Chapter 169: Birthday Party
Turning fifty is often seen as a milestone for men, marking the onset of declining vitality. This isn't just anecdotal; it's a well-documented reality.
A quick online search reveals numerous concerns related to this age. Simply typing "fifty years old" into a search engine brings up these issues prominently.
For men, vitality is an eternal topic. Regardless of achievements, lacking in this area can lead to feelings of inadequacy.
Seeing Walter, a man in his fifties, with a pregnant wife drew envious glances from many at the party.
Walter, oblivious to the attention, was grateful for Frank's intervention, which provided a graceful exit from the conversation.
"You seemed to run into some friends. Why not chat longer?" Skyler asked Walter, holding a drink.
"Just some old classmates," Walter replied.
Time flew by, and soon the party officially began.
Elliott thanked everyone for attending his birthday celebration.
He then proceeded to open gifts in front of everyone.
"Oh, an electric guitar, a Clapton model, and it's inscribed 'To Elliott,'" Elliott announced, opening a large gift box.
Besides being a scientist, Elliott was a billionaire and founder of Grey Matter Technologies.
Wealth always brings privilege. While an average man might be labeled a playboy for having multiple partners, someone like Elliott, with his wealth, would be celebrated.
Even intellectuals are not immune to the allure of wealth.
Many attendees undoubtedly aimed to ingratiate themselves with Elliott.
As Elliott opened each gift, he announced the giver's name and showcased the present, reminiscent of a child flaunting Christmas gifts.
Despite the invitation stating no gifts were necessary, anyone who took it literally might find themselves awkwardly out of place.
"Why is he doing this? Acting like an eight-year-old?" Skyler whispered to Walter, visibly disgusted by Elliott's antics.
Skyler was clearly unimpressed.
"Hmm? This one's wrapping is damaged. Must've been the maid's clumsiness. Let me see whose gift this is."
"Oh! It's from Walter!" Elliott exclaimed, pointing Walter out in the crowd.
Walter forced a smile, raising a hand in acknowledgment.
"It's a tie, a very nice one. Thank you, Walter," Elliott said, revealing a well-known brand's tie.
Frank had chosen this gift wisely. Instead of flashy, impractical items like an electric guitar, he opted for something more practical and appreciated.
After all, a tie, at its core, is just a piece of fabric and doesn't cost much.
Relieved that the gift hadn't drawn undue attention, Walter sighed, and Skyler loosened her grip on his arm.
Walter couldn't imagine the embarrassment had he given the instant noodles, especially if Elliott opened it in front of everyone.
Grateful, Walter glanced at Frank, who stood apart, sipping champagne.
Frank watched the scene, a knowing smile on his face.
He had witnessed a similar scene not long ago.
It reminded him of when Joseph returned to Chicago, and the bar patrons fawned over him—eerily similar.
The only difference was the setting: a lavish mansion instead of a dive bar, and intellectuals instead of drunks.
Yet, to Frank, they seemed no different.
He recalled a conversation with Joseph on a private jet from Chicago to New York.
"Money, it's a damn good thing," Frank mused, sipping his champagne.
With the gift-opening concluded, guests mingled freely, signaling the party's end. Those needing to leave could do so without seeming rude.
Elliott and Gretchen could finally relax and socialize with close friends.
"Gretchen," Frank greeted, finding her seated, shoes off, massaging her feet.
"Frank," she responded, surprised.
"When's the last time you wore heels?" Frank asked, sitting across and helping massage her feet, noticing the redness.
"It's been ages. I prefer flats, only wearing heels for special occasions. I'm not young anymore," Gretchen replied.
"You look just as beautiful as ever," Frank complimented.
"Stop flattering me. I know my condition. Look at my loose skin," Gretchen sighed.
"Nonsense, your skin's smooth," Frank said, his hand tracing her ankle.
"I didn't expect you here. You dropped out of college suddenly. We all wondered about you. I remember that woman, Monica, right? You left because of her," Gretchen reminisced.
(End of Chapter)