Chapter 557


    James gave a nod and a curt, “Hi, Mr. Niki.”


    “Hello,” Mirabe greeted, her voice carrying the cadence of politeness.


    With a nod and a brief smile, Niki took a few steps inside before pointing to Owen and Johnny, who


    were lounging on the couch and introduced them, “James, meet Owen. And that’s his aide, Johnny.”


    Turning to Owen and Johnny, he continued, “Guys, this is James. And you know Mirabe so no need


    for formalities there.”


    Owen, who had been undergoing some restorative care over the past few days, looked less pallid than


    before. His once gaunt cheeks now had a hint of fullness to them. Though still lean, hismanding


    presence was unmistakable–like that of a seasoned politician.


    He rose to his feet and approached James with an easy stride, hand outstretched, and a weing


    smile on his face. “James, pleasure to meet you.”


    James, with sharp and discerning eyes reminiscent of a hawk, gave Owen a cursory nce. His


    chiseled features remained impassive as he merely nodded in acknowledgment, opting not to shake


    hands.


    Owen, undeterred by theck of physical greeting, casually lowered his hand and turned to Mirabe,


    his voice tempered with warmth, “Ms. Mirabe.”


    Mirabe had a fairly good impression of Owen, mostly because he was known for settling his dues


    without fuss. After a brief appraisal, she remarked, “Mr. Owen, you seem to be on the mend quite


    nicely.” Her tone was informal, hinting at afortable rapport. James‘ eyes flickered with a hint of


    interest. “Thanks in part to you,” Owen replied with a chuckle.


    Despite his recent illness and the slight pallor that clung to his features, Owen’s good looks and


    composure, coupled with his affable demeanor, could easily give off aid–back vibe were it not for the


    business at hand.


    Mirabe nodded nonchntly and casually waved her hand. “No big deal.”


    Yet, considering today’s unexpected reunion, she quickly added after a brief pause, “I’ll check your


    pulseter, just to be sure.”


    Before Owen could agree, Johnny, who had been edgy the whole time, interjected with panicked


    urgency, “Ah… no need to trouble yourself, Ms. Mirabe! I reckon Mr. Owen’s all better now. Really,


    it’s not necessary!”


    Owen looked puzzled. Johnny turned to him, his expression stern. “Sir, you must trust Ms. Mirabe’s


    expertise. She did say if you followed her prescription to the letter, you’d be in the clear!”


    A single check–up costing a seven–figure sum could drain even a substantial fortune!


    Owen pressed his fingers to his temple and murmured, “Would you just zip it?”


    Johnny slunk away to the side, his lips sealed. No more objections.


    Clearing his throat, Owen turned back to Mirabe. “…I apologize for the spectacle.” Mirabe’s


    eyebrows arched as she simply remarked, “Understandable. You’ve learned your lesson and don’t


    want to waste money unnecessarily.”


    Johnny inwardly winced. Thanks for the backhandedpliment!


    2018 2N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Before long, Niki beckoned everyone to take their seats. The meal had been pre–arranged, and


    Niki signaled Asher to inform the club’s staff that they were ready to proceed with dinner. Asher


    excused himself to convey the message.


    Mirabe sat next to James, typically quiet, mostly listening to Niki and Owen chat. She rarely spoke


    unless Niki engaged her in conversation, to which she would briefly respond. She kept a low profile.


    As the dinner conversation meandered, Johnny suddenly remembered someone missing, “Isn’t Dane


    around today?” He looked at Niki, curious.