Korbin held a cigar between his teeth. His eyes narrowed slightly, revealing a dangerous glint as he stared coldly at Janet. "Watch your tone, little girl. I'm not making an outrageous demand here. Do you have any idea how much this building generates in profit for the Tiger Head Society?"
At these words, Nina and Janet were momentarily stunned.
They thought of the underground fighting arena on the building's third basement level. As Korbin said, the arena alone brought in a considerable monthly income for the Tiger Head Society.
Standing nearby, Stefan glanced at Korbin without showing any reaction.
He thought of his own money that had been embezzled...
However, there was an order to things. He had plenty of time and patience. He would wait for Nina to finish her business first, then step forward to collect his debt.
"Even so, Korbin, your price is truly excessive," Nina said.
Korbin laughed, "That's why we can negotiate. Please have some coffee, Ms. Reed. I sincerely want to have a proper discussion."
Nina remained unmoved. On the Tiger Head Society's turf, one could never be too cautious.
Korbin's expression turned cold, his smile vanishing as he waved a hand. "It seems you haven't come with sincerity. Then please leave. I won't see you out."
"Don't get too cocky! The Tiger Head Society's influence is nothing in the eyes of the Reed family. Do you think we won't dare to touch you?" Janet said coldly.
"Touch me? Go ahead, try it!"
Korbin stood up abruptly, an aura of menace radiating from him. "Your Reed family is certainly powerful—in Mound City!" he said coldly. "Don't forget where the hell we are right now! I've been living on the edge for decades. Do you think I scare easily?"
His underlings behind him reached inside their jackets, ready to draw their concealed weapons at his command.
Janet was furious, her eyes icy. She longed to strike, but they were on the Tiger Head Society's territory. With just her and Nina, they would likely be at a disadvantage. She had no choice but to swallow her rage.
"Either negotiate in good faith, or get lost. I'm not keeping anyone here!" Korbin said bluntly.
Nina's face turned pale with anger. As the young lady of the Reed family, when had she ever been treated like this? But thinking of the mission she bore, she could only take a deep breath and pick up the cup in front of her.
She didn't drink immediately. First, she sniffed it discreetly, while covertly dipping her index finger into the coffee. The needle hidden between her fingers showed no reaction, so she felt reassured.
Nina had been cautious enough. After confirming the coffee was safe, she took a small sip, set the cup down, and said, "Korbin, can we talk properly now?"
The underworld is treacherous. You're still rather inexperienced... Stefan thought to himself, shaking his head slightly.


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