Chapter 80 – Whoever Cheats Is a Dog
South Bank of the Zingle River.
Seated in his wheelchair, Paul Holland gazed at the rolling waters of the Zingle River with a rare sense of serenity.
The river never stopped.
Like time itself, it flowed forward, relentless, indifferent to the fate of men and families. It had borne witness to countless rises and falls—heroes washed away by waves that knew no loyalty.
Once upon a time, the blood of many had stained these waters, fueling the meteoric rise of the Russell family. But that, too, had been a dream... one that eventually faded like ripples in the current.
This river, timeless and enduring, had seen the birth, glory, and ruin of the Russell family. It had seen the tides of power shift across New York. It knew cruelty. It knew history. And it always favored the strong.
Paul stared into the shimmering currents, dazed. After a long silence, he exhaled deeply and muttered, "The climate in New York has changed. In this change, we Hollands have finally found our place."
A smile tugged at the corners of his mouth.
Karl, standing behind him, echoed with enthusiasm, "Father, this time, the Holland family made the right move."
Paul nodded slowly, still watching the river. "Push me back. A real war is coming. One that will decide the power structure of New York for decades—perhaps even the next century."
"Yes, sir!" Karl said resolutely.