool of themselves.
Anna spoke, “I just asked you for your name. What’s the point in telling us all of this?”
Lisa’s maniacal expression froze, and she looked at Anna in disbelief. “Aren’t you furious? He’s cheating on your relationship!”
“What relationship?” Anna asked.
Lisa’s expression changed drastically.
Anna and Jasper had never once claimed to have an amorous relationship.
All of this was merely Lisa’s intuition and deduction as another woman.
However, she believed her gut feeling for her eyes told her that Anna definitely had feelings for Jasper.
Lisa was a woman, so she was certain of how women looked when they stared at a person they fancied.
That was precisely how Anna looked at Jasper.
She appeared focused and smitten. It was a sign of a woman deeply in love!
Yet she had never thought that Anna would argue with her in front of everyone.
“Jasper and I are just good friends. Wendy is his girlfriend and I knew that long ago. Wendy and I are great friends too, she’s a nice girl.”
Life at the Top Chapter 444
Anna’s voice slowly rang out.
“While I’m very grateful for your enthusiasm, I can’t possibly see how your attitude and actions are supposed to be in my favor. In fact, it seems to me that you’re just using this to attack Jasper. What right does a narrow-minded person like you have to sit here?”
Anna’s words made Lisa feel utterly distressed.
Still, there was not a word she could say to refute Anna.
Anna had managed to corner Lisa from all sides.
She looked to Erik hopelessly, hoping her boyfriend could help her.
However, she only saw the man staring at the cutleries before him as if he was not involved in the matter at all.
Brad no longer hinted at Erik anymore either.
After causing such ruckus in front of the two old masters, it would no longer be acceptable for him to pull Norman and Ian to his side.
In fact, doing so might even make Old Master Turner suspect his ability to discern and choose teammates.
Erik’s silence broke the last thread of Lisa’s hope.
Her heart sank, and she looked at Anna’s calm expression as well as Henry’s mocking one. It was at that moment Lisa knew that she had pushed herself into the abyss.
Fear, regret, indignation, and anger surged within her, overwhelming Lisa and causing her to tremble.
Both Norman and Ian had gone pale as they sat on their seats. There was not a word they could say.
Just then, Old Master Law finally spoke. His tone was calm, but it was no longer warm and caring but frigidly cold instead.
“This child’s face seems to be injured. Perhaps you should bring her to the hospital to get her checked.”
That was his way of chasing her out.
However, Norman and Ian took it as mercy and quickly stood up. “You’re right, Old Master Law. My daughter really should get her injuries checked at the hospital. We’ll get going first then, goodbye.”
Norman then dragged Lisa toward the door.
Lisa struggled against him maddeningly. “No! I’m not going anywhere! Why do I have to leave? Jasper’s just a b*stard! Who is he to step over me, huh? Because they’re rich and powerful?! I’m not leaving!”
Slap!
Norman raised his hand and slapped Lisa across her face, his gaze looking chilling when he told her, “Shut up!”
Lisa wailed, her snot and tears dripping everywhere as Norman and Ian dragged her away.
It was only until they had left the hotel and sat in their car that Norman and Ian’s taut shoulders finally relaxed a bit.
Norman gave a long sigh as he glanced at his daughter who had broken down in tears. He thought of Ben who was still waiting for surgery. “We should never have come to Swallow Capital!
“Now my son’s lying in bed like a crippled man. Meanwhile, your daughter has gone mad and we even got ourselves into some big trouble!”
Ian clenched his teeth, his gaze filled with cruel fierceness as he growled. “It’s all Jasper Laine’s fault! Things wouldn’t have gotten so screwed if not for him!”
Norman had given up. “So what, Ian? What can we do? Jasper has the Law family supporting him. Didn’t you see how Old Master Law treats him? Not even his own grandson Henry gets that kind of treatment. What are we supposed to do?”
Ian clenched his teeth and spoke, “The Law family can’t protect him all the time. He’s still in the Mainland and the Laws are based in Harbor City. They’re too far away to do anything most of the time.
