The Alphas' Pride Mate (The Pride Who Goes Into Heat)

ON TO HIM.

Chapter: 22
********

Dirk swiftly consumed the liquid in one gulp, prompting Bogo to refill his glass. As he drank, Dirk turned to Pedro, his consigliere, and inquired, "What are your thoughts on their proposal?"

Pedro paused, carefully considering Dirk's question before responding, "They appear to be genuine in their intentions. If this partnership materializes, the potential rewards could be substantial. It is not every day that we receive an offer of this magnitude, especially from a reputable organization like Sayrell. It seems they are truly invested in this project, which suggests they are offering something of considerable value."

Dirk chuckled, discerning a hint of reservation in Pedro's tone. "Yet, you do not seem overly enthusiastic about it."

Pedro raised his glass, offering a subtle gesture of contemplation. "I am merely being cautious, boss. While the idea intrigues me, I also value practicality. Sayrell's proposal strikes me as ambitious, and I wonder about the feasibility of their plans. It is not characteristic of them to pursue something so costly. What are your thoughts?"

Dirk nodded in agreement, taking another sip of whiskey as he pondered Pedro's words and his own lingering doubts. "Indeed, you raise a valid point. I cannot help but wonder what they are truly after. As far as I can tell, their proposal does not appear to involve anything illicit."

Pedro burst into laughter, finding Dirk's statement amusing. "They genuinely perceive you as a legitimate businessman," Pedro managed to say through his laughter.

Dirk's stern gaze met Pedro's, playfully asserting his position. "You would do well to remember that I am, in fact, a true businessman," he retorted, a smile betraying his feigned annoyance.

"Yes, yes! Of course!" Pedro quickly responded, his laughter subsiding. "Apologies, boss." After a moment, his expression turned serious. "However, I cannot shake this unsettling feeling, boss. Something seems amiss about them, and it does not sit well with me."

Dirk sighed, massaging his temple as he contemplated Pedro's concerns. "I understand, Pedro. You are right to be cautious. There is indeed something off, especially concerning the individual who sat beside Olivia..." Dirk trailed off, his brow furrowing as he delved into deep thought. He then turned his attention to Bogo, issuing an order. "Assign a team to investigate those individuals, particularly the one who seemed to recognize me."

"Yes, sir!" Bogo promptly acknowledged before leaving the room.

Dirk refocused his attention on Pedro, his head tilting in confusion. "I have a meeting scheduled with the mayor of Southingfield."

"I am aware that you intended to discuss payment options with him, but this task is beneath you. Let one of the Capo handle it, as usual. There is no need for you to personally attend," Pedro advised.

Dirk shook his head, a determined smile forming on his face. "No, no! This matter goes beyond my role as Don. It is a personal issue that I must address myself. I helped him evade capture and aided in his rise to power as mayor. Now, he believes he can disrespect me. He is sorely mistaken!" Dirk stood up, the sound of the chair scraping against the floor echoing through the room. "Ensure that everything is taken care of here, and make certain you are in New Dodgeborough by five o'clock for the conference."

"Yes, Don. I will handle all necessary preparations here, and I will be present at the conference on time," Pedro assured him, rising from his seat and offering a salute to his boss. "You have truly expanded our family since the passing of Don Domezio. From Qiemont to Southingfield, New Dodgeborough, and now Sayrell seeking to join our operations," Pedro commented, his satisfaction evident as he observed Dirk's departing figure. "You may be a true businessman after all..." Pedro teased.

"Watch it!" Dirk replied, bemused. Both men were laughing warmly now until Dirk was out of the room.

**********

While it was customary for bodyguards to stand outside Dirk's office, the hallway remained empty as he exited. Dirk swiftly contacted Bogo, alerting him of their departure and instructing him to prepare the drivers. He waited for the golden elevator doors to open, stepping into the mirrored space. However, upon entering, he was once again overwhelmed by the lingering scent of the stranger's pheromones, causing a momentary dizziness.

Dirk couldn't help but wonder who this mysterious man was and how he had managed to leave his pheromones in the private elevator. The intrusion left him feeling unsettled. As the elevator doors slid open, Dirk quickly stepped out, stumbling slightly. Bogo, ever vigilant, caught him before he fell and assisted him into the waiting car.

"Are you alright, Boss?" Bogo's voice expressed concern as he spoke.

Dirk groaned, attempting to regain his composure. "I'm fine, just feeling a bit light-headed," he replied, reaching up to massage his temples, feeling the pounding sensation in his head.

Bogo regarded him skeptically, unconvinced by Dirk's response. He was well aware of his boss's attention to health matters. "Boss?" Bogo questioned, standing in front of the open car door.

Dirk groaned once more, knowing that Bogo was merely fulfilling his duty. "There is a security breach, Bogo. Someone has allowed a stranger access to my private elevator. Find out who they are," he commanded firmly.

"Right away, boss," Bogo acknowledged, closing the car door and moving to the front seat. "Would you like a quick stop at the hospital, Boss?" Bogo inquired.

Dirk frowned, shaking his head in response. "No, absolutely not! I need a distraction and something to rid my senses of these damn pheromones. I know just the thing." Dirk settled into his seat, closing his eyes.

"Of course!" Bogo signaled to the driver, urging them to accelerate. He understood exactly what kind of distraction his boss desired. Since the incident the previous night, and Dirk's decision to personally visit Dante, it was clear what was on his mind.

Bogo silently hoped that the mayor was prepared with answers by the time they arrived. It would be in his best interest to do so.