Chapter 116

Anna Ross gave a slight nod and followed the manager into the noisy interior of the bar.

Dazzling lights swirled. The dance floor was packed with a surging crowd, cheers rising and falling.

The moment she stepped onto the stage, all eyes from below focused on her.

Someone whistled. Others raised their phones to record.

The song request list was quickly handed to her.

As the intro music flowed softly, the entire room gradually quieted down.

She parted her lips lightly and began to sing. "How many times does a butterfly blink its eyes..."

Her voice was clear and moving. The audience below instantly erupted into enthusiastic applause.

Mia Lawrence pushed her way to the front with effort, excitedly waving her arms.

She watched her radiant best friend on stage, a proud smile lifting her lips.

On the bar's second floor, the owner observed the bustling scene with satisfaction.

Tonight's customer flow was noticeably higher than usual. She nodded to herself in approval.

During the intermission, Anna checked the time.

The owner happened to walk over, beaming. "You performed wonderfully. I'm giving you a raise."

Anna thanked her with surprise and simultaneously requested to leave early.

The owner agreed readily.

The night was still young. The streets remained lively.

Mia linked arms with her, hopping excitedly. "A raise! That's amazing!"

Anna's eyes curved into happy crescents. She pulled her toward a roadside food truck.

The enticing aroma hit them. Both swallowed involuntarily.

Mia's eyes lit up as she excitedly picked ingredients. "I've been craving this! Today, I'm eating like there's no tomorrow!"

Anna held a plate, cooperating with her while smiling warmly. "Don't worry. There's plenty."

Just as they were happily selecting food, a male voice suddenly interrupted. "Isn't this Mr. Sinclair's executive assistant?"

They turned simultaneously. Anna was slightly taken aback.

Marcus Hill approached with a smile, his tone teasing. "I didn't expect him to actually bring you along." He glanced at the plate in her hand, raising an eyebrow. "You actually like this kind of food? Mind if I join?"

Mia immediately blocked the ingredients protectively. "Why should we let you join? Who are you?"

Just as Marcus was about to answer, a petite figure bounced out from behind him.

Sophia Roscente waved with a bright smile. "Miss Ross, do you remember me?"

Anna was somewhat surprised. She hadn't expected to run into them in New York.

Seeing her silence, Sophia主动 explained. "I'm Adrian Sinclair's cousin. You can ask him if you don't believe me."

Marcus nodded repeatedly in confirmation.

Anna smiled politely, but a trace of awkwardness stirred within her.

Marcus looked around deliberately and asked, "Where's Adrian? Working overtime again? He's such a workaholic."

Anna responded flatly, "I'm not sure. I didn't see him today."

Sophia immediately leaned in, her eyes sparkling. "How far have things progressed between you and my cousin?"

Anna's heart tightened. She quickly denied it. "I'm just his executive assistant. There's no other relationship."