“And so what if it’s the Law family? There are enough problems for them here in Swallow Capital. The Turner family isn’t easy to deal with either.”
Norman’s eyes lit up as he whispered, “What are you thinking?”
Ian looked intently at Norman and replied deeply, “What, so you’re just going to move on and let him get away with it?”
Norman’s eyes were filled with heartbreak and fury as he glanced at his daughter who had completely broken down. With clenched teeth, he agreed. “Tell me your plan, then!”
Life at the Top Chapter 445
“The Law family is still in Swallow Capital. Besides, an intense struggle is taking place between Harbor City’s business groups and local companies. We must not get involved.
“Not only should we not get involved, but we should get out of Swallow Capital as quickly as possible because Zachary Law might come after us. That old dude was rich and famous 20 years ago, but his son isn’t even half as accomplished as him.”
Ian’s eyes glinted sinisterly as he continued saying, “We’ll return to Waterhoof City for now. The Law family can’t do anything to us while we’re there because it’s in the Mainland and not Harbor City, where they hold immense power.
“There are plenty of ways to deal with Jasper Laine. We won’t attack him directly for now. However, Benny previously tried to get the one named Wendy Schuler to date him. I’ve run a background check on her too. We know everything about her.
“Wendy has already left Swallow City, but Jasper is still there. We can take advantage of this opportunity to go after Wendy!”
Norman’s eyes brightened as he listened to Ian speak. He thought it was a good idea.
“One more thing. What’s Wendy’s background?” Norman asked carefully.
Ian smiled as he said, “She’s the daughter of the richest man of a province. Her father is Dawson Schuler. We would normally never dare to provoke someone of such a powerful background, but desperate times call for desperate measures. Anyway, we’re not afraid of him!
“Moreover, we’ll use some tricks from the dark side. How would he find out if he weren’t already paying attention?”
…
In InterContinental Hotel’s Imperial Ballroom, the banquet’s atmosphere regained some of its warmth after Ian and company left.
The two old men were still reminiscing about their sufferings in the past while Zachary spoke to Henry and Anna. Brad and Erik were also whispering to each other.
The party seemed lively, but everyone was only talking to those who were in their inner circle.
Except for the two old men, both Zachary and Brad seemed to think there was nothing to say to the other party.
As for Jasper, he ignored both parties and focused his attention on servicing the two old men.
He had brought along two bottles of aged 30-year-old brandy with him tonight. It was good alcohol and not the kind that anyone could get their hands on.
However, they were nothing to both Old Master Law and Old Master Turner.
Jasper poured the two men some brandy. If that tiny cup had been placed in front of him in his past life, it would be worth at least 2,000 dollars.
The two men were elderly and did not take much alcohol.
“This is good wine,” Zachary praised as he took a sip of the brandy.
“It has a mellow aroma and a fragrant taste. No wonder it’s been deemed the pride of Harbor City.”
Jasper smiled as he said, “This brandy is a good thing indeed. I’m feeling optimistic about the market outlook for alcohol and am planning to buy some shares for brandy in the secondary market. I think it’s one of the few shares worth holding on to for a long-term investment. Would you like to join me, Uncle Law?”
In Jasper’s past life, the market price for brandy increased by 40% in just three months. With a horrifying share price of 1,400 US dollars per share, not only had it become the most expensive A-share, but it had even overtaken the Industrial and Commercial Bank of Somer to become the number one A-share company with a market capitalization of 1.8 trillion US dollars.
Yet, how much did a share for brandy cost now?
It had just entered the market and did not cost more than 31 US dollars for a share!
Not to mention the fact that it would drop to 20 US dollars per share next year.
In 19 years, its profits would increase by 70 times. That was enough for Jasper to enter the market.
Zachary’s eyes lit up.
Even Old Master Law had praised Jasper’s intuition in investing. The Law family was not strapped for cash now, but they lacked the opportunity to invest.
Thus, what Jasper deemed feasible was definitely a business that could earn a lot of money.
