Chapter 577 Sebastian's Tavern Strategy
After a brief silence, Sebastian regained his usual calm demeanor. His deep, rich voice carried a hint of weariness from the long journey, but it didn't diminish his authority in the slightest. "Since Dad wants him at the company, he must have his reasons. Don't overthink it. Just try to avoid direct conflict with him at work."
Quinn, still uneasy, said, "Sebastian, you and Dad have been acting strange lately. What's going on? Tell me, maybe I can help."
"There's nothing to worry about. You're the CEO now, and your workload is different from when you were in the finance department. Focus on getting familiar with the business. If you have questions, ask Dario or me."
Quinn still felt uneasy. "Sebastian..."
"That's enough. I have things to do. We'll talk later."
With that, Sebastian hung up and stood by the floor-to-ceiling window, his tall figure bathed in sunlight, casting a faint glow around him.
But upon closer inspection, that glow seemed as cold as frost.
He didn't give himself much time to rest. Checking his watch, he noted that if the local manager was efficient, he might meet with the high-ranking officials today.
Sebastian studied the building plans again, his fingers tracing the lines as he measured with his eyes. Then he opened his laptop and reviewed the surrounding buildings.
His fingers flew over the keyboard, pulling up key information. His eyes scanned the text like a hawk hunting its prey. This project...
Brian was definitely targeting him. Frankly, it was an almost impossible task. For decades, countless developers had tried to get approval for a high-rise office building of this height, but all had been rejected.
Aqua Vista City was low-lying and coastal, with extremely harsh summer weather. Almost every year, typhoons would hit, sometimes shattering all the glass in high-rise buildings. Buildings over a hundred floors would have weakened resistance to natural disasters, posing significant safety risks.
Sebastian stared at the computer screen, one hand supporting his chin, deep in thought.
At four o'clock in the afternoon, Sebastian received a call from Bill Lawson, the local manager. "Mr. Kingsley, the meeting is set. I've sent you the address and an email with the details. It might help with tonight's meeting."
"Got it."
An email soon arrived, detailing the local high-ranking officials. Sebastian skimmed through it, then reviewed the project modification proposal.
The proposal suggested lowering the building height to match the tallest building in Aqua Vista City.
Sebastian let out a soft snort.
"Mr. Kingsley, we've shown the modification proposal to the local authorities. This height can get a construction permit, but the original plan won't work."
"So, why did headquarters send me here? To enjoy the view of Aqua Vista City?" Sebastian snapped.
"No... I mean, the design from headquarters is... Mr. Kingsley, it's all up to you tonight."
After hanging up, Sebastian scrutinized the plans, a glint of determination in his deep eyes.
At exactly eight o'clock, Sebastian's silver Bentley arrived at the Opulent Harbor Club.
The Opulent Harbor Club was a discreet yet luxurious venue in Aqua Vista City, frequented by wealthy businessmen, high-ranking officials, and military personnel who preferred to keep a low profile.
Every glamorous city has places like this, hidden in plain sight.
"Mr. Kingsley, it's time. Shall we go in?"
Sebastian glanced at his watch. "Are they here?"
"Three have arrived. Two more are on their way. Those two will decide if the project gets approved, so they probably feel confident."
Sebastian's lips curled into a cold smile as he looked out the window, his gaze mingling with the neon lights outside, creating an inscrutable depth. "No rush. We'll go in when they're all here."
"Yes, Mr. Kingsley."
At 8:10, two black Mercedes-Benz cars arrived at the entrance. The security personnel recognized the cars and straightened up.
"Mr. Kingsley, the first car is from the city planning department, and the second one is..."
"I know." Sebastian's low voice cut in. He had memorized the details, including the cars and license plates.
Two men in their forties stepped out of the cars, dressed in simple, low-key black and brown casual jackets. They glanced around familiarly before heading up the main steps.
They were clearly regulars here.
Ten minutes later, Sebastian buttoned his suit jacket. "Alright, let's go in."
"Yes, Mr. Kingsley."
Climbing the grand steps of the Opulent Harbor Club, Sebastian, dressed in a high-end Armani suit, appeared under the crystal chandelier at the entrance. He casually adjusted his Patek Philippe watch and headed straight for one of the private rooms.
Bill, who accompanied Sebastian, opened the door to the private room, where five men, all prominent figures frequently seen in Aqua Vista City's news, were seated.
Gathering these people in one place was no small feat, hinting at the influence of the Kingsley family.
As Sebastian entered, the five men turned their gaze to him. The man before them appeared to be under thirty, with a tall, composed figure and a hint of deep calculation in his eyes.
"Sorry for being late," Sebastian nodded slightly, his proud demeanor exuding an innate nobility.
