The Double or more Life of the Fake Heiress (Mirabella) novel Chapter 574

Brenton felt a chill run down his spine, a primal sense of fear creeping in. He offered a sheepish grin, not daring to show any anger towards the notorious enforcer known as the "Butcher of Brooklyn."

Rooted to the spot, Brenton chose not to advance but instead gazed towards James from afar, his expression tinged with reverence, "James, now that you're here, how about we head to my place for a cup of joe?"

He had wanted to chat with James ever since he had paid his respects at the Bishop family estate. But, wrapped up in other affairs at the time, he missed the chance. Today, when his men told him James had dropped by Toby's joint, Brenton simply couldn't stay put.

Despite discovering his late father had secretly fathered an illegitimate son for decades—a son who didn't seem to amount to much—Brenton found it fascinating that this half-brother was somehow mixed up with the scion of the Shepherd clan.

After all, the Bishops were in disarray, particularly within the underground syndicates where sharks circled for a bite. In such times, Brenton knew better than to ignore even the slightest rustle in the wind.

James glanced at Brenton impassively, his piercing eyes and frosty demeanor exuding an intimidating chill that made people avert their gaze.

Brenton clenched his fist, then turned to look at his own crew. Despite their tough exteriors, none seemed to hold a candle to Curtis.

Toby's eyes were downcast as he poured another cup of coffee for James. Then he strolled over to Brenton, his half-brother Emmitt, and coolly said, "Given that I'm entertaining a distinguished guest, I'll let it slide. Take a hike, Brenton."

Brenton snorted as if he'd just heard the year's funniest joke. "You? Holding a grudge against me? Who do you think you are, chopped liver?"

"Where does a bastard get off feeling so high and mighty?" Brenton scoffed.

Toby's hand, hanging by his side, clenched briefly, a flicker of disgust crossing his face before vanishing just as quickly.