From Frost to Flame

Part 26- A Night at Harmony Beats

The car came to an abrupt stop, jolting Pete out of his thoughts. His brow furrowed as he glanced outside, curious about where they had arrived. But the sight before him left him momentarily speechless.

Outside the window stood "Harmony Beats," a strikingly vibrant music café that looked like it belonged in a dream rather than the bustling streets of Bangkok. The café's exterior glowed in a mix of red and golden hues, the lights casting a warm yet electric ambiance that drew in every passerby. Above the café's glass façade, a giant blue guitar gleamed behind the logo, "Harmony Beats," its design an elegant mix of modern chic and retro nostalgia. The soft sound of acoustic music wafted through the air, adding to the surreal charm of the place.

Pete's mouth fell open slightly as he took it all in. He'd lived in Bangkok his whole life, but he'd never seen anything quite like this. It wasn't just a café—it was an experience, the kind of place that seemed to have stories embedded in its very walls.

The sound of a car door opening snapped him out of his daze. He turned just in time to see Vegas stepping out of the car, his movements graceful and deliberate. Not wanting to linger behind, Pete quickly followed suit, stepping onto the sidewalk.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" Porsche's voice came from beside him, his tone brimming with pride as he gestured toward the café.

Pete nodded, his words failing him as his gaze remained fixed on the glowing lights and the bustling, lively crowd filtering in and out of the place. "Yeah... I didn't know something like this even existed here."

"Why are we here?" Pete finally asked, turning to Porsche.

"To have a good time and eat delicious food," Porsche answered, grinning. "Dinner, duh."

Pete nodded, his stomach growling faintly at the mention of food. "Hmm... I'm hungry too."

Without warning, Porsche grabbed Pete's arm and tugged him along. "Come on, let's go!"

As they approached the café entrance, Pete noticed Kinn and Vegas already standing there. Kinn leaned casually against the wall, his posture relaxed but commanding as always. Vegas, meanwhile, was a few steps away, engrossed in a phone call. His voice, though too low for Pete to make out the words, carried an air of authority that seemed to fit him perfectly.

When the two of them reached the entrance, Kinn straightened up and gestured toward the door. "Let's go inside," he said, his tone firm yet inviting.

Vegas ended his call and glanced at them, his face unreadable but his voice smooth as he spoke. "Yes, let's. I've already reserved the tables."

With that, they stepped inside, leaving the glow of the Bangkok night behind and walking into the heart of Harmony Beats.

The moment they stepped inside Harmony Beats, Pete felt like he'd been transported into another world. The café was alive—vibrant, buzzing, and filled with an electric energy that only grew as the music took over. People's laughter mingled with the clinking of glasses and plates, and the warm, golden lighting enhanced the lively atmosphere.

At the far end of the café, a small stage was illuminated by a spotlight, casting its glow over a lone musician with a guitar. He sang "ไม่ยอม (Be Mine)," his voice rich and soulful, pulling everyone into the melody. Even from the entrance, the crowd's appreciation was palpable—heads nodding along, some humming, and a few even swaying to the rhythm.

Pete couldn't help but glance around in awe. The place was a kaleidoscope of colors, textures, and sounds. It felt... alive. And loud. And far more extravagant than he'd expected from a dinner invite.