Chapter 4

Drenched in sweat, clad in pajamas and sandals, I stood in stark contrast to Oliver's polished suit.

Emma's companions mocked me, while she coldly accused me of causing her embarrassment.

Ever since, I've harbored a deep dislike for such establishments.

Yet, knowing my imminent departure, I felt an unexpected sense of calm.

Still, some occurrences caught me off guard.

As the clock struck twelve, the supervisor requested I deliver wine to a VIP suite, repeatedly stressing the importance of the client. I agreed without hesitation.

Upon entering, I was greeted by a chorus of cheers.

Reflexively, I glanced over to see Emma and Oliver encircled on the couch.

They sat face-to-face, engaged in a game involving an apple, their lips almost touching.

The room crackled with anticipation.

"Kiss, kiss," someone urged, causing Emma to blush.

"Time's up, you two were too slow. A penalty is in order."

"How should we punish them? Let's have the wine server decide."

A guest pointed at me, grinning.

All eyes, including Emma's, turned to me. Her smile vanished upon recognizing me.

Oliver also identified me, a flash of contempt crossing his face before he quickly masked it with a smile.

"Well, if it isn't Noah? Why are you dressed as a server?"

Emma's friends joined in the derisive laughter.

"Emma, what's going on? How could you let your boyfriend work in a place like this?"

They exchanged knowing looks and offered to order drinks to boost my earnings.

I understood their intention was to belittle me.

They had never accepted me, viewing me as inferior to Emma.

Despite years of proving myself and assisting them with their problems, nothing changed.

In the past, I might have felt wounded and let down.

But now, I was surprisingly composed.

Their attitudes were ultimately a reflection of Emma's influence.

Since Emma no longer held significance in my life, why should their opinions matter?

I courteously suggested drinks to them, highlighting several costly options, then inquired, "These beverages are sold by the dozen. How many would you like?"

They were dumbfounded, not anticipating such boldness from me.

They were left at a loss for words.

Previously, I would have felt hurt and disappointed.

But now, unexpectedly, I felt at peace.

Their behavior towards me ultimately stemmed from Emma Bennett.

Since Emma no longer held importance to me, what did their views signify?

I promptly and politely recommended some drinks, emphasizing several expensive choices before smiling and asking, "These come in sets of twelve bottles. How many sets would you prefer?"

They stood there, taken aback by my confidence, momentarily speechless.

"If that's excessive, you might not consume it all. Perhaps 24 bottles?" I suggested kindly. "That'll be 160,000. Could one of you please settle the bill at the front desk?"

With that, I turned away, disregarding their embarrassed expressions, and prepared to exit.

Just as I reached the doorway, Emma Bennett caught up to me, her face clouded as she sharply questioned me.

"Noah, are you finished making a spectacle? Why did you follow me here?"

I calmly responded, "I'm not following you. I'm here to earn a living."

Emma clearly doubted me, her tone growing harsher. "Does our family require you to make money? Even if I suspended your card, selling just one or two of those gifts would support you for a year."

Not bothering to elaborate, I nodded.

"You're correct."

I expected Emma to be satisfied, but her expression only darkened.

Before she could continue, Oliver Thompson intervened.

"Emma, since Noah is already present, don't rush him away. Let's enjoy a few drinks together."

I assumed Emma would, as usual, refuse to let me stay, and I was prepared to decline. But surprisingly, Emma said, "You stay here for now. We'll go home later."

I was somewhat puzzled—she typically dismissed me quickly when we were out.

And now she wants me to remain with her?

Before I could contemplate further, Oliver suddenly clutched his abdomen, saying, "Emma, my stomach is suddenly in pain."

"What's wrong? Is it acting up again? I'll take you to the hospital."

Emma hurried back to Oliver's side, her eyes filled with worry.

She never appeared this concerned when I was ill with a high fever.

Observing her anxious gaze, I smiled with acceptance.

"I'm leaving. Take care, all of you."

"Wait," Emma suddenly called out to me.

I turned back, confused, only to see her with an odd expression as she fiddled with her phone.

"The card is unblocked. Take a taxi home."

"Wait for me at home; I have something to discuss with you."

This was the first time she had thought of me while with Oliver. In the past, I would have been elated.

I responded half-heartedly and departed.

The commission from the drinks was sufficient for me to purchase a plane ticket. After booking the earliest flight, I returned to the hotel, collected my suitcase, and took a cab to the airport.

As I boarded the aircraft, I couldn't help but glance back at this familiar yet unfamiliar city.

I knew this was truly farewell to Emma.