Max was deep in thought, plotting his "corner-digging" strategy against Principal Martin. A voice, sharp as a blade, cut through the air.
"Seen enough, pervert?"
Rose had turned completely towards him, hands on her hips. Her blue eyes flashed with a warning glint.
However, a faint, almost imperceptible curve played at the corner of her mouth. It was the smirk of a woman who knew her beauty and enjoyed the attention.
Max feigned surprise, quickly raising both hands in a gesture of surrender. Yet, the smile on his face never faltered.
"My apologies, Miss. How can you blame me? Your beauty simply... draws the eye subconsciously."
He rubbed his chin, letting his gaze slowly trace from Rose's delicate face, down the alluring curves accentuated by her burgundy dress.
His look was not crude. It was an admiring gaze, causing a faint blush to spread beneath Rose's skin.
"To atone for my transgression," Max continued, his voice warm and firm, without a hint of hesitation. "Allow me to buy you a new outfit."
"Consider it a peace offering for my unintentional staring."
Rose raised one perfectly sculpted eyebrow. She slowly assessed Max from head to toe.
His white cotton shirt was thick and expensive, hugging the newly toned physique gifted by the system. His well-defined chest muscles were evident.
A lean, toned waist, simple dark jeans, and lightly polished leather boots completed the look. There was no gaudy jewelry, no overt attempt at luxury.
Yet, he exuded an aura that screamed "I look expensive no matter what I wear." Rose's discerning eye registered the subtle signs of wealth.
She let out a soft "Hmm," her voice less icy than before. "Alright. That sounds… interesting. Tomorrow is my best friend's birthday."
"It would be quite embarrassing to show up empty-handed. Since you're so generous, be my guest."
Max wasted no further words. He pulled out his phone, swiftly navigating the interface to scan a QR code for payment.
The cashier's phone screen lit up, displaying a clear message:
[Payment Successful: - 20,000 USD]
Rose blinked slightly. It wasn't the amount that surprised her. To her, $20,000 was a noticeable but manageable expense.
It was Max's decisive and natural action. No showing off, no hesitation. As if he had just bought a morning coffee.
This casual confidence piqued her curiosity further.
She looked at Max a little longer, trying to read something more in his bright, intelligent eyes. "I'm Rose. And you?"
"Max." He replied concisely. He put his phone away, his eyes suddenly sparkling with mischief. "You mentioned a friend's birthday earlier, didn't you?"
"Yes." Rose nodded, a playful hint entering her voice. "She's quite beautiful too, you know. Would you like to drop by? It could be fun."
Max chuckled, a radiant laugh that lit up his entire face. He didn't hesitate for a second.
"Of course, I'd love to. A birthday party for Miss Rose's friend? How could I possibly refuse such an invitation?"
Seeing Max's confident and quick attitude, Rose also felt a wave of unexpected amusement. She took out her phone.
She quickly sent him a text message: [28th Floor, Sky Lounge, Grand Aurora Hotel. 8 PM tomorrow.]
"Don't keep me waiting," Rose said, her voice noticeably softer now, carrying a hint of vague anticipation.
She turned to leave. Her vibrant red dress swirled gently, leaving behind a lingering, enticing scent.
Max remained rooted to the spot, watching her slender back. The alluring curves subtly revealed beneath the fabric, until she vanished around the corner.
A powerful sense of exhilaration surged within him. This revenge plan was going to be far more entertaining than he anticipated.
Martin, you have a good daughter, Max thought with a dark smirk. I truly look forward to the day I can have her beneath me, and the look on your face when you find out...
[Ding!]
[Affection with Rose increased: 10 → 40/100]
A triumphant smile spread across Max's lips. The first chapter of his revenge plan had opened a promising new page.
Tomorrow night, at the Grand Aurora, was going to be an extremely interesting evening.
He turned, new shopping bag in hand, and walked toward the exit with the confident stride of a predator.
Outside, his fiery red Lamborghini awaited, its engine a low growl. In the near future, it would be a limited edition Bugatti Bolide. Everything was falling into place.
[Ding Ding!] [Revenge Quest Activated: Make Rose kiss you at the party tomorrow night.]
[Ability Reward: King of Gambles. You will always win your next 3 bets, provided they do not significantly impact your core interests.]
[Skill Reward: Masterful Tongue. You will acquire superior dexterity and flexibility in the use of your tongue.]
[Cash Reward: 2,000,000 USD]
Max stopped dead in his tracks in the middle of the mall lobby. He blinked at the final system notification with a look of utter disbelief.
Wait, Masterful Tongue? What the hell is that?!
He scratched his head, feeling that this system was slowly becoming far less innocent than he had initially imagined.
However, the $2 million and the gambling ability were too tempting to ignore.
He got into his car, the engine roaring like a beast preparing for its next conquest. Tomorrow awaited.