Miranda quickly chimed in, "I'm riding with Sophia and her boyfriend. That's already four people—we're full. Riley, you'll have to go with Xavier and the others."
The remaining two were Xavier Reeds and Grant Cross—both third-years Evan had invited.
Xavier frowned. "That's not very appropriate. Riley is a girl—she should ride with you. How about Victor comes with us instead, and Riley switches over?"
"Why should we?" Sophia Wells snapped. "I'm sitting with my boyfriend. She's the extra one—what right does she have to choose?"
With that, she pulled her boyfriend Victor Watts straight into Miranda's boyfriend's car.
Xavier looked awkward. "Riley… then you'll have to ride with us."
Riley simply nodded, easygoing as ever, and got into the back seat.
Xavier felt a flicker of surprise.
She's… not like what people say.
Sure, maybe she was a little slow—but she was calm, quiet… and didn't cause trouble.
That alone made a good impression.
***
The cars set off, heading straight toward the most luxurious district in the city.
Before long, they pulled up in front of an opulent building.
"Evan, where are we?" Felicia asked curiously as she stepped out of the car.
Xavier, who had just gotten out as well, suddenly lit up. "Wait—that looks like Auremere. The biggest entertainment club in Lumut! Evan, don't tell me… you're taking us inside?"
"What? This is really Auremere?" Miranda and Sophia were instantly thrilled.
Auremere was the most famous high-end club in Lumut.
It had everything—luxury, exclusivity, and sky-high prices.
But more importantly, not just anyone could enter.
It wasn't enough to be rich or powerful. You needed a black card issued by Auremere.
And that card?
Incredibly rare.
The club had risen to prominence just a few years ago, its mysterious owner unknown. Over time, the black card became a symbol of status.
Anyone who could enter was either extremely wealthy or highly influential.
And right now, Evan held one in his hand.
Seeing everyone's amazement and envy, his ego swelled.
Felicia's eyes sparkled. "That's a Auremere black card? Evan, you're incredible."
Xavier couldn't help asking, "How did you get one?"
Evan smirked. "A family friend lent it to me."
Felicia nodded, admiration softening her earlier dissatisfaction.
If my fans knew I could get into a place like this…
That would be a huge boost to my image.
Her persona was already that of a wealthy young lady stepping into the entertainment world.
But Auremere?
That was a level beyond ordinary wealth.
Miranda glanced back at Riley, a mocking smile forming. "Fool, do you even know what Auremere is? You've probably never been here before. Don't embarrass yourself inside later."
Sophia added with a sneer, "Forget Auremere. She probably doesn't even know what a club is."
Xavier frowned, clearly uncomfortable with how targeted their comments were.
Felicia, on the other hand, acted as if she hadn't heard a thing.
Completely detached.
Riley, however, smiled gently.
"I know," she said. "I've been inside before."
The moment she finished—
Evan let out a mocking laugh. "Oh please. Do you have any idea how hard it is to get in here? Or what—you have a Auremere black card?"
Riley shook her head. "No. I don't have a black card."
She paused.
"But I've definitely been inside."