The Matchmaking

Chapter 1

I placed my phone inside my bag and proceeded to walk the familiar route leading to a renowned restaurant in town. It's 11 am and I have eight hours on my schedule today at work.

I recently started working here about three months ago. I had trouble finding a job at the beginning of the first semester of classes, so I took this opportunity.

With exams approaching, I'm focused on saving money to cover my exam expenses. It's crucial for me to balance work and studies during this time.

I entered the back side of the restaurant where the entrance of the employees can be seen. We can't enter the main area when we come from outside because we will also interfere with the customers coming in.

I took off my small bag and entered the locker inside the girls' room. There are two rooms here except for the kitchen door. After I put my things away, I went straight to the kitchen to check the on duties for today.

I looked up at the gathering of my workmates as if someone was checking the phone of one of our colleagues. I slowly approached and whispered in their direction, it was only right that they could hear me.

"What is that?" when they heard they were like ants that immediately moved after hearing my voice. They thought maybe it was our manager. I laughed because they immediately returned to their jobs.

"Babe, you surprised us" while holding her chest as if she was going to have a heart attack. It's like I'm possessed by a spirit and I'm laughing at their epic looks.

"You're right, Isabella. Laughter?" Ate Lily was sarcastic to me. Sister Lily was the first one I became close to here, she was also three years apart from me. He trained me on my first day and was also very kind.

But even though she is kind and cheerful, I don't know why the father of her child left her and found someone else. It's men.

I first wiped the tears from my eyes because of my laughter before facing them. "What are you doing? Is there another issue that has spread throughout the country? You're married again, aren't you?"

Janny answered that she is the same student as me but she is studying at a different school. We are also close.

"Because one, there are apps that have gone viral right now, so we were curious and tried to download them. They say there are so many handsome guys out there and the others are instant iPhones!" I'm not interested in that so I just answered my friend out of boredom.

"Is that so? I still thought that was money to earn," I said and went straight to the locker to get my uniform.

"Again? Don't you want to find a boyfriend? Oy, don't focus too much on studying, be happy just be happy in life okay?" I entered the nearby bathroom and put on my uniform. Janny followed me but he was outside.

"Let me borrow your phone," He said outside the door frowning at me. I put on liptint before I go out.

"Why? What nonsense are you going to do again?" I doubted him. He extended his hand in front of me.

"It's up to me, I'm just checking on something. Total, it's my break time. I'll return it later after your shift."

I didn't hesitate and gave him my phone, which he quickly took.

"Are you in a hurry?" I asked here but he didn't even answer me and just turned away suddenly. I just shrugged my shoulders and went straight to the main area.

I smiled at the customers entering the restaurant and greeted them with a warm greeting.

"Good day, Ma'am and Sir. Welcome to 'Noble Palette Brasserie.' This way, please."

I smiled and promised that I think the bride and groom are really rich because of their posture and clothes. The man didn't even look at me and just walked straight to the reservation area.

"Bella, the Manager called you. Sister Lily came home early because her son was rushed to the hospital." I gasped at what I heard but I didn't answer and quickly went to the office. If some of us are absent, I am the one who re-relieves because I can adapt to work faster even though our roles are different.

When I arrived, I heard that the Manager was angry with what he was talking to on the phone, so I waited for a while before knocking on the door of his office.

"Manager, are you calling me?" His forehead was wrinkled when he turned to me, and he hung up the phone.

"You do Salmonte's jobs first and you have to be good because we have a lot of reservations now big people. Don't be a fool." Although nervous, he nodded and bowed slightly.

"Alright, manager.. I'm leaving" his phone rang again so he sent me away with his hand before answering the call.

I'm nervous because sister Lily's role is different, she needs to be especially patient and usually the rich people here don't use the profession and just blurt out words.

My patience is not long yet. I just sighed before making my way to the main area. I didn't realize the time because the reservation was also full and I had work later at the bar. Today is the weekend, so I'm working full time at the restaurant I work at.

