Chapter 294

The mocking laughter from inside the restaurant echoed in Caiden's ears.

His smug grin faded in an instant, replaced by a stormy expression.

For a moment, he considered walking away, but after a few hesitant steps, he spun around and marched back inside.

The door swung open with a loud thud, silencing the chatter as heads turned his way. Caiden scanned the room before confidently claiming a seat.

"Apologies for being late, everyone," he began, his voice dripping with exaggerated politeness.

The people in the restaurant exchanged amused looks. Caiden began, "Daniela insisted on getting me a new outfit. I told her something from Elite Lux would do,but she wouldn't hear of it."

Tugging at his collared shirt, he added, "Just look at this. Pure wool. Set her back fifty grand."

Not a trace of embarrassment crossed his face.

Pausing briefly, he launched into more boasting."She also promised to take me on a trip this holiday.Bought her own private island, you know? You probably saw it in the news. Once it's ready, she'll fly me out personally."

Hearing this, everyone couldn't help but marvel at Caiden's luck in having such an extraordinary daughter.

Even if they felt a hint of envy, there was nothing they could do.

After all, Daniela was undeniably remarkable.

As the world's richest woman, her wealth was beyond comprehension. Even if Caiden lived recklessly, just a small portion of her fortune was enough to ensure a lifetime of comfort.

While their compliments flowed freely, jealousy simmered beneath the surface.

Caiden soaked up their flattery, reveling in a swell of pride and self-importance.

Rather than holding back, he leaned into his bragging even further.

"I'm not even old enough to retire yet, but Daniela insists on giving me a monthly allowance. I told her it wasn't necessary, but she wouldn't take no for an answer. In fact, this month's payment should come through today."

Taking out his phone, he began recording a brief video for Daniela, ensuring the group was in full view.

"Hey Daniela, I'm out with some friends you've met before," he said, panning the camera to capture the group, who eagerly waved and smiled.

Watching them light up at the opportunity to impress the world's wealthiest woman, Caiden smirked in satisfaction.

Moving closer to the window, he lowered his voice and spoke with a sly smile. "Send over that allowance now, and while you're at it, cover this dinner for me.Help me make an impression here."

He pressed send and caught a few curious, slightly skeptical glances from the others.

Ignoring them, he grinned and settled back in his seat, placing his phone on the table like a trophy.

He was eagerly waiting for the bank notification,ready to show it off once again.

As he waited, someone chuckled and asked, "So,Caiden, with your daughter being the richest woman alive, how big is that monthly allowance?"

At that, every pair of eyes around the table turned to Caiden.

Caiden soaked in the attention, giving a modest smile before replying, "Well, It's decent." The truth was, he had no idea how much Daniela would give him, so he couldn't afford to overdo the boasting.

"I'm practically retired now, so I don't really need much. My daughter always says her money is there for me. She takes care of all the bills at home and even reimburses anything I spend elsewhere. She keeps reminding me not to stress about money at my age and just enjoy life."

As he finished speaking, his phone buzzed on the table. Caiden's face brightened instantly as he grabbed his phone and held it uup for all to see.

"Look at this. Another transfer. Daniela's covering today's food and drinks. Thanks for the company,everyone!"

He unlocked his phone and proudly displayed the transaction.

The group leaned in eagerly for a closer look.

A wave of superiority washed over Caiden as he savored the attention. But the moment he saw the glaring figure of two thousand, his smug grin vanished.

The others exchanged quick glances, then leaned back in their seats.

Caiden let out a forced laugh. "Ah, she must've just sent enough to cover our meal."

Just then, Daniela's audio message arrived.

Hoping for a lifeline, Caiden quickly pressed play.

Daniela's voice filled the room, sharp and clear. "I'm sending you four months of your basic allowance,that's five hundred a month. That should keep you quiet for a while. And Caiden, if you're inviting people out, the bill is yours. Have you forgotten your place?"

The message ended abruptly, and a heavy silence followed. Then, suddenly, a burst of laughter erupted.

Some wiped tears from their eyes, others held their sides in laughter, and a few were doubled over,barely holding onto their seats. Caiden's face burned with humiliation.

He shot up from his chair, stiff as a board, and bolted out.

The mockery behind him only intensified.

Even outside, he could still hear their laughter.

"That shirt's ancient. He really thought we'd believe Daniela bought it for him!"

"And when he tried whispering for more money by the window? I nearly died!"

"I know, right? He thought no one heard him,but he was the biggest joke."

"All he did was name-drop Daniela. Bet she doesn't even care about him."

"Seriously? Secondhand embarrassment hit me so hard!"

The jeering voices behind him cut through his pride like daggers. Overcome with shame, Caiden kept his head dlown,unable to meet anyone's gaze.