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 a

was aloof, even

I was the one buttering up the school officials

waste of time.

glass in one go and

welcome party.” Cecilia said with a bashful softness that could disarm

Zade, having you here is an honor for us.”

next to Hogan was

had wanted to invite you, Mr. Zade, but was worried you’d be too busy. What a

of white lies,

nervously twitched my mouth into a smile, only

made me even

11-37

Chapter 5

I gave the host

party was

in just a few words, he had everyone

mood.

play Pictionary, a staple at every company

with seven people, excluding Wallis who played referee, we’d split into three

roped Hogan into the

girl was eager to jump in, you could see

lots