When she arrived at the Empire Club, she immediately felt something was off.
Although she had never been to a bar before, she was sure it wasn’t supposed to look like this. The club’s interior was strange-its walls and corners were covered in flowers. The music playing wasn’t the typical upbeat, energetic kind expected in bars; instead, it was soft and mellow, more suited for a banquet.
Inside, there were no wild dancers or heavy drinking. Instead, people gathered in small groups, chatting quietly.
“Cyan, what’s going on? Is the bar closed today?” Georgia asked, puzzled.
Cyan chuckled. “Closed? Of course not! It’s open-just not started yet.”
Georgia frowned, suspicion creeping into her voice. “You’re acting strange. Are you planning to betray me again, like last time?”
Cyan laughed mischievously. “What are you talking about, silly? Relax, I’d never betray you!”
“Georgia, you’re here!” A man’s voice interrupted them.
Georgia turned toward the voice and saw Luther, looking exceptionally handsome in a white suit. His outfit, pure and pristine, made him resemble a fairytale prince.
The moment she laid eyes on him, Georgia realized the truth-Cyan had betrayed her again. As she turned to glare at Cyan, she saw the unapologetic grin on her friend’s face.
“That’s right, Georgia,” Cyan admitted shamelessly. “I’ve sold you out again! But this time is different-it’s for Mr. Falcon’s birthday.”
Georgia sighed, exasperated. She shouldn’t have trusted Cyan. After what happened last time, she had promised herself to be cautious, yet here she was, caught in another of Cyan’s schemes.
“Georgia, you’re not mad, are you?” Cyan asked, putting on an innocent, pitiful expression. Her fake sincerity was irritating and almost laughable.
“You know, Mr. Falcon is your cousin. Attending his birthday party is the least you can do,” Cyan added, still trying to justify herself.
Luther quickly chimed in, “Georgia, I owe you an apology for last time. It was my fault. If I hadn’t asked you out, none of that would’ve happened. I’m really sorry.”
Luther’s sincerity was convincing. He didn’t seem like he was putting on an act, even though Georgia knew he had orchestrated the entire incident. Ironically, it had backfired, leaving him humiliated.
Georgia hesitated, her voice faltering. “I should be the one apologizing. You got hurt because of me, and I haven’t even thanked you properly.”
To Georgia, it was true-Luther’s injuries were indirectly her fault, and she genuinely felt guilty about it. After that night, she had been too consumed by the shadows of her own troubles to check on him or express her gratitude.
Luther shook his head. “Don’t mention it. Honestly, I feel ashamed that I couldn’t even protect you. If I had been stronger, things would’ve turned out differently.”
Though it had cost him, Luther felt his efforts were worth it. At the very least, Georgia no longer treated him with the cold indifference she once had.
“Thank you,” Georgia said politely, though her feelings toward Luther remained lukewarm.
Luther smiled and nodded. “Feel free to look around. The party will start soon.”
Georgia gave a small nod, deciding to stay. Since she was already here and owed Luther a proper apology, it seemed only fair.
Cyan grinned. “That’s the spirit!” she said, exhaling deeply as if relieved.
Cyan led Georgia around the venue, showing her the elaborate decorations. Time passed, and soon, the birthday party officially began.
Luther’s status was remarkable, and his family’s influence even more so. After his previous misstep, he had taken precautions by hiring two bodyguards to accompany him. No one would dare treat him the same way again.
In just two days, Luther had managed to establish himself in Hiphia-not with money, but with his fists. He had earned the respect of many, from businessmen to music enthusiasts.
In his experience, money wasn’t always the answer. Sometimes, power and strength spoke louder than wealth. The world had always been governed by the law of the jungle, and Luther had learned to embrace it.
Though the party wasn’t held in Zlando, Luther’s reputation ensured it was a grand affair. Many came simply to catch a glimpse of the young, wealthy man from Zlando.
The Empire Club had been transformed into an elegant venue, complete with a stage featuring an incredibly expensive piano worth tens of thousands of dollars. But what caught everyone’s attention was the banner hanging above the stage, reading:
“Happy Birthday, Mr. Falcon!”
Luther’s combination of power and wealth made him untouchable, someone not to be trifled with.
As the party reached its peak, an emcee stepped onto the stage, microphone in hand, showering Luther with praise before introducing him.
Finally, the emcee called Luther to the stage to play a piano piece.
The crowd erupted in cheers. “Mr. Falcon! Mr. Falcon! Mr. Falcon!”
Luther stepped onto the stage, his confident demeanor commanding attention. Taking the microphone, he addressed the crowd.
“Thank you all for coming to my birthday celebration. This is my first time celebrating my birthday here, and I’m truly grateful for your presence. To show my appreciation, I’ve prepared a special piano performance for you. I hope you enjoy it.”
The applause was deafening as Luther approached the grand piano.
Sitting down, he began to play.
The melody that emerged was enchanting, transporting everyone into a unique, captivating world. The beautiful music touched their hearts, resonating deeply with all who listened.
Great music has a way of stirring emotions, and Luther’s performance was no exception.
As a renowned musician, Luther’s talent was undeniable. Even here, his musical prowess was evident. Back in Zlando, he was a household name in the music world, celebrated for his achievements, including his participation in an international music festival.
Though his earlier mishap in Hiphia had been embarrassing, it had taught him valuable lessons about navigating the local culture.
When the piece ended, the crowd erupted into thunderous applause, their enthusiasm filling the room.