I arranged to et Michael Blair for lunch, our conversation today focused on the future of QuantumLyfe Technology, and I had one place in mind—
that
hidden gem of a sushi restaurant,
Shinsei
.
It wasn't just about the food. This small, unassuming spot, tucked away in the heart of the city, held a secret that few knew.
I had stumbled upon it in my past life, a discovery made by sheer accident when I was craving sothing different from the usual high-end venues.
The mont I walked in back then, I was captivated—the ambiance, the artistry, and the authenticity of the food was beyond anything I had ever tasted. The experience had stuck with so deeply that, when I ca back into this life, I knew I had to invest in it.
And I did. Not for profit, but because I wanted to protect this place I had co to love, to ensure it stayed the hidden gem it always was.
The owners were a family of chefs who had co all the way from Japan, seeking a fresh start. Their skill was undeniable, passed down through generations, but they were struggling now—still unknown to the world.
I, however, knew what their future held. In ti, this restaurant would be a sanctuary for the ultra-rich, a place where billionaires would fight for a reservation and pour their fortunes into keeping it exclusive.
I had seen it happen before, in my past life. Back then, I watched as they skyrocketed to success, too late to seize the opportunity myself.
But this ti, I was first.
I had already made my move, investing heavily with only a modest 5% return in mind. It wasn't about the money. It never was.
As long as they had a private room waiting for whenever I ca, I'd consider it more than worth the investnt. Privacy was my only demand—my sanctuary from the outside world.
But right now, the place was still new, and the private rooms were unfinished, their construction delayed by the usual chaos of a fledgling business.
The restaurant was small, humble even, with just a few patrons scattered around, enjoying the incredible food that most of the city hadn't yet discovered.
Today, I craved its delicate flavors once more, the way the sashimi lted on the tongue, the scent of freshly prepared fish mixed with the faint aroma of soy and wasabi, the hum of soft Japanese tunes playing in the background.
We stepped inside, I couldn't help but feel a quiet satisfaction seeing it thrive, knowing that I played a part in its success.
I greeted the familiar staff with a nod, their respect and warmth making it clear they knew exactly who I was—not just another custor, but the one who had secured their place in the world.
We took our usual table, one by the window where the sunlight filtered in, casting a soft glow over the lacquered wood.
Michael noticed the slight grin creeping across my face and raised an eyebrow. "What are you grinning there for, like an idiot?"
I tilted my head and smiled sweetly at him. "I'm grinning because you finally decided to cut your hair and dress nicely for once."
I was genuinely taken aback by this new version of Michael Blair. Previously, I'd seen him as sowhat handso beneath the unkempt beard and weary face, often hidden beneath layers of scruffy lab coats and tangled hair.
But now, with a clean-shaven look and a fresh haircut, he resembled a respectable businessman—or even a model for so luxurious brand. The transformation was stunning; he exuded an aura of confidence and poise that was hard to ignore.
Michael adjusted his necktie, and cleared his throat. He wasn't use to this. "I'm practicing wearing this," he said, gesturing to his crisp attire. "Thanks to you, QuantumLyfe is nearing its final phase and about to be launched into the world, so I had to look my best. After all, you said that the CEO should look the part."
I couldn't help but chuckle. "Good. You're learning. We should go shopping afterward and buy you more suits."
He frowned, and for a mont, I was taken aback by how his mature charm shone through. His bushy brows accentuated his striking features, and the eyeglasses perched on his nose transford him from a disheveled scientist into soone who looked like he belonged in a boardroom or on the cover of a magazine.
"Don't bother. I can buy my own clothes. I'm not so poor that I need a woman to dress ," he replied, a hint of pride in his tone.
I laughed lightly. "That's right. You've got the enemy on your side now, thanks to my millions of investnts."
Michael pursed his lips, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. "You'll get your money back soon enough once we launch QuantumLyfe. You'll not only recover your investnt but make even more."
"Good. I expect nothing less," I replied, and began to eat.
We continued discussing business as we ate, the conversation flowing easily, until I paused, my attention suddenly snagged by a new arrival. My heart dropped.
This can't be . . . Why is
he
here?!
I ntally scread as Cole Fay strode into the restaurant, accompanied by the Johnson brother and sister, Zachary and Ella. The sight of him sent a rush of conflicting emotions through , as if a tidal wave had crashed into the calm of my day.
When our eyes t, I forced myself to remain unfazed, maintaining my conversation with Michael as if nothing had changed. But I could feel the shift in the air, the tension thickening around us.
Michael, perceptive as ever, caught on to the change in my deanor. He turned his gaze toward the newcors, his curiosity piqued.
"Aren't they like the son and daughter of Fay and Johnson? What are such high-profile people doing in this little restaurant?" he asked, his tone laced with disbelief.
*
*
*
*
|| A/N ||
Please support the story with PS, GT, and gifts to keep the story going.
Every 100 PS = 1 Bonus Chapter
Every 50 GT = 1 Bonus Chapter
Every Super Gifts = 1 Bonus Chapter
Thank you all 🤍
Reviews
All reviews (0)