The Rich Son-In-Law

Chapter 5:Maison de Lumière.

At noon, Aaron drove his scooter to the Maison de Lumière. He parked the scooter and made his way to the entrance, only to be stopped by the host who stood in the middle of the entrance. The host stared at Aaron with absolute disgust, as though he were a piece of human excrement. "Hey you, what the hell do you want here? Don't you know where you are?" Aaron was shocked by the disrespect the host was showing him; he hadn't done anything wrong but was being insulted. "Excuse me, is that a way to talk to a customer? Don't you have any professionalism at all?" Aaron said.

"Customer!? You!?" the host said, laughing. "You can't expect me to believe that a pig like you is a customer. Don't you know where you are? This is Maison de Lumière, not just any place where people like you can eat. Our basic meals cost more than most people's salaries. You could never afford a meal here. Now leave before your stench chases away the real customers."

"I'm not going anywhere. I'm a customer," Aaron said defiantly.

"A customer? Don't make me laugh," the host sneered. Before Aaron could respond, a commanding voice interrupted. "What's going on here?" The restaurant manager appeared, a distinguished man in a tailored suit with an air of authority that silenced the commotion. Two imposing security guards followed him, standing ready.

The host turned, his arrogance unabated. "Oh, Mr. Reynolds, I was just handling this... situation. This man doesn't belong here. I mean, look at him!" The host gestured dismissively toward Aaron. "He's obviously not our kind of customer."

The manager's gaze hardened. "Not our kind of customer? Is that so?"

The host nodded smugly. "Yes, sir. I was just making sure he didn't embarrass us in front of the real guests."

The manager stepped closer and, without warning, slapped the host across the face. The sharp sound echoed through the entrance, drawing the attention of nearby staff and patrons. The host stumbled, clutching his cheek, his smug expression replaced by shock and fear.

"You imbecile," the manager said coldly. "Do you have any idea who this man is? This is Mr. Turner, the most important Guest in this establishment."

The host's eyes widened in disbelief. "W-what? You must be mistaken sir, look at him, he is nothing but a beggar"

"Mistaken? I assure you that I'm not mistaken" the manager snapped. "not only have you insulted mister Turner, but you've also humiliated yourself and tarnished the reputation of Maison de Lumière. Your behavior is unacceptable, and I won't tolerate it. Security, remove him from the premises immediately."

The security guards stepped forward, grabbing the host by the arms as he began to plead. "Please, Mr. Reynolds, I didn't know! I need this job! My family depends on me!"

The manager's expression didn't soften. "You should have thought of that before treating our guests with such disrespect. There's no place for someone like you here. Take him out."

The guards escorted the host out as he continued to beg and apologize, his voice fading as they disappeared through the doors. The manager turned to Aaron, his demeanour shifting to one of deep respect. "Mr. Turner, I deeply apologize for this incident. Please allow me to personally escort you to the VIP section."

Aaron nodded, his irritation giving way to curiosity about the rest of the experience. The manager led him through the grand entrance of Maison de Lumière, a masterpiece of elegance and luxury. Crystal chandeliers hung from the high ceilings, casting a warm, golden glow that reflected off the polished marble floors. The walls were adorned with intricate artwork and mirrors framed in gold, amplifying the ambiance of opulence. Soft, classical music played in the background, blending seamlessly with the gentle hum of conversation.

The air was filled with the aroma of gourmet dishes being prepared by world-class chefs in the open kitchen, visible through a large glass partition. Waiters moved gracefully between tables, carrying silver trays laden with dishes that looked like works of art. Each table was set with fine linen, crystal glasses, and polished silverware, creating an atmosphere of sophistication.

When they arrived at the VIP room, Aaron was awestruck. The room was the epitome of luxury. Velvet drapes framed the large windows that overlooked the city skyline, and a grand chandelier sparkled overhead, casting a warm and inviting light. The centrepiece was a large dining table made of dark, polished wood, surrounded by plush, high-backed chairs upholstered in rich burgundy fabric. The table was set with exquisite china, gold-plated cutlery, and crystal glasses.