“Sure. Let me know when you’re going to invest and I’ll invest in some shares too,” Zachary said as he smiled.
If an ordinary person said they were going to invest in shares during this age, they would probably only invest several million dollars. At the very most, they would invest several hundred thousand dollars.
However, Zachary looked at numbers no less than a billion when he decided to invest.
It was impossible to get hold of private capital for brandy when considering the special nature of its market, but it was still possible to get hold of shares worth several million dollars.
Erik, who was sharing a table with them, laughed coldly. The two seemed to be putting on a show for him.
Life at the Top Chapter 446
Investing in every single thing that came around?
Brandy?
They must be joking.
How much profit could a share in alcohol earn even if it were deemed the nation’s pride?
If they had that much free time, they might as well start a business. That would earn them even more money.
Jasper was indeed the kind of person who walked on air after achieving a tiny accomplishment.
When Erik thought of that, he said, “I have a little knowledge regarding investments too. Brandy is a new addition to the stock market, and it’s not performing well even though it’s new. Its share price has been weak for some time.
“The stock market is in the early stages of becoming a bull market. Every share you see is profiting, and brandy is the only one that’s not. Even so, you’re saying it’s worth investing in? What a joke.”
Erik was very pleased with what he had said. He felt as if he had stolen some of Jasper’s limelight for himself.
He could not let Jasper take all the credit. He, Erik Turner, had real talent too!
Jasper said calmly, “Every person has their investment strategy. Don’t invest in it if you feel it’s not worth it. No one’s forcing you to.”
Erik scoffed. “I think you’re embarrassed. To be frank, you’re quite good at hosting banquets, but you should give up on investing. It’s a complicated place where not even I have the confidence in securing profits, let alone you?”
“Preposterous!” Henry tapped his fork against his glass and said mockingly, “Erik Turner, do you know what it means to show off your mediocre skills before an expert? How dare you say Jasper Laine knows nothing about investing in shares? The people of Harbor City would laugh their heads off if they heard what you just said.”
The expression on Erik’s face darkened as he said, “Did I say anything wrong? The share price of brandy has been dropping, but he said it’s worth investing in. What’s that if not bullsh*t? I dare say he knows nothing about investing just by that one sentence.”
Henry was even more amused as he said, “I can’t bring myself to expose your stupidity when I look at how foolish you seem now.
“Did you know he organized the Harbor City billion-dollar shares rescue plan some time ago?
“Did you know he made his fortune from the stock market?
“Did you know he earned several billion dollars in a night through crude oil trading?
“What the hell does he know? If he knows nothing, you would know even less! You wouldn’t know anything at all, you f*cking maggot!”
The expression on Erik’s face turned into a gloomy, exasperated one after hearing what Henry said.
He knew Jasper was good, but he never knew that Jasper had made his fortune from the stock market.
Henry could not speak without thinking, given his identity and the current occasion.
Thus, what Henry said must be true.
This meant that he had indeed just shown off his mediocre skills to an expert in the most embarrassing way possible!
Erik’s face was grim. He was in a sticky situation now.
However, he was also secretly surprised at the same time. Was Jasper so good in investments that he earned several billion dollars just through crude oil trading?
What was even scarier was the Harbor City billion-dollar shares rescue plan. He had heard about it even though he had been at the Mainland when it happened.
It was a huge event that caused huge stirs in the global financial market some time ago.
Jasper was the host for that?
What the f*ck, was he a god?
Was there anything he could not do?
Just then, Old Master Turner spoke up and helped him out.
“It’s good that you young people are good at this, but you should also dabble in other industries. After all, money might travel quickly in the financial market but it doesn’t do much in actually boosting the economy or creating more job opportunities in the market.
“You youngsters should be more open-minded. The only way to become rich and benevolent is by giving back to the community.”
That light-hearted sentence Old Master Turner uttered was enough to put Jasper, who had been glorified throughout the entire banquet, in a precarious position.
Life at the Top Chapter 447
Everyone stared at Jasper. They seemed to be waiting to see how he would react.
Not even Old Master Law spoke as he was also gazing meaningfully at him.
