Chapter 70

When they arrived, a massive banner stood at the hotel entrance, reading "Happy 70th Birthday to Mr. Ellis." The banquet was organized by Mr. Ellis' son and daughter. The two of them were at the door welcoming guests. As soon as they spotted Maria and David, they immediately greeted them with enthusiasm. "David! I thought you weren’t gonna show up!" Mr. Ellis' daughter casually tapped him on the arm, looking super familiar with him. "Come on, it’s Mr. Ellis’ birthday—how could I miss that?" David chuckled. "And this is?" She turned to look at Maria, smiling brightly. "Your girlfriend? She’s stunning! Not bad, man." "No, no, no, she’s also one of Mr. Ellis’s students," David waved his hands quickly, clearly worried Maria might feel awkward. "Oops, sorry girl, my bad." Mr. Ellis’ daughter gave herself a light smack on the mouth. "Head on in, my mom's inside." Mr. Ellis was a great teacher, and his kids clearly adored him. The banquet felt warm and thoughtful—they’d really gone all out. T