Chapter 232

The bar owner rushed over urgently.

He grabbed Anna Ross by the arm.

"My dear girl, I finally found you!"

"It's time for your performance. Get on stage now."

"Whatever it is can wait until after you sing."

Anna was pulled forward.

She turned back to say something.

But she saw Adrian Sinclair and Julian Garnache staring each other down.

Her heart sank with panic.

In her rush, she shot Adrian a warning glance.

She signaled him not to cause trouble.

Adrian's lips curved into a slight smile.

He returned a meaningful look.

His eyes followed her as she left.

Anna inwardly groaned.

But she had no choice but to take the stage.

She settled onto the high stool.

Anxiously, she scanned the crowd below.

The place was packed with people.

There was no sign of the two men anywhere.

The audience began to cheer and clap.

She had to focus and start singing.

By the bar counter.

Adrian stepped forward casually.

"I heard you made a special cocktail?"

"Would I be lucky enough to try it?"

Julian pulled his gaze away from the stage.

"Since you're a friend of Anna's."

"You're certainly welcome."

He led Adrian to the bar.

He took out a fresh glass.

Poured in the amber-colored liquor.

Adrian accepted the glass.

He took a small sip.

Closed his eyes to savor the taste.

"The layers of flavor are complex."

"Quite memorable."

Julian downed his own drink in one go.

"Just something I threw together."

"Feel free to have another if you like."

Adrian swirled his glass thoughtfully.

"Another drink won't be necessary."

"But I do have some questions for you."

Julian raised an eyebrow.

"This is only our second meeting."

"What could you possibly want to ask?"

Adrian leaned lazily against the bar.

His gaze drifted toward the stage.

"You seem quite close with her?"

"She even calls you Julian."

Julian frowned.

He studied the imposing man before him.

"Is that really any of the bar owner's business?"

Adrian's expression remained neutral.

"Just curious."

"After all, I care about her deeply."

Julian relaxed slightly.

"Anna is a good girl."

"Your care for her shows you have good taste."

Adrian chuckled softly without responding.

On stage, Anna felt like she was sitting on pins and needles.

She finally sang the last line.

She hurried off the stage.

Searching everywhere for any sign of the two men.