Chapter 67: Sanlitun Bar
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
“Are Si Cong and the others still asleep?” Zhou Chao and Qin Fen were sitting in the backyard, enjoying their tea.
“Based on the situation, they probably won’t be up until noon. How about 1 accompany you to browse and find a suitable evening attire?”
“As long as you don’t mind the trouble,” Zhou Chao replied. After this exchange, they stood up and headed towards the garage.
“Where are you planning to go shopping?” Qin Fen asked with a puzzled expression.
“Within the vicinity, there’s Yida Plaza near Sicong’s place. 1 checked it out last night, and they have a variety of brands,” Zhou Chao said, driving in the direction of Yida Plaza.
Yida Plaza was conveniently located not far from Zhou Chao’s place, requiring about 20 minutes of travel. They headed directly to the Hermes store on the third floor. This choice was suggested by Qin Fen, who pointed out that Hermes offered outstanding options for formal attire.
As they entered the Hermes store, a professional salesperson greeted them, “Hello, welcome to Hermes. How may I assist you?”
Without hesitation, Zhou Chao got to the point, “Just take me to see the formal attire.”
The salesperson promptly led them to the section dedicated to formal wear. Upon entering, they were greeted by an array of well-crafted suits in various colors, all of which looked appealing.
The salesperson grabbed a measuring tape and efficiently took Zhou Chao’s measurements. “Sir, may 1 ask which color you prefer, or would you like me to assist you in coordinating?”
“Feel free to choose for me. Just avoid overly bright colors.” Zhou Chao decided to let the salesperson handle the selection, given their expertise. If he didn’t like it, he could always change later.
Soon, the salesperson returned with three sets of suits in black, white, and blue. Zhou Chao was immediately drawn to the white one and took it to the fitting room.
In no time, Zhou Chao changed into the attire and walked out.
“Wow, Zhou Chao, you look incredibly handsome in this outfit. It perfectly highlights all your strengths,” Qin Fen exclaimed, rising from the couch, his eyes gleaming with admiration.
Zhou Chao moved around a bit and found the fit to be perfect. He decided on the white suit and returned to the fitting room to change back into his original clothes. The salesperson efficiently packed the suit into a bag.
“How much is it?”
“The total is 38,888 yuan, sir.”
Zhou Chao swiped his card directly, then carried the bag with the suit as he left with Qin Fen.
“Heading straight home?”
“Yeah, they should be getting up soon.”
“Chao, at this charity gala, some well-known second-generation elites from Jingdu will also be present. It’s an opportunity for everyone to connect,” Qin Fen brought up.
“Sure, I’ll do my best. You know 1 have a relaxed personality. We’ll decide when the time comes.” Zhou Chao started the car and drove out of the parking lot.
At this moment, Zhou Chao’s mind was focused on when Jiang Li would return to Jingdu. He planned to pick her up and have her stay at the courtyard, living a carefree life.
“Chao, can you hide that mischievous grin? I find it a bit eerie,” Qin Fen remarked as he noticed Zhou Chao’s absent-mindedness.
“Ahem,” Zhou Chao coughed awkwardly, using the cough to mask his inner thoughts.
Just as the two entered the house, Si Cong came down from upstairs. “Where did you guys go? Why are you coming back from outside?”
Zhou Chao gestured with the bag he was holding and explained, “I just went to buy an evening suit for the event two days from now. Are Qin Lang and the others still asleep?”
“Yes, they’re still sleeping.” Qin Fen said and headed upstairs. A while later, knocking sounds echoed from the upper floor.
“What’s the plan for today? You’re not planning to stay home all day again, are you?” Zhou Chao asked Si Cong as he came down.
“How about we go to a quieter bar tonight?” Si Cong suggested.
“Sounds good.” Zhou Chao pondered for a moment before nodding in agreement.
Soon, Qin Lang and Yang Shuo were roused by Qin Fen. Zhou Chao looked at the two and said, “Let’s go to a bar tonight.”
The two, who were originally in low spirits, suddenly perked up, giving the impression that they had won a jackpot. Irritated, Qin Fen kicked each of them from behind.
As night fell, Zhou Chao and his group arrived in five luxury cars at the bar street in Sanlitun, Jingdu. The row of cars attracted many onlookers, especially the sweet-looking girls whose eyes sparkled with curiosity.
“You guys really have some nerve. You make me your chauffeur for a couple of days, and now I’m the one who has to drive over,” Zhou Chao said with frustration, glancing at Qin Fen and the others. After a courtyard lunch, Qin Fen, Si Cong, and the rest claimed they had errands and departed. As evening approached, they called him and urged him to hurry over. Little did he expect this turn of events.
“Chao, tonight let’s get them all drunk,” Qin Lang added fuel to the fire, excitedly suggesting.
“Let’s go, let’s head in.” Si Cong found a laid-back bar with several skilled singers performing. As they entered, their presence caught the attention of many charming young ladies.
The group was led to a large table by the waiter. Si Cong skillfully ordered some snacks and drinks. Zhou Chao briefly surveyed the scene and noted that the atmosphere was quite pleasant.
The drinks were served exceptionally quickly. In no time, the waiter brought snacks, fruits, and drinks. Along with the live performances at the bar, everyone became immersed in the experience.
“Chao, if you were at a nightclub, you’d have groups of girls surrounding you, all sorts of types and styles,” Qin Lang clinked his glass against Zhou Chao’s and finished his drink in one swift motion.
“I’ll make it up to you guys for ruining the mood tonight. I’ll repay the favor when the opportunity arises.”
“Who said that? Occasionally coming to a chill bar, listening to music, and having a drink is a rare form of enjoyment too,” Qin Fen remarked, looking at the performer on stage.
“Come on, let’s fill up our glasses. Tonight is all about drinking and listening to music.” Si Cong held a bottle of champagne and poured everyone’s glasses to the brim.
By eleven o’clock, the group had already consumed twelve bottles of champagne. Several lead singers took the stage, but none of them got tipped.
“Next up, we have our Masked Gentleman bringing us a nostalgic Cantonese song, ‘Favorite.’”
The intro played…
“The tide recedes or rises,”
“The moon, cold wind, or frost,”
“Nocturnal rain’s reverie.”
The once bustling bar suddenly grew quiet as everyone listened attentively to the singer on stage. Zhou Chao and his friends were also drawn in by the captivating performance.
Midway through the song, Zhou Chao took out his phone from his pocket and sent three words to Jiang Li: “I miss you.”
As the song ended, the entire bar erupted in enthusiastic applause. The song had a powerful emotional impact, and the singer’s voice was exceptional. Zhou Chao and his friends all rewarded the performer with tips.
The group continued to enjoy their drinks and chat. Occasionally, a few young ladies approached to strike up conversations and exchange contact information, but they were all politely declined by the group. After all, Qin Fen and the others weren’t the type to settle for just anyone; their standards were high.
They partied until past 2 a.m. Except for Zhou Chao, who was quite sober, the others all felt a bit unsteady on their feet. They left the bar, hailed five designated drivers at the entrance, and drove back to the courtyard..