Page 135 of Cruel Devotion

“However, I'm not sure if you should be a Friend of the Four Aces either.” Hu quickly raised one hand. “And that is not my vote, I'm still thinking.”

Duck sighed. “Think quickly and figure it out.”

Hu's gaze remained fixed on Monique. “I'm going to give you a hypothetical situation, Monique.”

What?

Duck glanced at me. “Can he do that?”

I nodded. “Do the hypothetical, Hu, but like Duck said. . .get on with it.”

Hu gazed at Monique. “Consider it a test, if you will, to gauge your readiness for any position within the Four Aces, be it aFriendorMountain Mistress.”

Monique nodded. “I'm listening.”

Hu leaned forward slightly. “Imagine there's a significant tension between Rowe Street Mob and us, the Four Aces. Given your unique position and perspective, how would you approach smoothing relations between both groups? What steps would you take to ensure peace and mutual benefit?”

I shook my head. “That's unfair. This is a situation that would require a lot of thought and—”

“I can answer it, Lei. I've already been considering this.” Monique raised her index cards, shuffled through a few, and then stopped at one.

We waited as she glanced over her notes.

Well. . .she's really been doing her homework this whole time.

Most women would have simply enjoyed the luxury of the tent—lobster and expensive chocolates, jewelry and whatever else she required.

Monique put the cards back at her side. “First, I think that understanding therootcause of the tension is essential. Is it a matter of territory, respect, or perhaps a miscommunication?”

Not bad.

“Once I identified that, I would arrange a meeting with key figures from both sides, in aneutrallocation, to encourage an environment of open dialogue.”

Duck smiled.

Chen whispered to me. “She could be Mountain Mistress.”

I shifted my weight to my other foot.

She paused as if considering her next words carefully. “During the discussion, I would emphasize shared interests and the potential for mutual gain. I've seen in Four Aces' history that it's important to not only acknowledge past grievances but to focus on moving forward.”

Hu nodded, listening intently.

“Furthermore,” Monique checked her notes, “I would propose a joint venture or project that benefits both parties, something that requires cooperation and builds trust.”

Hu's expression softened.

“And finally,” Monique concluded, “I would monitor the new project and maintain regular communication, making sure everyone is at ease.”

Good job.

It was as if she’d been my father’s helper long ago, assisting him with writing the rules.

Hu nodded again, this time with a hint of respect in his eyes. “That's a solid approach.”

He turned towards me and the rest of the council. “Based on this, she has my vote, not just for the title ofFriend of the Four Acesbut for her potential to be much more in thefarfuture.”

A wave of relief washed over me.

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