Chapter 855

Neon lights flickered along the commercial street as KTV signs and bar illuminations competed for attention. Bianca Langley stood at the intersection, her gaze sweeping across the dazzling array of entertainment venues.

Vivian Dempsey's eyes sparkled with mischief as she linked arms with Bianca. "Miss Langley, there's an arcade around the corner. How about we try the dance machines? Guaranteed to make you forget all your troubles." She deliberately glanced at Vincent Croix trailing behind them. "As for certain unwelcome company, let him stew in his own juice."

Vincent's expression darkened, yet he stubbornly maintained his pursuit.

Alexander Hamilton bent his head toward Evelyn Carter. "Tired from your shift? Want to head back early?"

Evelyn massaged her aching shoulders. "It's rare to have time off. Might as well enjoy ourselves." Her eyes traveled over Alexander's tailored suit. "Though aren't you a bit overdressed for an arcade?"

Alexander chuckled. "Worried I can't handle youth culture?"

The group naturally split into three distinct pairs. Vivian expertly exchanged cash for tokens, dragging Bianca straight to the basketball hoops.

"Best stress reliever ever!" Vivian thrust a ball into Bianca's hands. "Imagine those annoying people are the backboard—slam dunk your frustrations!"

Vincent lingered nearby, silently clutching a fistful of tokens.

Evelyn noticed Vincent's persistence and whispered to Alexander, "Planning to wear her down through sheer stubbornness?"

Alexander's gaze turned frosty. "Pity he's using the wrong approach." The memory of his own clumsy courtship attempts tugged at his lips.

Evelyn became captivated by a claw machine filled with plush feline toys. She inserted coins, wholly focused on maneuvering the joystick. Each time the claw descended, the toy barely missed the chute.

"Try another machine?" Alexander suggested, already calculating the cost of buying the entire display.

"This one looks just like Peanut." Evelyn dropped two more coins. "He's been sleeping with my slippers lately."

Alexander immediately rolled up his sleeves. "My turn."

After a dozen alternating attempts, their token supply dwindled. Vincent's voice suddenly cut in: "Aim for the one lying on its back. Higher success rate."

From the racing game area, collision sounds erupted as Vivian and Bianca cheered. The commotion seemed overly stimulating for Bianca's recent hospital recovery.

Evelyn pretended not to hear Vincent, keeping her attention fixed on the machine.

Alexander turned with an arched brow. "Mr. Croix, an expert at prize grabs?"

Vincent remained impassive. "Worked here during university."

Just then, Alexander's phone vibrated. Reading the message, he asked pointedly, "Mr. Croix must have held many part-time jobs in his student days?"

"Did anything that paid." Vincent's tone stayed neutral, but his eyes betrayed unease.