Echoes of Unrequited Love

Chapter 5

The financial crisis was barely averted, and the whole studio breathed a sigh of relief.

To show her importance, on Cecilia’s first day at work, Wallis threw her a welcome party.

They upgraded the team–building venue from a budget KTV to the swanky Fragrance Hotel

All eight of us from the company showed up, waiting for her.

Out of boredom, Wallis crammed a dessert into his mouth and said, “She’s the pampered little princess after all even had to go change her outfit, tsk.”

“That’s the cash cow right there,” I stated the obvious.

“It’s like she’s here to be worshiped, not to work.”

I had a nagging bad feeling.

Lost in thought, a commotion from the hall snapped me back to reality. Following everyone’s gaze, I saw Cecilia, clad in a tender pink tulle dress, on Hogan’s arm, looking every bit the princess, a real showstopper.

Wallis quipped, “The real cash cow has arrived.”

I didn’t expect Hogan to come.

I always thought he wasn’t into social scenes.

there were events in the department, even if the heads of the school were involved, Hogan would give them

aloof,

the school officials for him. Looking back, it was such a

waste of time.

go and made a

everyone, Hogan insisted on escorting me to the welcome party.” Cecilia said with a

said, “Mr. Zade, having you here is

these days, anyone who stood next to Hogan was either rich

in, “Xaviera had wanted to invite you, Mr. Zade, but was worried you’d

of white lies, spits them out so easily.

into a smile, only to meet Hogan’s probing

even

11-37

Chapter 5

feet. I gave the host

welcome party was officially kicking

for breaking the ice, and in just a few words,

mood.

Pictionary, a

split into three teams. Now with two more, we added another team.

Hogan

you could

lots for teams.