The absence of any move on her part knit a web of apprehension in him. In the sanctum of his study, he found solace in the rhythm of smoke rings and contemplation.

With eyes closed, he embarked on a journey of introspection.

What did he forget?

Amidst his musings, a timely interruption emerged in the form of a call from Roscoe.

The camaraderie they shared prompted Roscoe to inquire.

“Waylen, care for a night out?"

An inclination to decline hovered at the edge of Waylen's thoughts, yet a sudden realization dawned within him.

Roscoe!

Roscoe and Vera ended up together.

But at this time, Joseph was having a relationship with Vera, with Aline being his other woman.

Aline was supported with money by Joseph, so she wouldn't go overboard. With this newfound perspective, Waylen grasped a stratagem.

He recognized that Aline would act out of desperation if her financial lifeline from Joseph was severed.

Without hesitation, he embraced Roscoe's invitation. A flicker of a smile graced his lips as he took a drag on his cigarette.

“Call Joseph too. I've seen him several times in the music school recently."

Roscoe scowled upon hearing the name.

However, thinking that Vera would also come, he agreed, “Okay, I'L call him."

A pensive shadow accompanied the end of the call. Waylen's fingers danced over the phone's surface as another number was dialed, a calculated request issued.

“Copy Joseph's phone card for me. It might come in handy."

The following evening at 8 o'clock, an upscale club in Duefron became the stage for their rendezvous.

Within the lavish confines of a private room, the aura of opulence mingled with the heady scent of decadence.

The assembly comprised around ten companions, a tight-knit circle of associates.

Seated in a corner, Waylen's attire, once again black, absorbed the dim light, his presence unassuming amidst the revelry.