Invitation

"Zach, have some tea and snacks first. I already told the housekeeper to wake Eugene up. But you will have to wait a while for him. You know that kid never leaves his room without fixing his appearance out of habit. Even Eunice dress up twice faster than him." Madam Lin entered the living room with a maid pushing a trolley of tea set and snack and said while sighing helplessly.

At first Eugene didn't put much effort in his appearance. In his opinion as long as he could produce good music his fans will still love him regardless of his appearance. Plus he is confident that his bare face is good enough. He got his mother's peach blossom eyes and bow shaped lips. His high sharp nose and defined jawline is identical to his father. These features with his six feet two inches height gave him a prince like aura.

Unfortunately, he underestimated the competition in the entertainment industry. Despite his excellent music, there are still anti-fans around that targeted his supposed "lousy appearance". He is obviously handsome enough with plain white t-shirt and jeans. However, his style was criticized as too plain and obviously not meticulously planned.

The fans thinks that he is not taking his singing career seriously enough. After all as a performer you should also take appearance into consideration. They demand him to put more effort to it.

At first he didn't take these criticism to heart. Unfortunately it impacted the entertainment company's image. Saying that because they are new they don't even know how to market their artists. As one of the owner of the company Eugene's ego suffered a blow. He also felt like he is tarnishing Zach's image, after all everyone know that Zach is one of the owners. In fact he bets no one remembered that he is also the boss of the company.

So on his next public appearance, he seemed to have transformed overnight. If before he looked like a handsome boy next door, now he embodies the definition of a perfect prince. His rank in the most handsome celebrity directly shot to the top.

Due to this, the other celebrities who provoked him almost vomited blood in regret. They thought that because Eugene is a musical genius he would have an eccentric outlook in life. That he would not change his image because of criticism.

They expect him to be disheartened and think that he is not fit to stand on the limelight. That his talent can only be used in the background as a composer. Some even wished to sing the songs he created because they truly acknowledge his talent. But as long as he remain as a singer, those songs will never end up in their hands.

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With her mother's words, Eunice finally realized why Zach visited their house early in the morning, almost scaring her to a second death. She's actually been wondering about this from the start.

"It's okay Aunt Lin. That's why I came early." Zach answered politely. Although he address Master Lin as CEO Lin, Madam Lin is a different case. Since Master Lin is mostly busy in the company, every time there was an event at school, Madam Lin is the only one who could attend. Because of this she became acquainted with Zach earlier and become familiar.

When he was still in his third year in senior high he became friends with Eugene who was in first year. Zach was the student council president while Eugene was the first year representative. While Alice was Zach's secretary during his term. Later on Eugene became the president when he became a third year.

"Did you agreed to meet today? Eugene didn't stood you up that you needed to fetch him, did he? That child arrived home past midnight from shooting MV last night. I hope you don't mind." Madam Lin said apologetically.

"Is that so? Then it was me who disturbed him. We didn't agree to meet. I met one of our high school friend last night. He invited me to his charity auction. They also ask me to invite Eugene since they have no means to contact him. And since I am free today I decided to invite him in person and visit Aunt Lin as well." Zach explained.

While waiting for Eugene, Madam Lin and Zach continue chatting. Master Lin will also join in from time to time if the topic is something he can relate to. Eunice on the other hand will only talk when asked and just smile politely.

Just when the teapot is being refilled for the second time Eugene finally come down in the living room. Although he looked neat and handsome, he can't hide the lethargy in his eyes. He is obviously still sleepy. But the one who wanted to see him is his friend and also someone he respected since high school. Although his main interest is not in business, this didn't stop him from labelling Zach as his role model.

"Zach, why are you here so early? Did we plan to meet today? I couldn't remember." Eugene asked while still yawning.

"I did send you a message last night and called after not receiving a reply. But your phone is most likely empty so I couldn't reach you. That is why I just decided to come here in person to inform you. You remember Jake? He was the treasurer during my senior year in high school. He is organizing a charity auction as well as his wife's birthday. You only need to bring something worth bidding." Zach said calmly.

The family of four didn't find anything wrong in his words. If anything, they felt honored that someone like him will personally make an effort to come in their house for a small matter like inviting someone.

Unbeknownst to them, Zach actually thought of it as a golden opportunity when he couldn't contact Eugene last night. At first he just wanted Eugene to take Eunice to the auction. That way they can meet in a normal way. However, Eugene didn't reply to his messages and calls. And just before he lose his patience he realize that he could use it as an excuse to meet Eunice ahead of time.

"Oh? Jake became quite a philanthropist. He liked these kinds of charity work even during our time at school." Eugene said as he take the coffee that was given to him by the maid.

"Anyways, can I bring someone? Eunice just back and I reckoned she still lacks exposure and I think it would be fun. I also want to introduce her as my sister publicly." Eugene then added.

Hearing the words he wants to hear, Zach's eyes lit up. "That's good. It would also be beneficial for her. Most of the top business men and women will attend the charity auction. It would be a great opportunity to get acquainted. What do you think?" Zach answered affirmatively. The last sentence obviously meant for Eunice.

When she first heard about the charity auction, Eunice was flooded with memories of her previous life. A flash of regret passed by her face then it change into one of determination. "Sure. Coincidentally I have something worthy to present in the auction."