Mike exhaled smoke. “What, you don’t want to kneel?”
Jaquan remained silent for a moment, his body tense and his expression gloomy.
Mike pressed further. “I heard that after your father went to prison, you immediately knelt before Owen, promising to take care of him in his old age. Those three kowtows were loud and clear. But today, you refuse to kneel for me?”
This was the first time Callie had heard about Jaquan’s past. Her face darkened, but she didn’t look down on him. Such things being spoken about publicly were very humiliating.
“I tell you, whatever Owen could give you in Anbusea, I can give you now!” Mike, feeling triumphant, grabbed a cane nearby and struck Jaquan’s hand, leaving a bruise.
Sullivan picked up the cane and handed it to Jaquan to diffuse the situation. “You are young and impulsive. Apologize to Mr. Mack, and this matter will be over.”
Jaquan lowered his eyes, took the cane, walked around the round table, and approached Mike step by step.
The latter wore a satisfied expression.
“Indeed, it was disrespectful of me.” Jaquan planted the cane on the ground but didn’t rush to return it. “But since I have already knelt before Owen, how can I do the same for you? If Owen finds out, he will be angry.”
Tensions rose as Mike cursed. “You’re just a lapdog raised by Owen that bites painfully.”
At these words, Jaquan’s expression changed again, almost losing control. Callie instinctively stepped forward but was stopped by his raised hand. He then knelt on one knee and looked up at Mike.
“Mr. Mack, Owen has only one daughter, but you have a complete family. If Owen hears what you said, who do you think he will punish, you or me?”
This made Mike’s mouth twitch. “You dare threaten me.”
“I wouldn’t dare. As far as I know, your son is now a doctor in Anbusea, following in your footsteps. But if I cause him to have a medical accident like Reuben did, what do you think will happen?”
Mike was furious. “Jaquan! You don’t have that kind of power in Anbusea!”
“I’ve come to Anbusea, I’m not afraid of trouble. You can try me.” Jaquan no longer pretended to be polite. He respectfully handed back the cane. “Don’t forget how you lost that leg.”
Everyone held their breath.
Finally, Sullivan smoothed things over. “Enough, we’re partners. What’s the point of the fuss? Let’s raise a glass and wish all of us prosperous business.”
Jaquan returned to his seat. After a moment, Mike reluctantly raised his glass.
The matter was settled.
At the dining table, Jaquan discussed the price of the goods, lowering it by ten percent as a gesture of goodwill.
Callie stayed for a while but didn’t get any useful information. She leaned over and whispered in Jaquan’s ear, “I’m going to the restroom.”
He nodded.
Once outside, Callie breathed in the fresh air and finally felt relieved.
However, as she reached the corner, she overheard passing waiters talking. “I heard that Mr. Quinn from the Quinn Group is here today.”
“You heard too? It seems he’s here for a business deal.”
“My God, I’ve heard so much about him. I can’t believe we get to see him today.”
“It looks like he’s already here. Let’s go take a look.”
Callie froze in place. It couldn’t be such a coincidence; how could she run into an acquaintance everywhere?
She raised her hand to cover her face and quickly searched for Mr. Quinn of the Quinn Group online. Sure enough, the familiar name popped up. She gritted her teeth and didn’t dare stay outside any longer, returning directly to the private room.