At 8:00 p.m., Ryan and the physics department students arrived at Sky Nimbus. Bonnie and Yvette, having sprinted the entire way, arrived just a minute before the deadline.
Led by Ryan, the group confidently entered Sky Nimbus. The cool air was a welcome relief from the summer heat. The spacious, spotless lobby, with its gleaming marble floors and grand chandeliers, and the uniformed staff initially made them feel uneasy.
The duty manager approached with a professional smile, his gaze fixed on Ryan. "Mr. Lewis," he said respectfully, "your reserved room is 101. Let me take you there personally."
Ryan nodded. Though informally dressed, his presence was markedly different from his usual demeanor at school. He now exuded the air of the Lewis family heir, a family worth over $3.3 billion.
The students exchanged glances, realizing that despite their shared classes, Ryan was far beyond their reach. The manager, experienced in discerning a guest's status, quickly assessed their clothing – even their best outfits cost no more than $670. He knew Ryan was studying at Argrol University and suspected this was merely a social outing for his classmates. He showed little regard for anyone other than Ryan.
The group proceeded to the back area, where crystal tables were surrounded by leather couches and a large flat-screen TV. Everything was state-of-the-art.
The manager began a detailed description of Sky Nimbus' services: "I assume this is most of Mr. Lewis' friends' first visit, so allow me a brief introduction. Each member has access to a private suite with a gym, lounge, bath, and entertainment system. We also offer personal trainers and spa treatments. As a diamond cardholder, Mr. Lewis, with his $3.3 million annual fee, has access to all facilities without reservation."
The students were awestruck, realizing this was not just a club, but an immensely expensive establishment. Their initial excitement faded, replaced by unease. Unaware of their discomfort, Ryan remained unfazed by the manager's commentary.
Suddenly, an impatient voice interrupted: "Are you done?"
The manager stopped abruptly. Yvette, dressed in black casual clothes and a cap, had been quietly following. The manager, aware of her connection to Ryan, remained silent.
"Miss, my apologies," he said, "but I assumed, unlike Mr. Lewis, you might need an introduction. A membership card might be easier next time."
The students understood the sarcasm. Their faces flushed with embarrassment. Bonnie was about to retort, but Yvette gently restrained her.
In a cold voice, Yvette asked, "Does your family own this place? Are you a member?"
The manager's expression soured. This was the first time a college student had openly challenged him.
"That's enough," Ryan interrupted. "We're at the entrance. Just have the waiter take our order."
The manager, deferring to Ryan, called a waiter and excused himself, his face darkening as he passed Yvette.
Room 101 boasted a massive table seating 40-50 people, complete with entertainment and leisure equipment.
After Ryan ordered, thoughtfully inquiring about dietary restrictions, a tense silence settled over the table. Their earlier humiliation weighed heavily on them.
Yvette, unfazed, put on headphones and started a game. Bonnie attempted to lighten the mood: "Hey, Ryan, how's the food?"
Ryan, unconcerned by the others' emotions, replied, "It's delicious. The chefs were hired by the owner, Harry Golden, from all over the world."
"Harry Golden?" Bonnie's feigned surprise captured everyone's attention. A discussion about the owner's unusual name ensued, easing the tension.
"Yve, don't you think that name's hilarious?" Bonnie said.
Yvette, having finished her game, removed her headphones. "It wasn't," she said. "He chose the name himself. Thought it sounded powerful."
Bonnie dismissed her comment. Ryan, however, overheard and was surprised; he knew Harry Golden had indeed chosen his own name.
Everyone's attention shifted to Ryan whenever he was lost in thought. Bonnie, carefree as always, asked, "Ryan, what's got you daydreaming?"
"Thinking about Yvette's words," he replied. All eyes turned to Yvette, who looked around confusedly. "What's going on?"