Rhythm and Ray: A DJ’s Journey

[Chapter 230: What Else Are You Hiding from Me?]

As Ryan looked at Taylor, who was gazing up at him with a furrowed brow, seemingly lost in thought, he chuckled to himself.

"Sure, it's easy to see her. She's coming tonight, and she's eager to meet you too," he said.

"Coming tonight? What's her purpose?" Taylor's curiosity piqued, and he could sense her apprehension.

"Just to hang out and discuss some business," Ryan replied, dismissing her concerns.

Since there wasn't anything officially in progress yet, there was no need to worry. He continued explaining how he had partnered with her father to establish a "Spirit Club." The idea was that the Spirit Club and Bad Room would operate as two separate nightclub brands -- Bad Room focusing on high-end, large venues in major cities, while Spirit Club would be smaller, more community-oriented spots open for franchising and relying on fees and real estate ventures.

"Why didn't you mention something so big before?" Taylor exclaimed, surprised by Ryan's sudden initiative.

"It's only just been finalized. I planned to fill you in once you got back," he admitted, scratching his head.

"Seems like you might need some funds for that," Taylor suggested, hinting that she intended to offer Ryan some financial support.

"The initial investment isn't that high; it's more of a light asset project," Ryan assured her. He explained that the real estate side would be handled by Donald Trump, and they wouldn't need much upfront from suppliers -- just a design team and basic expenses like office rent and staff recruitment.

"Okay then. So, Ivanka wanted to meet up to discuss the partnership?" Taylor asked, trying to piece it all together.

"Pretty much," Ryan answered, clueless about the fallout between Ivanka and her father while he was gone.

...

Just then, Teresa reappeared with Karlie in tow.

"Taylor! You're already here?" Karlie expressed her surprise upon seeing her.

"What are you doing here?" Taylor was equally astonished.

"I came to hang out with some friends. We arrived yesterday. You look amazing," Karlie complimented Taylor's outfit.

"You too! You're getting even prettier. Do you have a boyfriend?" Taylor asked, curious about Karlie's love life.

"Uh... not yet." Karlie looked a bit embarrassed.

"Don't say that to others; just say you broke up," Taylor teased.

Still being single at this age was somewhat embarrassing, as it suggested a lack of appeal.

Karlie sighed, "I just haven't met the right guy."

"When the time comes, I'll help you out. After all, it's your first time; he must be incredibly handsome, a perfect gentleman, and fairly strong," Taylor joked.

"Sounds like Ryan to me," Karlie quipped unexpectedly.

"Huh? Do you have a type on him? Should I set something up?" Taylor glanced at Ryan with a smile.

"Never mind, don't put me in that situation!" Ryan quickly shook his head.

"Ryan's busy; you need someone who can spend time with you," Taylor said, linking her arm with Ryan's affectionately.

"Yeah, you're right," Karlie nodded, already sensing her slip.

"Who's this?" Taylor noticed Teresa standing beside Karlie.

Before Ryan could speak, Karlie chimed in, "This is Ryan's assistant. Haven't you met her? She's been around him for a long time."

Teresa had already given Karlie a tour earlier, so she had some basic information about her.

"A long time?" Taylor looked back at Ryan, surprised.

First it was Ivanka, now Karlie, and now a beautiful assistant? Why wasn't she aware of all this?!

"Didn't I tell you? I thought I mentioned it ages ago," Ryan feigned ignorance, feeling a slight chill at the back of his neck.

"Maybe I forgot about it," Taylor reflected, unsure because her memory was hazy, busy with touring and all.

"Let's introduce you properly today," Ryan suggested, encouraging Teresa to step forward.

Teresa complimented Taylor extensively, praising her beauty and talent.

In turn, Taylor flattered Teresa for her attractiveness as well.

The three women settled on the couch in front of Ryan's desk, chatting happily.

...

"Wow, that ring is huge! Ryan is really generous," Teresa exclaimed, noticing the oversized diamond on Taylor's finger.

"This is such a waste; as long as it conveys his feelings, that's what matters. The one on your finger is just right," Taylor smiled embarrassedly. Though she said it was such a waste, but in fact she touched this ring so many times a day.

"This is worthless; I envy you for having someone like Ryan who knows how to make money. I'm not so lucky -- he has achieved nothing." Teresa jokingly glanced at Ryan, who seemed a little awkward. Like Daddario, she made up a story out of nothing.

The three women continued their lively chatter, which began to feel pretty loud to Ryan. Just then, Calvin Harris walked in, providing him an escape.

"Taylor, I've heard your songs for ages. It's nice finally meeting the real you! You look so much prettier in person than on TV," Calvin greeted her with a genuine smile.

"Thank you! Ryan, your team certainly knows how to compliment," Taylor blushed slightly.

...

Once the three women had stepped out, Calvin informed Ryan that he had completed a new track and actually recruited a female vocalist he knew for it.

"This song has a lot of potential; it can be released this week," Ryan nodded, impressed. He suspected Calvin had been inspired recently, resulting in something distinctly different from his previous work.

