Chapter 249 A Performance


    Around them, revelry filled the air, yet Nate remained motionless, an ind of stillness


    amid the chaos.


    His attention drifted periodically to his phone''s screen, anticipation evident in his


    demeanor.


    "Nate, you haven''t looked away from that device all evening. Join the festivities!" Moses called out, his cor loosened but his gaze remaining astute and perceptive.


    Jules'' curiosity sparked as he turned to Zack. "Is he awaiting someone''s call?"


    Zack''s expression shifted subtly. "A gentleman''s heart follows where a fairdy leads."


    Jules pondered the identity of the woman who couldmand such devoted attention from Independent Continent''s formidable leader.


    A thunderous round of apuse suddenly erupted, drawing every eye in their private booth.


    "Mr. Seymour, have you orchestrated this entertainment?" a voice inquired. Moses rose with practiced grace, approaching the railing of the second floor. "Consider this merely the prelude."


    The gathering surged forward, eager for a better vantage point.


    From the bar''s center, a tform ascended, bathed in focused spotlights that illuminated several impably suited men.


    As seductive melodies filled the air, the performers began their calcted disrobing- first their jackets, then their ties slipped away...


    Corrine observed the spectacle, her eyebrows arching with barely concealed incredulity.


    The bar owner''s audacity surprised her, though she acknowledged these polished performers had masterfully enchanted their feminine audience.


    As their choreographed routine progressed, revealing sculpted physiques and culminating in an impassioned dance, the atmosphere crackled with electric energy.


    Even passive observers felt their pulses quicken.


    Female voices rose in appreciation, with Karina proving the most vocal beside Corrine. "A lifetime of propriety deserves such reward."


    Corrine stared at her friend, astonished.


    They had been friends for years, yet somehow, she had never realized Karina harbored such enthusiasm for male performers.


    Especially when the dancersunched into more suggestive movements-hips rolling, hands roaming-the sheer volume of the crowd''s screams threatened to shake the very


    walls of the bar.


    When the performers stepped off the stage to mingle with the audience, Karina seized the moment, eagerly reaching out to touch a firm, sculpted chest before yanking Corrine aside, her expression utterly serious. "Sweetie, I''ve just had an epiphany."


    Corrine''s confusion showed inly.


    "Swift movement forward leaves no room for sorrow-only fresh romance."


    "That''s rather excessive," Corrine remarked, smoothly declining a performer''s advances.


    Karina regarded her with bewilderment. "How do you maintain suchposure?


    Aren''t you tempted to experience this for yourself?"


    Corrine''s subtle headshake spoke volumes.


    Her standards had been irreversibly elevated by Nate''s example.


    These performers, while charming, paled inparison.


    Lost in contemtion, she felt Karina''s insistent nudge. "Look there! That man hasn''t taken his eyes off you."


    Following Karina''s gesture, Corrine''s gaze found Nate among the crowd.


    His ck shirt emphasized hismanding presence-a sovereign emerging from


    darkness.


    The sight sent her heart racing.