Chapter 24

Dynamic dance music filled the bar, but the doorway remained quiet. After a long while, Naomi waved and said, "I'm leaving." She then hailed a car. Watching Naomi drive away, Marilyn murmured, "You look much cooler than I am." A hint of envy flashed in Marilyn's eyes.

Meanwhile, Robert sat in a top-floor office at the Grand Triumphant Hotel. A hangover remedy (prepared by Carlos) and some documents lay on the table. Since returning, he had been reviewing documents concerning the enterprises he was about to inherit. Looking at the data, he couldn't believe so many well-known enterprises belonged to his family.

"Mr. Zabinski, it's late. You should get some rest," Carlos said, adding hot water to Robert's teacup.

Rubbing his head, Robert replied, "Just a little longer. This all happened so suddenly. I shouldn't mess this up, should I?"

Carlos smiled. "With your capabilities, I don't think it will be a problem, Mr. Zabinski."

"Still, I shouldn't stop learning. By the way, Carlos, what about that arrangement you mentioned?" Robert took a sip of tea.

"The Hoffman family is holding a birthday banquet in Lofbury three days from now. Mr. Zachary Zabinski helped the Hoffmans before, so you should attend; they sent an invitation. Mr. Hoffman happens to like the postage stamp you bought. It could be a birthday gift, though you certainly don't have to give a gift, Mr. Zabinski. Your presence would be the best present."

Robert smiled. "Let's give the postage stamp, then. It's my dad's job to attend these things. I'm just a kid; I don't have much influence yet."

Carlos nodded. "Then I'll arrange the gift. Also, Mr. Zabinski, several new enterprises wish to collaborate, but they need your permission. Let me know when you're available, so they can come."

Robert glanced at the clock. "Tomorrow, then. I need to practice as well. Please have someone arrange my schedule for the next few days as soon as possible, so I can prepare."

"Okay, Mr. Zabinski. I'll inform them immediately." Carlos bowed and left.

It was eleven o'clock at night. Barry tossed and turned, unable to sleep. Today had been a rollercoaster. He'd enjoyed mocking Robert, but hadn't expected Robert's powerful background—helicopters at his graduation! He'd just received a call from someone claiming to be Kendrick's secretary. The secretary said everything Robert had done today was fake—that Robert had hired people and fabricated the real estate details. The secretary had sent someone to investigate the property. The sales manager at Bluespring Residence was also confused when someone suddenly inquired about the prime unit (which was already reserved for Adam).

The gloom in Barry's heart vanished instantly after the call. He hated himself for being tricked. If he could go back, he'd expose Robert and slap him. He could only regret his actions and wait for another chance. His main concern now was waiting for a response. There was a strong network among Yrinas' companies. If an industry leader disapproved of a new company, no one could join or make progress. Barry was waiting to meet with the other party. Only then would things be resolved.

Chapter 25