I carefully balanced the tray of champagne to deliver it to the group of rich people. I wouldn't have been the one to deliver it because I was serving a customer right now, but my male co-worker was struggling so I couldn't do anything and just did his job.

I cautiously made my way towards a gathering of exquisitely attired women, their refined poise and elegant dresses making me feel acutely aware of every move I made. In the middle of the group was a woman who seemed to exude grace and sophistication, her attire immaculate and her hair neatly tied. As I approached, he held out his hand to accept the glass of champagne from me as I walked away.

Nervously, I lifted the glass, my heart pounding in my chest as I tried to match the graceful manner in which the other women sipped their drinks. But even before I could pass the glass to the woman, the softening fingers tried me. The breakable glass suddenly slipped from my hands.

Time seemed to slow down as the glass came down, and I felt the pain of my fingers caressing the woman's hand. The modest stem of the glass clattered to the floor, seeming like a cruel distraction from my simple act.

The sound of breaking glass was an abrupt intrusion, silencing nearby conversations and drawing the attention of the gathered guests.

I could hear the heavy breathing of the people around me and I felt the weight of their eyes in my direction. My cheeks flushed with embarrassment as I spent trying to find the right words to apologize.

The woman's expression, a delicate mixture of surprise and mild annoyance, was etched into my memory. Her fingers delicately touched her wrist where my touch had grazed her, and her gaze shifted from the broken glass to me. In that moment, I felt like a bumbling intruder in a world of grace and sophistication.

"I'm sorry ma'am. I didn't mean to. I- I'll just get a new one," I stuttered apologizing to the woman while picking up the bruises on the floor.

"Oh dear, it seems they've let anyone serve here these days," she remarked loudly, enough for nearby customers to hear.

The comment hit me like a blow. I had worked hard to secure this job, and the last thing I needed was humiliation from a customer. I continued cleaning up, trying to maintain my professionalism despite the shame burning in my chest.

She continued to taunt. "Perhaps you should stick to something more suited to your skill set. Bussing tables at a fast-food joint, perhaps?" I can't help but look at the people around me.

The other customers exchanged glances, some smirking in agreement with the woman's words. My heart sank, and I bit my lip to hold back tears. I knew that I couldn't let the woman's words get to me, but the humiliation was too much to bear.

I want to run and cry but I don't want to embarrass my friends. My eyes were fixed on the man I was working with but he didn't even help me and went straight into the kitchen area. Fortunately, Janny came to me and apologized to the people present because I had become silent, maybe because I was swallowed by shame.

Later that evening, I was finishing my shift, the owner of the Restaurant Mr. Davis requested my presence in his office. Nervous but hopeful, I entered to find the woman sitting beside him, wearing a triumphant smirk.

"Isabella," Mr. Devis began, his tone grave, "I've received some complaints about your performance tonight. It seems there were concerns about your ability to handle the clientele's needs."

My heart sank when I realized what was happening. The woman mocking had led to formal complaints that were now putting my job in jeopardy.

"I'm sorry," I stammered apologetically.

"I understand if you're disappointed in me."

He sighed, his expression pained. "I appreciate your efforts, Isabella, but in this industry, customer satisfaction is paramount. I'm afraid we'll have to let you go."

Tears welled up in my eyes as the reality of my situation hit me. I had worked so hard to prove myself but the woman's cruel mockery had sealed my fate.

I was just walking down the road and didn't know where to go. Even though I was only in that job for two months, I was happy because I earned enough money to pay for what I needed in school. I didn't realize the tears that were about to fall from my eyes, so I immediately wiped them away.

The only thing I don't understand is why they see the wrong more immediately. Out of the thousands of beautiful things I do, they only noticed one. Maybe this is the nature of the world. I know I'm wrong but it's too much. That woman humiliated me, if I was brave I might have been able to fix it but I'm not that kind of person. I'm afraid to fight because I don't want to ruin my reputation just because of immature people like them.

