Chatper 162: Attracts Attention Like Flies to Horse Dung

Chatper 162: Attracts Attention Like Flies to Horse Dung

I need to ask you an important question. Tori stared at Piers, who sat to her left at a table above Cafe Fortuna. Piers gave her a stoic nod, expressing his permission. Is your father going to pay for it?

Axton squinted from her right.

While funding was an important question, they all knew it was a bit crass to charge the Emperor. Tori knew that, but had no problem with it and decided to do it as often as possible to supplement her resources. The Emperor was flush with money. It wasnt as if she was asking for his first born.

Piers nodded his head once. Yes. And he will assign the knights.

A brilliant smile filled her face. Then, if thats the case, it can very much be done.

Axton looked at her suspiciously. What do you plan on making him pay for?

Obviously, the imperial knights, the resort fee, catering fee, which includes labor and materials through the weekend, and activity fees, Tori said, naming them off one by one. Axton crinkled his eyes.

How much is this going to cost?

Tori leaned forward and smiled. It really depends on how many people will be there.

He is the Emperor.

Yes, and he will compensate me and my people for our labor, Tori said, proud. Im not even charging him for the cake, which Im personally making myself to show my sincerity, and the fireworks will be covered as my gift to Ewan and Piers.

This is an acceptable arrangement, Piers replied. Axton whipped his head back to him.

Do you have no qualms with how much Tori is charging?

No.

Tori beamed and reached over to pat Piers arm. The food and staff, including the knights, arent cheap. Im even keeping the ice-skating rink for another month just so they could use it. The warmer it gets, the more challenging it is to keep frozen.

Mother likes ice skating, Piers said in a solemn voice.

Axton ran a hand down his face. Are you going to charge them if they ever visit the Lunar Pavilion?

Yes, its a former imperial residence. Former, meaning it no longer belongs to them, Tori said with a bright face. She tapped her hand on the table. All right, Ill discuss with Henrik and draw up some quotes, arrange some suggested menus, and have them back to you in two days.

Piers nodded.

Isnt that a little too close? Axton asked with a furrowed brow. Thats only three...two weeks away.

Im only sourcing things we can use immediately. Nothing will be a difficult to procure or out of season item, Tori assured him. Ilyana has already set aside some potatoes if they are needed.

Thats very generous of her. Axton nodded with approval.

I know. Shes charging market rate. I told her to charge more, but she was embarrassed. Tori shook her head, as if Ilyana had missed a great opportunity. Axton squinted at her. Luckily, she agreed to charge more for the second princes birthday.

A knock was heard from the door and Axton shouted for whoever it was to enter. Henrik opened the door a bit and peeked in before deciding he could intrude. He greeted Axton and Piers respectfully before turning his attention to Tori.

Im glad I caught you. Look at this. Henrik dug into his satchel and took out a few folded sheets of paper.

Tori leaned forward and took it from his hand. What is it?

Guest list. My father told me to bring it to Des Champs as guests will need to check in at the door, Henrik said. He stood to the side and waited as Tori flipped through the papers.

She raised a brow and almost seemed to smirk. So, he is going to the party.

Whos going? Axton asked, perking up.

Adrien Rosiek, Tori said as she continued to skim the list. To Henriks sisters sixteenth birthday party. She currently works for his wine shop.

Axton frowned and looked at Henrik. Are you all right with that?

Henrik shrugged. I dont control her.

Tori narrowed her eyes. She didnt invite any of her co-workers. Not even the shop manager. Tori made a point to know the names and faces of any Golden Cow workers around Duel. It was Adriens territory, so she wanted to be cautious. Thats surprising.

Maybe they had to work at that time, Axton said.

Tori pursed her lips and shook her head. All of them at the same time? They work in shifts. Ive seen Annika talking to coworkers outside before. Its surprising that the Cowman was the one invited out of all of them. How close is their relationship?

Henrik shifted uncomfortably beside her, and Tori gave him a sympathetic look. I shouldve kept a better eye on her.

No younger sibling likes to be watched every moment of their lives by their older sibling, Tori told him. Piers opened his mouth, and she stopped him. Hes a strange exception. Dont count him. She looked back at Henrik. Besides, even if you did watch her, what could you do? You two dont really talk.

I dont want to think that she is colluding with the Cowman, Henrik said with a frustrated sigh.

She wouldnt be the first, Tori said. She narrowed her eyes. Hey, is there a spot still open for me?

Henrik raised a brow and looked at her with confusion. Tori had been vehement on declining. Still, Henrik nodded. Youre always invited. Why?

Can you send the invitation to someone else?

