720 The Second Encounter
Day Seventy-Six...
[At Towerville Central Mall...]
As part of his prior deal with 'Sizzling August, Spade was meeting Black Rose today together with Alexander and Hanabi. Alexander had no idea about this meet-up. Spade just brought him to the mall, pretending to be strolling there for no particular reason. He was afraid that Alexander would decline this meet-up if he mentioned it directly.
"Alex, why don't we buy some food first? I got tired from walking around. I still can't find the items I need for my laptop repair." Spade made up some alibi so that he could bring Alexander to the Mall's restaurant where they were supposed to meet Black Rose (Cherry) and Hanabi.
"Sure," Alexander agreed instantly, clueless of Spade's real motive. As they entered the restaurant, Spade immediately sent a message to Black Rose, informing her that they'd arrived at the meeting place. Meanwhile, Hanabi and Cherry had just entered the mall when she received Spade's message.
"They are here," Cherry excitedly blurted out, catching Hanabi's attention.
"Have you seen his face? Will you recognize him?" Hanabi inquired. "Of course. I've met him once. Furthermore, I researched his profile and background." She answered confidently.
"How about the Dragon Lord? How are we going to confirm his identity? What if Spade tricks us, bringing an impostor?" Hanabi had some doubts. She thought it would be hard to invite the mighty leader of a mafia organization just for this simple meet-up. Was
Spade truly able to convince the Dragon Lord to come?
"Hmm," Cherry paused, tapping her forefinger on the surface of her lips as she analyzed the situation. "Spade is a bit gullible. I don't think he will trick us by bringing a different person. Besides, he is very loyal to Sizzling August. He won't do something that might disappoint his idol."
"Alright. I'll trust your judgment on this." Hanabi set aside her doubts.
"Thank you, Hana. Now, let's proceed to meet the two gentlemen." Cherry wrapped her arms around her shoulders and she leaned closer to whisper, "Who knows the Dragon Lord is also good- looking. He might be your ideal man." She teased her.
Hanabi just pursed her lips and shook her head in objection. "I don't need a man. I love myself... and my freedom."
Cherry burst out laughing. "You are truly my friend. We are on the same page."
"Hey, I think we should go. He looks like he is going to eat you alive. Did you offend him or something?" Cherry whispered to Hanabi. Alexander's sharp glare was somewhat intimidating.
"Don't worry. I can deal with him. He is not strong enough to fight me," Hanabi whispered back confidently, grinning from ear to ear. Alexander was obedient and very helpless against her during their first encounter. But little did she know, Alexander was just holding himself back as he concealed his real identity, not raising any suspicion during their first meeting.
"Did you just show your face to me to ruin my mood?" Alexander broke his silence once more, not holding back. He couldn't care less if he would appear rude in front of these two women. He just wanted a peaceful environment without Hanabi's presence. This was his way of telling them he wasn't happy to see her at all.
"Oh, No worries. I just came here to show my friend how rude you are. I can't believe that you are friends with Abigail. I should warn her about your rude behavior." Hanabi didn't back down as she threatened him.
Alexander's expression contorted in dismay upon hearing her words. It was evident that this woman had a knack for getting under his skin, adeptly pressing his emotional triggers and stirring his frustration.
"I reserve my kindness for a chosen few," Alexander replied casually, his tone carrying an air of indifference. "You are not one of them," he added. He didn't seem inclined to extend warmth or generosity to just anyone.
Hanabi chuckled sarcastically. "Face it. You're simply embarrassed to be around me. You can't even defeat a woman. How feeble," she taunted, her tone tinged with mockery and humor.
"Hey, stop that. Don't pick a fight here." Cherry tugged her hand, stopping Hanabi from further provoking Alexander. Alexander's face could no longer be painted due to his fury. Hanabi's last words hit his ego.
Since she was satisfied with Alexander's reaction, Hanabi agreed to leave him alone. "Okay. Let's go before the volcano erupts."
They were just about to walk away when Spade suddenly showed up from behind, calling Cherry.
"Oh! Black Rose! You are here! Both of you... come and sit! This is our table." Spade greeted them with a friendly smile.
Cherry: "..."
Hanabi: "???"
Alexander: "???"