Downing the first glass of beer, it felt like the second and third were inevitable.

Thankfully, Dorothy had the forethought to line her stomach with some food before diving into the drinks, saving herself from the ache of an empty belly.

The vibe was high tonight, and she wasn't about to be the buzzkill.

slightly tipsy, Dorothy

Ophelia sidled up to Austin, "Uncle, did you really see Ms. Sanchez and Mr. Lopez... together?" Austin furrowed his brow, "What are you up to now?" "What can I be up to? Just asking! Ms. Sanchez has been around the office for a while, but I've never seen her and Mr. Lopez as an item. Plus, let's be real—if Ms. Sanchez were Mr. Lopez's

admission that she and Mr. Lopez had split. Still, he put on a stern face and scolded, "Don't be nosy. Get back to your seat." Ophelia rolled her eyes, "Pfft! I'm just looking out for you." Returning from the restroom, Dorothy found that almost everyone was full. She barely sat down when Austin offered a smile, "Ms. Sanchez, how about I give you a lift? It's a hassle getting a cab with everyone leaving at once. You could be waiting forever.” "No, it's fine. I'll call a cab after everyone's gone. I'm not in a rush.” "Don't you need to get back to your kids?" "Nope, they're not staying with me." Austin's expression faltered for a moment, then he chuckled, "Oh, I see. I thought you'd be eager to get back to them! But hey, my car's empty, and you seem a bit under the weather. I'll drive you home." "I'm good," Dorothy waved off,

on the restaurant's door handle, her

Ophelia's words and his own probing,

wouldn't

colleague go home alone - not on my watch as a manager. As a leader, I've got to ensure you get home safely,” Austin said with a probing smile. "Ms.

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