Chapter 44

Author POV

"Gosh! What's this?" Knoxville asked Henry, his voice laced with incredulity as he gazed at the unusual location.

"That's where he chose, Sir. And Maxwell refused to go," Henry explained, his expression neutral. "So your dad insisted you take his place."

I couldn't help but clench my fist together, frustration simmering beneath my surface.

"What type of human would choose such an important meeting to happen at the Zoo?" Knoxville asked, shaking his head.

"He's a client, an investor, for that matter," Henry replied, his tone measured. "We should respect his decision, Sir."

Knoxville's eyes narrowed. "Respect? This is unorthodox, Henry. What's the logic behind meeting at the reptile house?"

Henry's expression remained composed. "Mr. Jenkins has a fascination with exotic animals, Sir. He believes the unconventional setting will foster creative thinking."

Knoxville snorted. "Creative thinking? Or is he just trying to ruffle our feathers?"

Henry's gaze flicked to Knoxville before returning to the path ahead. "Regardless, Sir, our goal is to secure his investment. We must adapt."

"This better be worth it," he muttered under his breath.

Henry's eyes locked onto Knoxville's. "It will be worth it, Sir. Trust me."

"Let's go," Knoxville said, standing up and walking out of the building with Henry.

They stepped into the bright sunlight, the warmth contrasting with the cool air-conditioning they'd left behind. Henry led Knoxville to their car, parked nearby, and slid into the driver's seat. As they drove, the cityscape gave way to lush greenery, and soon they arrived at the zoo.

Getting out of the car, Knoxville stretched, taking in the sounds of chirping birds and chattering animals. Henry gestured for him to follow, leading him through the zoo's winding paths.

"Come with me, sir," Henry said, guiding Knoxville toward a secluded area.

As they walked, the trees grew taller, casting dappled shadows on the ground. They approached a unique structure blending seamlessly into the surroundings. The exterior resembled an ancient, rustic house, with dry trees and gnarled branches woven into its design. However, upon closer inspection, modern touches became apparent – sleek glass panels, subtle lighting, and elegant furnishings.

This was their meeting point with Mr. Jenkins, a tranquil oasis within the zoo. The atmosphere was serene, inviting relaxation and contemplation. A gentle breeze rustled the leaves, carrying the scent of blooming flowers.

Henry pushed open the door, revealing a spacious interior with plush seating areas and a breathtaking view of the surrounding wildlife. Knoxville's eyes adjusted to the soft lighting, and he spotted Mr. Jenkins standing by the window, sipping a drink.

"Welcome, Knoxville," Mr. Jenkins said, smiling, as Henry discreetly withdrew, leaving the two men to their meeting.

"Hi, Mr. Jenkins, it's nice to meet you," Knoxville replied, extending his hand as Mr. Jenkins approached.

"You look remarkably like Ricardo," Mr. Jenkins observed, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "The same look, the same sophistication."

Knoxville smiled, intrigued by the comparison. "Thanks, Mr. Jenkins," he said, as they shook hands firmly.

"I am grateful you showed up here," the older man said, gesturing to a plush sofa. "Let's sit."

They settled into the comfortable seating area, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature. Jenkins leaned back, steepling his fingers as he studied Knoxville.

"I must say, I'm impressed," Jenkins said. "Your reputation precedes you. I'm eager to discuss our proposal."

Knoxville leaned forward, his eyes locked on Jenkins'. "I'm all ears, Mr Jenkins."

"If you must know, I've been your dad's client for a long time," Mr. Jenkins said, a hint of nostalgia in his voice.

Knoxville raised an eyebrow. "I know, Mr. Jenkins. I'm just a bit surprised you chose to have this meeting at the zoo."

Mr. Jenkins chuckled, his eyes twinkling. "Your dad knows me well enough, but few people understand my affinity for animals. I find peace among them. My thoughts about life are quiet different, ever since I was saved by our dogs when I was just five."

Knoxville's curiosity piqued, he leaned forward.

"There was a fire outbreak," Mr. Jenkins continued, his voice softening. "I lost my parents, but our dog, Max, saved me. He died instead, shielding me from the flames."

Knoxville's expression changed from surprise to shock. "I'm... sorry," he said, his voice genuine.

Mr. Jenkins's gaze drifted off, lost in memories. "That incident shaped me. Animals have a way of understanding us, don't they? Unconditional loyalty, unwavering trust."

The air was heavy with emotion as Knoxville processed Mr. Jenkins's revelation.

"I see," Knoxville said finally, his tone respectful. "I understand why you'd want to meet here now."

