Rhythm and Ray: A DJ’s Journey

[Chapter 227: Spirit Club]

On the picturesque and warm beaches of Florida, Ryan spotted Ivanka walking towards him under a sun umbrella. She wore sunglasses and had her hair tied up. Instead of a swimsuit, she donned a white skirt with a red coral pattern -- a clear indication that she wanted to keep things modest in case she ran into Ryan. Only her long legs were bare, and as she approached, Ryan could see that her legs were rounder than Taylor's, her shoulders wider, and of course, she had a fuller chest too. She definitely had a curvy physique.

"How long have you been here?" Ivanka asked as she removed her sunglasses.

"About twenty minutes," Ryan said, standing up to shake her hand.

"Sorry, I went back to put on something more appropriate," Ivanka said, taking a seat. She noticed nearby that a few of Ryan's bodyguards had turned their backs to keep a watchful eye on their surroundings, and there were hardly any intruders within a hundred feet.

Just as Ryan said, it was indeed a quiet spot.

"Being able to see such a good figure... waiting a bit longer wasn't too much trouble," Ryan praised her without holding back.

"Yours is better," Ivanka said with an embarrassed laugh.

Ryan was wearing a T-shirt, which showed off his muscular arms.

"You must work out often," Ivanka commented.

Ryan then talked about his daily workout routine.

"You're quite disciplined; I could never stick to something like that," Ivanka shook her head.

"It seems you frequent the gym too."

"Yeah, I have a tendency to gain weight, so if I don't, my figure will be completely out of shape in a few years. This is even more so after giving birth (in future). I've felt like I've gained some weight lately, and I really envy Taylor's figure," Ivanka sighed.

"Let's not talk about that anymore. We should discuss our collaboration," Ivanka said, steering the conversation back.

"As for the clothing brand partnership... I'm open to it, but your father outright rejected it," Ryan decided to be honest.

"You talked to him on the phone?" Ivanka suddenly realized.

"Yes, I did beforehand," Ryan nodded.

"Well, in that case, there's no changing his mind. Once he decides on something, it's hard to get him to reconsider," Ivanka said with a hint of resignation.

"What if you disagreed with your father? For instance, if you liked a guy and he disapproved?" Ryan inquired.

"If he doesn't like someone, there's usually a reason behind it," Ivanka replied after some thought.

"What if the guy had a family?"

"In that case, I'd definitely be in the wrong; my father would be justified," Ivanka looked at Ryan and said immediately.

Ryan nodded, "Actually, I came today to propose a different kind of collaboration. I want to open a new Bad Room location at your family's building on Fifth Avenue."

New York needed a Bad Room location.

"That sounds... pretty good. How much does the Orlando store make in a day now?" Ivanka asked right away.

"The day you came, it set a new sales record, nearing five hundred thousand."

"Don't kid with me," Ivanka shook her head. "I have degrees in economics and business."

"Do you want to see the books? Revenue for places like Bad Room primarily comes from cover charges, with drinks coming in second. The big clients in the VIP booth that day really contributed, typically the revenue could exceed three hundred thousand dollars in less busy periods..." Ryan explained the income streams in detail.

"I get it now; it's different from other clubs. It's a new model," Ivanka immediately grasped the concept.

"It's not necessarily new; variations of this model have been around in Europe for a while, but it hasn't caught on in the U.S. yet."

"You leveraged your fame and combined that with the DJ scene to create a nightclub. In other words, Bad Room is a channel for monetization," Ivanka continued her analysis.

"Exactly, Taylor is touring all over the country, just like I am, but I've been stationed in one place," Ryan reminded her.

"But that involves significant risks; if you're not performing at Bad Room, the audience will lose interest. Plus, as more franchises open up, you might find yourself overwhelmed," Ivanka pointed out.

Though her personality could be a bit soft, she was definitely no fool.

"You're right, and that connects to the record label you visited the other day. Nightclubs and record labels are inherently linked; clubs can offer exposure to newcomers, then once those newcomers gain fame, they can help elevate Bad Room. It's a positive feedback loop."

"That's a flawless business case," Ivanka smiled, realizing that Ryan's plans were far from impulsive; they were well thought out.

"Due to the high risks in the entertainment industry, investors often see it as an unworthy target, but you're different; you seem more like a businessman -- a smart businessman," Ivanka remarked with genuine admiration.

"You haven't gone to college, have you?" Ivanka asked next.

"I had to drop out for reasons, but I'm considering going back to school," Ryan replied.

"Smart choice."

"I'm actually thinking of starting an academy of my own -- an academy dedicated to 'electronic music research'," Ryan gestured with finger quotes.

"You plan to gather people to study electronic music together?"

"No, it's more like an industry association, similar to the Academy for the Oscars and Emmys, including media outlets, professionals, and record companies -- all aspects, with the ultimate goal being gaining influence, which would be reflected in international dance music awards. These would all be part of a carnival, alongside music festivals. I've already established the connections for these three platforms, and the first carnival will happen in a few months," Ryan continued speaking about the carnival.

