Chapter five

The next day was strenuous but less demanding than the first. I and Evan chatted all through the day. I found myself constantly distracted by the ding of my phone

We'll, it was really a distraction. I loved receiving his long, teasing messages. I just wonder how he had the time to send so much texts and manage the top business in the country at the same time

I told him I won't be available tonight and coincidentally, he won't be available as well. We scheduled to meet the next day at the same hotel

My stomach flipped at the thought of what would happen in the hotel

I left the office early. It was around 5, I had to prepare for the Gala which would begin by 6. And when I passed by the receptionist’s desk and saw a new face, I was pleased

Harley picked me up from work, a garment bag hanging on the backseat of the car. She'd also scheduled a home session with a hair stylist and makeup artist

It was going to be my first time at a Gala in this country and I didn't plan to go easy. I had no intention to blend in

At the Gala,

It isn't just a party, it's the event of the year. It's a vortex of power and connection. Deals were made here, lowers were introduced and partnerships were ignited. You couldn't possibly attend the gala and leave the same

When I entered the hall, I immediately commanded the attention of others. I was clad in a backless red sequin gown with a halter neckline which clung to my curve like a second skin. There was a slit that ran dangerously from the floor to my top left thigh, flashing glimpse of my golden stilettos as I walked

My hair was styled in curls and my makeup was completely flawless, thanks to the magician Harley found

Next to me, Harley had decided to dress in a suit with her signature bold lipstick sealed her look. I urged her to get a gown, but Harley always preferred professionalism over sparkle

I walked to my reserved seat with confidence oozing all around. I was beyond satisfied with the result I got from the guests, jealous stares from some, admiration from some and or course, the lustful watch from the men

Oh how good it felt to garner attention

I wasn't even seated yet when everyone's attention turned to the entrance. I followed suit and froze

At the entrance of the hall was my very own Evan. He was dressed in a navy suit I was certain was tailored for him alone. His hair was a little ruffled as though fingers just ran through it. It's didn't make him less charming though. If anything, he looked more attractive

The night when he met, he was dressed casually in a shirt and trouser but right now, he looked professional, he looked like he had the entire countrey wrapped in his fingers

And his gait? He walked like he owned the ground.

Breathtaking!

I loved this version of him. Next to him was an empty space, he didn't come with a plus-one

“He looks even better in real life. Photos do him no justice” Harley whispered next to me

“He's so perfect” I replied as my eyes tailed his every move

I wished he asked me to be his plus-one, I'd happily oblige

“Why didn't you tell me he was going to be here?”

“You didn't ask. But he's here now, go talk to him”

I nodded slightly and drew a deep breath before I walked in his direction. People had clouded him, most especially eager women and sycophants

Although he didn't look like he was giving any of them leverage

However, he didn't look as carefree as he did that night.

“Hello Evan” When I got to him, a lot of the people had gone away from him

He turned to me and merely acknowledged with a slight nod “Evening” He turned away and sipped from his glass

That one hurt. He didn't even pay any attention to me. Why was he suddenly acting cold to me? Was he still angry about standing him up last night? I thought we had that settled already, we even spoke throughout the morning

“I didn't know you were going to be here” I forced a smile

He turned to me again. This time, his gaze lingered on me for a few seconds. And sweet Jesus, I felt hot. His eyes traveled slowly, taking in every inch and I felt naked under them

“It's my first. Decided to try” He replied

Before I could respond, he downed the rest of his drink “Enjoy the party. Excuse me” He got up and walked away

I felt sick and humiliated. I returned to my seat where I sat like a statue

If there's one thing I've learnt in those five years, it's how to mask emotions and show no form of weakness. It helps. Showing weakness only gave them room to mock you.

However, at that moment. I could almost not hide my sadness. Why did he treat me that way?

Was he ashamed of me? Did he want to keep me a secret?

“Hey hey, why do you look like someone punched you? ”

“ He's acting cold to me. I don't know what to do. It's a if he flipped a switch ”

“Then, flip it back. Go after him. Find somewhere more private to have a conversation with him. With how you look tonight, he won't be able to resist for long”

She's right! I gave up too easily

I got back up with a risen resolve and dusted the invisible dust on my dress. I walked towards the back of the hall where I'd seen him disappear. But just before I reached the corridor, he returned

Although, he looked a little different. The first three buttons of his inner shirt was unlocked, exposing just enough of his chest to make my throat dry.

But there was a lady with him, whose arms were wrapped effectively around his arm. She was a tall blondie. I hate to admit but she was beautiful and it made my blood boil

He didn't come with any lady earlier, where then did this one come from? Was this what he left the room for?

What on earth was wrong with him?

I put a foot after the other and marched up to him