Neil had just arrived at Lucas's apartment when Lucas informed him about the invitation to William Cavendish III's birthday - the founder of Cavendish Entertainment and former senator.
Neil's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "You're going to the 78th birthday bash of the Cavendish Entertainment founder?"
Lucas nodded, "Yeah, I'm invited. Want to tag along?"
Neil looked skeptical. "Is that allowed?"
"Yep," Lucas confirmed, tapping the letter. "I read the full invite. It's okay to bring someone as long as you have the card."
Neil slouched on the sofa, glancing at his phone calendar. "Well, looks like I'm free on June 2nd."
"So, you're in?" Lucas asked.
Neil mulled it over, thinking about the potential connections he could make for his other clients. He shrugged, "Alright, I'm game."
Lucas grinned, "Great. The party's being held in Aspen, Colorado." He pointed to the location on the card and showed it to Neil.
Neil examined the address and nodded appreciatively. "Looks like one of those swanky ski mansions - definitely befitting a media mogul like Cavendish." He added, "That area's where politicians and celebrities go to retire or vacation. You know, when they want to escape to somewhere with crisp mountain air, world-class skiing, and more money than sense."
Lucas nodded, "Yeah, I looked up ski mansions in Aspen. They're not exactly budget-friendly."
Neil raised an eyebrow, curiosity piqued. "Oh? Planning to finally put down some roots yourself?"
Lucas chuckled, shaking his head. "Nah, I just Googled the address on the invitation. Turns out the place was initially listed for 48 million dollars and sold just a few weeks ago. Makes you wonder if the Cavendishes snagged it just for the old man's birthday bash."
Neil sighed, "That's how the rich people lives, I guess..." He trailed off, suddenly realizing something. With a mischievous grin, he tossed a pillow at Lucas's face.
"Hey! What gives?" Lucas asked, surprised.
Neil laughed, "I just realized I'm sitting here talking about 'rich people' to a multi-millionaire. Talk about irony."
"Me?" Lucas feigned innocence.
"Who else, Mr. Hollywood?" Neil retorted, still chuckling.
Lucas smiled and said, "Me? Rich?" He chuckled, "Not really. I'm distributing my wealth - putting it into healthcare, education for underprivileged kids, disaster relief efforts..."
As Lucas continued listing his charitable endeavors, Neil grabbed another pillow and lobbed it at him. "Stop. You're making me feel guilty here."
This time, Lucas was prepared and blocked the incoming pillow with ease.
"Guilty?" he asked, eyebrow raised.
Neil sighed dramatically, "Here you are, Mr. Poor Millionaire, giving money to the people, and it's making me feel like a jerk for spending my cash on designer suits and that fancy espresso machine I never use."
Lucas shook his head, a small smile playing on his lips. "You don't need to feel guilty about it. That's just how normal people are."
Neil opened his mouth, about to retort with 'So you're saying you're not normal?', but thought better of it. Instead, he changed the subject. "Have you already booked a flight to Aspen?"
Lucas shook his head, "Not yet. I just Googled who this William guy was earlier. But I'm gonna book now."
"Book me too," Neil said, then added with a grin, "After all, someone's gotta keep you from giving away all your money to orphans and puppies on the way there."
Lucas just laughed as he pulled out his phone to make the reservations.
The next day, Lucas, Neil, Jack, Simon, and Shawn headed to the airport together, ready for their trip to Aspen. The usual bustle of New York City faded behind them as they boarded their flight.
A few hours later, they touched down at Aspen/Pitkin County Airport, the crisp mountain air greeting them as they deplaned.
"Well, this is a far cry from the New York smog," Neil quipped, taking a deep breath.
Lucas nodded, "Yeah, I can see why the rich and famous flock here."
They collected their luggage and made their way to the waiting SUV that would take them to their destination. As they drove through Aspen, the group couldn't help but marvel at the picturesque scenery - snow-capped mountains looming in the distance, luxurious chalets dotting the landscape.
"I feel like I'm in a postcard," Shawn muttered, his face practically glued to the window.
Jack chuckled, "Just wait till you see the price tags around here. That'll snap you back to reality real quick."
As they approached the address on the invitation, the mansions grew more and more opulent. Finally, they pulled up to a sprawling, modern ski lodge that seemed to blend seamlessly with its mountainous backdrop.
"Well," Neil whistled low, "looks like the Cavendishes don't do anything by halves."
Lucas nodded. "Alright, guys. Let's see what this party's all about."
They approached the mansion, noticing a fleet of luxury cars already parked in the circular driveway. Bentleys, Rolls-Royces, and high-end SUVs lined up like a mobile showroom of wealth.
