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Novel Catalog
The group raised their glasses, the clink of the bottles echoing in the quiet, upscale private room. As the amber liquid settled in their glasses, Carlisle’s mind was already calculating their next move. This wasn’t just about making money—it was about establishing power, influence, and connections that would serve his long-term goals. If he could get these men on his side, he could wield them like pawns on a chessboard, moving them to expand his empire.
Heath took a long sip of his beer, his expression unreadable, but Carlisle knew it wasn’t just about the money for him. Heath was looking for stability, a way out of the precarious underworld life he had built. Benjamin, on the other hand, was more easily swayed by the promise of fast money—he had a more immediate need for the kind of payday Carlisle was offering.
Carlisle leaned back in his chair, meeting each of their eyes. “I’m glad we’re all on the same page. But remember—this isn’t just about the money. It’s about what we can build together. The gaming industry is just one part of my bigger plan. The real opportunity is in building something sustainable. Something that can grow.”
Sean nodded eagerly, his youthful energy still evident despite his initial concerns about his father’s wrath. Owen was quieter now, probably still processing the magnitude of Carlisle’s offer. Heath, however, seemed to understand the weight of what was being discussed. He was a man who had already seen enough of the world to know when to push and when to pull back.
“We’ll make it work, Carl. You just keep your end of the deal, and we’ll do the rest,” Heath said, his voice low and steady.
Carlisle smiled, the satisfaction of sealing the deal making him feel a little more confident. But he knew this was only the beginning. As the meal progressed, he continued to talk strategy, discussing how they would expand their operation, leverage their connections, and infiltrate the world of game farming. But more than that, he began to lay out the blueprint for what could become a much larger business.
The food arrived, and for a moment, they all shifted focus to the spread in front of them—plates of seafood, intricate dishes that showcased the best Riverland had to offer. But even as they ate, Carlisle’s mind raced. He would need to keep these men loyal, keep them in line. One slip-up, and everything could come crashing down.
“You know, Carl,” Benjamin said between bites, “I’m starting to think we might really have something here. But you gotta promise me—no more surprises. If you say we’re gonna make money, we better see results.”
“I’m not in the business of making empty promises,” Carlisle replied, his tone sharp, but with an underlying calm. “You’ll see. We’re just getting started.”
The meal continued, but Carlisle’s thoughts were already a few steps ahead, plotting out every move, every contingency. This partnership—however risky—could be the key to unlocking his long-term vision. All he needed to do now was make sure he was the one pulling the strings.