Anna’s eyes twinkled, and there were several times when she seemed to want to speak up and help ease the pressure Jasper was receiving from Old Master Turner. However, a strict look from Zachary stopped her.
Only Jasper could answer Old Master Turner now.
If anyone else spoke, it would mean they were disrespecting Old Master Turner.
The corners of Erik’s lips turned upward into a mocking smile.
He had long since been annoyed watching Jasper be praised by everyone.
However, he now understood what it meant by ‘the higher you climb, the higher you fall’.
Old Master Turner was still the best!
“You’re right, Old Master Turner.”
Jasper spoke as everyone stared. He was submissive from the very first sentence.
The crowd could not help but be slightly disappointed.
Erik’s disappointment stemmed from how Jasper had decided to be a goose. If Jasper had dared to go against Old Master Turner, he would have had the chance to not only reprimand but slap Jasper in front of everyone. That would have been so fun.
However, without waiting for anyone else to speak up, Jasper continued saying, “But as the greats who have come before me said, it’s permissible for a small portion of people to gain richness first, as they’ll be the ones who lead the majority population to shared prosperity in the future. It’s also one of the guidelines for the development of our economic policy.
“Financial activities can stimulate the economic market. When enterprises receive investments, they will increase the scale of their productions. Won’t that increase job opportunities? The activities in the market accelerate when it receives funds. Won’t that boost the economy as a whole?
“Thus, in my opinion, no matter what methods are employed, they should be valid as long as they’re both legal and logical.”
InterContinental Hotel’s Imperial Ballroom fell silent after the people present heard what Jasper had to say.
No one imagined Jasper would dare refute Old Master Turner to his face.
Old Master Turner had a serene expression on his face. No one could guess what emotion he was feeling.
However, Erik could not bear it and bellowed as he stood, “Jasper Laine! You should know your place. How dare you refute my grandfather?!”
“You said I should know my place?”
Jasper immediately retaliated by saying, “I’m just your average citizen. My parents were farmers, and I’m nothing more than a businessman. However, I must say what I think is right!”
Erik scoffed as he pointed at Jasper and said, “Hey, you’re making things more complicated than they need to be, aren’t you? You were still a nobody when my grandfather was out fighting on the battlefield. What makes you think you can go against him?”
“I’m trying to make matters clear because I respect Old Master Turner. In other words, if you were the one who had said such things, I wouldn’t even bother refuting you.”
Erik’s temper nearly erupted when he heard what Jasper just said!
“What the f*ck do you mean by that? Are you looking down on me?!” Erik gritted his teeth as he asked.
“Yes.” Jasper nodded calmly as he admitted it casually.
It was simple and straightforward, and its effects were immediate.
Erik completely lost control of his temper as he glared at Jasper and said coldly, “Don’t think you can be cocky just because you’ve gained temporary power. You’re still far from families like us who have been around for decades!”
“That’s the difference between you and me,” Jasper said calmly, “You open your mouth and speak only of your family, but I represent myself wherever I go!”
Creak…
Erik’s eyes were bloodshot as his anger increased tenfold.
“Erik!” Brad said in a low voice. Erik was once again the loser in this conflict. He could not allow his son’s big mouth to continue embarrassing him.
Otherwise, things would not end well for everyone.
Erik took a deep breath and laughed coldly as he said, “Let’s see how long you can continue running wildly.”
Life at the Top Chapter 448
Eric sat down after saying that.
Finally, Old Master Law spoke. He smiled as he said to Old Master Turner, “Brother Jason, it makes me happy to see how energetic these youngsters are. Don’t you agree that these youngsters will be the ones who will further the development of our country in the future?”
Old Master Turner said softly, “I’m just worried that some will take the wrong path and find it difficult to turn back in the future.”
The smile on Old Master Law’s face gradually disappeared as he said, “Paths are created by man. Some might think that it’s a cliff, while others view it to be a highway. We’re old now and are no match for these youngsters in terms of vitality.”
