AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“I’ve done a fair amount of research, and I have to say I’m duly impressed. As they say, you both started with ‘nothing but a dream.’” He smiled at his lame-ass joke, but Samson and Nick stayed quiet. “I know it couldn’t have been easy for people with your background to have made it, but you conquered all odds.”
Samson worked his jaw at the back-handed compliment, but he figured he’d let this asshole dig his hole a little deeper.
“What you have is unique, and I’m intrigued and hoping you’ll let me in on your secret to success.”
“I don’t know what you mean.” Nick flipped the pack of cigs on the coffee table.
“Your first club, the Oasis, was less than stellar, but again you beat the odds and managed to make a profit—enough to open another club in Manhattan. You have a parade of celebrities, politicians, and socialites on your guest lists, along with the hordes of everyday people more than willing to wait in block-long lines. Most nights, you’re turning people away. It all intrigues me. You’ve certainly had no connection to the upper echelon, so how have you enticed them to come into your clubs?”
Samson had to admit, that was a good question. They’d been so busy grinding out the day-to-day, he’d never considered how they’d done it.
“It’s 'cause we keep it real,” Nick said. “Most people respect that and want to be around it. And because of that, we know what the customer wants before they do.” A smirk crossed Nick’s lips. “I’d bet you’ve never waited in line for anything in your life. People look at you and see privilege, but people look at us and see the real deal. They know we get it, and we get them to come to our club because we do. Most celebrities and politicians were nobodies at one time, so we’re all the same in the end and want to feel unique and special. Our attention to detail fills that need.”
“Impressive. Very impressive.”
“So far, you’ve just told us what we already know,” Samson said.
“I can see you’re not easily swayed.” Monroe directed his comment to Samson. “You also have a savvy business sense.” Monroe spread his arms wide. “I just want you to know I’ve done my homework on both of you.”
Yeah, that fuckin’ sentence spoke volumes.
“I know about your mob connections in New York, but I’m unfazed because, honestly, how else could people like you achieve greatness?”
Samson shifted in his chair as he shot a look at Nick. “That’s the second time you’ve used that phrase, ‘people like us.’”
“I mean no disrespect. I’m only speaking the truth. Both of you were street punks.” Monroe motioned to Nick. “You had an abusive father who beat you and your mother.” He shifted his gaze to Samson, “And you never knew your father and were bounced around from one foster home to another because your mother was a junkie.”
These startling truths silenced both Nick and him. Nothing like having the shitty past thrown in their face. They kept silent because one thing about a shitty history, it taught you the rules of the street: never show emotion, and whoever talks first loses.
“Now that we know where we all stand, I say it’s time to talk business,” Alex said. “There are many different directions we can take this club. Statewide, nationwide, or even globally. As I’m sure you’re aware, I represent clubs and their affiliates worldwide with impressive numbers.”
“That’s what we’re here to find out.” Samson had enough dancing around the subject. He wanted to hear the bottom line, and he wanted it now.
“Wonderful, then we can be on our way to making Club Wicked known all over the country. I’m seeing clubs opening in the major cities, Chicago, LA, South Beach, then worldwide.” Alex swiped at his phone, then turned the screen to Nick and Samson. “This weekend in LA, I’ll be awarded Businessman of the Year. The governor of California will present the award, and of course, there was a sizable check, which I’ll donate to the governor’s favorite charity.”
Samson didn’t know what the fuck this had to do with the nightclub business, but he’d play along.
“I mention this award because its positive publicity drives stocks higher, which increases profits. So many times, business is about everything but business. It’s about public relations and branding, which is what Nightlife Magic offers.”
“We’ve done our homework, too, and we know your stats.” Apparently, Alex Monroe’s father came to California and opened a talent agency, which Alex expanded on and formed Nightlife Magic.
“Then you know I’m all about the bottom line.”
Nick and Samson exchanged a look. “We’re ready to take the next step.”
“I’m thrilled to hear you say that. I’m willing to offer you . . . seven million.”
Monroe opened his Gucci briefcase and pulled out a sheave of papers. “These will explain the legal jargon, and after you have your lawyers go over them, we can get them signed and move forward.”
Nick furrowed his brow. “To open another club?”
“No, to own Wicked and add it to my brand. I want you both to work for me.”
“What the fuck are you talkin’ about?” Samson leaned forward in the chair, his fuse already lit. “Work for you?”
“You have a first-class following, combined with my know-how and funds, will make Wicked a premiere property investment with Nightlife Magic group. You’d be managing executives.” Monroe nodded to his son. “You’d report directly to Edward, the VP Director of Operations.”
“Not fuckin’ happening.” Samson sprang from his chair.
