When Family Became a Place I Couldn’t Return To novel Chapter 218

Gregory finally caved. He just couldn’t say no to Nelly anymore. The second he agreed, Nelly’s whole face lit up. “Okay. I agree!” she said, her eyes curving in pure, unfiltered delight. Gregory found himself a little distracted, watching her. These days, Nelly looked more and more like her mother, her features delicate and refined. But that’s where the similarity ended. Her mom had always been gentle, soft as water, while Nelly... Under that gorgeous, almost fragile exterior, she was all sparks and defiance.

...

It was late. At the far end of a street washed in neon lights stood a bar, tucked away in the shadows, its only sign a big, glowing X. It was the hottest spot around. Everyone knew why. Every single staff member inside, from waiters to bartenders, was a tall, ridiculously handsome guys.

Nelly walked in wearing a show-stopping, low-cut red mermaid gown. All eyes landed on her. Some guys whistled. Others tried to chat her up. She didn’t even glance at them. She moved quickly, head held high. When a few guys tried to block her, she whipped her purse, knocking one out of the way, and sent a thick stack of bills flying behind her.

That set the whole place off. People dove for the cash, scrambling across the floor. Even the security and waiters rushed in, trying to restore order.

Nelly slipped onto a barstool, ordered a martini, and turned slightly to watch the chaos, looking every bit the queen.

“Wow, you really know how to make an entrance, princess. Doesn’t this feel a little over the top?” The words came as a drink was set down beside her.

She looked over at the bartender. He wore a mask, hair streaked with gray, posture straight and confident. His voice was low, definitely older than the rest. The other bartenders looked like they’d just stepped off a runway. But this guy was different.

“Maybe. But I was born to stand out.” Nelly grinned, her tone teasing. She leaned closer, hand on her glass, then suddenly reached for his mask.

He jerked back. “What are you doing, miss? Trust me, I’m ugly. Wouldn’t want to ruin your night.”

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