Old Master Turner glanced at Old Master Law as he said calmly, “Tom, I’ll let you know my bottom line now that we’re talking. We’re all old men now, and I hope everyone can evolve at their own pace without getting into arguments over the tiniest things.”
Old Master Law replied, “I agree wholeheartedly with this. Whether it be in the business field or anywhere else, every person has a place where they belong. One should not let go of what naturally belongs to them.”
“So, you’re going to fight till the end?” Old Master Turner frowned slightly as he gazed at Old Master Law.
Old Master Law might be old and skinny, but he was showing that he had gone through a lifetime’s worth of legendary ups and downs. He might seem like a skinny old man sitting at the head of the table, but the aura he emanated was as tall and majestic as a mighty mountain.
“I, Tom Law, would have starved to death on the streets if I had not fought!”
That was a heavy claim to make.
Not even Old Master Turner could brush it off.
As such, the frown on Old Master Turner’s forehead deepened.
No one could tell what he was thinking.
After a long while, Old Master Turner said, “We’re old now. Shall we let the younger generation deal with some things themselves?”
This statement intended to limit the severity of an unavoidable battle.
At the very least, influential old men like them did not need to enter the battlefield themselves.
Otherwise, the situation would worsen even more.
Coincidentally, this was what Old Master Law wanted.
He nodded as he said, “Alright, that’s what I meant too. We should enjoy our retirement now that we’re old. We should take care of these creaky bones and live an extra two years to take care of these youngsters.
When the two finally came to an agreement, Old Master Turner smiled as he stood and said, “In that case, I’ll be taking my leave now. Thank you for your hospitality.”
Old Master Law also stood. “Zachary, please send the guests off on my behalf.”
Zachary stood and said politely to Old Master Turner, “After you, Old Master Turner.”
Old Master Turner nodded and gave Jasper a meaningful look before he slowly walked away.
Brad and Eric followed right behind him.
Before leaving, Eric gave Jasper a murderous look. His gaze seemed as sinister and poisonous as a venomous snake.
As Zachary sent the Turner family off, Old Master Law called Jasper to him.
“Based on my understanding of your character, you would never have directly contradicted Jason Turner the way you just did,” Old Master Law said gently.
Jasper smiled bitterly as he said, “Old Master Law, there are some things that no one will be able to do if I don’t do them.”
Old Master Law nodded in understanding as he patted Jasper on the arm, saying, “It’s alright. Jason isn’t so petty that he’ll harbor a grudge against you because of this. Do whatever you need to.”
Henry blinked and asked curiously, “What are you talking about? Why can’t I understand it? What does Jasper need to do?”
Old Master Law glared at Henry as he said angrily, “This is the difference between you and Jasper!”
Henry, who had ended up making a fool of himself, grumbled as he sank back into his seat.
Then, Old Master Law turned to Jasper and asked him a question that made his hair stand on end.
“That girl named Wendy Schuler, is she really your girlfriend?”
Life at the Top Chapter 449
Jasper felt awkward.
That was a difficult question to answer.
After all, Anna was sitting right there.
However, no matter what, Jasper had never thought of denying things.
This had to do with his principles.
Thus, Jasper nodded as he said, “Yes, we were classmates in high school before later going on separate paths before university. By chance, we managed to reconnect after graduating this year.”
Old Master Law smiled and said, “Not bad. Fate is the most important thing in a relationship between a man and a woman. If fate won’t have it, they won’t have a future together even if they see each other every day.”
Anna interrupted and said, “They have a great relationship. I already knew about this back when Jasper was still in Harbor City.”
Jasper gave Anna a grateful look.
Tonight was not the first time Anna had helped him out in regards to this matter.
Henry dangled a toothpick from his mouth and leaned against the back of his chair as he said nonchalantly, “Who cares if you have a girlfriend or not? My grandfather has three mistresses. And if we’re talking about my dad, I think we all can guess whether he has a mistress or not…”
The things Henry said were so shocking that Anna immediately gave him a murderous glare.
“Why do you seem to hope that Jasper will have mistresses as well?” Anna smiled coldly as she asked.