I stopped the car to go home to my apartment. I still have work later at the bar and besides, my best friends will be visiting because they are going to celebrate the birthday of her cousin's boyfriend. He really wants me not to work first, but it's not possible. We have an exam coming up and I have to pay for the first exam this semester.

I feel like I have no rest for days now. I didn't get tired right away, but with what happened today, I felt like I was carrying heavy cement.

I opened my phone and scrolled through my social media accounts. I also received several messages from my colleagues at the restaurant, especially Ate Lily, who definitely regrets being absent.

I didn't open it and quickly logged out. Nothing will happen if I talk to them now. Yes and I am disappointed but that is also my fault. I just want to not think about anything and rest before leaving to go to the bar later.

I hurried into the bar where I will be working tonight. I was still panting at the entrance. The uniform I was wearing was also tangled. While I was drawing air, I ran my palm over the tangled part of my clothes at the same time to make the tangle less.

I was tired of the alarm clock earlier because I didn't even hear it go off so I slept well. It's also my fault because I slept even though I knew there was still work at night.

Carlo spotted me from behind the bar. He flashed me a warm smile, his familiar face a comforting sight in the midst of my slightly frazzled state. He beckoned me over with a wave of his hand, a silent invitation that I gratefully accepted.

"Isabella, it's alright. Don't worry about being late. Just catch your breath and start your shift when you're ready."

"Thank you. I got stuck in traffic, and then my alarm didn't go off." I said as I caught my breath. As I got closer, I could feel how my heart rate was slowly returning to normal,

"These things happen. Take your time." Carlo said before leaving the bar. Maybe it needs to be done because every time I go to the Bar it leaves and never comes back.

Throughout the evening, I behaved very carefully in the bar that my companions were afraid of. I guess I'm traumatized because I haven't told Carlo what happened earlier. I don't want to share either because it's embarrassing for him.

Later that day, after my shift, I decided to meet up with my best friend, Shane. That has been waiting for my shift to end. When I arrived, I noticed Shane sitting at a table with a group of people I don't recognize. As I approach, my best friend spots me and waves me over.

"Isabella, come join us!" He got up and approached me. Out of curiosity, I began to question her.

"Hey, Shane! Who are all these people?"

"Oh, this is my cousin, Mike and some of his friends. We bumped into each other, and I thought it would be fun to hang out together. Well, it's my cousin's boyfriend's birthday, so why not right?"

I smile and greet everyone, finding myself quickly warming up to Shena's cousin and his friends.

"So, Isabella, what course did you take? Your best friend always mentions you to me. You just need to be tarpaulined so that everyone knows." They laughed at what Shena's cousin said, causing my best friend's cheeks to turn red. I think he is too proud of me.

"Shut up.. I'm just proud of my best friend. I want to adopt him but he doesn't want to." This short answer made me wince.

"So what, Isabella.. so I can shift to your course," said his cousin's friend, whose name as far as I know is Michael, jokingly. It has little earrings in the ears and you can tell it really appeals too.

"I'm taking a degree of Bachelor law and I'm in my third year." I promise. I couldn't help but notice their eyes amazed at what I said.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 2

"Wow, Good course. If I'm going to jail, you're the first attorney I'll call." he said jokingly that I just smiled.

"Alright, but if no one calls from you, I'll lock you up myself." They went 'ohh' when I said that I just laughed.

As the evening wears on, I realize how late it's getting. We were already outside the bar and waited for Shena's friends to come home before I could go home, but because we were enjoying our conversation, I didn't realize the time.

"Isabella, it's getting really late. Why don't you come over to my place tonight? It's closer, and you won't have to worry about traveling home at this hour."

I hesitate, feeling grateful for the offer but also a bit unsure. Shena's condo can walk from here so we can walk to them. Since I don't have work in the morning either, I would like to sleep all day before looking for a job again.

