Saving the Villain

According to Conrad, he asked his people to make a thorough investigation regarding this crime organization Cosette mentioned the other night. And as usual, he found out about their small and big illegal dealings, although currently, they had been lying low because of the strict governance of the country. Hence, their business was mostly small time.

It was strange for a big organization to stay in small dealings, but not strange enough when you get a closer look. The business wasn't their real objective.

Conrad assumed it was someone, and that someone was Maxen.

The investigation amplified Conrad's suspicion because what the reports returned to him was someone tailing Cosette, Maxen, and even Luke. Although they hadn't touched those three yet, Conrad already made a move to warn those people.

"What…" Maxen clenched his hand, watching the chaos unfolding from the front passenger seat. Despite the distance of the car and the situation, he could hear the shouts and cries and counted the shots fired.

Maxen had witnessed a gang fight and even someone getting stabbed to death. However, he has never seen a raid before and how chaotic it was. His hand trembled as he unknowingly held his breath, unable to believe this was Conrad's retaliation; it was actually not retaliation, but just a warning.

He turned to Conrad, only to see the latter watch everything unfold with a poker face. Conrad's elbow was propped against the windowsill, his jaw resting on his knuckles. His other hand was holding the steering wheel, tapping his fingers against it nonchalantly.

"That club…" Maxen trailed off when Conrad snapped his eyes ever so tenderly.

"It's a front to their business," explained Conrad, setting his gaze back on the people the police were dragging outside the establishment. "Drugs and escort services. It's a small deal, considering it's an international crime organization."

Maxen's lips opened and closed. "Is it worth it?"

"Hm?"

"They're criminals." Maxen's voice was shaky, knowing how dangerous and rash Conrad's actions were. "They are people who always get even. I'm sure they will take revenge for this."

"So?"

Maxen's face slightly contorted, his neck turning taut. "So? You don't have to go through such length for me…" he trailed off when Conrad suddenly stretched his arm to him and planted his hand on his head.

"Is it worth it?" Conrad chuckled and smirked, ruffling Maxen's hair. "Of course. Everything is worth it for my family."

Maxen nearly choked, hearing Conrad's remarks. He slowly raised his eyes, only to see the subtle yet reassuring smile on the latter's face.

"They'd know it was my doing." Conrad retracted his hand from Maxen's head and leaned back. "I made sure they would. Once they hear it was me, they won't do anything rash."

"How come?"

Conrad smirked as his eyes flickered with pride. "Because it's me. Conrad Blac."

"Oh…" Maxen could only rock his head in understanding while staring at Conrad. It was almost one year since Maxen met Conrad for the first time, and all this time, he had always believed Conrad was a simple man.

Conrad was wise and rational. He never boasts and had always focused on his own business. However, tonight was the first time Maxen saw the arrogance in Conrad with that last remark. Not just arrogance, but also confidence and pride.

Conrad Blac.

Just what was the depth of that name's power and just how influential it was? Right now, Maxen had no idea. But considering Conrad could act so nonchalant with Maynard Quinn, Maxen realized there were more things he didn't know in the adult world.

"Maxen." Maxen snapped back to reality when Conrad spoke again. "If you want to fight them, I can't give you the power to kill them. What I can give you is the power to have control over your life, to have your opinion heard, and to have the liberty to decide for yourself."

Conrad stared at Maxen solemnly. "You might not carry my name, but I consider you as a Blac. Cosette sees you as one. It's for you to decide whether or not you want to live as a Blac."

Maxen held his breath, unable to look away from him. All the words that Conrad spewed just now brought relief and pressure to him at the same time. But for sure, it was motivating and encouraging. After all, Conrad was basically telling Maxen that he would give him wings to fly and be someone who could be capable of protecting Cosette and himself.

Conrad might be doing this because he didn't want Cosette to do it and put herself in danger. Maxen didn't mind, though; the feeling was mutual.

"I'd do anything, sir." Maxen cleared his throat as a glint of determination shone in his eyes.

Conrad smirked. "Start by calling me… uncle."

"Yes, sir… uncle." Maxen covered his lips with the back of his fist, biting his tongue as he felt slightly embarrassed.

"You'll get used to it." Conrad stretched his neck to check the occurrence outside. "Cosette and I will visit the elder's vacation home this weekend. As much as I would like to take you with us, it'll be best if you use it to spend time with Warren."

"Your assistant?"

"Mhm. I already told him about my plans. Cosette's grandparents were a little strict, but I'll arrange a meeting with all of us next time." Conrad cast him a look.

"It's fine. I understand."

Conrad rocked his head in understanding. "They're done. It's just a clean-up now."

With that being said, Conrad started the engine again and slowly drove away. As he did, Maxen stared at the chaotic street that had slightly quieted down. A deep exhale slipped past Maxen's nostrils, keeping his eyes on the side mirror as they drove away from the scene.

A power to have control over his life… those were Conrad's words, and they were just the words Maxen had sought to have. After all, the people who were claiming to be his family weren't there all his life, only to reappear in front of him and take ownership of his life.

"I will never… give them the chance to have power over me again," he whispered, keeping his eyes on the side mirror.

No matter how quiet Maxen said those words, Conrad heard him loud and clear. He glanced at Maxen and smirked in satisfaction, driving back home after a fruitful field trip.