Manager Bello led Caspian to a private room, where he began to explain the situation. "Mr. Grey Hastings, it seems that a large sum of money has been deposited into your account from an untraceable source. Our system automatically froze the account pending further investigation."
Caspian nodded, intrigued. "I see. And what does this mean for me?"
Manager Bello smiled. "Well, Mr. Grey Hastings, it means that you now have a substantial amount of wealth at your disposal. We'll need to discuss investment options and…"
Caspian interrupted, a sly grin spreading across his face. "I think I'll manage, thank you. Just unfreeze the account and give me access."
Manager Bello raised an eyebrow but nodded. "Very well, Mr. Grey Hastings. But please, be cautious. Your new financial status may attract unwanted attention."
Caspian chuckled, a cold glint in his eye. "I can handle myself, Manager Bello. Don't worry about me."
With that, the account was unfrozen, and Caspian left the bank with a spring in his step and a newfound sense of power. He couldn't wait to start his new life, free from the constraints of his old one. To celebrate he decided to spend it on himself first. It's been a long while since he last ate something great and nutritious.
How about a table full of food… Caspian thought to himself as he stopped a cab.
***Harville Restaurant***
Harville Restaurant is a restaurant known worldwide for its amazing dishes. It is the only authorized Chinese restaurant in the city. Due to the scarcity of authentic Asian restaurants in the city, getting to eat in these restaurants was extremely difficult as a result of the high cost of food.
"Sir, here is the menu," Although Caspian was not dressed in expensive clothes, this waiter did not dare take him lightly.
Caspian accepted the menu and decided to order what he wanted… A few minutes later, his order arrived.
- Steamed edamame with sea salt.
- Vegetable fried rice.
- Chinese steamed bok choy.
Desserts:
- Mango sticky rice
- Matcha green tea ice cream
- Black sesame ice cream
- Chinese egg tarts
Caspian's eyes sparkled as the waiter presented him with the extensive spread of dishes. He had ordered a variety of options to satisfy his cravings, and the aromas wafting from the plates were tantalizing. He dug in with hesitation, savoring the flavors and textures of each dish.
The steamed edamame was perfectly cooked, with a delicate sprinkle of sea salt enhancing the natural sweetness.
The vegetable fried rice was a masterclass in balance, with each grain of rice coated in a savory sauce and a medley of vegetables adding crunch and flavor.
The Chinese steamed bok choy was tender and slightly sweet, with a hint of garlic and ginger. The taste was perfect. Caspian couldn't recall the last time he tasted something as nice as this.
As he progressed to the desserts, Caspian's eyes lit up with delight. The mango sticky rice was creamy and sweet, with the freshness of the mango shining through. The matcha green tea ice cream was a revelation, with a subtle bitterness balancing the richness of the cream. The black sesame ice cream was nutty and smooth, with a deep, earthy flavor. And the Chinese egg tarts? The flaky pastry gave way to a creamy, sweet, and savory filling that left Caspian wanting more.
Oh, if only his stomach could contain more than he has eaten. But he has no regrets; he can always have as much delicious food as he wants.
As he finished the last morsel of food, Caspian leaned back in his chair, content and satisfied. This was a good life, and he was ready to embrace it with open arms. He waved at the waiter to bring his bills. With a swipe of his card, the payment was successful.
"Thank you for your patronage." The waiter bowed, "Would you like to upgrade to VIP membership by purchasing our membership cards? You can get lots of fantastic offers and discounts."
Of course, who wouldn't want to upgrade?
"Sure," Caspian did not refuse.
"Umm… where is the bathroom?" Caspian sheepishly inquired.
"This way please…"
Caspian followed the waiter's directions to the bathroom. As he entered the bathroom, he was struck by the luxurious amenities and spotless cleanliness. He took a moment to wash his hands and splash some water on his face, feeling revitalized.
Just as he was about to exit the bathroom, he heard the sound of footsteps approaching. The door swung open, and Isaacson Hartford walked out, looking as pompous as ever. Caspian's eyes narrowed slightly, wondering what he was doing there.
Caspian furrowed his brows. Isaacson Hartford strutted past him without realizing he was standing there, and an odoriferous smell assaulted Caspian's nostrils.
Caspian instantly covered his nose, he was about to leave when he heard a faint cry coming from the female section of the bathroom.
He felt like ignoring it and minding his business. However, he could not push the light sirens he was hearing behind his mind.
Caspian involuntarily found himself striding towards the ladies' bathroom. As he got closer, the cries became more audible.
He saw the door of a cubicle in the bathroom open halfway and thought the voice was coming from there.
Taking baby steps, Caspian eventually got to the fifth cubicle. He pushed open the door widely, and his jaws dropped at the hideous sight in front of him.
A young lady who looked to be a freshman In college was seated on the floor of the bathroom. Her makeup was smudged, and her clothes were torn and tattered all over the place.
The contents of her bag have been thrown to the ground, her phone screen is shattered, and her shoes are at different angles.
She was only dressed in her underwear. Her body curled in a ball as she whimpered fearfully and shivered at the sight of him.
Caspian was shocked as he stared at the young lady who was curled up in the corner of the cubicle.