Chapter 7

Genevieve arrived at Nightfall at 7:30 pm. Heidi handed her a uniform. "The room number is 307. Just pose as a drink promoter, and when you spot the boss, start buttering him up. If anything comes up, call me." Genevieve nodded. "Do you know the boss' name?" "No clue. Just watch who everyone's sucking up to—that'll be your guy." Genevieve quickly changed into the uniform. Room 307 was a large private lounge. As she pushed open the heavy door, a cloud of smoke hit her, making her cough violently. She took a quick glance around the room. It was filled with people, both men and women. She pushed her cart of drinks inside, placing bottles on the low table while listening closely to their conversations. Most of the men were older, with greasy hair. Each held a heavily made-up woman in his arms and spouting vulgar jokes. Some of their words were outright disgusting. Was the boss not here yet? Or was the new boss just as crude as one of these men? She discreetly scanned the room again and suddenly noticed a man sitting in a dimly lit corner. Even while sitting down, his tall frame was evident. Unlike the others, he wasn't accompanied by a woman. His presence exuded elegance and an air of disdain, making him stand out. If anyone in the room looked like someone of status, it was him. As she pondered, someone raised their glass to the man, their tone unusually respectful. This confirmed Genevieve's suspicion that this man was likely the new boss of Shont Corporation. After arranging the drinks, only one expensive bottle of red wine remained on the cart, something Heidi had prepared for her. After pushing the cart toward the man, she finally got a closer look. He wore gold-rimmed glasses, and his fair skin accentuated his clean and refined appearance. Without realizing it, Genevieve mentally labeled him as a good guy. "You must be the new boss of Shont Corporation. It's a pleasure to meet you." She greeted him with a flattering smile and held out the bottle of red wine. While someone wealthy like him probably wouldn't care for such a bottle, it was better than approaching him empty-handed. Herman Swanson raised his brows slightly, his gentle yet detached gaze falling on her. "Tell me your purpose." "I want to work at the site. I have qualifications and certifications. I'll take any position," Genevieve said, handing him the wine. He smiled as he took the bottle, a hint of amusement curving his lips. "Alright." Genevieve stiffened up.. She hadn't expected it to be this easy after trying every avenue to get on the site. He gestured toward the karaoke screen. "Sing me a song. If I'm satisfied, you can join." Genevieve nodded. Singing a song was no big deal—as long as he didn't make her drink or do anything inappropriate. But the microphone was already in the hands of a man with a bulging belly. His cheeks were flushed, and he grinned slyly when he saw her approach. "Hey there, young lady. How about singing a duet with me?" The room erupted in cheers. Despite seeing him clutch the microphone tightly, she replied, "Alright." But as she reached for the microphone, the man suddenly pulled her into his arms. The overpowering stench of alcohol and tobacco made her stomach turn in disgust. When he tried to take further liberties, she gritted her teeth and drove her elbow hard into his stomach. He groaned in pain, cursing, "You bitch!" before kicking her to the ground. Genevieve scrambled to her feet, only to find a pair of leather shoes standing before her. Upon looking up, her face instantly paled. It was Tristan. What the hell? Why was he here too? "Genevieve?" His cold, oppressive voice sent chills down her spine.