"Impressive, unbelievable! I didn't know you had such plans. You're unlike those other stars or businessmen; you're like a perfect fusion of both. If all goes well, you'll become the Alexander the Great of the electronic music industry," she compared.

"Honestly, I wonder why I didn't meet you sooner. I do envy Taylor," Ivanka couldn't help but say.

"It's not too late to know me now; I'm not married yet," Ryan shrugged, jokingly.

"Then I guess I'd better put in some effort," Ivanka laughed back.

"Do you want to collaborate with me now? You can choose to be hands-off with the daily operations or take charge; the power is in your hands. Perhaps it won't compare to your personal brand, but at least you might earn more." Ryan remained cautiously optimistic about her personal brand's performance.

"Actually... my personal brand isn't very profitable," Ivanka confessed, looking at Ryan and hesitating before finally deciding to be frank.

"It was about four years ago when my father saw Paris Hilton's personal perfume and thought it was a great idea for me to try the same. That's how my personal brand got started." She felt a bit embarrassed.

The fact that her main business wasn't profitable was actually good news for Ryan.

"However, I think your nightclub decor is a bit 'simple.' Not that it's bad, it's just that nightclubs in New York should have a more luxurious feel, with palace elements and a golden touch everywhere..." Ivanka started imagining what their partnership would look like.

"Sounds good to me; I don't mind at all. Just don't forget about putting in your share of the investment."

"Then you'll have to call me 'boss,'" Ivanka laughed.

The discussion between the two went very smoothly, and before they knew it, two and a half hours had passed.

...

"Once we get back from Florida, we'll get started right away?" Ryan reminded.

"Of course, we must begin immediately; I'll call my dad tonight," Ivanka replied.

"Call your dad?"

"Yes, it's his building, so I must get his consent," Ivanka stated matter-of-factly.

"Don't worry; he'll definitely agree, especially once he understands the profit model. He'll be itching to start as soon as possible," Ivanka quickly reassured Ryan, worried he might doubt her father.

Since ultimately, they had to go through him anyway...

"Why don't we head over to talk to your father together? It's better to discuss this in person," Ryan recalled what Trump had advised him earlier and thought it best to face the matter head-on to avoid any misunderstandings.

"That works for me, but he might not be in Florida," Ivanka suggested.

"No problem; at most I can go with you."," Ryan indicated.

"Then I'll call my dad right now." Ivanka took out her phone.

...

"Hi, Daddy! I'm in Florida! Yeah, I told you yesterday, but you forgot! Where are you? At Mar-a-Lago? That's perfect; we can meet up tomorrow. Is she with you?" As Ivanka spoke, her tone noticeably changed, reflecting a natural sense of distance: "No, it's nothing. I just wanted to discuss something with you. Just that." Ivanka ended the call, tossing her phone down on the table.

...

"You don't seem too happy?" Ryan remarked.

"It's nothing," Ivanka shook her head.

"Is it because of the woman around your dad?" Ryan seemed to catch on to the situation. Trump had already been married three times, and all of his partners were models. Ivanka was the child of Trump and his first wife, and their divorce had been quite tumultuous.

Ivanka didn't deny it and slowly added, "My brother stopped talking to my dad for his entire teenage life after the divorce. The pain of a broken home is just too hard to bear."

"My dad was quite the womanizer; that was his biggest mistake. Staying faithful is the most basic requirement for a man. You're doing great, not getting into trouble with women like Paris," Ivanka said, gazing at Ryan.

Ryan wasn't sure how to respond to that.

"I couldn't chase her away anyway; let's just get in and out tomorrow and be done with it," Ivanka resolved.

...

The next morning, Ryan's vehicle arrived at the hotel where Ivanka was staying.

Ivanka was dressed casually as she hopped into Ryan's SUV.

Yesterday, she hadn't looked great when they parted, but today she seemed much better.

She mentioned that she'd gone to the gym early in the morning, followed by a hot shower, and then changed before coming down.

Nothing eventful happened during the ride, and they soon arrived at Mar-a-Lago. This was Ryan's second time visiting the club. Once they got out of the car, the staff at the club warmly greeted Ivanka; she was indeed famous there.

"Hello, Ivanka!" a woman with an angular face greeted her, accompanied by a few attendants, one of whom was holding a child of about two or three years old.

Ivanka merely nodded and hurriedly left with Ryan, barely engaging with the woman.

The woman, however, took a moment to glance at Ryan, and felt that he looked very familiar.

...

Ivanka and Ryan soon found her father, who was in the middle of a golf game.

"Hey, look who's here!" Donald Trump cheerily handed his golf club to a nearby caddy, opening his arms for a father-daughter hug as he patted her back a few times.

Then Trump noticed Ryan standing next to Ivanka; his expression immediately turned serious. It seemed he restrained himself, knowing his daughter was present.

"This is Ryan, you know him, right?" Ivanka introduced him to her father.

