For the first time, Thomas, who had been quietly observing from across the lobby, witnessed a glimpse of Jack's strength—a strength that seemed to go far beyond physical force. In that moment, Thomas saw Jack as he truly was: someone born to lead, possessing an inherent authority that didn't demand respect but simply commanded it. There was no hesitation, no anger, only a calm, controlled power that left no room for doubt.
Jack turned to face Morgan, who stood pale and silent, still processing the whirlwind of events. Jack's composed demeanor cut through the tension as he extended his hand toward Morgan, his expression respectful but firm.
"I'm Jack, from Richard," he said, his voice steady. "Sorry for any inconvenience. I've been waiting to go over the layouts with you. Are you less busy now?"
Morgan blinked, snapping out of his daze as he took Jack's hand, his grip trembling slightly with a mixture of respect and residual shock. "Y-yes, of course, Mr. Jack. I… apologize for the wait," he stammered, unable to meet Jack's gaze for a moment. "Please, let's go to my office."
Ignoring the shocked faces around him and the whispers that filled the room, Jack followed Morgan, as though nothing unusual had occurred. To Jack, the others were already forgotten. He had no interest in their reactions or opinions—he was here on business, and that was his only focus.
Thomas couldn't help but be impressed. He'd never seen someone handle a situation with such authority and composure, especially given the disrespect Jack had endured. Watching Jack now, Thomas felt a renewed sense of loyalty, understanding in his gut that Jack was someone worth following—someone who had the strength, confidence, and character of a true leader.
Morgan led Jack down the hallway. Once inside the office, he immediately retrieved the layout plans, spreading them across the desk for Jack's review. "Here are the layouts, just as Richard described," Morgan said, regaining some of his usual professionalism. "We have three options in the secluded mountain area, each offering privacy, security, and the best views in Q country. I believe these are precisely what you're looking for."
Jack nodded, his eyes moving thoughtfully over the plans. "This looks ideal. I appreciate you setting this up, Morgan, but I want the three."
Morgan glanced at Jack, with a face of confusion before reacting, '' You mean you want all the layouts?
Jack nodded, feeling a surge of relief. '' Yes, all three.
"My pleasure, Mr. Jack. We'll make sure the transition is seamless. The property can be move-in ready as early as next week." Depends on when you can pay
Jack extended his hand again. "Let's finalize this, handing him a credit card." Be fast!
Morgan has never met a client who does not bother about how much a property he wants to buy, from the beginning to the end of the transaction, Jack did not ask how much this property is, It scared Morgan, thinking how much does this young man have? What was his worth?
Jack quickly took the card and handed it to his accountant who was told Jack wanted the three properties in his name. When the calculation was done, the total sum was Fifty-eight billion dollars.
Immediately after the card was swiped, there was a sound that came which meant it had been paid for. Morgan had sweat on his forehead as soon as the deal was confirmed. In all his years of dealing with clients, Jack was the most simple-looking and most powerful of all.
As they shook hands, Morgan couldn't help but feel he was in the presence of someone who would go far—someone who would not only be respected but also be revered. He also reminded himself not to judge a book by its cover.
As they wrapped up, Jack headed out of the office, with Morgan walking him to the exit with the utmost respect. Thomas met Jack outside, falling into step beside him. They exchanged a knowing look.
The lobby had already been cleared out. Xiao had been taken to the hospital, Dorothy was fired but Lucas stood by the door waiting for Jack.
'' Call me in an hour Lucas we need to talk'', Jack threw the words out at Lucas as he walked past him. Lucas nodded, left the lobby, and drove away in his car. For a man that had just crippled his nephew, his loyalty was outstanding
"Quite a morning," Thomas remarked, glancing back at the building. "Didn't expect to see all that, but I have to say… you handled it perfectly."
Jack shrugged, a small smile on his lips. "Just another day, I suppose."
Thomas chuckled. "Maybe for you. But something tells me that was just a taste of what's to come."
Jack didn't respond, only nodded as they walked together in silence, each aware that this was the beginning of something much larger. Jack climbed onto his bike while Thomas drove his Porsche behind him. When they slowly left Jack smiled to himself. He noticed a black Sudan that had been parked had started following them.
He wanted to alert Thomas but he decided to have him tested to see how conscious Thomas was of his environment. Although Jack could not see who was inside the car because it had a tinted windscreen and windows he sensed the eyes were on him,
His phone rang, Thomas, calling him, he pressed his Bluetooth.
'' I think we have company, we are been followed. What's your next agenda?
Thomas, I'm famished, let's look for a comfortable restaurant to eat
Your Majesty, any restaurant?
Yes!
Let it be decent enough Jack replied
Noted, there is one just straight ahead of us, The Dome
Jack agreed, okay let's go there.
