Chapter 23

The man wearing a Submariner rolled his eyes. He believed Robert had sold his house to impress Naomi, thinking, “Since Naomi accepted Robert, why not me? I'll win her and her wealth.”

At the entrance to Elephant Bar, Naomi stood beside Robert, produced a cigarette, and offered it to him. "Do you want one?" Robert was momentarily stunned, then accepted it.

Naomi tossed him a lighter. He lit the cigarette, took a deep puff, and coughed violently, his face turning red.

Naomi lit her own cigarette without comment. "Marilyn seems important to you, but you're far superior to Kendrick in looks, style, and family background. You're more formidable."

"She doesn't know what my family does," Robert said, attempting another puff. He coughed twice, less violently this time.

Naomi nodded. "Ah, I understand. You should go back to her, hold her hand, and tell her everything. I bet she'll go with you."

Robert shook his head. "It doesn't matter anymore. I was just reluctant to admit defeat. Besides, I have other options."

"That's true, but you seemed to be feeling more than that today," Naomi smiled.

"I guess I was being competitive," Robert said, waving his hand. A Rolls-Royce pulled up. Carlos, the driver, opened the door.

Robert got in, glancing at Naomi before the door closed. "By the way, you did me a huge favor. I'll buy you dinner someday."

Naomi shook her head. "Forget it, Robert. That day won't come. An elder's birthday is in a few days. You should attend. Let's meet then."

"Okay." Robert waved, closed the door, and leaned back.

The car started slowly. Robert took a deep breath, looked back at Elephant Bar, and wondered, "Was I simply unwilling to admit defeat? Do I really not mind anymore?"

He convinced himself Marilyn was a gold digger; otherwise, she wouldn't have left him because of his family background. Marilyn's words from that night echoed in his mind.

Marilyn picked up her handbag, called Linda, stood, and left Elephant Bar.

"Marilyn, where are you going?" Kendrick hurried to her.

"I'm going home," Marilyn said angrily, not looking at him.

"Marilyn, I'll pay the DJ to shut up. Robert is just—"

"It has nothing to do with this," Marilyn interrupted, grabbing Linda's wrist and heading for the door.

As Kendrick watched her go, resentment intensified in his eyes. "Robert Zabinski, I'll make you pay!"

Marilyn went downstairs and saw Naomi at the roadside. Naomi heard footsteps and turned. Their eyes met. Naomi smiled first, followed instantly by Marilyn. Despite their smiles, their gazes were intense.

"You seem to get along well with him," Marilyn said, referring to Robert.

"Not really. We haven't known each other long," Naomi replied, smoothing her hair.

Silence followed.