Chapter 19 Place of Deep–Seated Fear
Two years later, the Golden Hour Bar remained as wild chaotic, and intimidating as ever.
The car pulled up to the grand entrance, and Lisette stared up at the bar’s ornate sign.
Under the night sky, bathed in vibrant lights, the establishment looked like a magnificent flower in full bloom.
But for Lisette, it was a place of deep–seated fear.
This was where everything had changed for her.
Her child had been taken from her here, leaving behind scars on her heart that persisted despite her attempts to forget.
“Ms. Connor, my lovely and graceful Ms. Connor, please step out of the car.” Frank’s voice was warm and welcoming as he stood by the door, extending his hand with an old–world charm.
Lisette managed a small, strained smile, grabbed her bag, and stepped out.
The past was behind her now. Any lingering pain had been buried by time.
She had to continue living.
She had to face it.
Frank looked at his empty hands with a sigh. “Lisette, tell me, what can I do to win you over?”
Lisette met his gaze seriously. “Change your gender.”
Frank’s eyes widened in surprise. “Oh my God, you actually…”
Lisette gave a faint smile and walked inside.
Upon entering the lavish lobby, her smile faded.
Although two years had passed, being here still made her heart race.
The guests were already waiting in the private room. As they entered, Frank greeted them warmly, as though they were old friends.
After a few friendly exchanges, they took their seats. Frank asked Lisette to present her design portfolio to the clients.
Before arriving, Frank had emphasized the importance of this client.
Securing the order was crucial, so Lisette began her presentation as soon as the portfolio was handed over.
The client listened intently, occasionally asking questions and nodding in thought.
The atmosphere was not bad.
After half an hour, the client said, “I’ll consider it,” and closed the portfolio.
1/2
Chapter 19 Place of Deep–Seated Fear
+5 Pearls
Frank quickly chimed in, “Damien, if you have any questions, just let us know. We’re happy to discuss anything.”
“Of course. But I haven’t had dinner yet. Do you expect me to negotiate on an empty stomach?”
“Of course not. Let’s order some food!”
Soon, dishes started arriving at the table. Lisette, perhaps due to the sudden relaxation or some other reason, felt a sharp pain in her stomach.
“I’m sorry. I need to use the restroom,” she said to the group.
Frank noticed her pale face and said, “Go ahead.”
Lisette nodded and made her way to the restroom.
Inside, she took a moment to collect herself, standing in front of the mirror.
Her makeup was meticulously applied, presenting a refined and elegant appearance, though her face looked unusually pale.
She had come here determined to maintain her composure, believing she could mask her discomfort. Clearly, she had overestimated her own control.
Taking her bag, she touched up her makeup until her reflection no longer showed signs of distress, then she left.
As she exited, she pulled out her phone to text Frank, explaining that she had her period and needed to step out briefly to buy some personal supplies.
Just as she was about to slip her phone back into her bag, she collided with someone. The phone fell to the floor,
“Sorry,” she said, bending down to retrieve it.
As she picked it up, a strong hand grasped hers, pulling her into a sudden embrace.
She froze, looking up to see a face that seemed to pierce right through her.
