WebNovels

Chapter 16 - Sharks Swim in Silk

The morning sun crept through the glass walls of Daniel's Malibu mansion, casting soft golden rays over the marble floors and minimalist designer furniture. Outside, the Pacific waves kissed the shore like clockwork, the private beach untouched, flawless—just how Daniel liked his life now: clean, quiet, calculated.

His silk robe brushed against his ankles as he walked down the grand staircase, a steaming espresso in hand, crafted by the Italian machine in the kitchen that probably cost more than most people's cars. His mother, Maria, already seated by the window in her designer lounge set, was flipping through a magazine featuring—ironically—an article about him.

"Meu filho, look at this," she said with a proud smile, pointing to the headline: 'Brazilian Entrepreneur Revolutionizes LA with Café Brasil: The New Taste of Home.'

Daniel smirked, sipping his coffee. "They finally spelled my name right this time."

Before his mother could respond, the system's voice chimed smoothly in his mind like a private, invisible assistant that never took days off.

[SYSTEM: Daily login successful. Congratulations, you have received the Grade Premium reward: Private Hawaiian Island Property — coordinates and ownership details secured. Estimated value: $60 million.]

Daniel froze mid-sip, nearly choking on the espresso.

A private island… in Hawaii? The system never stopped.

"Everything okay?" Maria asked, noticing the subtle pause in his expression.

"All good, mãe," Daniel replied smoothly, masking the information like a poker player hiding an ace. "Just thinking… might need a vacation soon."

His bank app was ridiculous at this point: cash reserves over $180 million, excluding properties, vehicles, the Malibu mansion with AI, and now, a literal island.

But the hustle never stopped. Money without discipline was like a gun with no bullets—impressive to look at, useless when needed.

Outside, the black Escalade waited with five personal security guards, two drivers, all armed, discreet, and drilled to perfection. His mother had her own five, and the final five guarded the estate 24/7.

At Café Brasil in Los Angeles, the energy was electric. Lines wrapped around the block, the fusion of Brazilian charm and LA nightlife hitting the city like wildfire. Morning coffee, afternoon samba, and by night? A sophisticated bar with live Bossa Nova and tight security—no minors, no mess, just pure elegance.

Felipe, dressed sharp in the new Café Brasil uniform, gold-embroidered logo gleaming subtly on his chest, navigated the floor with surprising authority for someone who, months ago, was just another carioca dreaming big.

Daniel watched him close a supplier deal like a pro, charm customers, correct employees—all with the sharp eyes of a man learning fast.

Later, in the VIP lounge, Felipe joined him, adjusting his cufflinks, adrenaline still buzzing.

"Primo… it's happening," Felipe grinned, practically glowing with excitement. "The café, the brand… the media's going crazy. Even mãe called—she saw the interview on Globo."

Daniel raised an eyebrow, amused. "What'd she say?"

Felipe's grin widened. "She cried, said she's proud, told me not to forget where I came from… you know, Brazilian mom stuff."

They both chuckled, but under the humor, pride lingered. They hadn't just escaped the struggle—they were building an empire rooted in tradition.

Suddenly, the system pinged again, interrupting the calm.

[SYSTEM: Market analysts predict rapid brand recognition. Caution: increased media attention may attract global investors. Reminder: 90% of Café Brasil remains under your control. 10% legally assigned to Felipe. Selling additional shares? Not permitted. Family legacy structure enforced.]

Daniel exhaled, relieved. The system knew the vision: family empire, no outside interference, just like Hermès, just like LV. Power stayed in the bloodline.

Across the lounge, reporters hovered, trying to snag an interview, cameras flashing as local influencers sipped their signature cocktails—the Caipirinha Supreme and the Samba Sunset.

Daniel adjusted his Rolex, glanced at Felipe. "Enjoy the fame, but remember—humble outside, shark inside."

Felipe nodded, eyes sharp. "I'm learning from the best."

The evening carried on, Café Brasil buzzing like a cultural heartbeat in Los Angeles. Brazilian music floated through the air, the scent of roasted coffee beans mixing with fine colognes and expensive perfumes.

Later, as they stepped outside into the cool California night, Daniel's mother joined them, radiant in a Dior ensemble, her security trailing quietly.

"You boys are making Brazil proud," she beamed, her eyes glistening under the city lights.

"We're just getting started, mãe," Daniel assured, planting a kiss on her cheek.

As they climbed into the Escalade, the city skyline reflecting off the windows, the system chimed one final time.

[SYSTEM: Hawaiian Island details uploaded. Recommend discreet inspection. Also… tomorrow's premium login pending. Stay sharp. Stay sovereign.]

Daniel leaned back, the leather seat molding to his frame, eyes scanning the glowing city.

Legacy wasn't luck. It was built—luxury, humility, strategy. And this? This was only the beginning.

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