Daisy drove steadily, her eyes focused on the car ahead while her passenger, Lydia, the Queen. She sat in silence, her gaze never leaving the figure of her grandson as he walked out of the estate office. The interior of the sleek black sedan was quiet, filled only with the low hum of the engine. Though they'd kept a discreet distance, Lydia felt Jack had noticed them. She could feel it in his steady, purposeful walk and how he occasionally glanced over his shoulder. Her grandson's sharp awareness was just one more confirmation that he was a Mason, aside from the striking resemblance to his mum Rita.
Watching Jack from afar, Lydia's heart swelled with a bittersweet pride. She could see so much of her daughter, Rita, in him, the same graceful stride, the quiet confidence, and a strength that seemed unshakable. It was as if Rita were standing there herself, but now through her son. Lydia hadn't needed a DNA test to know the truth; one look at Jack was enough. He was unmistakably her grandson, the heir she had longed for and feared to meet, the one meant to carry forward the Rita and the Masons' legacy.
Without shifting her gaze, Lydia finally broke the silence. "Daisy," she murmured, her voice low, as though speaking too loudly might shatter the fragile moment. "It's him. There's no doubt."
Daisy nodded, her grip on the wheel firm. "I knew it the moment I met him, Your Majesty. He has the presence… the instinct. Just like his mother."
Lydia's expression softened, though a shadow of sorrow lingered in her eyes. "So much like her," she whispered. "And yet… his personality stands out. I can see a strength there, one tempered by all he's been through. It's in the way he walks, in his bearing."
Daisy glanced briefly at Lydia, then returned her focus to the road. "It's true, My Queen. He's already shown resilience beyond his years. But he'll need more than strength; he'll need guidance, loyalty… protection." Her voice was steady, filled with the unspoken promise that she would lay down her life if need be to ensure Jack's safety.
Lydia gave a slight nod, her gaze intense as she watched Jack and Thomas from afar. "That's why we're here. Today was just an introduction. Soon… we'll bring him fully into the fold. He deserves to know the truth, and choose what's to come."
Daisy remained silent, but her heart swelled with pride and determination. She had waited for this moment her entire life: to serve, protect, and guide the heir to the Mason throne. And though the weight of her duty was great, she knew it was nothing compared to the path Jack would have to walk.
As they continued to follow Jack's car, Lydia's eyes never left her grandson. Her mind drifted to Rita, and she felt a surge of both sorrow and resolve. Then she thought of Tracy her second daughter. Tracy has comfortably sat on the throne for years now, would she be willing to step aside for Jack, when she finds out about his identity? Lydia has long had her reservations about Tracy, her attitude after the disappearance of her sister was suspicious to Lydia.
Now her death has been confirmed. Who killed Rita? this is what Lydia has to find out now that her death has been confirmed.
Although she had lost her daughter, this young man was a piece of her, a legacy worth protecting and fighting for. She would do everything in her power to help him claim his rightful place, secure in the knowledge that the Masons would continue, stronger than ever.
"Drive on, Daisy," Lydia whispered, her voice resolute. "This is only the beginning."
Soon Jack and Thomas drove into The Dome. A simply crafted area for travelers to stop and have a meal. Neat very comfortable and their services were quick and meals affordable
When they got in a waiter walked up to them and ushered both to a table
'' Welcome sirs what would you love to have? Today is a special day for promo so all meals and drinks are at a fifty percent discount. She handed Jack a menu. and another to Thomas. I will be right back. She hurried away to usher in another set of customers. It seemed the traffic of customers coming here was high and they may need extra hands Thomas said as he watched the waiter hurriedly ushering another set of customers in.
'' Thomas, order a simple meal of pasta and smoked pork ribs with three soups, sweet, sour, and spicy for me with a double mug chapman drink.'' Then I will order the same too Thomas added
Without looking at Thomas, Jack took out his phone and sent a message to Daisy; ''I see you are following me, discreetly you think? I have told you to stop hiding in the shadows while following me. If I can see you, others can''
He dropped his phone back in his pocket. Soon Jack heard a very familiar voice. One he would never mistake even while asleep. Lucy? What was she doing here at this time, was she not taking lectures?
''Hello Sirs; have you made your orders yet?'' She stood behind Jack, facing Thomas, unknown to her Jack was the other customer
Thomas made the orders and she left still not recognizing the presence of Jack
Daisy received Jack's message inside the car and smiled shamelessly. She had just found a parking spot Knowing her cover was blown, she had to admit that although if she was attempting to hide in the shadows, Jack wouldn't detect her, she still gave him credit because, for her, Jack was untrained and had no knowledge about security issues.
