At that moment, the grand entrance of Evergreen Pavilion swung open, not the side doors, but the central ones.
Evergreen Pavilion had strict rules. Regular guests were only allowed through the side doors. The central doors opened only for the truly distinguished.
As the heavy doors parted, heads turned.
A red carpet unfurled beneath the golden glow of chandeliers as staff moved with practiced precision.
A stout man in a tailored suit emerged, a folding fan in hand, flanked by an entourage.
Thorne stiffened, instinctively smoothing out his clothes. His voice dropped to an awed whisper. "This has to be a big shot… The owner of Evergreen Pavilion wouldn’t personally open the main doors otherwise."
Even Ivy, who had just lit her cigarette, flicked it away, her demeanor shifting. A rare moment of unease crossed her face as she hissed, "Straighten up. Don’t embarrass me.
Everyone straightened their clothes, their expressions turning serious.
Just as Ivy was about to step forward and greet him, the owner of Evergreen Pavilion did something unexpected: he walked over himself.
Ivy and Thorne immediately rushed to meet him, their smiles bright and eager.
I, however, remained where I was, casually leaning against a car, cigarette between my fingers.
Then, to everyone’s surprise, the owner didn’t just walk; he jogged over.
Thorne shot me a sharp glare before smacking the back of my head. "Stand up!" he hissed.
