Arlan informed his parents that he would be gone for a few days. When they asked him where he was going, he told them that he would be out of the country for a business trip. While they were talking, he noticed that his parents' complexion looked better than when they were still working in the fields. His father no longer looked sick and he was back to his usual energetic self.
After his conversation with them, Thelma had already packed all their stuff. "Boss, everything is ready. We can leave any time." She had a beaming smile on her face as she stared at him.
"Alright. Let's go." Arlan took the car key of the Mazda CX-90 and handed it to Jonas. "Please drive us to the airport." Someone had to drive the car back to the villa so he asked Jonas to drive them this time.
Jonas took the car key and nodded his head. "It's my pleasure, boss."
The doors of the Mazda CX-90 were heavier because of its bulletproof material. Arlan felt a lot safer as he sat on the comfy leather seat. Thelma sat beside him, while Khalon and Karl sat on the seats behind them. The seat beside the driver was left empty.
After everyone took their seats, Jonas stepped on the gas and drove off.
The Ninoy Aquino International Airport was formerly known as the Manila International Airport. It was later renamed after the late Senator Benigno 'Ninoy' Aquino was assassinated in the year 1983. He was referred to as a hero at that time for he was actively going against the corrupt leader and the dictator of the country, Ferdinand Maracas. However, many also believed that he was a 'fake hero' and that he only stood against the dictator to pave the way for his Presidential candidacy.
All this bullsh*t about the past and matters of the government meant nothing to Arlan. Maharlika's government was filled with corrupt people. They always promised the citizens that they would give them a more comfortable life, but all of that was just a farce. And even with all the bad rumors about these corrupt government leaders, the people of Maharlika still chose to believe in them because they are gullible.
They arrived at the airport not long later. He sent a message to Peter about their flight schedule. He also sent messages to his close friends in case they would look for him during his stay in France.
"I hope you enjoy your trip to Paris, boss!" Jonas said before bidding them farewell.
Thelma booked first-class tickets for them so they didn't have to worry about back pain throughout the journey.
The 17-hour flight was long, but it wasn't boring since Thelma was with them. She was very enthusiastic and she never ran out of topics. Arlan gained a favorable impression of her and they became a lot closer as they conversed.
"Boss, why are you going to Paris?" Thelma asked curiously.
"I became friends with the President of Louis Vuitton and he invited me to join the auction that will take place in Christie's Auction House at 9 Avenue Maitgnon, Paris tomorrow. I heard from him that Leonardo da Vinci's Salvator Mundi would be auctioned. I want to try if I could get that painting..." Arlan answered. He also told her about the history of the painting.
Thelma stared at him in shock. "Boss, you're so awesome! You even know a lot about paintings!"
The two also chatted during dinner and they only stopped when it was time for them to sleep.
"Goodnight, boss!"
"Goodnight."
Soon, their plane landed at Charles de Gaulle, the largest and busiest airport in Paris. When they got off the plane, Peter Bacari and his team were already waiting for them.
"Bonjour, my friend! Welcome to Paris!" Peter shook hands with Arlan.
Arlan felt a bit sick after the long flight, but he didn't show it to his face. He smiled at Peter and followed him inside the limousine that was prepared for them.
As promised, Peter gave them a short tour of Paris. Everything was very orderly and the people were dressed fashionably. The capital of their home country couldn't be compared to it at all. It was like the difference between heaven and earth.
Arlan took several pictures of the scenic spots, especially the most famous Eiffel Tower. He also took a group photo with Peter and the others.
Arlan posted some of the photos on his Instagram and there was also a short video of him and Thelma riding on a Ferris wheel. According to Peter, it was a famous romantic landmark.
"Arlan, the auction is about to start. We should get going." Peter muttered as he wiped his mouth with a napkin.
They were having an early dinner at the moment since the auction will begin at 8:30 p.m.
"Alright. Let's go." Arlan nodded his head. He had gotten closer to Peter and the two of them started referring to each other using their names.
Christie's Auction House was quite famous among wealthy people. Many relics of the past would be auctioned here and it also had a long history.
It was founded by James Christie in London in 1766. After centuries of high-class service, it was considered one of the best auction houses in the world!
There were reporters at the scene and there were also many famous international personalities present. Though most of them were only here to spectate the auction.
The main characters in the auction were still the billionaires like Peter Bacari. Only people like him could afford to bid for the items that would be auctioned.
Thelma who was walking beside Arlan exclaimed as she pointed at a blonde-haired woman who was surrounded by many reporters. "Isn't that Jennifer Lawrence? She looks so beautiful in person!"
Arlan also stared at the famous actress. She was indeed a top-tier beauty. Only a few women in Maharlika could compare to her in terms of looks and temperament.
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