The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 1716

Though puzzlement lined the faces of the eight employees, they all bent over in a synchronized gesture of respect as the couple approached.

When Arabella and Horace reached the bottom of the grand staircase, a massive golden archway blocked their path.

This club had a strict policy: only members were granted the access to enter. Newbies without an old member to vouch for them had no chance of getting through these doors.

Horace pulled out his premium card and swiped it before the door opened slowly, which dissolved the employees' confusion.

So, they were indeed members.

It was their mistake for not recognizing them earlier. Luckily, the guests hadn't noticed it.

Stepping inside, they found themselves in a dimly lit lobby, with six elevators ready to whisk patrons upstairs. The ambiance was reminiscent of a lounge bar, yet it was eerily quiet for such a space.

Under the influence of alcohol, some couples were scattered across the lobby, flirting and getting handsy with each other. Some men boldly touched their female companions, others were locked in passionate kisses, and a few were even starting to disrobe.

Horace quickly shielded Arabella's eyes without touching her, out of concern that the scene might soil her view of the world. His hands formed a barrier on either side of her.

The second floor housed the bar, while the third to sixth floors were reserved for private booths.

"Boss, let's check out the second floor first."

Horace pressed the button for the second floor.

When they reached it, the elevator doors slid open, and a wall of rock music hit them. Horace couldn't help but frown at the sheer volume.

It was deafening!

A band was giving their all on stage, and below them, the crowd was jumping and dancing, each person lost in their own world.

Horace guided Arabella to a quieter corner with a table, concerned that she might be overwhelmed by the crowd. After a waiter approached, Horace ordered a couple of mojitos, and then signaled to his phone and texted Arabella.