Chapter 154:
All it took was pulling the Green and Torres familiesâ financial support from them, ensuring a gradual financial decline through their dwindling cash reserves. Yet, Rhys had no intention of following through on that plan.
Indeed, Brixton was on to something. If Brixton dedicated himself, his motherâs spirits would surely soar. Thus, Rhys resolved to pave the way for Brixton to launch a new venture, mentoring him in the nuances of navigating fierce corporate waters through hands-on experience.
As Harlee stepped away from the Tartarus Club, memories of the steak she once enjoyed with Rhys lingered in her mind.
Compelled by nostalgia, she decided to relive that experience.
Adelina had long been captivated by tales of the breathtaking views from the window-side restaurant perched on the 66th floor of the Grand Oak, which boasted a sweeping panorama of Baythorn.
After much persuasion, Liam had finally consented to take her there.
Upon arriving, Liamâs gaze immediately found Harlee by the entrance, her expression one of deep yearning for the grandeur of the Grand Oak.
His heart tugged at the sight.
âHarlee, itâs been a while. Why do you look so worn out? Iâm escorting Adelina upstairs for dinner.
Care to join us?â he asked.
âNo, thank you,â Harlee responded crisply, her tone detached.
âI donât want my appetite to be affected.â
Taken aback by her frankness, Liamâs face momentarily betrayed his irritation.
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âYour pride, always getting in the way! Despite Adelina being our own, youâd been a part of the Gill family for years.
Do you really think weâd cast you aside ruthlessly?â
Harlee said nothing, merely observing Liam as he continued. Just then, Adelina stepped out of a different car, her hair styled meticulously for the eveningâs dinner event.
âDad, who are you talking to?â
Catching sight of Harlee, Adelinaâs expression changed to one of disappointment.
âOh, itâs just you, Harlee. I was puzzled about why my dad would engage with someone like⦠Well, donât take it personally, Harlee. I didnât mean to upset you.â
Liam chuckled.
âHarlee, Adelina is young and often speaks impulsively. Please, donât take it to heart. Letâs head upstairs together, shall we?â
A wave of unease washed over Adelina. She had pleaded for days for Liam to take her to the Grand Oak, and now here was Harlee, uninvited yet poised to share in her moment of triumph? Dream on!
With feigned warmth, Adelina latched onto Liamâs arm.
âDad, are you really considering bringing Harlee along to dinner? I have no objections, of course, but Iâm concerned her attire might lead to us being turned away at the door.â
While her words feigned support for Harleeâs inclusion, the underlying message was clear.
Harleeâs plain appearance might prove an embarrassment. In Baythorn, dining at the exclusive 66th floor of the Grand Oak was a privilege that demanded more than mere affluence.
A coveted membership was essential. Without it, one could only dine below the 66th floor.
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