Chapter 303 Women Can Do Anything Men Can Do
Nicholas turned and plopped back down on the couch, his fingers drumming on the armrest, his face getting more serious by the second. After a long pause, he looked up at me and said slowly, "Diana, I don't think Anne really wants to go abroad. As your godfather, I'm worried about your safety."
Trying to sound casual, I replied, "Anne's all talk. She won't do anything to me."
Nicholas shook his head, almost talking to himself, "People get desperate when they're cornered. Anne's not as simple as you think."
He then turned to Daphne and said, "Go get Wilmer."
Daphne nodded and left the room. A moment later, a tall, muscular guy walked in and nodded at Nicholas.
Nicholas looked at him and then turned to me. "Diana, this is Wilmer. He's been with me for years, and I trust him completely. From now on, he's your personal bodyguard."
Nicholas walked over to Wilmer and patted him on the shoulder. Wilmer, like he was taking on a serious mission, said firmly, "I'll get the job done!"
Seeing my hesitation, Nicholas added, "Wilmer was an elite in the special forces and has an impressive record. I hired him at a high salary after he retired. He's my most trusted bodyguard. What more could you need?"
Nicholas's voice had a hint of irritation. I had my doubts, but I couldn't voice them directly to such a dominant figure. I said carefully, "Godfather, I appreciate your kindness, but I don't think I need such a skilled bodyguard. He should stay with you. If you're worried about my safety, I have a friend in the police force who can help."
"That's not the same," Nicholas interrupted. "You're still young and don't see the full picture. How capable can the police be? They're bound by rules and regulations, which makes them hesitant. Our own people are more reliable. Wilmer only takes orders from me and can act without hesitation. Only with him protecting you can I be at ease."
Nicholas's eyes showed he wasn't going to change his mind.
I knew that Nicholas assigning a bodyguard was as much about keeping an eye on me as it was about protection. With control over both the Howard Group and the Cooper Group, I had significant power in Wind City's business world. Especially the Howard Group, which Nicholas had worked hard to acquire, only for Lucas to transfer it to me. Though Nicholas was my godfather, we were also rivals. He wouldn't willingly let me control the Howard Group.
But given Nicholas's status in Wind City's business community and his role as my godfather, I couldn't openly oppose him. Otherwise, there'd be no room for negotiation in the future.Resigned, I sighed and forced a smile. "Godfather, since you insist on Wilmer protecting me, I can't refuse. Thanks for looking out for me. Wilmer can keep an eye on Skylar and me."
My voice had a hint of compromise. I knew I had no choice but to agree for now and take things one step at a time.
I glanced at the clock. It had been nearly half an hour since Skylar called, and I was anxious to get home.
Just then, Nicholas extended his hand, and Daphne quickly poured a glass of wine and handed it to him. Nicholas walked over to me, with Daphne right behind him, holding the bottle. When Nicholas reached me, Daphne poured another glass and handed it to me.
Seeing my hesitation, Nicholas said, "Diana, considering our relationship, why don't we have a drink together?"
I shook my head and declined, "Godfather, it's getting late. I want to go home to Skylar."
Nicholas's tone shifted to mild displeasure. "You just said you wanted to thank me. Is this really how you show gratitude?" Seeing his cold gaze, I quickly took the glass and drank it in one gulp, then handed the empty glass back to Daphne.
"Good!" Nicholas exclaimed, his voice rising with enthusiasm. "I knew I was right about you, Diana. You're truly strong."
With that, Nicholas also downed his drink and handed his glass back to Daphne.
I thought drinking the wine would let me leave, but then Nicholas abruptly clapped his hands three times. The group of gigolos he had sent away earlier returned to the room.
Nicholas smiled and said, "Diana, I'm getting older and can't figure out what type of guys you like. These are the finest gigolos in the club. Pick anyone you want, and it's on me." I was stunned and didn't know how to respond.
Seeing my reaction, Nicholas laughed. "Diana, in business, women and men are the same. You have to be bold to achieve great things. Don't be so timid."
I shook my head and smiled wryly. "Godfather, what do you take me for? I would never..."
My gaze swept over the group of gigolos, and I couldn't finish my sentence.
Nicholas stroked his nonexistent beard and said with a smile, "You're still too young. Never mind, I won't bother you anymore. Enjoy yourself."
He then turned to Daphne and said, "Daphne, pick someone to assist me. The rest can leave."
Daphne replied softly, "Hazel and I will accompany you."
Though she agreed readily, Daphne shot a fierce look at Hazel Carter. Strangely, Hazel seemed excited and quickly followed Daphne, while the other girls looked dejected.
As Nicholas left the room, he told Wilmer, "Stand guard at the door. Don't let anyone disturb Diana."