"Are you sure? I don't want to intrude." I said to her but she just ignored it.

"Nonsense! You're practically family. Come on, it'll be like a sleepover!" he said excitedly to me which made me smile.

I say goodbye to my co-worker inside the bar and head to Shena's condo which is just a short walk away. Once inside, we settled in, changing into comfortable clothes and reminiscing about old times. Shane jumped up next to where I was sitting on his bed.

"Remember our high school sleepovers? It's like we're reliving those days." She said while not looking at me and hugging her huge pillows.

"Definitely! Thanks for being so understanding, Shena. Today was quite a day." I genuinely uttered and began to place myself to lie on the bed.

"It's what friends do, bella. Speaking of friends, our former friend met someone, on a dating apps. Seems she is enjoying the money of her sugar daddy." I was interested in what he said. I also recently found out that there are rich people who offer to be their sugar baby, which I thought was just trending and for entertainment, but from what I see, many people have become sugar babies because of rich people.

But it didn't occur to me to look for something like that because I was just serving my own body. It's impossible that they won't ask for something in return, so I don't like people like that. I still have pride left and I don't want it to get dirty.

"Don't try things like that, Shena.. You might become insecure about him again," I threatened because it seemed like he was going to do something stupid again so he shared with me.

He just smiled sweetly at me.

"Of course not! What do you think of me, I look like money? Excuse me? I'm rich." he answered and rolled his eyes that I just winced. I know someone is thinking that it's not good when he's like this.

I sigh deeply and sleep sideways. "I will sleep now, we'll talk tomorrow. It's three o'clock."

"Okay, bess. Goodnight." I closed my eyes and fell asleep in less than a minute.

The shrill noise of my alarm clock jolted me awake. With a sleepy hand, I reached out and silenced it, then proceeded to stretch my limbs, easing the stiffness of sleep. I stood up on the bed with messy hair so I combed it with my hand.

I looked at my gaping friend who was still fast asleep. Maybe it didn't fall asleep right away and I don't want to wake it up either because it is still asleep. I was surprised to see my cellphone already outside my bag so I took it and opened it.

The name of an apps came to me. Matchmaker: Dating with a twist. I raised my eyebrows because I didn't remember downloading old apps on my cellphone and I don't like such things.

Out of curiosity, I clicked on the application and began to explore. It doesn't have a profile picture and it looks like it was just created but when I saw the message area there was something written there.

'phantompurse sent you a message'

"Hello! Your profile has a captivating charm that's quite irresistible. The way you talk about exploring trails and capturing special moments with your camera suggests a life filled with interesting stories. Would you like to share the story of your most recent adventure?"

There is no profile here, so why did he mention that account's profile picture?

A new message arrived so I went back to the message area and saw that the mystery person who chatted on our account was online and I don't know who did it.

'Good morning! I hope you're having a great start to your day. I sent you a message earlier, but it seems it got lost in the depths of the digital sea. Or perhaps it's a case of intriguing conversations requiring a little time to simmer? Either way, I'd love to hear about your latest hiking adventure or anything else you'd like to share.'

Why is it so ugly? is he ok But I won't lose anything if I replay it, right? I'm just curious too. I thought of a good reply to him because I don't know how to start replying to people like this.

'Good morning! Haha, I appreciate your creative message. Sorry for the delay, sometimes the digital currents do get a bit unpredictable. but sadly, I've never been on an adventure. I'm currently busy with something that makes my day so hectic and full. How about you? Any memorable adventures on your end?'

I immediately hit the send button and just bit my nails.

It looked quickly and I saw the type sign. Does it do nothing? How fast is it?

' Well, I once stumbled upon an abandoned cabin during a hike, hidden deep in the woods. It had an air of forgotten stories, and I couldn't help but wonder about the history behind it. You should be busy by now, I'm sorry for disturbing you'

I can type fast.

