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.

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

was aloof,

the one buttering up the school officials for

waste of time.

go and

party.” Cecilia said with a bashful softness that could

Zade, having you here is

days, anyone who stood next to Hogan was either

chimed in, “Xaviera had wanted to invite you, Mr.

white lies, spits them out so easily.

a smile, only to meet Hogan’s

made me even more

11-37

Chapter 5

I gave the host a meaningful look.

party was officially kicking

breaking the ice, and in just a few words, he had

mood.

we play Pictionary, a staple

excluding Wallis who played referee, we’d split into three teams. Now with two

Hogan into the

eager to jump in, you could see

drew lots for