Henry was stunned. It seemed unreasonable that his sister was choosing to direct her attacks on him.
Jasper was the one with a girlfriend, not him. If he brought up the topic of mistresses now, would that not give Anna leeway to butt into things as a mistress?
Yet, not only was she not grateful, but she was also glaring at him?
“Do you know what era you’re living in now? Aren’t you worried about being laughed at when you bring up the topic of mistresses?” Anna asked with a cold expression on her face.
Then, Old Master Law spoke up, “What Henry said makes sense. Both men and women should hold on to the relationships they cherish. Live your life for yourself, not for others.”
That statement seemed to have a deeper meaning to it. However, it was hard to tell if it was directed at Jasper or Anna.
However, the topic of conversation soon changed. No one brought it up again.
Old Master Law’s age could not be denied. When Zachary returned, arrangements were made for them to return to the hotel.
When they were in the hotel lobby, Anna smiled at Jasper as she said, “I’ll go back with my dad and grandpa. The two of you should get going too.”
Jasper nodded as he gazed at the woman before him and said sincerely, “Thank you for today.”
The corners of Anna’s lips curled upward. “What are you thanking me for?”
“…” Jasper was speechless.
He could not thank her outright for helping him cover up and smoothing things over, could he?
As if she could sense Jasper’s hesitance, Anna smiled slightly and said, “Alright, I was just teasing. I understand.
“Besides, this has always been something between the three of us—you, me, and Wendy. It has nothing to do with anyone else, and they have no right to use this to stir up trouble even if they’re family!”
At that moment, Anna was domineering like no other person.
When she finished speaking, Anna gazed bemusedly at Jasper as she said, “Indeed, many people in Harbor City have mistresses. The same thing happens in Mainland, just that they’re much more quiet and private about it over there. Most people are very open to having mistresses in Harbor City. Back in my grandfather’s day, it was legal to have concubines.
“What are your thoughts?” Anna asked meaningfully.
“I think what Old Master Law said makes sense. Let fate decide matters between a man and a woman. We should live our lives for ourselves and not for others. It’ll be fine as long as we think it’s fine.”
Jasper had thought twice about every word and spun them around his mind several times before he uttered them.
Anna glared at him as she said angrily, “I knew men were all b*stards! I knew you would never be able to satiate your appetite!”
Jasper hurriedly said, “I didn’t mean it that way. I’m just stating facts as they are.”
Anna burst into laughter when she saw how frantic Jasper was and said, “Alright, I’m not blaming you. I grew up in that kind of environment and have witnessed quite a few things myself. In terms of grandmothers, I already have three just from my dad’s side of the family.”
Then, Anna gazed meaningfully at Jasper as she said, “But times are different now. Don’t let your imagination run away from you. I might not be willing to do such things for you.”
While the two talked, Henry was wise enough to walk away and go for a smoke.
He had actually wanted to eavesdrop, but Anna’s glare was enough to scare him off.
As Henry smoked, he thought sadly to himself how his dignity as an older brother was diminishing day by day. It was not a good sign… even though he never really had much dignity as an older brother.
Zachary frowned as he sat in the car and watched his daughter speak to Jasper.
“What are you looking at? Anna’s growing up now. You can’t control her anymore. Did you think you could tie her by your side forever?” Old Master Law asked nonchalantly.
Zachary smiled bitterly as he said, “Jasper was originally the most suitable candidate, and I approved greatly of them. However, the problem is that he already has a girlfriend.”
“You’re holding that against Jasper? Perhaps you should introduce us to your mistress, Blair Callow,” Old Master Law said calmly.
The expression on Zachary’s face changed as he hurriedly asked, “Dad, how did you know?”
Old Master Law glared at Zachary as he said, “Did you think you could keep it from everyone and anyone? Anna’s mom simply can’t be bothered to get involved, and she knows she can’t do anything about it either. Either way, what gives you the right to judge Jasper when you’re the same?”
