Chapter 13: Enter the Heiress
The glass doors of Noir Lounge swung open, and Charles walked in like he belonged there. No hesitation. No doubt.
Just confidence.
The bouncer gave him a brief nod—not because he was recognized, but because of the aura Charles carried now. Clean-cut black shirt, stylish dark jeans, fresh trim. His presence said one thing: power.
He found his table near the back. A quiet corner. High-end jazz played under the dim lights, and wealthy elites laughed over overpriced wine. The kind of place he used to deliver food to. Now, he was a guest.
"Mr. Charles, your reserved seat," the waitress said softly, placing a menu before him with a slight bow.
Reserved. That word felt better than any label they used to call him before—loser, broke-ass, delivery boy.
His phone buzzed.
> SYSTEM TASK COMPLETE.
"Make a reservation in a high-end venue without asking for a discount."
Reward: +$10,000, Network Access Unlocked.
He smirked. The money was good. But the network? That was what he came for tonight.