'' Your Majesty Daisy slowly spoke
''He knows? Lydia asked
Daisy gave an embarrassing smile and nodded. He sent a message. Daisy passed her phone to the queen. After reading the message, Lydia smiled too; '' He's a smart one. Drive back to my place and plan an appropriate meeting with my grandson son and me. I'm Impressed, he's quite observant by nature. Just like his mum, Rita. So observant that she made preparations for him years before he was born.
Daisy started the car and slowly drove away.
Jack wasn't expecting Daisy's response but he only just made her aware he knew she was following him.
Just as he was ready to make a call to Richard, informing him how the layout issue went, he heard a very familiar voice beside him, a voice he wouldn't miss for any other person's own. He remained calm without turning around. Lucy! It was Lucy's voice. What was Lucy doing here? Is she working here as a waitress? Isn't she a student? Lots of reasons popped into Jack's mind but he didn't turn around. He never wanted to have anything to do with Lucy ever again. So he shouldn't get involved with her issues.
Sirs, have you decided on what you are eating? Thomas seeing her, remembered they met her at the Grand Hotel on Jack's birthday but he didn't know the connection between Jack and her.
'' Yes we have, Thomas informed her on what they wanted. '' Okay give me twenty minutes, your meals and drinks will be ready. Lucy quickly hurried away without realizing Jack was the next person with Thomas.
Twenty minutes went faster than expected, His mind pondered on why Lucy would be working here, although he never wanted to be entangled with her again, he still cared as a human, knowing Lucy wasn't from a poor home, she was dating Fabian the rich Kid, why would Fabian allow her to work? couldn't he provide all her needs? Even if not all, at most some. It would keep her from extra working hours. When would she have the time to read her books after these long working hours?
Thomas noticed the slight frown on Jack's face and asked
'' Is everything okay?
''Absolutely! Jack is a man of few words. He wasn't ready to talk about Lucy, he knew he was done and over with that chapter of his life.
Soon his phone rang, on the screen, he saw the name Lucas and connected it
'' Hello Lucas, where are you?
''At the office, it's exactly an hour
'' That's good. Meet me at The Dome food center.
'' Okay,
The call ended.
Jack stretched his arms, feeling the tension in his muscles from the day's events. "I feel a little fatigued. I need to sign up at a gym," he muttered to Thomas, flexing his shoulders.
Unfortunately, his timing couldn't have been worse. Just as he stretched his arm out, Lucy appeared from behind him, holding a tray loaded with drinks, while another waitress followed behind, balancing a large tray of food destined for their table. Caught off guard, Lucy collided directly with Jack's outstretched arm, and in an instant, disaster struck.
The drinks tumbled forward, splashing across Jack's shirt and dripping down Lucy's apron. The tray wobbled in her grip, and as she tried to steady herself, the waitress behind her stumbled forward, colliding with her back. In a heartbeat, the trays toppled, sending food and drinks flying onto the floor, and on Lucy.
There was a collective gasp from the surrounding tables as everyone turned to look. A mortified Lucy stood frozen, covered in a mess of spilled sauces and drinks, her face flushed with embarrassment.
Jack looked down, equally surprised, his shirt soaked and stained. He quickly tried to process what had just happened, but seeing the look of horror on Lucy's face snapped him into action.
"Lucy, are you all right?" he asked gently, reaching out instinctively to help her.
Lucy's eyes widened as she recognized him, her face going from shock to an embarrassed panic. "I… I'm so sorry!" she stammered, looking down at the mess on her uniform and Jack's now-stained clothes. "I wasn't paying attention… I didn't mean to…"
The other waitress, who was trying to wipe food off herself, let out an exasperated sigh, muttering, "This is a disaster. They're going to kill us in the kitchen."
Jack shook his head, smiling slightly despite the mess. "It's just an accident. No harm done." He gestured to the waitresses to calm down. "Let's clean this up together, no worries."
Lucy looked at him, surprised by his calm reaction. "I—I didn't realize it was you, Jack," she whispered, still flustered. "Of all people to bump into…"
Jack nodded, his voice gentle. "Happens to the best of us. Let's not worry about it."
As Thomas watched, a small smile tugged at his lips. "Jack, maybe your gym plans can wait. Looks like you've got a different kind of workout here."
Jack chuckled. "Guess so," he said, rolling up his sleeves. He turned back to Lucy. "Come on, let's get this cleaned up before your manager notices."
Lucy looked up, a grateful, slightly relieved smile breaking through her embarrassment. As they crouched down to pick up the trays and dishes, Jack noticed how her hands trembled slightly. It had been a long time since they'd last seen each other, but here they were, back in the middle of a situation they'd least expected.
