Chapter 20

Robert sat, feeling dizzy. He wasn't a heavy drinker and resented being pressured. The two men at his table were delighted by his near-intoxication.

Meanwhile, Naomi was being plied with champagne by two women at a booth.

"Look, Naomi," one said, "three bottles of Armand de Brignac! $4,500! This shows respect and pride! When have we ever had a moment like this?"

The women continued their persuasive campaign. "Look at your boyfriend. His entire outfit probably isn't worth a sip of this champagne. Why suffer with a poor punk when you have such amazing qualities?"

Then, the DJ announced, "Mr. Kendrick Zabel of B8 has ordered ten bottles of Armand de Brignac! Let's wish Mr. Zabel great fortune and a happy life with Ms. Marilyn Quesnell!"

Kendrick clearly approved. Ten bottles were paraded around the bar before being placed on Kendrick's table. He wore a smug expression; Marilyn and Linda looked grim. They were not short of money; they'd come for a drink, not a spectacle. Marilyn, in particular, found the DJ's pronouncement offensive.

The two women at Naomi's table, initially focused on their companion, quickly shifted their attention to Kendrick. Ten bottles eclipsed three in their estimation.

Robert, also alerted by the DJ's announcement, saw Marilyn with Kendrick. His expression darkened. He immediately refused further drinks and, taking a deep breath, reached for his coat to leave.

"Hey, punk, what's up? Don't get so full of yourself," one of the men sneered. "We offer you a drink, and you refuse? Is it too cheap for you because it's only a $300 bottle?"

Their dissatisfaction was evident. "Damn it! We looked up to you, and you're ungrateful!"

The bar music had stopped, creating an unnerving silence. Their outburst drew everyone's attention, including Kendrick.

"Well, well, Robert," Kendrick chuckled. "Didn't you mortgage your house to show off earlier? Quick to put on a different pretense here tonight."

The revelation sparked widespread curiosity. "A person who'd mortgage their house to make a show is a complete fool," the onlookers murmured.

The two women with Naomi laughed. "What an outstanding boyfriend you have, Naomi."

Naomi stared at Kendrick, worried. She knew the Zabels were entering Yrinas. "Does Kendrick want to die? Why provoke the Zabinski son?"

Robert glanced at Kendrick, said nothing, and started to leave. He took only a few steps before being stopped.

"Mr. Zabinski! I'm the bar's general manager."

A middle-aged man bowed respectfully, subtly glancing at Naomi.