The Charismatic Charlie Wade

In a heartbeat, Aman found himself facing a surreal encounter that sent shivers down his spine. The last thing he ever expected
was to come face to face with the infamous and sinister figure, Charlie Wade, right here in New York, inside the home of a mafia
kingpin.
Ever since Charlie had single-handedly foiled Aman’s grand scheme to win the heart of Princess Helena, he had become a
haunting specter in Aman’s life. It wasn’t just about his thwarted royal marriage plans, Charlie had even dared to humiliate Aman
personally, repeatedly, with open slaps to the face.
Though Aman had clawed his way from humble beginnings to become an oligarch who answered to no one, Charlie was the one
exception, the only man who had ever asserted dominance over him. In normal circumstances, Aman would’ve plotted his
revenge meticulously, but this time, he hesitated.
Why?
Because Charlie was no ordinary foe he had the formidable might of the Wade family behind him, wealthier and more influential
than Aman himself. However, the true reason for Aman’s pause wasn’t just the Wade family’s riches, it was the enigmatic force
known as the Dragon Temple, lurking in the shadows.
Unbeknownst to Aman, the Dragon Temple had pledged allegiance to Charlie, a fact that he remained blissfully ignorant of. He
believed that the Wade family had simply handed over half their wealth to appease and gain the Temple’s favor.
Aman’s disdain for the Wade family was akin to that of a landowner confronted by a turncoat, needing to extend politeness
despite his desire for treason and glory. Although Aman had a sense of superiority, he couldn’t underestimate the power behind
the Wade family.
Little did he know, Charlie was no ordinary visitor to New York.
On this day, as he disembarked from his plane and before he could even settle at Antonio’s residence, he stumbled upon Jagoan
once again. The resurgence of old humiliations fueled his anger and left him clenching his fists, teeth gritted in frustration.
Antonio, observing Aman’s delayed reaction, prodded, “Mr. Aman, do you... Recognize this young man?”
Jagoan watched with a curious glint in his eye, waiting for Aman’s response.
Aman paused, deliberating on two pivotal matters.

First, was Jagoan here intentionally or by sheer chance?
Second, Jagoan appeared to have just one companion and Antonio had clearly instructed his younger brother to dispose of him.
Could Aman use Antonio’s assistance to finally exact his revenge?
He knew that men like Antonio wouldn’t hesitate to kill if there were no consequences. Antonio’s unfamiliarity with Jagoan’s true
identity was evident.
Deliberately pointing at Jagoan, Aman questioned Antonio, “Do you know him?”
Antonio shook his head, “No, there was a minor altercation earlier, but nothing serious. If you do know him, Mr. Ramovich, we
can let bygones be bygones. If you have any issues, I’ll apologize on your behalf, sir.”
Antonio was also troubled, fearing that Aman and Jagoan might be connected. Convicting Aman would lead to undesirable
consequences for him, so he smartly expressed willingness to mend the situation. Aman seized on the opening.
Listening to Antonio’s response, Aman saw an opportunity. “Antonio, I’ve heard that Sicilians are known for their courage and
directness. This is a chance to see for myself. I had intended to discuss some economic collaboration with you, but it’s all in your
capable hands. If you decide that I should witness something, be it a confrontation or something else, I’ll oblige. I’m here to
learn.”
Antonio, no stranger to the art of manipulation, realized Aman’s hidden agenda. “This Russian fellow is trying to be sly. His real
intention is for me to do his dirty work. He probably believes Sicilian men aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty as they age. Well,
I’ll indulge him today. Since I don’t know this young man and Mr. Aman is our guest, I see no issue with resolving the matter
myself. Today, I’ll handle this myself to lift your spirits.”
Aman wore a satisfied grin and reassured Antonio, “As the host, you call the shots. I’m at your disposal. If you wish to show me a
confrontation, so be it. If it’s a simple spectacle you want, I’m open to that too.”
Antonio nodded, a sly smile on his face. “In that case, let’s adjourn to the wine cellar. Escort this young man and his companion
there. Today, Mr. Aman will witness how Sicilian men handle their affairs.”
Julia interjected hurriedly, “Dad, you can’t kill him!”
Antonio responded icily, “He disrespected me and brought great shame to a Sicilian man. This is an affront I cannot ignore.”

Julia blurted out her thoughts, “I accidentally hit him with my car. I owe him. This whole situation is my fault. If I hadn’t snuck out,
he wouldn’t be in this predicament. You might do as you please today, but I will never forgive myself. Nor will God.”
Antonio was momentarily taken aback, then smiled, “My dear, rest assured, Sicilian hearts are forgiving. Trouble follows those
who seek it. You needn’t worry.”
Jagoan, growing impatient with the mind games, interjected, “Antonio, was it? All this nonsense about wine cellars, can we get to
the point? Where’s this cellar you’re talking about? I’m ready to go there right now!”