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.

the heads of the school were involved, Hogan would give them a wide berth.

was aloof, even antisocial.

I was the one buttering up the school officials for him. Looking back, it was such

waste of time.

downed my glass in one go and

me to the welcome party.” Cecilia said

Zade, having you here is an

next to

words, Wallis chimed in, “Xaviera had wanted to invite you, Mr. Zade, but was worried you’d be too busy. What

white lies,

into a smile, only to meet Hogan’s probing

me even more

11-37

Chapter 5

on my feet. I gave the host a

welcome party was

in just a few words, he

mood.

play Pictionary, a

played referee, we’d split into three teams. Now

roped Hogan into

girl was eager to jump in, you could see it

lots