Ethan Blackwood was seething.
“Just you wait!”
Sophia Kensington’s face mirrored his frustration.
Being called trash was a slap to both their faces.
Yet Sophia didn’t dare confront Olivia Montgomery, the sole heiress of the Montgomery family.
She had already humiliated herself enough today—she wouldn’t add another scene to her disgrace in this restaurant.
“Ethan, don’t let it get to you,” Sophia interjected, playing the peacemaker. “It’s just a project. Not worth losing your temper over. Let’s all take a breath and calm down.”
She looped her arm through his and gestured to the waiter. “Excuse us. We’d like to reserve the private suite on the top floor.”
The Jasmine Restaurant was legendary for its breathtaking garden and opulent atmosphere. Its design had won countless awards, and the private dining room on the highest floor was the crown jewel—offering an unparalleled view of the estate’s lush landscape.
Ethan shot a sharp glance at Isabella and Olivia, eager to leave. “Sophia, let’s go. We’re wasting time.”
But when the waiter approached, his expression was apologetic. “Mr. Blackwood, my sincerest apologies. The top floor is fully booked. Would a room on the second floor suffice?”
He then turned to Isabella and Olivia. “These ladies already have a confirmed reservation in our system.”
No one had expected this encounter.
Ethan’s jaw tightened. He couldn’t believe he was being denied—especially after flashing his silver VIP card.
“I’m an annual member,” he snapped. “Surely you can make an exception?”
The waiter’s discomfort deepened. “I’m truly sorry, sir. Our policy is strict—once a reservation is confirmed, we cannot reassign it.”
Sophia gave Isabella a helpless look. “Isabella, be reasonable. Ethan just wanted tonight to be special for me. Why don’t you let us have the suite? We’ll compensate you generously.”
Her tone was saccharine, but the challenge beneath was unmistakable.
Ethan scoffed. “Money isn’t an issue. We’re silver members—clearly more valued here than these nobodies.” He smirked. “You two can find another table. We’re taking the suite.”
The waiter, sensing the rising tension, offered an alternative. “Ladies, we have an exquisite window seat available—overlooking the swan lake. We could also offer complimentary foie gras and caviar as an upgrade.”
Olivia clicked her tongue in irritation. “Stop trying to upsell me. We booked first, and I don’t see what’s so impressive about a silver card. Half the city has one.”
She rummaged through her bag—then froze.
“Damn it,” she muttered under her breath. “I forgot my wallet.”
An awkward silence fell.
Sophia’s lips curled in satisfaction. “Olivia, no need to pretend. We’re all friends here. No one will judge you.” She tilted her head. “Though, getting a membership here does require spending at least a million—and an exclusive invitation. It’s not something just anyone can obtain.”
It seemed the Montgomery heiress wasn’t as untouchable as she appeared.
Ethan’s smirk widened. “If you don’t have the card, I suggest you step aside before you lose that window seat too.” His arrogance was palpable.
The Jasmine Restaurant had once been an elite private club for the city’s most powerful. Membership wasn’t just about the food—it was about the connections forged within its walls.
Ethan had inherited his card from his grandfather. He doubted a young socialite like Olivia, despite her name, had the same privilege.
Olivia narrowed her eyes. “You’re underestimating me.” She pulled out her phone. “I’ll have someone bring it.”
But before she could dial, Isabella placed a calming hand on her arm.
“We won’t make this difficult for you.”
