James gave a nod and a curt, “Hi, Mr. Niki.”
“<b>Hello</b><b>,</b><b>” </b>Mirabe greeted, her voice carrying the cadence of politeness.
With a nod and a brief smile, Niki took a few steps inside before pointing to Owen and Johnny, who were lounging on the couch <b>and </b>introduced them, “James, meet Owen. And that’s his aide, Johnny.”
Turning to Owen and Johnny, he continued, “Guys, this is James. And you know Mirabe so no need for formalities there.”
Owen, who had been undergoing some restorative care over the past few days, looked less pallid than before. His once gaunt cheeks now had a <b>hint </b>of fullness to them. Though still lean, hismanding presence was unmistakable–like that of a seasoned politician.
He rose to his feet and approached James with an easy stride, hand outstretched, and a weing smile on his face. “James, pleasure <b>to </b>meet you.”
James, with sharp and discerning eyes reminiscent of a hawk, gave Owen a cursory nce. His chiseled features remained impassive as he merely nodded in acknowledgment, opting not <b>to </b>shake hands<b>. </b>
Owen, undeterred by theck of physical greeting, casually lowered his hand and turned to Mirabe<b>, </b>his voice tempered with warmth, “Ms. Mirabe<b>.” </b>
Mirabe had a fairly good impression of Owen, mostly because he was known <b>for </b>settling his dues without fuss. After a brief appraisal, she remarked, “Mr. Owen, you seem to be on the mend quite nicely.” Her tone was informal, hinting <b>at </b><b>a </bfortable rapport. James‘ eyes flickered with a hint of interest. “Thanks <b>in </b>part to you,” Owen replied with a chuckle.
Despite his recent illness and the slight pallor that clung to his features, Owen’s good looks andposure<b>, </b>coupled with his affable demeanor, could easily give off aid–back vibe were it not <b>for </b>the business at hand.
Mirabe nodded nonchntly and casually waved her hand. “No big deal.”
Yet, considering today’s unexpected reunion, she quickly added after a brief pause, “<b>I’ll </b>check your pulseter<b>, </b>just <b>to </b>be sure.”
Before Owen could agree, Johnny, who had been edgy the whole time, interjected with panicked urgency, “Ah… no need to trouble yourself, Ms. Mirabe! I reckon Mr. Owen’s all better now. Really, it’s not necessary!”
Owen looked puzzled. Johnny turned to him, his expression stern. “Sir, you must trust Ms. Mirabe’s expertise. She did say if you followed her prescription to the letter, <b>you’d </b>be in the clear!”
A single check–up costing a seven–figure sum could drain even a substantial fortune!
Owen pressed his fingers to his temple and murmured, “Would you just zip <b>it</b><b>?</b><b>” </b>
Johnny slunk away to the side, his lips sealed. No more objections.
Clearing his throat, Owen turned back to Mirabe. “…I apologize for the spectacle.” Mirabe’s eyebrows arched as she simply remarked, “Understandable. You’ve learned your lesson and don’t want to waste money unnecessarily.”
Johnny inwardly winced. Thanks for the backhandedpliment!
2018 2
Before long, Niki beckoned everyone to take their seats. The meal had been pre–arranged, and Niki signaled Asher to inform the club’s staff that they were ready to proceed with dinner. Asher excused himself <b>to </b>convey the message.
Mirabe sat next to James, typically quiet, mostly listening to Niki and Owen chat. She rarely spoke unless Niki engaged her in conversation, to which she would briefly respond. She kept a low profile.
As the dinner conversation meandered, Johnny suddenly remembered someone missing<b>, </b>“Isn’t Dane around today?” He looked at Niki, curious.