Chapter 73 Adrian Gets Slapped

Chapter 73 Adrian Gets Slapped

The evening banquet took place at the swankiest private club in Seaglow City, a members-only spot that oozed exclusivity and privacy.

Adrian was a regular fixture there, sporting a sharp silver-gray suit that screamed sophistication. 

His gold-rimmed glasses added a touch of charm to his aloof and noble demeanor.

He played the perfect gentleman, pulling out the chair for Victoria at the main guest seat, his smile hinting at hidden depths.

Victoria, in a sleek black dress that accentuated her graceful neck and cool vibe, exuded a quiet confidence.

Her entourage, including Olivia, were all dolled up to the nines, though their nerves peeked through their polished facades. 

Under Victoria's poised leadership, they managed to keep their cool and stay within their bounds.

As Adrian introduced Victoria to the big shots in Seaglow City's entertainment scene, they couldn't help but be drawn to her, thanks to Adrian's obvious admiration.

Amidst the clinking of glasses and the buzz of conversation, Tobias Church, the CEO of an entertainment company, raised his glass to Victoria. 

"Mr. Cross sure knows talent when he sees it. Miss Chase's friends are all exceptional, with outstanding qualities. As long as Miss Chase agrees, my company's resources will be at their disposal. Getting them on a few popular variety shows to boost their fame would be no problem at all."

Victoria returned his smile, toasting to his words. "Thank you, Mr. Church. I appreciate your offer. Olivia, why don't you pour Mr. Church a drink?"

Olivia wasted no time, stepping up to pour Tobias a drink with a gracious smile.

The girls were sharp and managed to win over the big shots, eliciting laughter and smiles effortlessly.

Victoria strolled to the rooftop garden, drink in hand, with Adrian trailing behind, casually draping his arm around her waist.

"Happy with how things went down today, Miss Chase?" he inquired.

Victoria shot a glance at his hand on her waist before turning to face him. "Not bad," she quipped.

Adrian arched an eyebrow. "Oh? Not good enough? Didn't I keep you entertained all evening?"

Victoria's eyes twinkled mischievously. "There's a music hall I've got my eye on for a collaboration, but it was a no-show today."

"Oh? What's the scoop?" Adrian leaned in with interest.

"Gaya Music Hall," Victoria enunciated each word.

The mention of the name shifted the vibe subtly.

Gaya Music Hall was a prestigious spot in Seaglow City, frequented by the city's elite. How could a place so exclusive entertain a couple of unknown pianists?

Adrian's smile faltered a bit.

Adjusting his glasses, his gaze behind them unreadable, he remarked, "That place is... unique. It's not your typical gig venue."

The implication was clear – it wouldn't be easy to arrange.

Undeterred, Victoria leaned in closer, a hint of fragrance teasing Adrian as she teased, "So, are you incapable or just unable to make it happen?"

Adrian was momentarily caught off guard, his response delayed.

"Seems like you're upping the ante, despite claiming to like me," Victoria challenged, her eyes daring him.

Adrian chuckled unexpectedly.

"Alright, alright," he mused, then added, "You're playing mind games now. If you can't see through these simple tricks, how did I land where I am?"

Victoria's expression dimmed. Was this approach not hitting the mark?

Seemed like businessmen were indeed shrewd!

After dinner, Adrian insisted on walking Victoria back to the villa.

Since Nathaniel now permitted their interaction, Victoria didn't object.

As they reached home, Nathaniel returned, exuding a strong air of tension and the metallic tang of blood.

The maids' faces shifted, and they rushed to summon the family doctor.

"Mr. Cross."

"Uncle Nathaniel."

Victoria and Adrian greeted him respectfully.

Sam trailed behind Nathaniel, his shoulder oozing blood from an injury.

"How did you two end up back here together?" 

Nathaniel inquired calmly, making his way to the upstairs meeting room.

Quick to clarify, Victoria spoke up, wary of any misconceptions, "Mr. Adrian Cross introduced me to some contacts, and we had dinner with a potential partner."

"I see," Nathaniel responded casually. "Adrian, come upstairs."

"Sure thing."

Adrian followed suit.

As the family doctor arrived, Victoria accompanied him to the meeting room, where heated arguments echoed from within.

They hesitated outside, sensing the tension.

"Is it worth risking it all with Ralph over a couple of clubs without rebuilding the drug network?" Adrian's voice dripped with frustration.

"Without funneling money through these clubs, do you expect the drug profits to sustain your enterprise? Don't be naive!" Nathaniel's voice was icy.

"With Ronnie now controlling the drug operations, Genesis Corporation's earnings have taken a hit."

Adrian, perhaps overhearing the noise outside, fell silent.

"These wounds are minor. Victoria, come in," Nathaniel commanded.

Victoria fetched the first aid kit from the doctor and pushed open the meeting room door.

Nathaniel sat silhouetted at the head of a grand conference table, emanating an overpowering aura of authority.

Ignoring Adrian, his intense gaze fixed on Victoria as she approached, setting the kit down.

She tended to Nathaniel's wounds with a steady hand, seemingly unfazed by the tension between the two men.

Nathaniel and Adrian didn't treat Victoria like an outsider.

"You just don't get it," Nathaniel finally spoke up. "Your focus is so narrow, only seeing the immediate profit. How is that any different from a child throwing a tantrum?"

"Isn't drug trafficking a major part of Genesis Corporation's income? It's a quick and easy way to make money!" Adrian's face flushed with anger.

Nathaniel shot him a look, his tone laced with scorn. "You've been running the company for years, yet you haven't addressed this glaring issue with such a large enterprise relying heavily on drugs?"

Adrian was momentarily speechless.

"If your company were better managed, I wouldn't have to step in at my age to handle external conflicts," Nathaniel added casually.

"Adrian, remember, if you don't steer your company away from this criminal path, it's a dead end," Nathaniel said gravely.

Victoria listened in silence, her heart racing at Nathaniel's mention of a "dead end." Did he know something they didn't?

"Uncle Nathaniel, it seems age has made you soft! You've lost your nerve to get your hands dirty like in the old days, you've turned timid!" Adrian shot back boldly. "And besides..."

"Adrian."

Nathaniel's voice cut through, halting Adrian.

He gestured to the seat beside him and said gently, "Enough shouting, come sit."

Perplexed, Adrian complied, casting a questioning glance at Nathaniel.

"Go on, keep talking," Nathaniel urged.

"And besides, we're armed, what's there to fear?" Adrian continued.

In a swift move, Nathaniel's hand delivered a sharp slap across Adrian's face.

Instantly, five bright red marks adorned his handsome face.

Victoria and Adrian were both taken aback, their eyes wide.

"I've been too lenient with you all these years, that's why you've grown so disrespectful," Nathaniel said coldly, emanating an authoritative presence that brooked no argument.