Aetheric Chronicles: Reborn As An Extra

Adrian leaned back in his seat, adopting a more relaxed posture as he considered how to approach the next part of their conversation. He needed to lay the groundwork, and Dorian had just given him the perfect opening.

"Well, Mr. Dorian," Adrian began, choosing his words carefully, "I'm a businessman. I handle investments and sponsorships, mostly focusing on businesses with good potential. I recently moved to this city to explore new opportunities, expand my network, and, of course, keep an eye out for promising talent."

Dorian nodded, his expression thoughtful. "That sounds like quite the venture. So, you're here to build connections, find the right people to work with?"

"Exactly," Adrian replied with a slight smile. "But there's something else I need. You see, being new in town, I was advised that it's wise to have someone capable watching your back—especially in a place as bustling and unpredictable as this city."

Dorian raised an eyebrow, his interest piqued. "And that's why you came to this part of town? Looking for someone who can handle a bit of trouble if it comes knocking?"

"Precisely," Adrian said, his voice calm. "A few people recommended this place, saying it had some of the best—well, the best if you know where to look. But now…" Adrian let his voice trail off, his expression turning slightly disappointed.

Dorian caught on quickly. He chuckled, leaning back in his chair with a knowing look. "Ah, I see what you mean. The folks around here aren't exactly the warmest bunch, are they? I get it, Lucien. If you need a reliable bodyguard, you naturally wouldn't want someone with an attitude problem."

Dorian and Adrian were obviously talking about how all the others acted when the earlier incident occurred.

Adrian remained silent for a moment, as if mulling over his options. He then looked at Dorian, his expression thoughtful, as though an idea had just come to him. "Mr. Dorian," he began, his tone measured, "I can't help but wonder… are you a mercenary by any chance?"

Dorian blinked in surprise, then burst out laughing, a deep, hearty sound that drew a few curious glances from the other patrons. "A mercenary? I suppose you could say that. I've done my fair share of odd jobs, including some bodyguard work. But why do you ask? You thinking of hiring me?"

Adrian met Dorian's gaze, his expression serious. "Possibly. You seem like someone who knows how to handle himself, and I'm in need of someone I can trust."

Dorian's laughter slowly faded as the atmosphere between them grew more serious. His expression shifted, the joviality of moments ago replaced with a more somber tone. He leaned forward slightly, his eyes narrowing as he considered Adrian's words.

"If you're thinking of hiring me," Dorian began, his voice quiet and measured, "I'm sorry, but I can't do it."

Adrian tilted his head slightly, curious but cautious. "Why not?"

Dorian hesitated, his gaze dropping to the table as he seemed to weigh his next words carefully. "I've got a… problematic past. If I work for someone like you—a businessman with a reputation to uphold—it'll only bring trouble your way. My name's got a bit of dirt on it, and I'm not sure you want that kind of baggage."

He paused, then glanced over at his nephew, who was still hovering nearby, nervously fidgeting with the hem of his shirt. "And I've got to look after the kid. He's been through enough, and I can't afford to get involved in something that might make things harder for him."

Adrian nodded slowly, taking in Dorian's words. "I see…" he muttered, his expression thoughtful as he processed the information. But then, a sudden thought seemed to strike him, and he looked back at Dorian with a more determined gaze.

"How much do you make monthly?" Adrian asked, his tone casual, almost as if the question had just popped into his head.

Dorian blinked, taken aback by the abrupt shift in the conversation. "It hasn't been long since we came here, so… about 50K," he replied, his voice tinged with a hint of uncertainty.

Adrian's lips curled into a smile, and he leaned forward, locking eyes with Dorian. "How would you like to work for me? I'll double your salary and provide a home for both you and your nephew to stay in."

Dorian stared at Adrian, his eyes widening in shock. "Double… and a home?" He repeated, as if trying to make sure he heard correctly.

"Yes," Adrian confirmed with a nod. "50K is a decent amount, but I imagine it's tough to manage everything with that. With me, you'll get twice that, plus a place for you and your nephew. No more worrying about where your next meal will come from or whether you can keep a roof over your heads. Of course, this is all the starting."

Dorian seemed to struggle with the offer, his mind racing as he considered the implications. The responsibility of looking after his nephew weighed heavily on him, and Adrian's offer was more than tempting. It was a way to secure a better future for both of them, something that had seemed out of reach until now.

But the doubt lingered. "You're serious? You'd really take on someone like me, knowing my past?"

Adrian's smile widened, though his expression remained calm and confident. "I'm not one to judge someone based on their past. I'm more interested in what you can do now and in the future. And from what I've seen, you're someone who knows how to handle himself, someone who values loyalty and family. That's exactly the kind of person I want on my side."
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Dorian remained silent for a long moment, his mind a whirlwind of thoughts. The offer was too good to ignore for the current him, and the sincerity in Adrian's voice made him believe it was genuine. Finally, he took a deep breath and nodded.

"Alright," Dorian said, his voice steady, though there was a hint of emotion behind it. "I'll take the job. But I have one condition."

Adrian raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "And what's that?"

Dorian glanced at his nephew, then back at Adrian. "I'll work for you, but only if you promise that nothing bad happens to the kid. I won't drag him into anything dangerous. He's been through enough already."

Adrian's expression softened slightly, and he gave a solemn nod. "You have my word."

With that, Dorian extended his hand toward Adrian, this time with a renewed sense of purpose. Adrian took it, sealing the deal with a firm handshake.