Jack shook his head, a faint, bittersweet smile playing on his lips as he looked at Lucy, now standing before him, covered in spilled drinks and food. How time had turned the tables. Back in Racoon, he'd been the one in that position—a waiter constantly mocked, nicknamed Hood Rat for being poor, and relentlessly taunted for it. Lucy had been the last straw back then; she'd broken up with him, not wanting to be associated with a "nobody." And now, here she was, the one holding the tray.
He sighed, his voice low. "How time flies, doesn't it?"
Lucy froze, her cheeks flushing as she met his gaze, reading the hint of sadness in his eyes. She swallowed, her voice a little shaky. "I… I didn't expect to see you here, Jack."
Jack raised an eyebrow, his tone calm but a little pointed. "Yeah, I guess neither of us expected this."
She bit her lip, fidgeting with a napkin as she tried to brush the sauce off her uniform. "I… I'm sorry," she stammered. "I didn't mean… it wasn't supposed to be like this."
"Like what?" Jack's voice was gentle, but his eyes held a sharp edge. "With you as the waitress and me… as the customer?"
Lucy looked down, her face filled with regret. "It's just… I thought back then…" Her voice trailed off, and she didn't know how to finish. "Back then, I thought… we'd both just… well…"
"Stay down?" Jack finished for her, his tone not unkind, but there was a truth she couldn't ignore. "It's okay, Lucy. You don't have to explain. I get it. Things change, right?"
She glanced up, seeing the man he'd become, confident, composed, with no trace of the struggling boy she'd once known. Her voice was soft, almost pleading. "Jack, I'm… sorry. For everything. The way I treated you…"
Jack held her gaze for a moment before giving her a small nod. "It's all right, Lucy. We both made our choices." He reached over, grabbing some napkins to help her with the spilled drinks. "Let's just clean this up."
She looked at him, her eyes filled with a mix of gratitude and regret. "Thank you," she whispered, her voice barely audible.
Thomas watched the exchange with interest, sensing the history between them but choosing to stay silent. Jack's silence spoke louder than any words. He had grown beyond the past, above all the taunts, the mockery, and the hurt.
As they wiped down the table, Jack glanced at Lucy, his voice soft. "Things may not have gone as expected, but maybe this is how it was meant to be. Take care of yourself, Lucy."
Lucy nodded, watching him, realizing that Jack was truly gone from her life, and perhaps he always had been.
'' You don't have to pay for all this, I will cover the cost Jack, Lucy whispered feeling she owed Jack for all she did, shaking his head in disagreement, '' You don't have to, I can cover it all, it was my fault. I guess you have to bring another set of meals and drinks, he said. It was like a command. Lucy had no choice but to do as she was told.
Normally Thomas keeps some extra shirts and jeans in his car, he quickly rushed to the car to get a plain blue T-shirt for Jack. Jack changed his shirt right there, and most of the ladies stared at his body in amazement. He had the type of body that looked thin in close but when bare his chest was a six-pack, with well-toned muscles that any woman would drool over just to have a feel of it. After wearing the T-shirt Jack sat down waiting for his meal
Soon Lucas walked into The Dome and joined Jack.
Have a sit, you must be hungry Jack said, Lucas sat down beside Thomas.
'' Thomas this is Lucas, a loyal friend of my late Mum, he pointed at Lucas, and Thomas shook hands with Lucas.
Soon the reordered drinks and food were delivered but this time with utmost care.
As Lucy placed the last plate of soup on the table she was surprised when her gaze fell on Lucas. Lucas owned The Drome, what was her Boss doing sitting with Jack?
'' Hello Boss, Lucy greeted Lucas, who was staring at her, Jack was also surprised that Lucas owned The Drome or maybe he didn't understand what Lucy meant so he asked, '' Lucas you own this place? Lucas quickly replied nodding his head. ''Yes Young Master Jack, I have about twenty branches here in the city but overall I have sixty branches in all of Q Country. Acknowledging the fact, that Jack wasn't ready for people to know his true identity.
'' Lucas that's impressive, can we work together, I would love you to subsidize some to me. Lucas was shocked but he kindly refused; ''Young Master, all the chains of The Dome belong to your Mum. Jack shook his head in confusion, '' I don't mean what you give to her, as your benefactor Lucas, I mean I want to do business with you.''
Lucas was sweating thinking maybe Jack was testing his loyalty because, in actual sense, Jack's Mum had founded The Dome. Lucas was only put there by her to manage all the branches unfortunately she disappeared and most people thought that The Dome belonged to Lucas. He decided to explain to Jack properly.
'' Young Master Jack, let me explain better to you. After your Mum rescued me, she established The Dome restaurant, she only gave me the power and authority to manage it, in other words, The Dome and all its branches belong to your Mum and not me so my point is The Dome does belong to you.