The spread of food was equally impressive. Roasted meats glistened under the lights, surrounded by platters of fresh seafood, including lobster tails, oysters, and king prawns. Exotic fruits were arranged in intricate patterns, and the dessert selection featured an assortment of pastries, tarts, and a towering chocolate fountain. The aroma was intoxicating, and Aaron could hardly believe this feast was for him.

The manager gestured for Aaron to sit. "Mr. Turner, I apologize again for the situation earlier, it's my duty to ensure your experience is flawless and I'll make sure nothing like that ever happens again. If there's anything you need, please don't hesitate to let me know. Meanwhile, I'll take my leave now sir."

Natalie handed Aaron a sleek tablet. On the screen were charts, numbers, and a comprehensive list of assets. "This is a summary of all your assets managed by the bank," Natalie explained. "It includes mansions, cars, yachts, art, and stocks in various businesses. Incidentally, Maison de Lumière is also one of your businesses."

Aaron's eyes widened. "Wait, I own this restaurant?"

Natalie nodded. "Yes, sir. It's one of your most profitable ventures. The revenue it generates is among the top in its class, largely due to its reputation for exclusivity and excellence."

Aaron was stunned but quickly refocused as Natalie continued. "As for your role as a member, you must prove your competence by successfully managing and growing your assets. Your trial will involve overseeing a business project to demonstrate your ability to generate profit and make sound decisions. This could include developing new ventures, reviving underperforming assets, or capitalizing on untapped opportunities. Failure is not an option."

Aaron nodded, his mind already racing with possibilities. He had never run a business before nor had he dabbled in finances, so he didn't know where to start. He wished he could ask Natalie for help but he got the feeling that this would lower his chances of succeeding in the trial. As he was deep in thought he mindlessly scrolled through a list of his Assets, but suddenly one page caught his eye. There were pictures of a large piece of land. the land was rocky and dry. Aaron immediately recognized it, It was crimson Valley. Crimson Valley was largely undeveloped land near the city.

"hey Natalie, what can you tell me about Crimson Valley." Aaron asked curiously.

"Well sir from what I've heard the land has been desired by many but due to the cost of development they have largely avoided it, the Government also wants to make use of it. Last I Checked mister Williams bought the land but he had not specified what he intended to do with it, he had charged one of his Companies, Apex Realty group with the development."

"How much would it cost to develop it" Aaron Asked. "Well sir" Natalie began "I would have to some calculations but my best guess is somewhere around 2 billion"

Hearing this Aaron's Jaw dropped. Even though Aaron knew he had much more than that, he still felt that was overly expensive, having recently gained so much wealth, he was not ready to spend so much money, plus he suspected that if he spent money unwisely the bank would revoke his membership. Natalie seeing Aaron's concern decided to reassure him.

"Sir I Understand that this is a large sum but the potential profits are worth it, this could be the largest real estate project in the city and years down the Line it will produce billions"

Aaron Listened attentively as Natalie spoke; he knew she was right, the project had a lot of potential. The cost compared to the future profits was small in comparison. Aaron made up his mind. "Natalie please begin making preparations

Natalie made a note on her tablet. "Consider it done, sir. I'll coordinate with Apex Realty Group to start planning the project but sir due to the sheer size of the land I would recommend you don't go at this project alone, having partners would not only speed up the project but also solidify your standing in the business world." Aaron nodded to Natalie's suggestion.

As the meeting concluded, Aaron stood to leave but paused. "Natalie, there's one more thing. I need a gift for my grandmother-in-law's birthday. Can you arrange something impressive?"

Natalie smiled slightly. "Of course, sir. I'll ensure it's a gift that will leave a lasting impression. Do you have any preferences?"

Aaron thought for a moment. "Something rare and elegant, something that shows thought and effort, I trust your judgment."

Natalie nodded. "Understood sir, I'll handle it personally."