Alluring Mask - ENGLISH VERSION

CHAPTER 10

CHAPTER 10

I looked at the club we were about to enter with furrowed brows as we got out of the car in the parking lot. I had already gotten out when I saw Ei talking to the driver, probably arranging a pickup later. I remained standing outside, still looking at the club.

"Paradise Escape..." I read the club's name aloud. It was a large sign with a cursive font. The font was neon pink and green, making it really eye-catching.

I saw familiar faces from our graduation venue earlier start to go inside. They were obviously excited, with wide smiles on their faces.

"Kuya, just pick us up later. I'll just text you when we're about to go home. Take care," I heard Ei say.

I turned to her when she got out of the car. She had a smile on her face and seemed excited to go inside. I know what kind of club this is, but I'm surprised at how hyped up other people are when going to places like this.

"Ma'am Ei, what if Sir Caddel also calls me? What should I say if he asks for you?"

I felt Ei's hand squeeze mine before she answered the driver.

"Just tell him we're here," Ei replied simply.

The driver nodded and bid us goodbye before we crossed the street and entered the club. We were immediately allowed inside after showing the invitation we had for both of us. This was required before you could enter. They would also know you were a guest because your names were already saved in their system.

Once everything was settled, we entered the club. There was a black curtain blocking the view, and Ei pulled it aside. A rather dimly lit place greeted us. There were flashing lights and colorful decorations that seemed to shimmer throughout the entire area. There was also a large disco ball hanging above the dance floor. At the far end, there was a moderately sized stage with a DJ playing music for the entire club. There was a large dance floor, and on each side, there were round tables with U-shaped seating. The backrest was quite high, providing a bit of privacy for each table.

There were also small, black tables scattered around the dance floor, but without chairs, so the people there were standing. However, these didn't completely cover the dance floor, so other people could still dance if they wanted to.

When I looked up, I realized there was a second floor. There were also seats upstairs, and the railings were made of glass. I could already see other people upstairs, and they seemed to have been enjoying themselves for a while.

I held Ei's hand tighter as she pulled me towards the second floor. I couldn't take my eyes off the colorful lights on the dance floor, but the corners were really dark. It was a bit harsh on the eyes, but it was okay; that seemed to be the style to make it look more beautiful.

"Hi! Sorry we're late," I heard Ei say as we reached the table of her other friends.

"It's okay, Ei! The important thing is you're here—"

A woman wearing a party outfit, who I think is close to Ei, paused. I stood silently beside Ei, looking like a lost child as I watched them.

"She's Rafael's friend, right?" the woman asked.

Ei nodded and took my hand, gently pushing me closer to her friends.

"Hello," I greet softly. I wasn't sure if she heard me because of the loud music.

"Yes! She's Sarah Dayanghirang," Ei introduced me.

One of her friends came up to me and patted my shoulder lightly.

"My deepest condolences, Sarah," she said to me.

I just smiled and didn't say anything. I didn't want to ruin their mood today just because of Rafael's death. It was still sad, but I didn't want them to feel affected by what I was feeling right now.