Chapter 165: The Uninvited King
Summer pulled Merry back before she could attract attention. “Don’t make a scene,” she whispered sharply. “Have you forgotten why we’re here?”
Merry immediately pressed two fingers to her lips in a zipping motion. “Got it. I’ll shut up.”
A hostess approached them. “Miss, do you have a reservation?”
Perhaps from spending too much time with Fraser, Summer had become immune to these exclusive, high-end places. She lied without blinking, “Room 316. We’ll find our own way.”
Merry exhaled in relief. “Thank God you’re here, Summer. I would have blown our cover.”
They followed a corridor decorated with miniature bridges and flowing fountains until they reached room 316. Summer paused at the door before pushing it open.
Inside, the party was in full swing. The room buzzed with energy, men and women drinking and dancing, the air thick with the scent of expensive alcohol and perfume. The opulence was overwhelming.
Merry’s eyes scanned the room like radar. She leaned close to Summer. “That’s him over there, James Fletcher, the CEO of GloryPath Construction.”
Summer followed her gaze. A middle-aged man in his forties, his hair slicked back, a slight paunch visible beneath his tailored suit. He had an arm around a woman in a short skirt.
Summer took a glass of wine from a passing waiter and approached. “Mr. James, I’m Summer Stewart from the Aspira Design Institute. May I have a moment of your time?”
James turned at the sound of her voice. His eyes swept over her, taking in her wavy hair, pale complexion, and delicate features. Even with minimal makeup, she stood out from the other women in the room. Interest flickered in his eyes. He nudged the woman beside him away.
Aspira Design Institute? He pretended to think for a moment.
“Oh, Aspira…”
Summer felt a flicker of hope at his recognition. “Yes. Our company was supposed to be in the competition, but your project manager suddenly disqualified us. We came to ask for a fair chance to compete.”
James stared at them, his lips curling in amusement. “How do you plan to prove your company’s worth?”
“My mentor graduated from Liberty High and has five years of industry experience. Having another design firm in the competition benefits you as well.”
The woman in the short skirt sneaked up to James again, pouting. “Mr. James, are you leaving me for this new beauty?”
James chuckled and playfully pinched her cheek. “Don’t worry, you’re still my favorite.”
Then he turned back to Summer, his tone deliberately challenging. “Why don’t you drink these boules first? Let me see Aspira’s courage and determination.”
Merry’s eyes widened in shock. On the table were five large boules of premium imported liquor. Fresh out of college, she had never been in a situation like this before. Since when did business negotiations involve drinking games?
Summer remained composed. “I don’t drink much. But I’ll toast you with this glass,” She downed the wine in one gulp.
James smiled. “One glass? Ms. Stewart, do you think that’s enough to impress me?” He leaned back and spread his arms. “I’m feeling generous tonight. Finish these bottles, and I’ll give Aspira a place in the competition.”
The commotion attracted attention. Several guests stopped dancing and gathered to watch. Merry, though frightened, clenched her fists. “Mr. James; if Summer drinks until she passes out, it won’t solve anything. I’m also from Aspira; let me share the drinks with her.”
James’s gaze shifted to Merry; the mute innocence of a student fascinated him.
Before he could finish, the door swung open again. Several men entered. The one leading them had his suit jacket slung over his shoulder, his white shirt unbuttoned at the collar. His gray pants accentuated his long legs as he strode in with an air of effortless dominance. The others trailing behind him seemed like mere props in the background.
The crowd immediately dispersed. Even the host of the party scrambled to his feet. A murmur rippled through the room. “Mr. Graham is here.”