Anthony looked at them and spoke softly. “Awakened Alliance!”
“Awakened Alliance?” Upon hearing these words, Miguel furrowed his brows. “Does this name hold any significance?”
Anthony took a deep breath, “There's no particular reason. It just feels right!”
“Nice name!” Benjamin commented, expressing affirmation.
Anthony looked at him, a slight smile playing at the corners of his mouth.
“I think it's pretty good too. It sounds righteous!” Denise voiced her approval too.
Thalia, who had been listening quietly, murmured, “You guys not only share the same womb but the same taste, too!”
“Do you think it's not a good name?” asked Denise.
Thalia raised an eyebrow, “Not at all. I'm just expressing approval of your taste.”
Everyone present found no words to reply to that.
Anthony's gaze landed on Magus as he said, “Magus, you are the first person to join the Awakened Alliance. Welcome aboard!”
Magus looked at him, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. “Thank you. I will certainly do my best!”
Looking at his utterly indifferent expression, Anthony narrowed his eyes slightly. “Aren't you curious? You're the only member. Aren't you worried that I might swindle you or something?”
To everyone's surprise, Magus replied, “What do I have left to be swindled? Money? People who are dear to me? I've lost everything. There's nothing left for me to lose.”
Hearing his dejected remark, Anthony looked at him and said, “Who says so? Don't forget that your disguising skills are unparalleled. I've never seen anyone better than you in disguise.”
“I asked you before getting on the helicopter whether you wanted to learn my skills or something else. I was fine with either, but you didn't choose that,” said Magus.
“Not everyone can master that,” said Anthony, shaking his head. “I'm not patient enough for that.”
“So, what else is there to worry about?” Magus asked, “Although I don't know who you really are or what you want to do, I can glean some information from your conversations. Being chosen as the first member is already a great honor. I don't have anything else to complain about. All I know is that you've helped me. As long as you keep your promise, I will help you unconditionally.”
Anthony looked at him, a faint smile playing on his lips. “I knew that you're a sensible person. Rest assured, I won't go back on my words. I can't do such things either, so you can be at ease. Plus, I'm not letting you join without conditions. As for what I'll offer you, I'll discuss the details with you when the time comes. I absolutely won't shortchange you.”
Magus pursed his lips, remaining silent.
Although he didn't particularly care about the benefits he would get, he wouldn't refuse what was rightfully his. After all, he still had loved ones to take care of.
Sensing his silence, the woman in his arms chimed in, “We are all very grateful for your help.” As she spoke, she glanced at Magus. “I would be content enough as long as he can get back on his feet. Money and such things are not important to us, so, it doesn't really matter.”
Fixing his gaze on Magus, Anthony responded, “You guys are loyal and righteous, and I know I was right about you. But please accept the compensation. After all, he has a family to take care of. What I offer him is what he deserves.”
Just as Lina was about to say something, Thalia interjected, “Exactly. You don't have to save money for him. He has nothing but wealth, so feel free to take as much as you can from him!”
Anthony raged, “Thalia!”
“What? Did I say something wrong?” Thalia retorted.
Pursing his lips, Anthony fell silent and didn't deny it, his face filled with annoyance.
Thalia looked at him mockingly. “People always say that the richer one gets, the stingier they become. I finally understand what that means. Anthony Watson, I see Kenneth in you.”
Anthony frowned. “What are you talking about? Is my dad stingy?”
“Well, he's definitely not generous at all.”
“That's prejudice.”
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Adorable Kids Asking for Bear Hug