Chapter 232: Something’s Off
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The bar area was a quieter escape from the lively ballroom, tucked away from the main dance floor where the orchestra was currently playing a slow, graceful waltz. Dark wood was shining softly under amber pendant lights, with bottles neatly arranged behind the bartender, their labels glowing in warm golden tones.
The leather stools had high backs that made you feel like you were sinking into a fancy couch, and the air carried the faint scent of aged scotch, citrus zest, and the lingering fragrances of the crowd that had drifted off to dance.
Logan sat on one of those stools like he wanted to fade into his drink, his tie loose, silver hair falling into his eyes as he waved his empty glass at the bartender, impatiently flicking his wrist as if he were accustomed to getting what he wanted right away.
"Another," he commanded, his voice slurring a bit, making the word drag out. "And make it quick this time; I’m not paying for slow service."
The bartender’s jaw tightened briefly, but he just poured Logan another drink, sliding it across the polished surface. Logan grabbed it and gulped down half in one go before setting it down with a loud clink that echoed too much in the semi-quiet.
Adrien and I approached from the side, moving in sync as if we had rehearsed. My gown rustled softly with each step, beads catching the light and sending tiny sparks across the bar. Adrien brushed my hand quickly...just a reassuring touch, before stepping forward, his shoulders squared.
"Logan Seymour," he said, his tone low but authoritative, cutting through the soft background music. "We need to talk."
Logan turned his bleary gaze toward us, his eyes narrowing as he finally registered who we were. For a moment, he almost looked like he might chuckle, but instead, he snorted derisively.
"Keith’s kid and the charity case," he muttered, dismissively turning back to his drink. "What’s the matter? You two lost? The kiddie table’s over there with the mocktails."
I felt a sting at the "charity case" comment; it hit me unexpectedly. Adrien’s jaw tightened, his muscle was clearly showing under the skin...but he stayed composed, his voice steady.
"You were my mom’s lawyer before she passed away, right?" he asked, leaning slightly closer to the bar, his hand resting on it as if claiming his ground.