People were eating, drinking, dancing... enjoying themselves. A part of me feels happy when I see them unbothered by anything. Finding happiness in small things, I don't what to call it. Maybe they are just optimistic. Or, maybe naïve. It all depends on the observer's perspective. Perhaps this enjoyment can help them forget their sorrows.
As for me, I am just merely enjoying at the moment. Suddenly, Gretchen's words entered my mind. For a moment, I wanted to think over it. But I controlled that urge. Yes, it's the right thing to do. No, need to think over it.
"Is it over?" I asked the photographer.
The photographer nodded his head. I said, "Then send those photos to the PR department and the social media team. Also, send them to Mr. White's email. You do know who Mr. White is, right?"
"I know, Mam."
"Just Alice. Now please continue your work."
I slumped on the chair and sighed. Being a PA is equivalent to working as a maid. Multi-tasking. I still don't know what to do with my new life. I won't say that I don't have any regrets. Numerous regrets will pop out of my head if you 'break it.'
Ah, let's shall just go and meet Demian.
Looking at the time, I walked towards the direction of the main meeting place. A place where all the important guests and shareholders were present.
The guard opened the door for me with a greasy smile. Hah! I shudder to even think about his disgusting gaze. Man, these alphas do smell bad. I believe my 'sensitive' nose is due to my secondary gender. Although, Mary did smell... nice. Why did I even agree to her plan? I am such an idiot. She does look good. I mean, she is beautiful and all. But she's an alpha... and I am really not ready to dive into 'that' type of dynamics. Also, I am quite happy being single.
Then again, I don't want to make her sad. Call it 'chivalrous' behaviour or anything... I just thought her as a puppy who would get sad if her master refused to give her a treat.
"You are here." A cool-voice entered my ears, forcing me to stop my train of thoughts.
"Yes, Sir. I have completed my work. And I ready to assist you."
"You should have dressed properly. A gown would have been nice," said Demian. Normally, I would have a negative reaction to these words, yet with him... I don't. Maybe because he is an 'omega.' Or, he is just telling what's in his mind. 'Clean' words, if I may add.
"Sorry, Sir. I don't like 'gowns.' Is there anything wrong with my attire?"
"No, it's fine. Let's go. Stick with me all the time. Don't go with anyone without my permission. Stay away from alphas in here," said Demian.
Is he looking out for me? "Sir, are you looking out for me?" I asked him.
Demian scoffed, "No, I just don't want you to tarnish my image. Don't entertain useless thoughts. Understood?"
"I see."
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"We have to increase the profits by 15 percent if we want to have a partnership. What do you say, Mr. Russoue? Should we think about putting my chips into your phones? I will say our companies will hit new records," said a middle-aged man. He was giving me the creepy look since the moment he put his eyes on me.
Mr. Russoue replied, "Just give your card to my assistant. I will think about it." His voice was blank as if he was a 'tape-recorder' saying the same lines over and over again.
"Fine."
It's thirty fifth person now. I am pretty sure Demian has no interest in doing any kind of business with them.
I gave him a fake smile as I took his card. Suddenly, he asked, "Are you free tonight?"
"No. I am not... I have some work to do. Thank you for your card, that's all. My boss will call you." Saying that, I walked away. I really need a drink now.
Demian turned towards me and said, "You can go and enjoy yourself. Your work for today is over."
"Are you sure?" I asked.
"I am your boss."
"Okay, Sir. Thank you."
With that, I walked straight towards the bar. "One drink, please. Make it a bit less strong, Scratch that. Just make it the least strong possible," I ordered. I don't think my body is ready for anything strong.
The bartender nodded slowly, and started preparing my drink.
"Why drink if you can't handle your liquor?" asked a very seductive voice.
I turned towards the owner of the voice, and found a very beautiful woman sitting beside me. Her hair was fiery red, and so were her lips. Eyes held a bit mischief in them. Hands were crafted with so minute details that you can't help but want to hold them. She tilted her head and twirled her glass.
"You look somewhat sick. Is that why you are not 'enjoying' your liquor?"
I replied, "Maybe. I haven't had... a drink since ages."
"Is that so? Well, then get well soon. Oh, where's my manners! My name is Lindy. What's yours?"
"Alice. Alice Redman."
"Lindy. Lindy Whitar."
"Nice to meet you."
"You too," replied Lindy.
The bartender handed me the drink and left to tend his other customers. "Do you know why people like to drink alcohol?" I asked.
Lindy replied, "Sorrows. Liquor has some sort of magic in it. One drink, and your nerves start to calm down. In this fast-paced world, we need each and every form of peace. If liquor can provide it, then so be it. I will happily accept it. What about you?"
I put down the glass and looked at her.
"Delusion."
"What?"
"Alcohol, or liquor can help us to create delusions. A momentary happy memory which itself, is filled with promises of happy memories. It makes the consumer believe that one day it will all be okay. You are half-correct, Lindy. This glass of ethanol can drown all my sorrows. A volatile liquid for a volatile person. Sounds good, isn't it?"
Lindy whistled at my words. She said, "Your words are very selective. Also, charming, If I had been an alpha, I would have definitely wanted you as my girlfriend."
I snorted, "Perfect. But I have no interest."
Lindy stood up from her seat. She said, "I have to go. But do enjoy your drink. Perhaps someday we will meet again. See ya~"
"Perhaps, we will."
Lindy flashed a smile and left me with my drink. Her heels were making a sound even in this loud music. After a minute or so, the sound ceased to enter my ears. Lifting the glass, I drank all the contents in a single go.