Chapter 67
When Alex had reached out to help me with my gown, my heart skipped a beat. As we stepped into the grand hall, the lively chatter momentarily quieted at his entrance.
"Mr. Hastings, it's been a while! Your presence honors my humble hotel," a short, rotund man greeted him with a smile. "Not at all! How could I refuse an invitation from you, Mr. Pierce?" Alex replied smoothly, accepting a glass of champagne from a passing waiter. I stifled a laugh at their polite exchange.
"Mr. Hastings, you're looking even more handsome tonight," Mr. Pierce added with a chuckle. "Your looks alone will make you the center of attention." Alex laughed, his tone light. "Only because I'm basking in your glow, Mr. Pierce. It's not my doing."
"And this lovely lady is absolutely stunning tonight," Mr. Pierce's sleazy eyes landed on me. I stiffened, my brows knitting together.
"That's funny!" Alex interjected, his tone noticeably cooler. "You'll excuse us, we should greet Mr. Williams and the others."
He guided me to a quieter corner. Once alone, his expression darkened. "Why were you smiling like an idiot at him?" he asked sharply.
Confused, I realized what he meant. "I wasn't smiling at him. I just thought it was funny how you guys kept complimenting each other," I explained.
His sharp gaze cut to me, and I immediately fell silent. "You are not to leave my sight tonight," he said firmly. I nodded. "Sit here. I'll go greet some business partners," he instructed, gesturing to a nearby couch.
My elaborate gown felt like a priceless antique. I gratefully nodded. However, no sooner had I sat down than a young woman in a yellow chiffon gown approached me.
"Are you Mr. Hastings' date?" she asked with an overly enthusiastic smile. I nodded awkwardly. "Lovely to meet you. I'm Katie." She extended her hand.
Her excitement was painfully exaggerated. I wanted to disappear, but for Alex and my precious intern salary, I played along.
After she left, another woman, Evelyn, in a lavender satin gown, arrived. She acted and talked exactly like Katie. Then a third woman appeared, in a white gown encrusted with diamonds.
One after another, these socialites approached, like items on a conveyor belt. They introduced themselves as the daughters or wives of powerful businessmen, each vying for Alex's attention. I could barely remember their names.
I scanned the crowd, searching for Alex. Surely he'd notice my plight and rescue me, but he was nowhere to be found. Staying put wasn't helping. I glanced at the hotel signs and, dragging my cumbersome gown, made my way toward the garden.
At that hour, while the socialising inside was at its peak, the garden was nearly empty. Finally, I found some peace. Standing by the fountain, I let out a long, weary sigh.