Chapter 1022

Just as everyone in the room looked on with troubled expressions, lan spoke up.

"I happen to know about Patrick. To be honest, Jack, the guy's already been blacklisted on our end."

"Blacklisted?" Everyone froze, stunned by the revelation. No one had expected a man like Patrick to end up on a blacklist.

The grim look on lan's face made it clear that this wasn't a trivial matter.

All eyes turned to him. He gave a slight cough and went on, "I don't know all the details, but from what

I've heard, Patrick's involved in a massive smuggling case. I'm afraid—"

Before he could finish, Myra jumped in.

"I've heard Mr. Kingsley mention about that too. I didn't realize Patrick was the one behind it."

lan replied cautiously, "I won't jump to conclusions. However, Patrick is under close investigation. There's no way he's clean."

Rupert frowned slightly. "If that's true, the charges are serious. But Patrick's got serious clout in Tarthy City, especially with that rumored relationship with the mayor's daughter. I'm afraid-"

Myra cut him off gently. "Even Gerard Cadwallader doesn't get to do whatever he wants."

lan nodded in agreement. "If Patrick really is involved in smuggling, it doesn't matter who tries to shield

him. It won't work."

lan and Myra's stance left no doubt that they fully supported Jack.

Rupert made the call. "In that case, just say the word, Mr. Holland. Let us know whenever you need us. Even though Chopington's investment circle may not be based in Tarthy City, we're not easily pushed around by two familie When the time comes, l'Hoop in our contacts across Chopington and

Boppington. We're at your disposal."

The others quickly voiced their support. The room suddenly brimmed with energy again.

"Good. I appreciate it, truly." Jack scanned the room, finally allowing himself to relax. The tension in his

chest eased.

Just as the conversation hit a lively stride, there was a knock on the door. It was the waitress with the food. Ian, who was seated closest to the entrance, got up to open the door.

The waitress said politely, "Sorry for the wait. We're serving your dishes now. There's quite a few. Do you mind giving us a hand with the plates?"

Just then, the door to the next room swung open.

A seductive woman appeared in the doorway and snapped at the waitress What kind of service is this? Do you have any idea how long we've been waiting? Are you going to take responsibility if our guests are displeased?"

Then, catching sight of the dishes in the waitress' hands, she hissed, "Hurry up! Bring all that to our room first."

The young waitress quickly shook

her head, maintaining a polite smile. "Sorry, miss: These dishes were ordered by the guests in this room. Your order was just placed three minutes ago Wewe started

preparing the food. We'll serve it as soon as it's ready."

The woman shrieked, "What? How dare you talk back! I'm telling you to bring those

plates to our room right now. Let them wait instead!"