Rising from the Ashes (Andrew) novel Chapter 2058

"Since you say you're not connected to Mr. Lloyd, then I'm sorry… I don't do business with you," Jack said flatly.

Eric nearly exploded. "The hell is wrong with you? Do you not know who I am? I'm Eric Humphrey! I used to run Goldridge!"

Jack sneered. "That was when Mr. Thornton was alive. Back then, sure, you had influence. But now the Southern Martial Union is under the McCormicks. The man in charge isn't Mr. Thornton anymore; it's the McCormicks. So let's be real… You're nothing but a stray dog."

Jack leaned forward, his voice dripping with contempt. "Everyone in Goldridge's upper circle knows you're trash, colluding with Henry, that power-hungry snake. I called you 'Mr. Humphrey' out of courtesy. Otherwise, I could have you thrown out in seconds."

At his cold snort, the curtain behind his sofa snapped open, and dozens of assault rifles suddenly aimed at Eric.

Eric froze, his face locked in place. Rage burned through him, mixed with humiliation so sharp it was unbearable.

Jack leaned back and opened his mouth as someone lit the cigar between his lips. He took a long drag, blowing out a thick cloud of smoke. "Eric, times have changed. Without Mr. Thornton, you're nothing. Don't come here trying to throw your weight around. You're not qualified."

Eric clenched his jaw so hard he nearly cracked his teeth. "Big Jack, do you seriously not fear death?"

Jack's cigar glowed red as he inhaled. "Go ahead, test it. Let's see if your speed is faster than my bullets. Even Henry himself couldn't make me bend the knee if I didn't want to. And you? You're just a kid. Without Mr. Thornton, you're nothing but a dreamer."

Eric sucked in a breath, then exhaled.

Again and again, until the fury drained out of him, leaving only helplessness.

Sadness replaced his rage. He had tried to act like a king, but instead, he had been humiliated. The proud return he had imagined for himself in Goldridge turned out to be a cruel joke.

Without Jerome to prop him up, the city showed its true face: dismissive and mocking.

Andrew patted his shoulder for the third time. "Don't let it get to you."

Eric shook him off, eyes teary. "Don't touch me!"

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