Ilyana, were not going, Tori said with a deadpan expression as they packed their things to return to Horizon.

This weekend, only she, Ilyana, and Albert came with Nanny Rey. The others, due to being family friends, were attending Annikas birthday party. Albert, though he wasnt invited, had encouraged Tori not to go. Surprisingly, he had pointed out that if there was a confrontation and it escalated, it would look bad on Henriks parents, as they were hosts.

Albert had insisted that while he trusted Tori could control herself, Adrien might try to provoke her again and she couldnt do much to retaliate in a public setting unless she wanted to cause a scene.

Ilyana was of the opposite camp.

Why not? she said with a disappointed look as she stood outside the carriage, waiting for their things to be packed. I want to see the action.

Tori paused and crinkled her eyes. What action are you talking about? she frowned. Were not going to go and cause a scene at Henriks parents party for their daughter.

Then, what if we just stand back and watch? Ilyana asked. Albert gave her an uncertain look.

What do you mean by stand back and watch? Tori attracts attention like flies to horse dung.

Thank you for that wonderful analogy, Albert.... Tori rolled her eyes. She looked at Ilyana with a knowing expression. But hes right. I already rejected the invitation and if I show up suddenly, I will get attention. Most, if not all, of those people on that guest list know who I am. Guild members and merchants, some aristocracy. Lions Gate and the delta are popular; theyre going to want to chat.

Ilyana wrinkled her nose and seemed to understand that. Still, there was some earnest excitement on her face. What if we sneak in?

How are we going to sneak into Des Champs? Its one of the best restaurants in the city and a hub for young aristocracy and nobles. They have security, Albert told her as Nanny Rey ushered them into the carriage silently.

Not to mention a guest list. Everyone must check in at the door, Tori reminded her.

Ilyanas eager look did not fade. Then we go through the back door.

Ilyana. Tori gave her a disapproving look. Were not going to ruin Henriks sisters birthday party. Even if we hate the Cowman, we have to have some consideration for the Skuldsens.

You punched one of Harts little followers once and now you want to punch them all, Albert said with a suspicious look.

Ilyana scoffed and sat up straight. I shared my food with the second prince and von Dorn! Even as she said it, there was some reluctance in her eyes. Besides, what if the Cowman causes trouble?

What trouble would he be willing to cause at a party hosted by Horizons guild master? Isnt that asking for trouble? Albert asked with a sigh.

He approached Tori at the bookstore. He has no sense of preservation, Ilyana argued proudly. The carriage jerked forward, and Tori leaned back against her seat.

Sonia said shell call us if something happens and tell us whats going on. She and JP are our eyes and ears there tonight. Besides, I gave up my spot. Someone else needs the contacts more than I do, Tori said with a pitiful look.

Ilyana gave her a curious look. Who did you give your invitation to?

Henrik almost wanted to vomit blood when Tori suggested he send an invitation to Alessa Hart. Of all the people in the entire empire, no, the world, Tori suggested that he extend an invitation to Alessa Hart. He had wondered if Tori lost her mind.

However, she had insisted she had her reasons, mainly that Hart needed some sort of business contacts within Horizon outside of the Cowman because shed need resources for her project. Resources that could be trusted. She didnt want what happened previously to repeat itself. The orphanage was something he knew weighed in the back of Toris mind, so he conceded.

Besides, if Hart had other contacts that were already his and his fathers contacts, it would be easier to monitor her.

Henrik had sent the invitation to Hart last minute. He had said that Tori had heard a lot from Prince Gideon and von Dorn about her troubles and thought that inviting her to the party, where there would be many merchants, would be helpful in establishing contacts.

Henrik wasnt surprised that Hart had been suspicious, and he had inwardly sneered that she seemed to know why they wouldnt normally help her despite her pretense.

Tori is worried about the children at the orphanage, Henrik had told Hart. That had seemed to placate the young noblewoman. Prince Gideon had found out and, without being prompted, encouraged Hart to talk to the merchants there, perhaps find a way to get connections for her barony.

Henrik kept a pleasant smile that didnt reach his eyes as Hart arrived at the top of the steps and looked around with wide eyes at the entrance of Des Champs. She was escorted by von Dorn, which made Henriks eye twitch, as the invitation was only for one person.

He took a deep breath and let it out slowly.

Hart, von Dorn. Thank you for coming to my sisters party. There are many business associates here and a few do business around the empire, not just in Horizon. They may be able to assist you. It was the truth and it pained Henrik to stay it, but he persisted.Updated from novelbIn.(c)om

Thank you for extending the invitation, Mr. Skuldsen, Hart said with a bright smile. She took a step closer to him. I didnt expect you to reach out.

