In the evening, Joy slipped into a sleek black off-the-shoulder gown, reluctantly linking arms with Austin to be his date for the night.

Austin, not one to fuss over his appearance, usually sported a laid-back look with his shirt casually unbuttoned at the top. But tonight, he was all buttoned up and donned a tie, oozing a charm that was hard to ignore.

Upon their arrival at the cocktail party, Joy's gaze wandered, taking in the scene. She noticed that, although there were many stunning dates present, quite a few men were stag, without a female companion in sight.

Baffled, she leaned in and whispered, "Isn't it mandatory to bring a date? How come these guys didn't bring one?"

Austin whispered back, "I never said it was mandatory."

A wave of irritation washed over Joy as she glared at him. "If it's not mandatory, then why did you make me come with you?"

"Just because it's not a must, doesn't mean I can't bring a date," Austin retorted with a mock seriousness. "I'd feel less of myself seeing others with dates and me without one."

Joy was at a loss for words, managing only to mutter, "That's vain."

that?"

smile, Joy replied,

business cocktail party was, as the name

ever so sociable, could strike up a conversation with

up a storm meant Austin barely needed to say a word; she had the entire

the talking, Joy was about to grab a drink when suddenly, a glass appeared in her hand. She turned to Austin, who seemed to enjoy playing the role of

grabbing some snacks,

hand, teased Austin, "Got a new girl? She's

standing by the buffet, her silhouette hinting at a strength that suggested she could take on three

nonchalantly replied

now, huh? Didn't you say no office

demolishing a hefty portion

Joy gave a thumbs-up

was, engaging in lively banter about which dishes were hits and which were misses, having tasted her way from one

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

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