The Ex-Con Who Conquered the World novel Chapter 139

Chapter 139 The Gatecrasher

Stefan checked the request-Gavin Curtis.

He smiled. In high school, Gavin had been his best friend.

After college, Gavin moved to Vantoth with his girlfriend and rarely came back to River City Before Stefan went to prison, they’d barely seen each other.

But the bond they’d forged in high school? That never changed.

Stefan hit accept. Before he could type a message, a voice call came through.

He picked up, grinning. “Gavin.”

Gavin complained, “Stefan, where the hell have you been? I tried your old number, your old WhatsApp- nothing. I was this close to filing a missing person report. I thought you’d been trafficked.”

Stefan said, “Didn’t go missing. Just… some stuff happened. How’s Vantoth treating you?”

Gavin said. “I left Vantoth a year ago. Moved back to River City. Tried reaching you, but no luck. When I saw you added to the group tonight, I sent the request immediately.”

Stefan smiled, “You’re back in River City? So am I.”

The last three years, he’d been in Dragon-Suppressing Prison. No wonder Gavin couldn’t reach him. After getting out, he’d changed his number and abandoned his old accounts.

Gavin said, “Enough said. We’re meeting up tonight. I’ll find a spot and send you the location.”

Stefan agreed, “Sure. Sounds good.”

He didn’t have many friends. Three years in prison had cut most ties. Hearing his high school buddy was back in town-that was good news.

Nina and Megan were still waiting nearby.

Stefan walked over. “Nina, you two go ahead. An old high school friend just reached out. I’m going to meet him.”

*****

Juno Club was basically a high-end club lounge-famous in River City. Not for the decor or facilities. though those were nice. What really put it on the map?

The girls. They excelled in three things-looks, service and skills.

A taxi pulled up. Stefan got out, lit a cigarette, and glanced up at the glowing sign.

His voice had gone cold.

He’d sensed the tail almost immediately. The guy was good-most people wouldn’t have noticed. But Stefan wasn’t most people.

That was why he’d lingered outside, giving his tail time to settle. Pretended to go in, then doubled back.

The man’s composure broke. Denial was useless now. Stefan’s presence loomed over him like a gathering storm.

Instinct kicked in. This wasn’t someone he lied to.

He took a deep breath. Honesty was his only way out.

“My name’s Eric Huxley. I’m a private investigator.”

“Private investigator?”

Stefan blinked. He’d considered several possibilities. Thayash one of them.

“Yes.” Eric nodded. “Someone hired me to track your movements. But I swear-no ill intent.”