Henrik resisted the urge to step back. He forced a smile. Tori told us about the orphanage and if you can help them, then well try to help you. For the children....

When was the last time you saw Ewan clinging to my arm and rubbing himself against me?

Annika scowled. You werent there. You didnt see it.

Tori saw it, her two crystal masters saw it, and Manager Saussure of the Three Queens saw it.

He mustve had his reasons!

Its nice that you trust him, but I dont. Annika, I think hes targeting you. Henrik put his hands on her shoulders and forced her to look up at him.

What? She pulled her shoulders away and gave him a look of disbelief. Henrik didnt answer immediately, and his sisters disbelief became accusatory. Is this because of the break in? I told you; it wasnt me!

I never accused you.

Not out loud! Annika retorted. She narrowed her eyes. Do you think that Adrien approached me because youre my brother, and you and the Countess once argued with him?

Henrik frowned and mirrored her gaze. So, you remember that we had grievances with him, and you still went to work for him?

I didnt know the store was owned by him!

Its called Golden Cow Wine Distributors! Henrik nearly choked out. Dont tell me you didnt know.

I didnt!

Then if you like working for him so much, why did you ask Dad about a job at the Lunar Pavilion?

I heard it was going to be renovated very well-

And where did you hear about the Lunar Pavilion to begin with? I never mentioned it around you and there were very few people who knew about it to begin with. Henrik couldnt seem to stop his questions and his eyes bore into Annika.

His sister was flustered. I...I just heard about it-

From whom? I could count on two hands who knew about it.

You did mention it in front of me! You just dont remember! Annika snapped back.

Annika, Henrik, what is wrong with you two? Their mothers voice came from the side, and they turned to see her standing a few paces away and trying to block the few guests who had turned to look at them when they began arguing. Her eyes flickered to the side, and she shot the two siblings an annoyed look. We are in the middle of a party. Annika, your dance is about to start soon.

Annika shot her brother an annoyed glare and pushed him to the side. Im going to change into my dance dresses. She marched past them and gave quick greetings to people on her way to a back room where she could change with the help of their maid.

Their mother looked at Henrik with a frown. What are you doing upsetting your sister? You know tonight is her coming-of-age party!

Shes the one who pulled me aside, Henrik replied. He approached his mother. Why did you let her invite Rosiek? You know I have a history with him.

Your sister insisted, his mother replied. And its her party. Not yours.

Henrik tilted his head back and let out a frustrated breath. That was fair, but it still bothered him. Im going to find the others.

He bypassed his mother and headed down the stairs. As he reached the bottom, Sonia gave him a nod from where she was standing by the banister, holding a half empty wine glass she was nursing so that no one would bother her.

Are you all right? Sonia asked with a raised brow. You look mad.

I am mad, he said in a irritated voice. That bastard was taking my sister out for meals for months with ulterior motives, while she was still fifteen!

Sonia immediately narrowed her eyes and lowered her glass. Isnt he at least in his late twenties by now? Her voice was filled with disgust.

Henrik seethed. He told my sister that he would wait for her and now Annika is convinced that since she turned sixteen, they can properly date.

Sonia scoffed and shook her head. He went out with other women, and it shouldnt be a surprise. Her voice lowered as well. Look what he tried with Tori. It wasnt his first time doing that. He has experience.

Im not doubting that, Henrik said. He continued to look around. Where is he? I want him out of this restaurant immediately. Instructor Ignatius put me in touch with the manager. If I say the word, theyll drag him out quietly.

Sonia turned her head towards the far side of the main dining floor. By the large windows were rows of tables and most people were standing as they went around and mingled. The atmosphere was loud, with guests having to speak over not only each other, but the musicians in the corner.

Henrik followed Sonias gaze and found the Cowman seated at a small table against the window. Across from him was Hart. They were rather close, and both were smiling. Real smiles, not the fake one Cowman showed at the dinner table.

If youre wondering about von Dorn, Ewan intercepted him to ask if he was going to accompany the second prince to Viclya next weekend. Hes telling him about the tournament, Sonia said.

Henrik honestly couldnt understand Ewan sometimes. If it were him, hed never speak to von Dorn again after all he said about Ewan, but Ewan was still kind to him. Of course, Ewan was also living the life that von Dorn had aimed for his entire life, so perhaps Ewan simply pitied him.

Henrik didnt linger on it and was about to move forward when Sonia grabbed his forearm. He grimaced, as it was in the same place his sister had dug her nails into, but before he could grumble at Sonia, she motioned up towards the mezzanine. Henrik lifted his head and saw his sister standing by the railing in her dress that she planned to dance in.

