"Furthermore, the formation of this new gang is a direct result of the hard work and commitment from Cassius and you. So, it's not the right moment to start taking orders from Miss Jeanne. Even if I recognize her authority later and she brings her Jeanne Gang into our fold, your positions will remain unchanged. When that time arrives, I'll exit the underworld, and both of you will retain your influential second-in-command positions."
Kingsley's words not only recognized Kenny and Cassius' contributions but also set the stage for handing power over to Victoria in the future.
Kenny concealed his overwhelming joy upon hearing this, making sure not to reveal it in Baron's presence. He understood that even if Victoria assumed leadership from Kingsley, it would be more of a symbolic role, much like Kingsley's. Besides, all the elders in the gang were loyal to Cassius and himself, while new recruits followed their lead. This meant that the leadership power would remain firmly in their hands, even with a new leader.
Moreover, Kenny had never entertained the idea of overthrowing Victoria. His concern was that as the gang continued to grow, Kingsley might replace him with Victoria. This would have felt unjust, considering the immense effort he had invested. However, with Kingsley's reassuring words, those worries dissipated, cementing Kenny's trust and commitment to Kingsley.
On the other hand, Baron envied Kenny's second-in-command position and admired Kingsley's sincerity and care for his comrades. Hence, he gathered his courage and said, "Boss Nicholson, um... there's something I'd like to discuss with you. I'd like to invite you for a meal when you're free."
He couldn't openly reveal his interest in joining their new gang with Kenny present. Baron planned to discuss it with Kingsley privately, hoping for a position on par with Kenny and Cassius. Even if it's just the third-in-command, he'd accept it. He was confident that his Black Fist Gang's strength could surpass Kenny and Cassius, allowing him to become the leader of the new gang.
Kingsley raised an eyebrow and asked, "Do you need something from me?" He had a hunch about Baron's intentions and was already aware of his ambition. Also, he knew that allowing the Black Fist Gang into their new gang would trigger power struggles. Since their new gang had yet to be established, internal conflicts at this stage could lead to its rapid downfall. Additionally, he aimed to secure a stable role for Victoria in the underworld, making him hesitant to proceed down this path.
When he noticed Baron nod eagerly, Kingsley smirked and said, "Mr. Howe, for now, your priority should be Wendell's recovery. I've got a lot on my plate at the moment, so I can't make time for a meal right now. Let's have a big celebration once the new gang has been established and Wendell has healed."
When Baron heard Kingsley's somewhat ambiguous response, he hesitated momentarily. However, he didn't press further. He nodded and said, "Certainly, Boss Nicholson. I'll wait until you have the time and then extend my invitation."
After a few parting words with Baron and reminding him to care for Wendell, Kingsley and Kenny headed to the Ramada Hotel together.
Presently, the fifth to tenth floors of the hotel had been converted into the new gang members' base. To avoid any inconvenience to other hotel guests, gang members must use a separate entrance and take a dedicated elevator to access these floors. The regular guest elevators no longer stop between the fifth and tenth floors. This arrangement not only ensured the hotel's smooth operation but also provided the gang members a place for gathering.
As soon as Kingsley and Kenny entered the Ramada Hotel's side door, James greeted them, "Mr. Nicholson, you're here."
Kingsley smiled and looked at him, asking, "Mr. Turner, I assume you've been busy with our members settling in recently?"
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