Chapter 25

Despite his arrogance at school, Barry dared not complain. He knew the circle's leader could ruin his Yrinas future with a single sentence, potentially forcing both him and his father out.

Lying in bed, contemplating his meeting with the influential figure, Barry received a message. The sender's name made his heart leap. It was an elder, confirming Barry's request: the meeting was on. The news thrilled him.

The influential figure had agreed to meet Barry tomorrow. While Barry knew many others were invited, he felt incredibly honored. This would be a great story to tell later.

Overjoyed, Barry couldn't sleep. He sat up, rehearsing his behavior for the meeting.

It was late. At 3:00 AM, in the Grand Triumphant Hotel's office, Robert rubbed his temples, eyeing his long-cold spiced coffee. Drowsiness weighed heavily on him.

He closed his work. Though he'd inherited a large family business, he knew hard work was essential; otherwise, he'd squander his father's wealth and go bankrupt. Billions were at stake.

His newfound wealth only fueled his efforts. He spent the night taking notes and memorizing information. Ideas for dealing with the Zabel family formed, but needed refining.

Checking the time, Robert covered himself with a blanket and fell asleep.

At 8:00 AM, Robert rubbed his sleepy eyes at the sound of his alarm and headed to the hotel's buffet for breakfast. Meanwhile, Barry, dressed in a suit, arrived at the Grand Triumphant Hotel, his heart pounding with excitement. He hadn't slept all night, planning to have breakfast and wait for his meeting. The elder had informed him that the Grand Triumphant Hotel was the meeting place.

As Barry sat down with his food, he spotted Robert. Anger surged, spoiling his good mood.

Yesterday, after graduation, Barry had expected to stand out at the job fair—after all, few graduates started their own companies. He'd made a splash before it even began. But then, Robert overshadowed him, becoming the subject of comparisons and ridicule.

The memory burned. It was all a money-fueled illusion created by Robert. Barry's anger intensified. He fumed, "Robert used money to make a show yesterday, and now he's flaunting it at the Grand Triumphant Hotel?"

An idea struck him. Plate in hand, he approached Robert and sat down.

"Oh, it's Robert. Here for breakfast at this five-star hotel? Who are you trying to impress?" Barry glanced at Robert's overflowing plate, curling his lip. "You know, a buffet is about choice, not stuffing your face."