Valentina's straightforwardness left Iron and Eagle unable to contain their smiles. They wouldn't cause trouble for Chu Yan at a time like this; brothers' matters were one thing, but opinions on his woman required more discretion.
Iron gave Valentina a covert nod of approval before giving her a thumbs-up in the direction where Chu Yan couldn’t see.
"¡Eh… eso está bien. Siempre dispuesto a ayudar a un amigo, sin problemas." Chu Yan didn't hesitate much. He had already prepared for this moment as soon as Valentina mentioned it to him.
"Sabía que no me dejarías solo," Valentina grumbled slightly, albeit with a hint of admiration in her tone. His words made it clear that she was just another friend, not his woman or girlfriend. Women tend to hold grudges, and Valentina wasn't an exception. However, she had yet to find the opportune moment to create some harmless trouble for Chu Yan.
"¡Eh, capitán, mejor dejemos de charlar y comamos algo! Las cosas se enfriarán si no lo hacemos pronto," Eagle interjected awkwardly as he coughed to change the subject back to eating.
"Bien, comamos primero. Si todo va según plan, deberíamos tener esto resuelto en los próximos días." Chu Yan looked down at his steak and sighed inwardly; they had different tastes but could still enjoy a Western-style meal.
After dinner, everyone dispersed for the time being, as there was no specific task to execute. With Eagle's heavy news pending, Chu Yan and company needed to remain low-key until further notice.
However, this low profile also meant doing more behind-the-scenes work.
"Eagle, reserve some time tonight. I need you to hack into the surveillance Sistema of an outdoor temple for me and Iron as cover. Also, install some cameras in that underground warehouse. This time, make sure everything is ready; no last-minute surprises." Chu Yan explained his plan to Iron and Eagle while Valentina returned to M Hotel. Of course, she wouldn’t be staying there; her father’s men would forcibly bring her back to the United States.
"Entendido, haré todo lo necesario," Iron responded. The equipment preparations were in his hands, and all Chu Yan needed to do was outline the objectives. They went their separate ways until the sun began to set, when Chu Yan and Iron left the hotel with their gear.
...
Bangkok, St. Regis Royal Hotel.
Bulldog had just seen off Adelle Dan, who left behind two cash checks worth one million five hundred thousand each—dividends from the Russian pistol diamond rough deal, which was more than expected. Perhaps Assas found a more generous buyer.
In the midst of night, two slender yet impressive figures entered the hotel lobby. They wore black stand-up collared suits with no ties, but on the right side of their collars sat a golden metallic star, somewhat like a decoration but considerably heavier.
They approached the front desk and showed their credentials before checking in. After a nod of thanks to the receptionist, they headed toward the elevator leading to the guest rooms.
"17th floor," the two young men said with stoic faces as they pressed the button for the 17th floor. As the elevator arrived at the 17th floor, the two figures stepped out and reached into their waists.
"Room 1709." They exchanged a glance before drawing their silenced pistols from their belts and giving each other nods. The shorter of the two then knocked on Room 1709’s door.