I stood in front of the mirror, my reflection staring back at me with a mix of anticipation and determination. The light in the room was soft, filtering in from the window, casting everything in a warm, almost nostalgic glow. My fingers combed through my hair, slowly, methodically, feeling the familiar texture as I tried to tame it into something presentable.

With a bit of wax, I smoothed down the unruly strands, letting them fall naturally. Not too polished—I still wanted to feel like myself—but neat enough for the occasion. My eyes drifted to the tie draped over the counter, and I picked it up, the fabric cool and smooth in my hands.

I looped it around my collar, the motions familiar yet strangely significant tonight. My fingers worked the knot, tightening it just enough to sit perfectly under my chin. I tugged at it, adjusting, making sure it was straight, that everything looked just right.

I stepped back, eyes scanning the reflection for any flaws. I pulled at the sleeves of my jacket, smoothing out the fabric over my shoulders, brushing off an invisible speck of dust. It was a small gesture, but it felt like part of something bigger. Tonight wasn't just any night.

For a moment, I met my own gaze in the mirror, and I could see it—the determination to make tonight something special. Not just for me, but for Mom. I wanted her to look at me tonight and feel proud, to have something to brag about, something to hold onto in a way she never could before.

Then, from the hallway, I heard Mom's voice, warm and a touch impatient. "Are you ready? We need to get going soon!"

Her words pulled me out of my thoughts, reminding me that time was slipping away. I took one last glance in the mirror, making sure everything was in place, before calling back to her, "Just a minute, Mom! Almost done!

I quickly slipped on my blazer, the fabric fitting snugly over my shoulders, and carefully folded a handkerchief into the breast pocket as a finishing touch. With a quick check of my phone, I slid it into my pocket, feeling the weight of the night ahead.

Satisfied, I darted out of the room, my footsteps quick and purposeful. Mom stood waiting for me at the entrance, a smile on her face as she saw me approach.

As I reached the doorway, Mom's eyes lit up, a proud smile spreading across her face. "Oh, look at my boy," she said warmly, her voice filled with affection. "You look so handsome, Dio."

I smiled, appreciating her compliment. "Thanks, Mom. Coming from the most beautiful woman in the room, that means a lot."

My mom's smile widened, a glint of pride in her eyes. "What a gentleman you've grown to be," she said with a playful chuckle. "And a smooth talker as well."

I looked at Mom, my smile softening with gratitude. "Thank you, Mom. It's all thanks to you for raising me to be like this."

She beamed at me, clearly touched by my words.

I then picked up my phone and dialed Mr. Erik. "Hey, Mr. Erik, could you pull up with the car to the curb outside the apartment? We're heading out now."

A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

As I ended the call, I looked at Mom and nodded toward the door. "Let's go. Our ride should be here any minute."

We made our way outside, the anticipation of the evening ahead mingling with the crisp air of the late afternoon.

As we stepped outside, Mr. Erik was already waiting at the curb with the black limousine, the engine purring softly. I approached the vehicle, and he greeted us with a friendly smile.

"Good evening, Dio!" Mr. Erik said as I opened the passenger door. "And good evening to you, ma'am."

Mom gave him a warm smile. "Good evening, Mr. Erik. Thank you for driving us."

"It's my pleasure," Mr. Erik replied, tipping his hat slightly. "Ready for tonight?"

"Absolutely," I said, sliding into the front seat. "Thanks again for everything, Mr. Erik."

Mom settled into the backseat, looking comfortable and relaxed. "I'm looking forward to it, Mr. Erik. I appreciate you making this easy for us."

Mr. Erik nodded as he closed the door behind her. "All set then. Let's make sure tonight's a great one."

I adjusted my seat and glanced back at Mom. "Ready, Mom?"

She gave me a thumbs up and a smile. "Ready as ever."

With that, Mr. Erik smoothly pulled away from the curb, and we began our drive towards the evening's festivities.

The sleek black limousine moved gracefully through the busy streets of Oslo, Norway. Its windows were rolled down, allowing the pleasant summer breeze to sweep through and cool the passengers inside. The bustling city scene unfolded outside like a vibrant painting – people walked briskly on the sidewalks, their voices creating a gentle buzz of chatter as they enjoyed the warm weather. The tantalizing aromas of freshly brewed coffee and melting ice cream filled the air, beckoning to passersby to stop and join in on the lively conversations at the sidewalk cafes scattered throughout the city.

The towering oaks and maples created a verdant wall on either side of the street, their leaves rustled by a gentle evening breeze. The lush canopy of greenery contrasted beautifully with the deepening hues of the twilight sky. As the sun set, its soft golden light filtered through the branches, casting dappled shadows on the sidewalks and adding to the lively atmosphere of the bustling neighborhood.

As the car rolled through the vibrant streets, Mom leaned forward from the backseat, her head swiveling to take in the sights and sounds of the bustling city. The excitement in her voice was palpable as she asked, "So, Dio, when are your friends joining us? I can't wait to meet them!"

I pivoted in my seat, my eyes meeting hers as I offered a reassuring smile. "They're taking care of a few things, so they might be running behind. But don't worry, they'll definitely make it."

I could see the tension ease from her shoulders as she nodded in understanding. Mom's lips curved into a gentle smile, her eyes sparkling with understanding. She leaned back against the soft leather seats of the car, her gaze drifting to the bustling city streets outside. We could hear the chatter of people and smell the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the open windows. The warmth of the sun seeped through the windshield, filling the car with a cozy sense of contentment. As we drove through the winding roads, we were surrounded by vibrant greenery and stunning views, basking in the beauty of a Norwegian summer day.

Dio Stat's Info:

Lvl: 14

Skill Count: 2 (Key selling point analyze) (Analyze)

Strength:35

Agility:24

Intelligence:23

Endurance:21

Charm:23

Dio influence, power & riches:

Money - 5million kroner.

Associate - 7

Asset - 0

Digital Asset - 250 BTC

Goons - 10

Car - 1

Guard - 0

Employers -25

Company - 1