Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren) novel Chapter 1824

Calvin said, patting Terry back with a smug grin. "Don't worry. I've already pulled some strings for you. No matter how you perform, you're getting in as one of Mr. Thornton's inner disciples. You're set for life, kid!"

Terry looked to be in his early 20s, full of arrogant energy. His hair was dyed a loud cherry red, he had a nose ring, and his whole vibe screamed street punk.

He snapped, "I've told you like 50 times already. Stop patting my head in public! Why the hell can't you get it through your thick skull? Hands off. It's my time to shine!"

He strutted into the center of the hall, chest puffed up, and took the spot right next to Zachary. Then, he shot Zachary a sideways glance, filled with disdain and contempt.

Calvin beamed with proud satisfaction, saying to those around him. "Terry is definitely going to blow everyone away today!"

Someone sneered coldly. "Mr. Peck Senior, everyone knows exactly what Terry is capable of. Coming here to participate in the selection today is just asking to be laughed at."

Another person mocked, "Mr. Peck Senior, you barely made it to Goldridge alive, nearly kicked the bucket yourself! And your little brat? If he actually becomes one of Mr. Thornton's inner disciples, I'll live-stream myself eating dog poop!"

Calvin's face turned red with rage. "What the hell did you just say? What's wrong with Terry? You think he's worse than yours? Screw it, I'll say it loud and proud: I've paid my way through the back door at headquarters! Even if he doesn't score well, I've got enough cash to buy his way into the inner circle!"

That shut up the hecklers quickly, their faces stiffening with frustration. Everyone knew Terry was a spoiled rich kid from Goldridge who did nothing but party and stir up trouble. However, the Peck family had deep pockets and solid connections, so getting an inner disciple position for their son was actually quite possible.

Someone could not help but sneer, "Mr. Peck Senior, you're only tough when you're showing off outside! Who doesn't know your real status? If it weren't for Victoria holding up your reputation, you and this bastard son of yours would be worth nothing. You'd only be fit to beg in Goldridge!"

Calvin grinned, completely unfazed. "I love people like you. You're jealous but powerless to do anything about it. Victoria's a badass, and I'm riding her coattails. Deal with it! What are you going to do about it? Bite me? I'm just lucky, and it's eating you all up inside!"

Behind them, Andrew sighed and rubbed his forehead. Calvin was the so-called head of the Peck family, yet he had absolutely no shame, dragging that embarrassment all the way to Goldridge.

Victoria might be impressive, but what did that have to do with Calvin? He was just basking in someone else's glory like it was his own.

Andrew wondered if Victoria even knew Calvin had a mistress and a secret son tucked away here in the city. Then again, it was their family business. He decided it was not his place to get involved.

There were only five open slots for Jerome's inner disciples.

The selection was simple: over 30 participants would battle each other in matches. The first round would weed out the weak links.

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