SOLD TO THE MAFIA | SAILUBPON

CHAPTER 4

The next morning, Pon woke to the sound of birds chirping faintly outside the large window.

The sunlight filtering through the sheer curtains bathed the room in a warm, golden glow, but Pon felt anything but comforted.

His body was sore from the constant tension of the previous day, and his mind was still reeling from everything he'd learned.

After a quick shower, he dressed in another set of clothes left for him another luxury shirt and dark slacks, simple but impeccably tailored.

He glanced at himself in the mirror, taking a deep breath to steel his nerves. Whatever today had in store, he would handle it. He had to.

When he made his way downstairs, Hemmawich was nowhere to be seen. Instead, Pavel waited in the grand foyer, leaning casually against a marble column. The man's sharp features and confident stance made him seem even more intimidating in the morning light.

"Ready for another fun day?" Pavel asked, his voice laced with sarcasm.

Pon nodded, though he wasn't sure ready was the right word. "Yes khub.."

"Good." Pavel pushed off the column and started walking, motioning for Pon to follow. "We're heading out today. You'll meet a few more people. Pay attention and stay quiet. Got it?"

"Yes," Pon replied, quickening his pace to keep up.

As they exited the estate, a sleek black SUV waited by the driveway. Pavel slid into the driver's seat, and Pon hesitated for a moment before climbing into the passenger side. The car roared to life, and they sped off down the long, winding road leading from the estate.

The city buzzed with activity as they drove through the streets. Pon watched the world blur past the window, the familiar sights of Bangkok now feeling distant and surreal.

"So," Pavel said after a long stretch of silence. "What do you think of your new life so far?"

Pon hesitated, unsure how to answer. "It's... different and strange.."

Pavel chuckled. "Yeah, that's one way to put it. Don't worry, kid. You'll get used to it. Or you won't. Either way, it doesn't really matter."

Pon wasn't sure whether Pavel meant to comfort him or warn him. He stayed quiet, focusing on the passing scenery.

---

They arrived at a sleek, modern building in the heart of the city. The glass exterior gleamed in the sunlight, and Pon felt a wave of anxiety as they stepped inside. The lobby was filled with people businessmen in tailored suits, receptionists typing away at sleek desks, and security guards who watched everything with hawk-like focus.

Pavel led Pon to a private elevator, swiping a keycard to gain access. As they ascended, Pavel glanced at him. "You're about to meet some people who work closely with Hemmawich. These are the ones you want to stay on the good side of."

Pon nodded, his palms sweaty.

The elevator doors opened to reveal a spacious lounge area, where several people were already gathered. The air was filled with laughter and the scent of freshly brewed coffee.

"Ah, Pavel! You brought the new kid," a tall man with a mischievous grin called out. He had tousled hair and a relaxed demeanor, leaning against the back of a plush couch. "Come on in, don't be shy!"

"That's Nut," Pavel muttered to Pon as they approached. "Brace yourself."

Nut bounded over, clapping Pon on the back with enough force to make him stumble. "Welcome to the gang, kid! What's your name?"