"No problem, Mr. Kingsley. Please, have a seat." The leading man smiled, scrutinizing him closely.
Bill pulled out a chair, and Sebastian sat down gracefully, offering a faint smile. "Thank you all for taking the time to meet. Since I was late, allow me to order a bottle of Dom Pérignon champagne for everyone."
"Mr. Kingsley, you are indeed generous!"
"Haha, Mr. Kingsley, you're too kind. We feel honored."
As they exchanged pleasantries, a waiter appeared with a champagne bucket. In business settings, Sebastian's status usually exempted him from drinking, but tonight, not drinking would break the rules.
Sebastian elegantly raised his champagne glass, the golden bubbles sparkling inside.
He took a refined sip, not downing it in one go.
The five officials followed suit, raising their glasses.
"Mr. Kingsley has excellent taste!"
"Great wine! Great vintage!"
Sebastian smiled politely, his eyes conveying humble respect. "Thank you. As they say, good wine is best enjoyed with good friends. It's an honor to spend this evening with you all."
He took another small sip and gently placed the glass back on the table.
These seasoned officials were adept at reading people, but this young man before them, initially appearing refined and handsome, revealed a deep, chilling cunning beneath his calm smile. They waited in silence for him to speak.
"Let's drink to our meeting. Our gathering here shows we are indeed fated." Sebastian's commanding presence made the officials exchange glances.
Though he was the one seeking their help, his late arrival and composed demeanor made them feel like mere supporting characters, with Sebastian as the main act.
After several rounds of fine wine and food, Sebastian's face flushed slightly. The crystal chandelier's light cast shadows on his youthful yet dashing face, making him appear even more profound.
"Mr. Kingsley, you are truly remarkable! No wonder you're the successor of MBK. You've surpassed your father. The younger generation is indeed formidable!"
"Yes, it's their world now. We're getting old!"
After some clichéd remarks, one official spoke up. "Mr. Kingsley, I understand your purpose here, but the regulations are clear. Your company's design exceeds the height limit, so..."
"Mr. Gutierrez, let's enjoy our drinks and food tonight. Why bring this up now?" Sebastian interrupted.
Sebastian's deep eyes were half courteous, half imposing, making Eugene Gutierrez laugh awkwardly.
"Right, tonight is just for a few drinks."
"Mr. Kingsley, please!"
Sebastian's gaze swept over their faces. He had already seen through their thoughts and intentions.
"You are all my elders. It's a great honor to drink with you tonight. I also heard that Mr. Rivera enjoys playing Go. I must find time to challenge you."
"Haha, sure! I don't have many hobbies, but I do enjoy a game of Go." Gerald Rivera replied.
Sebastian turned to another man. "Mr. Cooper, I heard you have unique insights into architectural design. I'm considering investing in a property in Aqua Vista City and would love your professional opinion."
"Of course! Where are you looking to buy? An apartment or a villa?" Bruce Cooper replied confidently.
Indeed, people got excited when discussing their interests.
"What do you suggest, Mr. Cooper? I'll follow your advice." Throughout the evening, Sebastian remained humble yet principled, low-key yet commanding. He skillfully navigated the dinner, making the officials laugh and feel at ease without mentioning the project.
Bill, observing from the side, was deeply impressed.
After the dinner, Sebastian personally saw each official to their car, politely waving them off.
As the cars drove away, Sebastian's calm facade finally cracked. The pain in his stomach and chest intensified, attacking his nerves.
Clutching his chest, Sebastian's face turned pale, his lips pressed into a tight line. He bent over and got into the car, his voice low and hoarse. "Take me to the hotel."
"Mr. Kingsley, you don't look well. You drank a lot. Should I take you to the hospital?"
Sebastian waved him off. "No, just take me to the hotel. Quickly."
"Yes."
Given Sebastian's high-profile status, whether in Aucester or Aqua Vista City, he was always under media scrutiny.
With the project at a critical stage, he couldn't afford to be seen entering a hospital.
Enduring the sharp pain in his chest and abdomen, sweat beading on his forehead, Sebastian tightly closed his eyes, his breathing growing heavier.
The car arrived at the hotel entrance. Sebastian steadied himself as he got out, his voice cold. "Keep tonight's events to yourself."
"Yes, Mr. Kingsley. I'll take you upstairs. Do you need any medication? I'll get it right away."
Sebastian's brows furrowed deeply. "No need. Just find out the schedules of those five officials for the next week and their family details. Send it to my email tonight."
"Understood."
The burning pain from the alcohol surged through his heart, making Sebastian clutch his chest involuntarily.
Entering the elevator, Sebastian leaned against the metal wall, the intense pain finally breaking his composure, a low growl escaping his throat.
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