'No worries! I want to hear more adventures from you. You can tell me some if you are not busy yourself?'

- I'd love to. care to continue this conversation over a virtual cup of coffee sometime?

I guess I got a meme from his reply. He's smooth. What if in person? I immediately shook my head. Wait, why am I concerned about what he is like in person? And why am I so hooked? It's not me anymore.

I didn't replay it and exited forever. I want to delete it but I'm having second thoughts because I'm still intrigued by the mysterious chatter there. I don't think I'll lose anything if I leave it on my cellphone and my phone's storage isn't full yet.

I just shrugged my shoulders and went straight to the bathroom to wash my face. I'm going back to the apartment because I have some work to do before I start looking for work again.

I find myself fully immersed in my studies within the confines of my apartment. With exams looming just days away, I'm fervently poring over my books, notes, and online resources. I also coordinated my job search with local hiring agencies in the area.

I will shake my head from exhaustion. It's been two days since I was fired from my job but it seems like I've been hanging out in the apartment for months.

I looked at the round clock on the wall near my study area. It was five o'clock in the afternoon, so I decided to go out first to buy dinner at the cafeteria that was close to us.

I looked at the mailbox just in front of our gate. Maybe another letter has arrived for Mother Nelya. Mom receives an unknown letter but she doesn't know where it came from. Mom also doesn't have children and she lives alone, so if a letter comes, she just thinks it's from her friend or siblings.

When I was in front of it, it was barely open and my forehead was scratched. I would not have touched it otherwise I would have seen the name of the recipient. I wondered, who would send me? Mother calls my cell phone when she says hello.

I took it and read it carefully. It has my name on it, but I don't know where it came from.

I turned it back and found a beautifully designed envelope with an elegant script that read "Exclusive Invitation."

I opened the envelope, revealing an invitation to an upscale event hosted by the matchmaking service. My eyes widen in disbelief as I read the content of the invitation. I can't believe that I, a struggling college student, has been invited to such an extravagant event.

As I read the details of the event and the potential benefits of attending, my shock gives way to skepticism. I can't understand why they would select me for such an exclusive opportunity. I think about the costs, both financially and time-wise, and wonder if this might be some kind of scam.

Only my best friend can think about anything like this. Shena is rich and if put in the situation she should receive this and not me.

Intrigued and bewildered, I called my best friend, hoping to find some clarity about this unexpected invitation. When my friend picks up, I can't help feeling a bit annoyed at this but more than anything, I'm surprised.

"Hey, did you sign me up for some matchmaking thing?" I ask, My tone is a blend of disbelief and incredulity.

He didn't immediately answer my question so I felt annoyed. "Oh, you got the invitation! Yeah, I thought it might be a fun opportunity for you. You deserve some excitement in your life."

I took back. "You signed me up for this? Seriously? You know I don't have time for things like this. I have bills to pay and exams to study for!" I couldn't help but raise my voice. I don't have time for this and one more thing, I don't have anything to wear for that event. Maybe I'm just shy.

My bestfriend chuckles, "Come on, Bella! Just give it a chance. It might be a nice break from all the stress. Who knows, you might even meet someone interesting."

My frustration turns into a sigh of exasperation. I realize that Shena had good intentions, but I can't help feeling overwhelmed by the idea of ​​adding another thing to my already chaotic life. Yet, a small part of me is also curious about what this event could bring.

As I hung up the phone, I glanced at the invitation again, torn between my responsibilities and the possibility of something new and exciting. I can't deny that I'm curious about our event.

I looked at the big mirror inside Shena's Condo. I wear a deep navy blue cocktail dress that falls just above my knees. The dress boasts a simple and classic silhouette, hugging my figure gently without being overly revealing. The neckline is a modest V-neck that adds a touch of femininity without being too plunging.

The dress has a design of small lace accents that embellish the sides and sleeves. The lace is a subtle contrast against the rich navy fabric, giving the dress a sense of texture and depth.

