Chapter 83 Lecherous Old Man

Chapter 83 Lecherous Old Man

Since the last family powwow, Victoria's words, "If you can't beat 'em, join 'em," really got to Adrian.

He pulled strings to dig into ApexForge Builders' financial records and discovered they were in a cash crunch.

Taking a cue from Victoria, Adrian decided to heed her advice and also did her a favor, inviting her to Gaya Music Hall.

"Mr. Beckett, let me introduce you," Adrian said, his arm casually draped over Victoria's shoulder in a familiar manner. "This is Victoria, and this is Monica."

When Frank laid eyes on Victoria, his face lit up instantly.

Victoria sported a simple black spaghetti strap dress, highlighting her slim figure.

Her dark brown hair was casually tied back, showing off a smooth forehead and a long, fair neck. She exuded a cool yet oddly charming vibe.

Her beauty wasn't in-your-face or flashy, but rather a gentle warmth that was captivating.

"Pleasure to meet you!" Frank's excitement was palpable.

After some chitchat, the talk naturally turned to collaboration.

The vibe was tense at first but gradually warmed up.

"Let's grab a drink." Frank took Monica's hand and headed for the drinks.

Suddenly, he spotted a top-notch Steinway grand piano by the window and commented, "My wife used to tinkle the ivories when she was young." 

"Sadly, even though I took lessons from her for ages, playing solo just wasn't my forte, maybe 'cause I lack the talent."

Adrian, as if a light bulb went off, grinned at Victoria and said, "What a coincidence, Mr. Beckett. Victoria's a whiz on the piano."

"Really? Would I be lucky enough to hear a tune?" Frank inquired.

Without missing a beat, Victoria elegantly rose.

She strolled to the piano, sat down, her slender fingers landing on the keys, creating a beautiful and captivating melody.

She played Liszt's "Liebestraum," a tender and melancholic piece rich with storytelling.

Frank whisked Monica up and started dancing in the private room, regardless of her consent.

Even as Frank's hand slid from her waist to her rear, Monica endured with a forced smile, anxious not to derail Victoria's plan.

As the music faded, the room erupted in laughter and applause.

Frank was the first to clap, looking astounded. "Miss Chase, you've been hiding your talents! It's a shame not to pursue a career as a pianist with such skill!"

He strolled over to Victoria, taking her hand naturally, inspecting it closely. "These hands are meant for the piano, so delicate and lovely!"

His greed was almost palpable in his eyes, his fingers lingering on her hand.

Victoria tried to subtly pull away, but he held on tighter.

Just as she was about to speak up, Adrian cleared his throat and said slowly, "Easy there, Mr. Beckett. If my uncle caught wind of you praising my 'little aunt' like this, he might get jealous."

The term "little aunt" was enunciated distinctly.

Victoria's face paled instantly.

Frank's grip on her hand tightened, his expression a mix of emotions.

He quickly realized that the stunningly beautiful woman before him was associated with Nathaniel! 

He hurriedly released her hand and said with an awkward laugh, "Mr. Cross, you sure know how to joke."

Adrian chuckled slyly, "How could I resist teasing Mr. Beckett? Let me raise a toast to you."

With this playful exchange, Frank's demeanor became more reserved.

Though he refrained from further advances towards Victoria, he persistently encouraged her to drink, seemingly intent on getting her intoxicated before being satisfied.

"Miss Chase, have a drink."

Victoria raised her glass, leaned towards Adrian, and whispered in a hushed tone, "Adrian, take this as my way of thanking you."

With that, she raised her glass and gulped down the red wine in one shot.

Adrian seized the moment to discuss the advantages of Genesis Corporation, "Mr. Beckett, the land in the east of Seaglow City is definitely ApexForge Builders' territory! I'm wondering if Genesis Corporation can get a piece of the action..."

"Don't fret, the projects will be in ApexForge Builders' hands. We'll let Genesis Corporation handle the grunt work, and they won't raise a fuss!" Adrian leaned in.

However, Frank didn't take the bait.

"Mr. Cross, are we here for a casual get-together or for business?" Frank asked sternly, feigning displeasure.

"A casual get-together! Strictly casual!" Adrian clarified promptly.

"Exactly, if it's business, I'm out!" Frank stated, looking unimpressed.

"Mr. Beckett, a toast to you!" Victoria rose swiftly to pour a drink, maintaining politeness.

In order to win over Frank, she had to play her role in tonight's charade. Simultaneously, it was to improve the odds of securing Adrian's cooperation.

Monica observed from the sidelines, her brows creased with worry.

She had wanted to assist Victoria with the drinking, but Victoria signaled her to stay out of it.

Monica could only watch helplessly as Victoria engaged with that slimy man at the table.

At one point, Victoria excused herself to the restroom, but as she stood up, her stomach churned.

She hurried into the restroom in the private room, gripping the cold sink, her face draining of color as she vomited.

Monica gently patted her back, offering tissues and water, her eyes filled with concern. "Victoria, is this the kind of lifestyle you're used to?"

Seeing her friend's anxious expression, Victoria forced a feeble smile and fibbed, "No, just occasional social events. Today, it's to assist Adrian."

She couldn't confide in Monica about the complexities of this business dinner, the burdens too heavy to share.

Back in the private room, the dinner carried on.

Adrian attempted to steer the conversation towards potential business collaborations, but Frank remained evasive and unresponsive.

Adrian didn't dare to push too far and could only awkwardly grin along.

The banquet finally wrapped up late into the night.

The trio escorted Frank to his car. Before parting ways, they each shook his hand and bid farewell.

"Let's catch up again soon!"

Frank beamed warmly.

While shaking hands with Victoria, Frank paused, holding her hand and whispering, "Miss Chase, a woman of your grace and class mingling with the shady side is quite unbecoming. Perhaps consider seeking a different alliance."

"Thank you, Mr. Beckett," Victoria swiftly responded with a smile.

Frank cryptically squeezed Victoria's hand, "You're a sharp woman, I trust you'll make the right call."

Adrian noticed the cryptic exchange between the two, his brows furrowing slightly.

After seeing Frank off, Victoria arranged for Monica to take a cab home.

Monica fretted over Victoria, "Victoria, what about you? You've had quite a bit to drink. Why don't I take you home?"

"No need," Victoria waved her hand.

"I'll escort her home," Adrian offered, gesturing towards the taxi that had pulled up, gallantly opening the back door for Monica. "Text us once you're home safe!"

After bidding Monica farewell, Victoria suggested, "It's late, you should head home. I'll arrange for a ride for myself."

Adrian's expression darkened, his company driver having brought his Bentley around.

He opened the car door and firmly guided Victoria into the back seat.

"What's the deal?" Victoria winced, asking in annoyance.

She gazed at Adrian, his expression unreadable and somber.

She pondered what had unsettled him.