As for Ryan, his own new song FRIENDS was nearing completion, with Bedroom Records planning to release three new singles all at once.

After Calvin left, Ryan picked up the phone.

...

"Yeah, you and Rosie should leave now, head to Orlando Disney, or go to a South American seafood restaurant in Miami -- whatever works," Ryan instructed before hanging up. He couldn't afford to give Taylor any more 'surprises.'

...

Meanwhile, Taylor was being invited by Teresa, just like Karlie had before, to explore the nightclub.

She noticed many changes around the club. The staff had doubled since she last visited.

"Taylor, long time no see! The last time I saw you was on TV. My sister is a huge fan; she's watched two of your concerts," Diplo called from the DJ booth as he adjusted his equipment.

"Taylor, when are you coming back to Florida for a concert? We couldn't get tickets last time," Joel approached, mixer in hand.

Everyone, from high-level managers to regular staff, greeted Taylor warmly. Even the newly hired DJs formed a line to shake her hand, each face lighting up with admiration for her.

Even Avicii looked stunned when he shook Taylor's hand, standing frozen for a couple of seconds and drawing laughter from the crowd.

Taylor was surprised by how enthusiastic Ryan's team was, struck by her high standing in their eyes.

...

"You're Ryan's fiancee; they have every reason to be excited," Karlie pointed out, realizing she hadn't received such treatment.

"Taylor, let's go check out the bar. The bartender has mixed up some new drinks. Try them out for us," Sean offered, trying to lead her.

"Slow down; we need to let Taylor hear the new songs from the DJs. Right, Taylor?" Diplo interjected.

"You two should break Taylor into two halves," Teresa joked.

...

Before long, night had fallen. A Range Rover parked in front of the nightclub, and Ivanka stepped out, handing her keys to the valet.

"The boss instructed me to take you straight to the VIP room; he'll join you shortly," said a waiter in a jacket and bowtie.

Ivanka nodded and followed the waiter, skipping the line, which caused some discontent among others waiting.

"What are you complaining about? You too can get this treatment if you do business with Ryan." Berwick called from the entrance, addressing the grumbling patrons.

...

Ivanka seated herself on a plush leather sofa, and after waiting a while without seeing Ryan, she was surprised by a familiar face entering the room.

"Taylor!" Ivanka leaped up.

"Welcome!" Taylor greeted her warmly and they embraced.

"Your perfume smells amazing; no wonder Ryan remembered it," Taylor chuckled.

"Yours is better," Ivanka replied quickly.

Taylor introduced Karlie to Ivanka.

"I've seen you before at the Dior fashion show; you're a high-end model, right?" Ivanka recognized Karlie.

Karlie nodded, "Your figure is amazing; you're as good as the professional models."

"Taylor's even better," Ivanka said, gazing at Taylor.

"Not at all! If I had your chest, I'd wake up giggling," Taylor replied.

"Your waist is smaller than mine," Ivanka countered.

"But you have bigger hips; you'd have it easier having kids," Taylor teased.

"You don't gain weight; that's something I can't match," Ivanka joked back.

"You're more voluptuous; I can't compete with you," Karlie added, watching their playful banter unfold.

As they sat down, Taylor ordered fruit from the waiter.

"We should be discussing business in a more formal setting, but it's a bit casual here," Taylor smiled.

"This is perfectly fine; when you come to New York, I'll host you properly," Ivanka replied, returning the warmth.

...

As Taylor and Ivanka exchanged playful banter, the mood heated up just as Ryan finally walked into the private room.

"I've been looking for you; how come you're here already?" Ryan exclaimed, surprised to see Taylor.

"With such an important guest, I had to come to entertain her," Taylor smiled at Ivanka, who mirrored the enthusiasm.

"Yeah, I've been eager to meet Taylor as well," Ivanka said, her eyes still on Taylor.

Ryan brushed aside the tension and dove directly into business.

"Your dad seems pretty anxious; he's pushing for rapid business development and even launched a subsidiary to manage the Spirit Club's property," Ryan recalled a call he had received from her father.

"Of course he's worried. He needs that contract to apply for a loan at the bank. The funds aren't for property purchases but to cover previous losses," Ivanka replied without hesitation, throwing her father under the bus.

"Uh..." both Ryan and Taylor were caught off guard by her honesty.

"So that's the situation," Taylor laughed lightly.

"Actually, I came to find a job. I just had a huge fight with my dad, and I want to work in the new company. Previously, I managed some real estate projects, including renovations on some old Trump properties," Ivanka clarified her motives to Ryan.

"But what about your father's side..." Ryan pondered, thinking he might need to have a serious conversation with Donald Trump to avoid any mess.

"I'll handle him. I'll ensure the Spirit Club runs smoothly," Ivanka promised confidently.

"And what about your personal brand? Are you taking on both roles?" Ryan inquired further.

"To be honest, my father handles the brand. I'm just a front, basically a mascot," Ivanka admitted, revealing her struggle.

