Chapter 32 Stella's offhand remark was perfectly in character . Alessia had grown used to it and was just about to chime in when Liam tapped the microphone , drawing everyone's attention to him . Alessia glanced his way . Liam's gaze was lowered as he gently strummed the guitar strings . She couldn't see his expression , but somehow , a softness seemed to radiate from him - so different from the rebellious air he'd had when they first met . Liam's voice was low and rich , and his relaxed , almost careless posture paired with the mellow love song gave the impression he was murmuring to a lover . The bar gradually quieted , save for the occasional hushed conversation . Beautiful things have a way of captivating people , whether it's a voice or a face . Some know how to admire from a distance , while others can't resist taking what they like for themselves . He'd only finished two songs when a commotion broke out below . The gentle music was abruptly cut off , and several patrons started grumbling , while the troublemaker gestured wildly and shouted . Liam , as if none of it concerned him , sat quietly with his guitar in hand , not even bothering to look up . Gone was the warmth he'd shown while singing . In its place was a cold , unapproachable indifference that warned strangers to keep their distance . Alessia and Stella exchanged a look . Stella made a quick gesture and headed downstairs , while Alessia stayed in the private booth , watching the scene unfold below . " What's going on ? " Stella asked , after calming a few nearby customers , as she walked over to the bartender . " She's had two drinks and now insists Liam come down to have a drink with her . Says she'll order the most expensive bottle in the place if he does , " Stella frowned . " Didn't you tell her we don't offer that kind of service here ? " " We did , but she wouldn't listen . We tried to ask her to leave , but as soon as we touched her arm she started filming us on her phone and threatened to report us for harassment . " Stella couldn't help but laugh . " I've heard of creepy guys , but a creepy woman ? That's a first . Alright , you all go back and calm the guests - give discounts or comps if you have to . " 1/2 1.5.39 The bartender looked like he wanted to say more , but when he saw Stella counting on her fingers and tilting her head with a look of excitement , he thought better of it . He waved the other staff over to help soothe the customers . " What's so special about this place ? It's just a bar ! Bring him down here ! Money's not a problem . He can sing whatever he wants , as long as he sings for me . I'll treat him to the best food and drink money can buy ! " the woman shouted . Stella glanced at the two empty bottles on the table . The alcohol wasn't particularly strong , but it had a serious delayed kick . No wonder the woman was so wasted after downing both . Stella still took the money , but it pained her to see good liquor so completely wasted . " Hey , lady . " One look told Stella all she needed to know . Husband cheating , and she ended up here making a scene - wasn't she embarrassed ? The woman , still clutching another bottle , tried to make her way to the stage now that the staff had moved away , but Stella stepped in to block her . Yvonne Lane half - squinted at Stella , who gave her a once - over in return - her gaze casual , a flicker of disdain in her eyes , making it perfectly clear she didn't take Yvonne seriously . Yvonne wasn't old , but her tacky get - up aged her by at least a decade : a layer of pale foundation , garish red lipstick , a leopard - print scarf , a flashy handbag , and every inch of her neck and hands decked out in gold jewelry . This might pass for flashy at home , but abroad , she'd basically be waving a sign that said , " Rob me - I'm loaded ! " Stella's eyes almost hurt just looking at her nouveau riche style . 15.39