"Looks like we're fashionably on time," Neil muttered, eyeing the vehicles.
At the gates, two suited men with earpieces stood guard, checking invitations. As Lucas and his group approached, the guards did a double-take, recognizing the Hollywood star. However, their professional demeanor quickly returned - clearly, this wasn't their first rodeo with celebrities.
"Invitation, please," one of the guards requested politely.
Lucas handed over the golden card. The guard examined it briefly before nodding. "And for your guests, sir?"
"They're with me," Lucas explained. "The invitation mentioned I could bring along some company."
The guard conferred briefly with his colleague before turning back to Lucas. "Of course, Mr. Knight. May I ask for the names of your guests for our records?"
Lucas introduced Neil, Jack, Simon, and Shawn. The guard jotted down their names, then gestured towards the mansion. "Enjoy the party, gentlemen. Mr. Cavendish will be delighted you could make it."
As they walked up the path to the main entrance, Neil leaned in close to Lucas. "I feel like we just passed a secret service check. What have you gotten us into?"
Hearing it, Lucas chuckled wryly. "You're asking me? I'm just invited here, alright? Thought maybe I could attend because connections wouldn't hurt."
Neil smiled, a hint of pride in his voice. "You're learning, kid."
Lucas raised an eyebrow. "Learning? Says the guy who hasn't paid for my Hollywood Walk of Fame star yet. What happened to 'thinking about your client's best interests', huh?"
Neil rolled his eyes as they approached the door. "It's not my name being set in concrete, it's yours. You should pay for it."
"Yeah, but shouldn't a good manager be thinking about their client's legacy?" Lucas shot back with a grin. "Or are you not learning?"
Neil simply shook his head, choosing to ignore Lucas's playful jab as the door opened before them. They stepped into the mansion, the banter momentarily forgotten as they took in the opulent surroundings.
The foyer was a masterpiece of modern luxury, with soaring ceilings, gleaming marble floors, and what looked like genuine Renaissance art adorning the walls. The sound of muted conversation and soft classical music drifted from deeper within the house.
Neil whistled low, "So this is what a multi-million dollar house looks like, huh."
Lucas glanced at him. "You've never been in one before?"
Neil shrugged, "Oh, I've been in plenty. But I'm still amazed every time. Can't help but dream of having one myself someday."
As they moved deeper into the party, heads started to turn. Guests did double-takes, their eyes widening as they recognized Lucas Knight.
A well-known director approached them first, his hand outstretched. "Lucas! What a pleasant surprise. I had no idea you'd be here."
Lucas nodded politely, shaking the man's hand. "Neither did I, until a few days ago."
As they made their way through the crowd, Lucas spotted Sean Combs chatting with a senator. Lucas gave a friendly nod, but Diddy seemed to deliberately avoid his gaze.
Neil leaned in, whispering, "Is it just me, or does Diddy look like he's scared of you?"
Lucas chuckled, "Scared? I doubt it. Probably just busy networking."
Inwardly, Lucas was relieved. He had no desire to interact with Diddy, and the thought crossed his mind that one day, he might face him in court, much like Harvey Weinstein.
As they moved through the crowd, Lucas was surprised to see some familiar faces. George Clooney approached, his trademark smile in place. "Lucas, my man! Great to see you here."
Lucas returned the smile, shaking George's hand warmly. "George, always a pleasure. Didn't expect to see you here."
Then, James Franco appeared. Lucas greeted him politely, but couldn't help noticing the complicated look in James's eyes.
It felt like yesterday, but it had been five years since Lucas had "stolen" the lead role in "127 Hours" from James. Back then, James had looked down on him. Now, Lucas was Hollywood's golden boy.
***
As Lucas mingled with the celebrities, a hush fell over the crowd. William Cavendish III, the man of the hour, now 78 years old, appeared on a raised platform overlooking the guests.
A host announced his arrival, and the room erupted in polite applause.
William approached the microphone, his silver hair gleaming under the chandeliers. "Thank you all for coming to celebrate with me today. I'm truly flattered by your presence."
As he continued his speech, thanking various guests and reminiscing about his years in the industry, there was a sudden shift in his tone. His gaze fixed on Lucas, and his voice took on a warmer, more emotional quality.
"And I'm especially glad to see Lucas Knight here today. Your presence has truly warmed my heart."
A ripple of surprise went through the crowd. Guests exchanged confused glances, wondering about the connection between the media mogul and the young actor.
Lucas felt all eyes turn to him. He maintained his composure, but inside, he was just as puzzled as everyone else. Why was William singling him out? And why did he seem so emotional about it?