Everett wasnât rushed.
He knew discussing such cooperation needed time.
The living room of the villa had been quiet for a while.
Nathan was the first to speak, breaking the silence.
âDo you mean to suggest a long-term strategy to gradually investigate the other major leaders in the underworld and find out the mastermind?â
Everett grinned.
âSure, but truth be told, Iâm not just eager to uncover the mastermind behind this swiftly; I also aim to eliminate some rivals who oppose me.
â
Nathan played with his cup, and then remarked, âYouâre quite honest.
â
âYouâve led the National Security Bureau for years.
Even if I wanted to hide my motives, I doubt I could.
Instead of letting you suspect hidden agendas, Iâd rather be upfront and foster mutual understanding.
â
Nathan remained silent, deep in thought.
Lucinda had been listening quietly for a while before she joined the conversation.
âI think taking a long-term approach is too risky.
There are too many factors we canât control.
Our babies are very young and vulnerable, which makes them an easy target.
Thatâs our weak point.
The other party keeps making subtle moves in the shadows, which could overwhelm us.
â
Nathan frowned but said nothing.
âWhat do you suggest we do, Mrs.
Payne?â Everett inquired.
With a playful smirk, Lucinda replied, âIâve been kidnapped by you, havenât I? Letâs play along.
Start spreading rumors that you have a serious grudge against Nathan, so youâve taken his wife and are threatening him.
You might even go after his childâ¦â
She spoke earnestly, pondering the entire scheme.
Everett listened intently and nodded in agreement.
However, Nathanâs eyes revealed a hint of displeasure and anger.
Lucinda concluded, âThatâs my idea, but it might have some flaws we can discuss further.
â
After finishing his coffee, Everett glanced at Nathanâs expression and raised a concern.
âBut⦠while this might resolve things quickly, it puts you in danger, Mrs.
Payne.
These people are ruthless gangsters.
If you get hurtâ¦â
He trailed off, stealing another look at Nathanâs face.
âI worry Mr.
Payne would be extremely concerned.
â
Following his gaze, Lucinda turned to see her husbandâs face grow even darker.
She was at a loss for words.
The atmosphere in the living room felt strained, evident from the displeasure etched on Nathanâs face.
Everett, unfamiliar with Nathanâs temperament, sensed the tension and refrained from further conversation.
With a gentle smile, Lucinda reached for Nathanâs arm, caressing his cold, angular face in an attempt to mollify him.
Her voice dripped with sweetness as she reassured him, âDarling, you know Iâma skilled fighter.
There are few who can truly best me.
I can defend myself.
â
But Nathan remained resolute.
âNo, I wonât entertain the thought,â he asserted firmly.