"Of course, I know him. He is Taylor Swift's fiance, she must be called Taylor Rivers now," Trump said lightly.

He then beckoned the club's security personnel over and instructed Ryan, "Please escort Ryan to the guest area outside. This is a private zone for club members only; non-members aren't allowed inside."

"Dad, he's my business partner. I came here with him to talk business. Why are you kicking him out?" Ivanka said, visibly upset.

"I'm aware, but rules are rules. I have to answer to other members," Trump replied with a smile.

"Then let's go to the guest area to chat," Ivanka immediately suggested, puzzled by her father's hostility towards Ryan.

"Let Ryan go first; I need to have a word with you," Trump insisted, keeping Ivanka right by his side.

Meanwhile, a few security personnel were already blocking Ryan's way.

"I'll be fine; since I'm here, I'll follow the rules, won't I?" Ryan remained calm as he addressed Trump.

Trump nodded, waiting for Ryan to voluntarily depart.

"However, it's not just me who doesn't follow the rules here," Ryan turned and pointed at a woman strolling in the distance.

"That's my wife. I own this club, and my family enjoys certain privileges," Trump chuckled.

"Then I'm family too. It's reasonable for me to bring a friend; you've brought other women before," Ivanka countered immediately.

Trump grew more anxious: "I set the rules here. I don't want him here; it's that simple! Take him away!"

"On what grounds? I finally found someone reliable, so why would you sabotage my efforts?" Ivanka shot back, a bit heated.

"Forget this; let's go, Ryan; we're leaving," Ivanka turned away, unable to get a reaction from her father.

"What exactly do you want to do by bringing him here?" Trump asked, somewhat exasperated with his daughter.

Ivanka seemed to know her father would eventually yield, smiling as she turned back.

"I'm planning to collaborate with Ryan to open a Bad Room location in your building on Fifth Avenue."

"So that's what this is about. If you're starting a business, I will certainly support you, but this is a nightclub. It's a mixed bag of clientele; you're inviting trouble. What if someone gets hurt? Or if someone brings in drugs? Have you thought about those consequences?" Trump peppered Ivanka with questions.

Ivanka, however, was prepared: "Ryan has already solved those issues; Bad Room is different from other nightclubs."

"That might be true, but even at airports, there are security checks, yet people still manage to bring weapons and illegal substances on planes. This isn't up for negotiation; even if there's a collaboration, it's between myself and Ryan. You, as a woman, should stay out of it," Trump extinguished the fire in Ivanka's heart.

In this moment, Ivanka genuinely found herself at a loss and looked to Ryan for help.

Ryan stepped forward, addressing her father: "It's better for me to work directly with you, and aside from the Bad Room New York plan, I have another project in mind. This matter can only be discussed with you."

"What project?" Trump waved his hand, and the nearby caddy immediately opened up one of the golf carts, revealing a small refrigerator inside.

"Get me a Coke, my daughter needs a sugar-free lemonade, and as for Ryan, give him a Sprite. I can't stand Sprite; someone's gotta finish the stock," Trump said deliberately.

Ryan didn't mind and took a sip of the Sprite.

"I think you both have heard the story of McDonald's," Ryan suddenly said.

"What do you mean?" Trump looked confused.

"I want to create a McDonald's-style nightclub brand that will be open for franchises -- smaller locations, not like Bad Room, but medium-sized ones in bustling commercial areas and city centers," Ryan proposed a new concept.

To accelerate growth, franchising is undoubtedly easier than direct operations.

"And as for the profit model, it can fully draw from McDonald's; the key point will be the rent income. Plus, real estate prices are dropping across states, making this a unique opportunity. Since it involves commercial real estate, partnering with a real estate company is undoubtedly the fastest route."

"Of course, I've only got a rough concept at this point, with plenty to resolve concerning supply chains, renovations, and standardized music facilities, et cetera. However, I already have a name in mind," Ryan said, looking at his Sprite.

"It'll be called Spirit Club, but the theme colors can't be green like Sprite."

"That sounds too much like a Sprite-themed store or a mental hospital," Trump retorted somewhat annoyed.

"I think it sounds quite good," Ivanka chimed in, realizing that Ryan's sudden idea cleverly merged his vision with their family business' strengths.

"However, the premise is that you both must want to collaborate; otherwise, I'd have to seek other partners," Ryan stated.

There were many real estate companies, but there is only one Ryan.

"Dad, you wouldn't pass up this chance, would you?" Ivanka quickly turned to her father.

Trump fell into thought. Ryan's idea appeared to have merit; however, he was cautious about this young man's intentions.

"My daughter absolutely cannot get involved," Trump asserted without hesitation.

"Why!?" Ivanka demanded.

"Whoever you send to take charge of that side is your business," Ryan told Trump, implying that it had nothing to do with him.

"If that's the case, then let's have a good chat!" Trump grinned widely.

*****

https://www.patreon.com/Sayonara816.