Chapter 60 Center of Attention
"Miss Clark, Elbert is not a member of the Brown Family. He's merely a driver," Ethan interjected softly. He thought Melissa likely mistook Elbert for a guest, so he stepped forward, trying to humiliate him.
"What did you say?" Melissa arched an eyebrow, glancing at Elbert. Unperturbed, Elbert strolled a few steps away, retrieved a cigarette, and leaned against a tree to smoke. Melissa felt a twinge of disappointment.
'It seemed he preferred not to draw attention.' She nodded quietly, acquiescing to the host's arrangements.
"That's good." Seeing the scene, Rex chuckled.
As the guests prepared to move, two more cars arrived at the estate. These unassuming black cars, evident from their license plates, belied the importance of their occupants.
The first car belonged to the head of the Wavehaven police, while the second's owner remained uncertain but held a significant rank.
The doors opened slowly. A dark-skinned, robust elderly man emerged from the Audi, followed by a square-faced sixty-year-old in a traditional suit from the Red Flag car.
"Jeffery."
"I finally caught you. Explain what happened to my phone," Leonard, head of the special operations team, approached General Jeffery with urgency.
Walking with hands clasped behind his back, Jeffery retorted disdainfully. "Leonard, compose yourself. This isn't your turf. Are you not concerned about appearing childish in front of the younger generation?"
"Jeffery, if you won't replace my phone, at least tell me if you've located that kid," Leonard stood before Jeffery, feigning seriousness.
"Leonard, don't think I'm unaware of your desire to poach my soldier and extract information. Dream on."
To outsiders, the sight of two high-ranking military officials squabbling like schoolboys over an unknown individual would have been shocking.
"Leonard, General Jeffery, long time no see," Mr. Brown greeted them warmly from a distance.
The two officials exchanged knowing smiles upon spotting Mr. Brown.
"You wealthy fellow, always putting on a grand show," Leonard remarked, eyeing the opulence of the estate.
"Leonard, we've been friends for decades. Courtesy is a must." Mr. Brown chuckled. "And today, we have a special guest."
The officials followed Mr. Brown's gaze.
"Aaron's daughter, Miss Clark?" The officials were taken aback.
"Indeed, it's Miss Clark. Today, the Brown Family estate is graced with distinguished guests," Mr. Brown remarked heartily.
Melissa stepped forward at that moment.
"Hello, Uncle Jeffery, Uncle Leonard," Melissa greeted with a slight bow. "My father heard of your gathering in the Wavehaven and sent me to extend his regards."
"Marvelous," General Jeffery boomed. "Thank Aaron for his consideration, and thank you, dear Melissa. Today is truly delightful."
"Melissa, convey my regards to your father. I intend to visit him in Celestria City soon," Leonard added, eyeing Melissa with satisfaction. "Look at our Melissa, how she has blossomed. If you encounter any troubles in Wavehaven, do not hesitate to contact me. There's no need to trouble Aaron."
Rex and the others watched with envy.
The head of the Wavehaven police and a high-ranking general—these were influential figures. Melissa lived up to her reputation. Young as she was, she conversed with such esteemed individuals with ease. Moreover, the officials treated her with the utmost respect.
Not far away, Elbert stood behind a tree, taking the final drag of his cigarette. He smiled wryly. If the officials knew that the poised, well-mannered Melissa before them was the elusive underground boss of Wavehaven, the Black Fox, what would they think?
Extinguishing his cigarette, Elbert emerged from the shadows. Mr. Brown, Jeffery, and Leonard moved towards the gazebo.
"Alan, your estate is truly impressive," Jeffery remarked.
"Jeffery, let me tell you, my city boasts not only scenic beauty but also abundant talent," Leonard added, taking a sip from his thermos.
"For instance..." Leonard's eyes widened as he fixed his gaze on a tree in the distance, spitting out a mouthful of wine.
"That's... that lad in the bank. Is he associated with the Brown Family?" Leonard's eyes widened when he saw Elbert.
He strode towards Elbert.
"Leonard, what's gotten into you?" Jeffery scolded, following Leonard's gaze and freezing in place. He instinctively gripped Leonard's arm. "Stop right there."
Feeling Jeffery's firm hold, Leonard grew anxious. "Jeffery, release me."
"No chance," Jeffery retorted firmly. Their peculiar behavior puzzled Mr. Brown.
Suddenly, General Jeffery smirked mischievously and turned to Mr. Brown. "Alan, are there many young people at this gathering? Introduce us." With that, Mr. Brown found himself practically dragging the two officials towards a group of youngsters.
While Mr. Brown made introductions, the officials seemed preoccupied. However, when it came to Elbert's turn, their eyes lit up with enthusiasm.
As General Jeffery listened to the introduction, he muttered to himself.
'Elbert? good name.'
'Brave? Excellent.'
'Brown Family chauffeur? Intriguing.'
'Interested in Lori? Fascinating.'
The onlookers were dumbfounded. What had come over General Jeffery and Chief Leonard?
Finally, still holding Leonard's arm, General Jeffery smiled and turned to Mr. Brown. "Alan, since they're all young, let them converse amongst themselves. Let's kill time by playing chess. I have something to discuss with you."
"Yes, I have a matter to discuss as well," Leonard added.
Ten minutes later, Mr. Brown sat bewildered in front of the chessboard. Jeffery and Leonard had bombarded him with countless questions, most of them about Elbert.
Glancing at the young guests, Mr. Brown couldn't help but notice the dynamics at play. Rex and Ethan eyed Elbert disdainfully, seemingly poised for a challenge at any moment. Melissa, too, cast frequent glances at Elbert, her expression a mix of emotions. Meanwhile, the officials remained fixated on Elbert.
It seemed the focus of the day had shifted to Elbert.
"Alan, it's been a decade since we played chess, hasn't it?" Jeffery suddenly remarked. Mr. Brown nodded, perplexed. General Jeffery grinned. "If I win, I have a request you can't refuse."
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