Ethan had just finished a call with Aria when she said something that caught his attention.
Ethan… my friends want to meet you.
He smiled. All of them
She hesitated. Yes. And they're… protective.
System Alert:
Multiple Pretty Women Near Host (Upcoming)
Opportunity: Massive Return
Suggested Action: Group Impression Event
Ethan grinned. Tell them dinner's on me.
Aria blinked. Wait what
That evening, Ethan reserved a private dining room at one of the best restaurants in the city.
Aria arrived with her four closest friends:
Maya Torres – bold, sharp-tongued, doesn't trust men
Sophie Lin – quiet but observant
Jasmine Reed – playful and flirty
Chloe Bennett – classy, mature, the big sister of the group
The moment they sat down, Maya crossed her arms.
So you're the rich boyfriend.
Ethan smiled calmly. And you must be the intimidating friend.
Jasmine giggled. Chloe raised an eyebrow. Sophie just watched quietly.
Pretty Women Near Host – 4 Targets Detected
Average Favorability: 0
Suggested Action: Strategic SpendingEthan ordered without hesitation:
Premium steaks
Seafood platters
Fine desserts
Drinks for everyone
Aria tried to protest. You don't have to
want to,he said smoothly.
Total bill: $8,700.
He paid without blinking.
$8,700 spent to $17,400 returned
Bonus: Group Multiplier Activated
Additional Reward: Social Influence +30
Ethan's balance skyrocketed again.
Maya tested him. "So what do you actually do?"
Ethan leaned back calmly. "I invest in opportunities."
Sophie asked softly, "And Aria?"
He looked at Aria, his expression genuine.
"She's not an opportunity. She's someone I care about."
Silence.
Aria's cheeks flushed deep red.
🌸 Aria Favorability → 100 (Locked)
🌸 Maya to 25
🌸 Sophie to 30
🌸 Jasmine to 40
🌸 Chloe to 35
Jasmine leaned forward teasingly. So you're saying you're serious
Ethan smiled. Very.
When dinner ended, Maya stood up.
Okay. I don't hate you.
Chloe nodded approvingly. You handled that well.
Sophie smiled softly. You're different.
Jasmine winked. Dangerously different.
System Notice:
Inner Circle Approval Achieved
New Ability Unlocked:
Group Favorability Boost
Aria grabbed Ethan's hand outside the restaurant.
You didn't have to impress them like that.
He squeezed her hand gently. If they matter to you, they matter to me.
Her heart melted.
Across the street, someone watched from inside a black car.
Daniel.
His jaw tightened.
This guy just keeps expanding…
Ethan looked at the city lights, system glowing in his vision:
Spend Earn ×2 Influence Control
He smirked.
Meeting the parents was easy…
But winning the squad? Even better.