The Number One Star in the Interstellar Era



THE teenager was wearing a white suit that radiated a captivating blend of sophistication and artistic flair. Meticulously tailored to his frame, the single-breasted jacket exhibited a sleek, contemporary cut, accentuated by a delicate embroidery design adorning the lapel and cuffs. Intricate patterns, subtly woven in silver thread, danced across the white fabric, adding a touch of whimsy and individuality to the ensemble.

The jacket's refined details, such as a notched lapel and a single button closure, harmoniously balance the youthful energy of the design. The trousers, cut in a slim-fit silhouette, elegantly cascade down his legs, completing the ensemble. Paired with a slim black belt and a coordinating pocket square, the white suit effortlessly captured anyone's attention.

But all of that wouldn't have the same effect if the teenager was not the one wearing it. The other's hair and make-up completed this look.

The teenager's black hair was tied in a bun behind his head. Because his hair wasn't that long, some of his hair at the front couldn't be tied. Making it frame his small face. A long silver earring dangled in one of his ears.

His make-up was so subtle that one wouldn't think that he even had one on. But if people who saw him in regular basis could see him, they would know the difference. His skin was more radiant. Of course, not in that in-your-face manner, but something that looked healthy and natural. His lips were also a bit redder and an almost imperceptible blush was on his cheeks.

This overall ensemble made the already beautiful teenager even more captivating.

The moment he appeared, the people around felt like everything had just stopped. It was only when he started walking that the reporters and paparazzi finally came back to their senses and quickly took photos.

As they did, they couldn't believe that Astrid Townsend could actually have this kind of effect. Honestly, most of them didn't really have that much of an expectation. They knew that the other was the ambassador of this new product being launched by EMMA. They had seen the billboards around the capital. So, they also knew that the teenager had an outstanding appearance.

But having good looks and having presence were two completely different matter. One could be good-looking but not have the presence to back it up. Although the billboards featuring Astrid Townsend showed that presence, it could easily be attributed to the photographer's skills. One should see the person in real life to really judge it correctly.

And now that they were seeing him in person, they could only think of one thing. That Astrid Townsend had the presence of a superstar.

-----

Astrid walked towards the hotel entrance. He purposely slowed down his gait so the reporters and paparazzi could take a better picture of him. This would be posted on various entertainment portals. So, it's important to look good in all of them to create a buzz. Ellis also understood that. That's why she was walking a few steps behind him.

Once he and Ellis entered the hotel, an AI robot guided them to the elevator that would bring them to the sky lounge. The lounge was literally that, a lounge in the sky. It's like a floor that was way above the building's rooftop and one needed to ride the elevator connected to it to reach it.

"Are you ready?" Ellis asked him once the elevator started moving.

He smiled at the other and nodded. "Yes."

Ellis stared at Astrid's face. After seeing that there's really no hint of nervousness on his face, she smiled helplessly. Really, she didn't know if this kid was just too gutsy or simply too optimistic.

"Then you should have fun and enjoy yourself at this party," she said.

Since she's here, she would do her best to protect him, so it's only right for the other to at least enjoy this party.

"Well, I will try."

"But not too much. Just refrain from drinking too much alcohol," Ellis reminded.

Astrid chuckled. "Don't worry, Sister Ellis. Because I won't drink."

Then the elevator door finally opened.

When Astrid stepped out from the elevator, he couldn't help but marvelled at the sight before him. It's not because of the people that were already there, or the food, or the decorations. It was because of the lounge itself.

The whole room was shaped like a sphere, with transparent glass walls. Not just the walls, but also the roof. Which made it seem like the whole lounge was floating in the sky.

Astrid could see the starry night sky, as well as the city lights below. If he had a fear of heights, he might have already had a panic attack right at this moment. He looked around in wonder. He wondered if the walls and roof were really made of glass. Maybe it was something much more sturdy, but just looked the same.

"Astrid, let's greet Mr. Cook first," Ellis reminded him at the side.

Astrid nodded, and the two of them made their way to Glen Cook, the president of EMMA. The other was talking to two people, which, according to Ellis, were most likely EMMA executives.

While on their way, there were many curious glances thrown at them. Particularly more at Astrid. Some smiled and greeted them, but none of them tried to openly approach.

There were reporters officially invited to the event. So, some of the guests, particularly those who weren't really high-ranking people from the entertainment or fashion industry, were probably still gauging what kind of attitude they should show Astrid.

All their actions were being watched be these reporters. If they made the wrong move, it wouldn't help in their career. So, it's better to just give a 'wait-and-see' attitude.

Astrid also smiled politely at the people who greeted him and did the same when he met the gaze of someone. But he also didn't approach any of them. This made him seem approachable, but very reserved. Which was not a very bad impression.

And then he and Ellis finally reached the spot where Mr. Cook was.