Mr. Jenkins nodded, his eyes refocusing. "Your dad trusts me, Knoxville. And I trust him. That's why I'm here, to discuss something crucial."

Knoxville's interest piqued, he leaned forward, eager to hear more.

"What's that?" Knoxville asked, curiosity sparking in his eyes.

"Well, the thing is, I'm an old man," Mr. Jenkins began, his voice tinged with nostalgia. "I had no family, but I have a daughter. She's married now and has a child, but she's divorced."

Knoxville's eyebrows shot up, surprised by the sudden shift to personal matters. "Sorry, Mr. Jenkins, I thought we were here for business. Why are you sharing something so personal with me?"

Mr. Jenkins's expression turned warm. "That's because I trust you and your father. You've grown into a remarkable young man."

Knoxville's curiosity deepened.

"My daughter never recognized me as her father," Mr. Jenkins continued, his voice laced with regret. "Her mother, my girlfriend at the time, left me because she thought I chose animals over her."

Knoxville's expression softened, empathy rising.

"She took our daughter away, and I never got to be a part of her life," Mr. Jenkins said, his eyes clouding. "But I've followed her from afar, watched her grow into a strong woman."

Knoxville leaned forward, intrigued.

"Now, she's divorced, and I want to make amends," Mr. Jenkins said, determination etched on his face. "I want to leave a legacy for her and my grandchild."

The air hung heavy with emotion as Knoxville grasped the weight of Mr. Jenkins's words.

"I see," Knoxville said gently. "How can I help, Mr. Jenkins?"

Mr. Jenkins's gaze locked onto Knoxville's. "That's where the business comes in, my boy," he said, a hint of a smile.

"So, how can I help?" Knoxville asked, concern etching his features.

"I don't have much time left," Mr. Jenkins said, his voice laced with resignation. "I don't think I'll be able to explain to her. She's better off not recognizing me than living with the pain of seeing me suffer."

Knoxville's brow furrowed. "What do you mean you're leaving? Are you traveling? Why don't you just meet your daughter and explain this to her? Maybe she'll understand."

Mr. Jenkins's gaze turned somber. "What I mean is, I'm going to die soon. You don't have to pity me; I'm at peace. I have terminal cancer, and I'm in the final stage. I barely have a month left."

Knoxville's expression softened, empathy flooding in.

"I want you to help me make amends," Mr. Jenkins continued. "I want to leave a legacy for my daughter and grandchild. Your father has been handling my estate, but I need someone trustworthy to ensure everything goes smoothly after I'm gone."

Knoxville nodded, determination rising. "I'll help, Mr. Jenkins. We'll make sure your daughter and grandchild are taken care of."

Mr. Jenkins's eyes moistened. "Thank you, Knoxville. Your father told me I could trust you."

"You're welcome, atleast this is what I can do for you" Knoxville siad.

"I'm happy to see you've grown into a trustworthy man," Mr. Jenkins said, his voice filled with conviction. "I'm going to transfer all my wealth into your name."

Knoxville's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Why not her name?" he asked.

"That's because she doesn't bear my name," Mr. Jenkins explained. "I want her to carry my legacy. So, you'll have to help me ensure she changes her name to mine. She has to carry my legacy. Can I trust you with that?"

Knoxville took a deep breath, weighing the request. "That's too risky, but I can assure you, I'll help you. You've been a valuable investor in our company."

Just then, a faint noise echoed from outside, breaking the tense moment.

"I should check what's going on," Knoxville said, already heading out the door.

As he stepped outside, he saw Henry rushing toward a woman frantically crying for help. Knoxville sprinted after him.

When he reached them, his heart sank. A little girl lay on the ground, seriously injured, blood pooling around her. Henry was trying to staunch the bleeding.

"Please, save my daughter!" Electra begged, her voice laced with desperation.

Knoxville's eyes widened in shock. "Electra?"

Don't just stand still, Knoxville! We'll lose her!" Electra exclaimed, her eyes pleading.

Knoxville sprang into action, rushing to Henry's side. "Let me help before we get her to the hospital."

Together, Knoxville and Henry worked swiftly to stabilize the little girl's injuries. Knoxville's training kicked in, and he expertly applied pressure to the wounds.

"We need to get her to the hospital, now!" Knoxville urged, his voice firm.

Henry nodded, carefully lifting the girl into his arms. "I'll get the car."

Electra's face contorted in anguish. "Please, save my baby..."

Knoxville wrapped a reassuring arm around Electra. "We will, Electra. We'll do everything we can."

As the

y rushed toward the car, Knoxville's mind racing with concern, he caught Mr. Jenkins standing in the doorway, a mix of shock and sorrow etched on his face.