"I understand, welcome aboard, CEO," Ryan extended his hand.

"Thanks, I'll drink to that," Ivanka grinned, raising her glass.

"From now on, we're like family, Ivanka. We should get to know each other better; I think we could be great friends," Taylor said sweetly.

"Absolutely, I might need to move to Florida," Ivanka responded. She was indeed curious about Taylor at the beginning.

"That'd be amazing; you should come to our place sometime," Taylor encouraged warmly.

"I'll pass this time," Ivanka declined politely before turning to Ryan. "What else do we need to prepare for Spirit Club?"

"Everything starts from scratch," Ryan stated plainly.

"Alright, I'll handle that; I'll find an office and recruit staff. Let's keep in touch," Ivanka said, aware that time was of the essence.

Ryan promptly threw in a substantial salary offer for her, including performance bonuses that could sum up to a few million in a year. Taylor was taken aback by the figure, yet considering Ivanka's significance, it seemed justified.

"I won't linger then; I need to head back to New York for some personal items before a red-eye flight to Florida tonight," Ivanka declared, instantly switching into work mode.

Just then, an unexpected guest burst in -- Paris, holding a camera. "Photo time!"

...

As the public relations manager, it was Paris's job to capture photos whenever VIPs visited the nightclub, which would be posted online that night.

"Let's make it informal; pose as if you're chatting. Yes, hold those drinks, perfect!" Paris shouted, snapping pictures.

Having finished her task, she set down the camera and joined the conversation.

"Taylor, I've been wanting to meet you! Ryan kept blocking my way. I haven't had a chance to congratulate you both!" Paris grinned.

"Really?" Taylor chuckled in surprise.

"And you've got to keep an eye on Ryan; temptations in clubs are everywhere. Do you want me to help?" Paris pivoted her focus.

"Just keep me updated should anything happen," Taylor responded with a smirk.

"Don't worry, I'll keep detailed reports of every woman Ryan meets and what he says to them daily."

"Better include everything you discuss with Ryan too," Taylor reminded her jokingly.

"I barely even talk to him in a month! I was just rejected earlier when I tried to pitch him a song. I'll have to wait until you two are apart to make a move," Paris laughed lightly.

"Sounds like a lifetime away," Taylor said, raising an eyebrow.

"Back to work; let's not get sidetracked," Ryan urged, sensing where things could lead if they stayed too long on the topic.

"See how he treats his staff?" Paris remarked, looking at Taylor.

"Nothing wrong with that," Taylor defended Ryan.

"Truly a couple, teaming up to tease," Paris picked up her camera and prepared to leave.

Ryan turned back to Ivanka, "I won't see you out."

"Don't be so formal; I'm basically family now," Ivanka teased before embracing Taylor once more.

...

Once Ivanka left, Taylor turned to Ryan. "What's on the agenda for tonight?"

"Heading home early to spend time with the wife," Ryan replied, satisfied that he wouldn't need a stage appearance that night, giving him more free time as his staff expanded.

"Hubby, give me a kiss," Taylor said, leaning in.

The two shared a kiss, completely disregarding Karlie's presence.

"I've got things to do; I'm heading back to the hotel," Karlie sensed she'd become a third wheel and took her chance to exit.

"Doesn't staying at a hotel cost money? You can come over to ours tonight; we've got plenty of rooms," Taylor urged, finally seizing the opportunity to host a friend.

"Isn't that a bit inappropriate? You two haven't seen each other in a while," Karlie remarked.

The period of time she was talking about wasn't that long if you counted it carefully. Taylor even stayed at her parents' home in Nashville for two days.

"Why would it be inappropriate? I don't mind; why should you? We already agreed -- tonight, you're staying with us," Taylor took Karlie's arm, leading her.

So the three of them climbed in the car and headed to Palm Beach.

...

Taylor and Ryan took the backseat while Karlie naturally sat in front, listening to sweet nothings exchanged between Ryan and Taylor the entire ride.

As their conversation flowed, Taylor wrapped her arm around Ryan's neck. "So, what else are you hiding from me?"

After this trip to the nightclub, it seemed evident there were quite a few women Ryan had interacted with that night.

"I heard there's a dance director who's a student at the University of Florida. Where's she?" Taylor continued her inquiry.

"Want me to give you the whole nightclub staff roster? You can interrogate each one," Ryan teased, pulling her close into a warm embrace.

"Sounds great! I'll personally interview every female staff member. I'll be the HR," she declared playfully.

"Just don't say you don't have time."

"I'll schedule them back-to-back... um... hmm... let's take a stroll on the beach first; I still haven't walked around yet. I plan to shop tomorrow with Karlie, and you're coming with us," she announced.

"I hate accompanying women shopping."

"Just one day, please."

"Tonight will determine how you behave."

"Watch your words; you'll be begging me afterward to call you 'mommy.'"

"Not sure about who'll be begging who."

Up front, Karlie, listening to the two people's words, finally understood her position. She was merely a part of their play.

*****

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