Chapter 52

My countenance changed subtly. I had encountered similar scenes several times in the past three years.

"Is it possible you might have mistaken someone else for him?" I asked.

Locating him so effortlessly seemed improbable, especially considering a three-year absence had yielded no clues.

Ava remained steadfast, her determination etched on her features. "No, I'm absolutely certain I haven't made a mistake this time."

Seeing her determined attitude, I said, "Then perhaps we should go inside the bar and assess the situation more closely."

Inside the bar, in a VIP enclave, Elias's gaze settled on Lukas. His lips curved into a playful smile. "So, Lukas, you remain impervious to Sophia's charms, I see? She strikes me as rather captivating."

A subtle furrow appeared on Lukas's brow. This was the third time he'd been asked. He was a little upset. "Have you met her?"

Elias's grin deepened. "Indeed, I chanced upon her online. While the image wasn't perfectly clear, based on my decades-long study of women, I'd venture to say she's strikingly beautiful."

Lukas cast a chilly glance at him, unwilling to entertain such meaningless words.

Drawing nearer, Elias adopted an almost conspiratorial tone. "Come on, Lukas, you can't genuinely claim immunity to her allure. I've observed your concerted efforts—whether facing down Trifleming Jewelry and their involvement in the Starlight Jewelry competition, or managing her notably dramatic sister. You even enlisted Strakovski Jewelry's legal prowess to aid her in the lawsuit. It's not exactly characteristic of your usual style."

Lukas gazed at him reluctantly. "Her design aptitude captivates me, and it's her creative prowess that has drawn my attention. My actions were simply aimed at easing her predicaments, allowing her the liberty to immerse herself in her artistic pursuits. Unlike you, I'm not easily swayed by appearances."

Elias's retort held a faint tint of contention. "You're oversimplifying, Lukas. It's not about being easily swayed, but rather my discerning eye for beauty."

Lukas's lips curved into a sardonic smile. He sipped his drink.

Meanwhile, in the bustling bar, Ava and I searched, our disoriented curiosity growing.

"Ava, let's split up," I said. "I'll cover this area, and you take the other side. If we don't find Cole, we can meet in the VIP rooms."

Tension etched Ava's face. She nodded briskly.

Simultaneously, in Lukas's VIP enclave, Cole swung the door open, revealing two figures on the couch. He greeted respectfully, "Mr. Strakovski."

Lukas arched a brow and glanced at him. "Just back from a flight?"

Cole shook his head. "I took a detour home first. I received word you were seeking me, so I came directly from there. I've brought the investigation report. Please peruse it at your leisure."

In Mediopolis's jewelry market, the Strakovski Group's position remains unchallenged, with little room for further ascension. Therefore, Lukas had dispatched Cole to investigate another region's jewelry market.

Methodically turning the pages, Lukas absorbed the content before addressing Cole. "Take a seat. We can delve into the details later."

Cole shook his head. "Thank you, Mr. Strakovski. I just got off the flight and feel rather exhausted. I'll pass on alcohol tonight. I still have work tomorrow."

Lukas paused briefly. "Then go home and rest. Taking tomorrow off is certainly an option if needed."

Cole's appreciation was prompt. "I appreciate your understanding, Mr. Strakovski."

Emerging from the VIP area, Cole exited seamlessly through the establishment's back exit—a covert passage familiar to regulars.

Meanwhile, Ava and I circled the hall, but couldn't find Cole.

To be honest, I didn't expect to find him. Cole had disappeared completely in the past. All our classmates and friends had lost contact with him. After searching for three years, the chances of accidentally bumping into him were slim.

However, seeing Ava, usually calm, so upset and anxious, I felt sympathy. "Let's check the private rooms," I suggested. "We'll knock, and if he's not there, we'll say we have the wrong room. That way we won't offend anyone."

Ava's eyes were slightly red, but she obediently nodded.

After graduating, Ava had worked as a hacker, taking on various online freelance jobs. She wasn't well-versed in social matters.

I had opened four or five private room doors before Ava found two. As I opened another, I saw a group of men and women inside, causing me to furrow my brows. He wasn't there.

I gave a slight nod of apology. "Sorry, I have the wrong room!"

As soon as I spoke, there was a commotion from inside.

"Oh, since the beauty is here, why not come in and have some fun?"

"Beauty, you're not mistaken. Now that you've opened our door, you're in the right room!"

My complexion changed, becoming uneasy. "I'm really sorry!"

I was about to close the door when I bumped into a solid chest.