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?"

Joy replied, "I

as

could strike up a conversation with anyone and charm her way through the evening

to chat up a storm meant Austin barely needed to

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

off grabbing some snacks, her spot

sneaking up with a drink in hand, teased Austin, "Got a new girl? She's

by the buffet, her silhouette hinting at a strength that suggested

my employee," Austin nonchalantly replied while

own staff now, huh? Didn't you say no office romances

hefty portion of beef

lady nearby, intrigued by Joy's enthusiasm, asked if the food was good. Unable to speak, Joy gave a thumbs-up along with a convincing nod,

lady was the wife of a high-profile executive. Yet, there she was, engaging in lively banter about which dishes were hits and which were misses,

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

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