Chapter 997: Future Plans
The city has deeply entrenched local powers, with Arthur and Jack as the main figures, both having the strongest foundations. These two have cultivated the city's political landscape for decades, with most township officials being their appointees. Their influence permeates various departments, creating a network of intricate and entangled relationships.
Armando, having spent two years in the city, has worked tirelessly, leveraging his political resources. Yet, he has only managed to win over a few key allies, such as Devon, the Director of the Finance Bureau, and Barrett, the Director of Urban Construction. However, both Devon and Barrett have numerous ties with other families, making them less than fully trustworthy.
"Indeed, the city's waters run deep," Armando sighed, but his gaze turned resolute. "I refuse to succumb to this. I intend to stir the pot. However, I lack capable personnel. Natalie could be a valuable asset. I've looked into her background—she's well-connected with various powers in the county and is a woman of considerable means. I need people who can get things done."
"You mean to have Natalie charge ahead and tackle Arthur and Jack?" Maurice's eyes widened. "Can a woman handle such a task?"
"Don't underestimate Natalie. The fact that she's made it this far on her own speaks volumes about her abilities," Armando chuckled. "I truly hope she can help me shake things up in the city. A hero's worth isn't defined by their background but by their talent and what they can accomplish. Recognizing and utilizing talent is the essence of leadership."
"Alright, since you have it all figured out, I won't say more. But we're here for a break, so let's not talk business," Maurice shifted the conversation, twirling in front of Armando with a smile. "How do you like my dress? Does it look good?"
Armando couldn't help but admire his wife. She was wearing a sleeveless sapphire blue dress, the neckline adorned with a row of golden embroidery. Her plump, fair arms extended from the sleeves, and her ample bosom was accentuated by a heart-shaped neckline revealing a smooth expanse of skin. Her waist was cinched tight, emphasizing the curve of her rounded hips, and the slit at the hem revealed a glimpse of her alabaster legs. She exuded an aura of elegance and nobility without appearing old-fashioned. He couldn't help but praise, "Honey, this dress suits your temperament perfectly. When did you get it? I don't recall seeing it before."
"You never pay attention to me, always busy with your work," Maurice smiled, pleased with his admiration. "Willow visited the other day. She was in Suzhou on a trip and saw this dress while shopping. It's hand-embroidered using traditional Suzhou techniques. Just look at the intricate embroidery—it's far superior to the other dresses I own."
"Willow came by?" Armando frowned slightly. "It's best if you don’t accept gifts from her in the future. Devon is the Director of Finance, and such connections might not reflect well on us. It makes my job of overseeing them more difficult."
"Okay, okay, it's my mistake," Maurice chuckled, seeing her husband was upset. "I won't accept such gifts again. This time, I'll make an exception. You’re soon to be governor, and I must set a good example as your steward."
"Thank you, dear," Armando said, moved by his wife's playful demeanor. He recalled her captivating charm from their younger days and couldn't resist embracing her. "Marrying you has been the greatest fortune of my life."
"I'm glad you think so," Maurice blushed slightly, playfully chiding, "We haven't had any intimate moments for a while. How about we book a room..."
Armando hesitated, feeling a spark of desire. "The doctor said my back has just healed—I shouldn't overexert myself."
"Who said anything about you exerting yourself?" Maurice glanced at him with a seductive smile, whispering, "I'll be on top..."
"Let's go then," Armando laughed heartily, holding his wife's delicate hand as they hurried toward the villa area. He felt invigorated, almost like his younger self, with a surge of eagerness.
...
To the west of the lake resort, there lay a villa area with over twenty two-story cottages, green tiles and red walls in traditional Chinese architecture. These villas, offering great privacy, were often venues for city tycoons and their mistresses.
Natalie led Kevin to the villa she had reserved, unlocking the door with a keycard. The ground floor featured a living room, kitchen, and bathroom, and the second floor housed the bedrooms. The luxurious decor came at a high price—three thousand a day, comparable to a five-star hotel presidential suite. Despite the cost, the villas were in high demand, often requiring advance booking.
"This living room is massive," Kevin marveled as he glanced around. It was his first time in such a villa, with its huge crystal chandelier, floor-to-ceiling windows, hardwood floors, spiral staircase, leather sofas, and glass wine cabinet. It was a paradise for men; spending a few days here with his cousin would be bliss.
Lost in his thoughts, he was suddenly embraced from behind by Natalie, her soft, warm body pressing against him. She was already undressing him, her hand slipping into his shorts, toying with his member as she giggled, "Good boy, have you forgotten the main task?"
Kevin, aroused by the seductive woman, turned around, his hands on her supple hips, kissing her passionately. Their tongues intertwined as they eagerly swallowed each other's saliva.
"Good boy, help me undress," Natalie panted. "Right now, I'm all yours; you can do whatever you want."
Kevin found the zipper on her dress and pulled it down, letting the dress slip off, revealing her black bra. He then removed the bra, exposing her ample, white breasts. He pounced on them, hungrily sucking and licking the red nipples.
"Good boy, it tickles. Mmm, so itchy. Hurry and undress me completely. I’m already soaked down there," Natalie moaned, urging him as her ample breasts jiggled. Though not as large as Audrey’s, her breasts had large areolas and nipples, their darker color adding to her allure. Perhaps this was the difference between a seductress and a virtuous woman—while men claimed to desire the latter, they often found themselves entranced by the former.