Colton fumed. "Just you wait!" Melany's frustrated expression mirrored his own. Being called "trash" stung them both. However, Melany dared not confront Rebecca, the Green family's only daughter. She'd already embarrassed herself enough that day and didn't want to add further disgrace.

"Colton, don't let it get to you," Melany interjected, attempting to play peacemaker. "It's not worth losing your cool over a project. Let's all take a breath and calm down. Besides, Colton and I were planning dinner in the VIP room. We don't have time for this nonsense. Excuse us." Linking arms with Colton, she signaled the waiter. "Waiter! We'd like to reserve a private room on the top floor."

Jasmine Restaurant, renowned for its stunning garden and luxurious ambiance, had won numerous awards for its design. The top-floor private dining room, offering breathtaking garden views, was the jewel in its crown. Colton glanced at the two women, ready to leave with Melany. "Melany, let's go. No time to waste."

But the waiter seemed uneasy. "Mr. Stevens, I apologize, but a second-floor room is all we have available. The top floor is full. I'm very sorry for the inconvenience." He then turned to Allison and Rebecca. "These ladies already have a reservation, according to our system."

No one expected this meeting. Colton, seething, couldn't believe he was being denied something he wanted, even after offering to pay. He produced his silver VIP card. "I'm an annual member. Is this really a problem?"

The waiter's worry deepened. "I sincerely apologize, sir. Our policy is that once a room is booked, we cannot reassign it."

Melany cast a helpless glance at Allison. "I'm sorry, Allison. Colton wanted to make this special. How about you let us have the suite? We'll pay whatever you ask." Her tone was sweet, but the underlying challenge was clear. "You're always so understanding. You wouldn't want to ruin our date, would you?"

Colton scoffed. "Why worry about money? We're silver members—more valuable than these bums. You two can find another place. We'll take the top-floor room." His arrogance was palpable.

The waiter, sensing escalating tension, addressed Allison and Rebecca. "Ladies, we have a lovely window seat available, overlooking the swans. Fresher air, and we can offer complimentary foie gras and caviar. Would you consider upgrading?"

Rebecca clicked her tongue. "Stop trying to sell me this. We booked first, and I don't see what's so special about a silver card. Everyone has one." Rummaging in her bag, she realized with a jolt, "Damn I forgot my wallet."

An awkward silence ensued. Melany, seizing the moment, smiled. "Rebecca, no need for a show if you don't have your card. We're all friends here. No one will make fun of you. After all, getting into this place—becoming a member requires at least a million dollars and an invitation from the restaurant itself. It's not easy."

Colton, smug, added, "If you don't have the card, I suggest you find another table. You might lose even the window seat."

Originally a private dining room for powerful individuals, Jasmine Restaurant had gradually become members-only. For those in the know, food and garden were secondary; the real value lay in the connections forged within. Colton had inherited his card from his grandfather, believing Rebecca, despite her pedigree, lacked access.

Rebecca, never one to back down, rolled her eyes. "You're underestimating me." She pulled out her phone, ready to call someone. "I'm not backing out." Before she could call, Allison placed a reassuring hand on her arm. "We won't make things difficult. Bring your manager," Allison told the waiter.