I paired the dress with simple yet sophisticated nude heels. With my hair cascading in loose waves over my shoulders and a natural makeup look that highlights my features.

"Beautiful! No need to put heavy make up bes. You're still beautiful," Shena complimented me.

I'm only now wearing these clothes because I don't even participate in events or parties at school, so I can say it's my first time doing it and I'm very nervous.

Why did I decide to attend? Maybe it's okay if not, but Shena is still forcing me. I took a massive heavy sigh because of the nervousness I feel now. I'm the only one going because the invitation is just for me so Shena can't go.

Shena peeked out the window of her Condo and immediately turned in my direction. "Bes, you're here to pick me up. Come on!" He pulled me gently and took my purse that was placed on top of the chair.

"Why do you seem more excited than me, Shena? Can you go by yourself?" I asked that he didn't even look at me as we walked down the building.

"No! That's yours.. Besides, there's no need for me to attend. You need that more," he said. We entered the elevator since Shena's Condo was on the third floor.

"It's okay for me not to attend, eh. What am I going to do, eh. It's my first time at this kind of thing and I haven't been with anyone yet."

Shena turned to me while holding my shoulder. "Bes, we have an opportunity, okay? You know, this will be your first step. Isn't it? Besides, I know you'll have friends there even without me. There's no one you won't approach." He convinced me that I just winced but sighed in the end.

When the elevator rang, we immediately got out of there and went straight outside. We approached a very fancy car that you know is really expensive and there was also a man in his mid 40's standing in front of it.

"Hello brother, is Isabella Hayes the one you are going to pick up?" He took the invitation from my bag and showed it to the man. He bent down and opened the car door for me to enter.

"Take care bes, I know you can do it. Okay? Call me when you get home," Shena finally promised before closing the car door.

I was nervous sitting inside the car so I just rubbed my palm to calm myself down. I don't know why I agreed to this but I'm here and there's no turning back.

To Be Continued....

Chapter 3

The driver opened the car and at the same time I felt nervous. I don't think I can rest until our event is over. Why did I go? I think I regretted my decision several times.

I walked down the red carpet, my heart racing with a mixture of excitement and nervousness. The elaborate event was a far cry from my usual surroundings, and the elegant crowd made me feel like a fish out of water. As I took each careful step in my heels, my mind was a swirl of thoughts about whether I truly belonged here.

The designs of the venue are mesmerizing as if I was inside a luxurious palace. Several eyes were also looking in my direction which disturbed my mind. Is there something wrong with what I'm wearing? Why are they looking at me?

Suddenly my foot tripped on the edge of the carpet. My heart seemed to dance in fear as I was about to fall but before I fell to the floor a strong hand suddenly appeared to hold me. My eyes widened when my gaze met the man who saved me from falling.

He held me firmly and I felt his grip on my waist. "Are you all right?"

His low voice makes my knees tremble. His voice is so deep!

"O-o, thanks. I-I'm fine." I answered and my face felt red.

I thought it was an angel who became a human and then I was picked up. It's okay with me if you pick him up. I suddenly slapped my cheek. Why am I thinking like this?

I think he was surprised by what I did but it was only for a few seconds and he laughed softly.

"S-sorry, there's a mosquito." I want to fuck myself. What reason is that?

He steady me completely because he was still holding my waist so I blushed even more.

He smiled at me. "It's quite the glamorous maze, isn't it? Takes a bit of getting used to."

Gradually, the shame I feel is disappearing as I calm myself down, I think I am more reassured by what the man said. "Definitely a change from my usual routine," I admitted with a sheepish grin.

"Well, you're not alone," he chuckled softly. "Shall we navigate this maze together?"

My embarrassment began to fade as his presence eased my nerves. I realized he was just a person, after all, and I wasn't the only one feeling out of place.

I felt a warmth spread through my chest at his offer. I nodded, grateful for his unexpected kindness.