The dance floor was on the first floor and once she came down, it would be cleared so she could have her first dance as an adult. He watched his sister scan the crowd with her eyes and then freeze. The smile on her face instantly vanished and Henrik followed her line of sight.

Annika was looking across the room, to the wall with the large windows, and the small table where two people were chatting happily, completely oblivious to being stared at.

Her face turned red, and she seemed to reach down to grab the length of her skirt as she turned around and headed to the stairs.

Still want to kick him out? Sonia asked.

Henrik gritted his teeth. On one hand, he hated the Cowman and wanted him out. On the other hand, it was his sisters party. He frowned with some scorn. No, its her party. Let her do what she wants. Since she doesn't want to listen to me, then she'll just have to face this herself.

Sonia released his arm as they watched Annika come down the second set of stairs across the room. With a furious look on her face and her rapid movements, guests couldnt help but stop themselves before they could greet her and give her space to walk.

In that corner of the restaurant, the voices went quiet as guests watched the birthday girl rush to the small table. Annika lifted her hand and snatched the partially filled wine glass from the table and splashed whatever remained in it onto Harts head.

Sonias mouth dropped and Henriks brows shot up.

Annika! They heard his father calling from across the room, but Annika didnt pay attention.

Who are you? What do you think youre doing? Stay away from my boyfriend! Annikas shrieking filled the restaurant, and the noise came to an awkward halt.

Annika, what are you doing!? The Cowman was on his feet and reaching across the table to wipe Harts head with a white table napkin.

Annikas face paled as she saw the action. She turned to the Cowman with a gaping mouth. What are you doing? Do you know this woman?

Alessa, are you all right? Did it get in your eyes? The Cowman ignored Annika as he rounded the table, squeezing past Annika to get to Hart. Annika stumbled back, as if hed physically shoved her.

Im fine, Adrien. Just surprised, Hart said as she dabbed at her eyes.

The Cowman frowned and looked at Annika sharply. Why did you throw wine on her?

She was flirting with you!

I wasnt! Hart choked out and tilted her head up. Henrik squinted and wondered how she looked so miserable with two or three thimbles worth of wine thrown at her. Was she crying? I was only talking to Adrien.

Alessa is a good friend of mine, the Cowman said in a firm voice. He looked at Annikas confused and flushed face and shook his head. I misjudged you, Annika. I didnt know youd be so cruel.

Annika snapped her head up and looked at him. She shook her head. No...no, Im not. I didnt know-

You cant throw wine at everyone I talk to, the Cowman chastised.

I thought she was flirting with you-

So, what if she was? the Cowman asked with a cold look. That has nothing to do with you.

Annika looked as if shed been told the sky wasnt blue. What? But...but it does. You...we go out and...and you said youd wait for me.

The Cowman looked at her incredulously. You said you wanted to learn more about business. You said your father was going to give you a shop and that you wanted my help to learn to run it.

A distressed look filled Annikas face. No, thats not what you said-

I said I would help you and wait until you get the shop to begin, the Cowman told her. His eyes were cold as he looked at her. I think its you who misunderstood.

Annika shook her head. No! You were so kind to me-

Adrien is kind to everyone, Hart said. You must have misunderstood.

Alessa, lets go. The Cowman turned back to Hart and helped her up. He shrugged off his dress coat and put it over her shoulders. He looked around and saw von Dorn coming towards them. Mr. von Dorn, can you get Alessas coat from the coat room? Ill take her to the front.

Von Dorn nodded and turned around.

Alessa wiped at her eyes once more as she stood up. Annika shook her head and darted in front of them. Wait, no! I made a mistake. I didnt know she was a friend of yours.

Miss Skuldsen, the Cowmans voice was no longer gentle with her, and she stiffened in place. Please get out of the way.

How can you say that I misunderstood! I told you I liked you! You said you liked me, too! Annika said with a pale face. I did everything you asked! When you said you were worried about Henriks company, I tried to get you more information.

The Cowman frowned and bore his eyes into her. I never asked you for such a thing, Miss Skuldsen. Your actions are your own.

But youre the one who told me about the Lunar Pavilion!

See, I told you it wasnt Henrik. At the sound of his name, Henrik turned towards the entrance of the restaurant. His eyes widened as he saw Tori, Ilyana, and Albert standing in the foyer with two men who worked at the restaurant behind them, carrying a large cooling box.

What are you guys doing here? JP asked as he reached them.

Tori motioned her head to the box with a bored look. We brought a cake.