Kron's fists were clenched tightly at his sides, and the three thick rings he was wearing were deeply embedded in his palms.
He wanted to open his mouth, but his throat seemed to be blocked by something and he could only utter a few meaningless syllables.
"Speaker..." His voice trembled uncontrollably. "I...I followed Mr. Howard in..."
"Yeah, that's good." Reeves interrupted him, his tone as calm as if he was discussing the weather. "New York is a good place with many opportunities. Black Rabbit Security's New York business still needs you to... manage it with care."
"Don't forget where your roots are. Chicago is home. Do your best and don't embarrass me."
Ribbs particularly emphasized "Black Rabbit Security," and every syllable clearly reminded Kruen of his identity—all his power, no matter how glamorous it seemed on the surface, originated from the "skin" granted by Ribbs.
That plain admonition was more humiliating to Kruen than any roar.
He understood every word that Reeves said, and he also understood the cold warning between the lines: I know everything you do in New York. Your position is given by me. I can let you "manage" it, but I can also easily take away everything.
All the anger and resentment were completely shattered by Reeves' words.
Kroon suddenly lowered his head, his posture humble to the ground: "Yes! Speaker! I understand! I will definitely do a good job of the New York branch's...'security business'...! I will never... never cause you any trouble! Bring shame to Chicago!" He almost gritted his teeth and finished this sentence in an almost submissive swearing tone.
The gentle smile on Libus's face deepened a little, and he seemed very satisfied with this gesture of submission - this was within his expectations, just like a cat teasing a mouse in its paw.
"Very good." Ribs responded lightly, as if Kruen was no longer worth a second glance.
He then turned to Hamilton beside him, and his face instantly regained the decent and distant smile that he wore when he was with the top circles.
"Mr. Hamilton, I'm sorry, this is just a small incident. My old subordinate from Chicago...it seems he is not used to the social occasions in New York yet." Ribs's relaxed tone resolved the awkwardness of the moment.
Hamilton was such a great man that he had already seen the silent confrontation between the two men.
A hint of understanding flashed in his eyes, and then he revealed a knowing and proper smile, as if he had witnessed an interesting scene. "Of course not, Mr. Reeves is very good at managing his subordinates. Now that we've greeted each other, why don't we go and taste the club's collection of cigars?"
"With pleasure." Ribs agreed gracefully, without even glancing at the extremely humble Kroon. He naturally took Kezia's arm, turned around with Hamilton, and blended into the core area with soft lights and an elegant crowd.
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