Zachary said indignantly, “How is that the same? Anna is my daughter and your granddaughter. How could she become someone’s mistress?”
“That’s not up to you to decide, nor is it up to me to decide. The decision is hers to make. What’s more, Anna has a fiery spirit. She might not want to be one even if you allow it. She has a mind of her own.”
Old Master Law said softly, “I won’t allow you to interfere with their relationship. No matter if it ends well or not, it’s up to them how they wish to proceed.”
Zachary said rather reluctantly, “But Dad—”
He had not finished speaking when Old Master Law interrupted, “You think Jasper doesn’t know what he’s doing? The worst thing you can do now is intervene. If Anna is okay with it, we don’t need to offend Jasper regarding this matter. Once a grudge over something like this is created, it can be held on to for life.”
Zachary sighed as he said, “I don’t feel good about it, but how can I separate the two lovebirds? I can’t bring myself to do that.”
Life at the Top Chapter 450
“I have to go now. See you.”
Jasper sighed as he watched Anna’s car drive off.
Since olden times, only beautiful women would not be disappointed.
However, Jasper got a headache when he thought about Anna who was always calm and kept a delicate distance from him. She had such a good gauge on their relationship that they never felt too distant or intimate with each other.
That woman was like poison, plucking at his heartstrings when he was not paying attention to her.
Most importantly, she knew what to do or say at the right time. She always had a good grasp of the situation.
She would make you think that she would do anything for you.
At the same time, she would make you think she would leave you at any time. It was how she kept you on your toes.
“Holy sh*t, did you drug my sister or something?” Henry asked as he leaned toward Jasper.
Jasper glanced at Henry before he asked exasperatedly, “Don’t you think the question should be asked the other way round?”
Henry’s lips twitched as he said, “That’s because you didn’t know what she was like before. I’m not one to brag, but have you ever met a man who’s at the right age but doesn’t want to date my sister? But she’s never given any of the men as much as a smile.
“Everyone says I’m stubborn and obstreperous, but if we were to actually take things seriously, I’m nothing compared to my sister.”
Then, Henry stroked his chin and said, “Sometimes, I think she’s a machine programmed to not have any feelings for men. Or maybe she’s a lesbian, and that’s why she doesn’t seem interested in men.
“But do you know how much she’s done for you ever since you two met? There’s so much you don’t know. Would she be this bewitched by you if you hadn’t drugged her?”
Jasper’s eyes followed the vehicle until it disappeared into a sea of flashing car lights. He smiled and said, “Do you think a relationship between a man and a woman is more like a battle or a game?”
Stunned, Henry had a serious expression on his face as he said, “Everyone has to strip naked before they fight, so I would say it’s a battle?”
Jasper, “…”
…
After the banquet that ended the night before, the situation in Swallow Capital began its turbulence the next day.
It was as if both the local faction and Harbor City’s business groups had realized that a battle was inevitable.
Thus, within a single day, four branch offices of Harbor City’s four richest families submitted their registration forms.
Their registered capital was all no less than a mindblowing 100 million dollars.
They were not only showing their attitudes, but it was also a declaration of war.
As for the local faction, they did not resign to their fate even as they faced the aggressive business groups from Harbor City.
They began continuous research and gathered the brains of each industry together as if they were determined to fight to the death with Harbor City’s business groups.
However, even though the situation was tense, both the local faction and Harbor City’s business groups maintained basic restraint and calmness. At least they had not begun fighting openly yet and were only flexing what they had at the moment. They were only showing off their assets and determination.
With the tacit understanding established between them, even if a fight broke out, it would be contained within a limit. At the very least, people on Old Master Turner’s level would not be dragged into this.
It was what the top management had wanted.
It was an agreement all three parties could accept for the time being.
As for the Law family, they had fallen right into Erik Turner’s trap.
That was undeniable.
However, the Law family’s losses had been lowered to their very minimum after Jasper got involved.
The branch company’s assets were all transferred elsewhere, and the project proposal was nullified.
This meant Erik had gotten nothing more than the shares of a shell corporation. They were worth nothing at all.