As we walked side by side, I couldn't help but steal glances at him, I knew this man was rich based on his clothes. It is very muscular and I can see the hidden muscles inside the clothes it is wearing. I blushed at the thought. Why do I worry about such things? After an hour I will leave. I'm just curious about our event and nothing else.

The man and I parted ways earlier because I think several women approached him and introduced themselves, but for reasons unknown to me, when our eyes met, he felt as if a thorn had been pulled out.

I only smiled at him when he approached my destination several times but some women would also pull him and talk to him.

I noticed the waiter approaching my direction and carrying glasses full of wine, so I took them and gulped them down immediately. It's up to them to look, I don't have time to be elegant.

All of a sudden, the lights on a large stage changed. The whole room was silent, and someone walked towards it. I tried to see through the crowd, feeling curious. I placed my glasses of wine on the table and focused my gaze on the stage.

"Ladies and gentlemen, honored guests, and potential supporters, welcome to an evening of unexpected discoveries and building relationships." The people stopped what they were doing and looked at the man on stage.

"Tonight, we're here not just to celebrate wealth but to cherish the value of connections that go beyond limits. Our matchmaking service is dedicated to uniting individuals in search of genuine companionship. Our goal is to create a space where people can form meaningful bonds that enhance their lives. Through thoughtfully chosen matches, we aim to connect those who have enjoyed life's comforts with those who have aspirations yet to be fulfilled."

My heart raced as the speaker's words resonated within me. The realization hit me like a tidal wave, and I exchanged bewildered glances with a fellow guest.

I thought. They aim to pair people. Is it too generous for the supporter, or does it have more profound intentions behind it?

I immediately realized what was happening around earlier. Some men and women were talking and as far as I could hear they were just new acquaintances. And what I also noticed the most is that most of the time here are rich old people, I can only count on my fingers the ones like the man earlier.

So does the woman seem aggressive to introduce herself here? Because they pull the men they trick that I didn't know at first what their purpose was for doing that.

Wait, if I'm not mistaken, I heard about this event from my classmates and they even have a website. I didn't pay attention to it because I don't care about such things.

My thoughts were interrupted when I saw an old man approaching in my direction.

Just by its stance, I can say that it is arrogant. "Ah, my dear, you possess a rare charm," the man said, his eyes assessing me with a predatory gleam. "How would you like to be taken care of? I can offer you a life of luxury you've only dreamed of, my dear sugarcane."

My eyes widened at the audacity of his proposal. I felt my cheeks flush with anger, and I tightened my grip on the wine glass.

"Thank you, sir, but I am not interested in such an arrangement," I replied firmly, my voice laced with a mixture of courage and discomfort.

The old man's face contorted with anger, his tone turning harsh. "You foolish girl! Do you know who I am? You're nothing but a penniless brat. You should be grateful for this opportunity!"

My heart raced, my resolve tested by the man's aggressive response. Just as my discomfort began to escalate, a strong presence materialized at my side. I can't help but to turn my gaze to it.

"She is not interested, and her choice deserves respect," His voice rang out, his tone authoritative and unwavering.

The old man's expression changed from anger to shock. "Mr. Montgomery, I... I had no idea."

"It's clear you're unaware of the purpose of this event. She is already spoken for, and her choice was made well before tonight. I suggest you respect that."

I felt a mixture of gratitude and relief wash over me as he came to my rescue. I also don't know what will happen if he doesn't come. He saved me for the second time and I am thankful for that.

The old man immediately apologized before turning away. As he walked away, I let out a breath I hadn't realized I've been holding it for a while.

"Are you all right?" Alex asked softly, his concern evident.

I nodded, offering him a small smile. "Thanks to you, I am."

His lips curved in response "Remember, you're here by choice, not circumstance."

I smiled at what he said. Shena is right, I will also have a friend here and I am happy to meet this man.

"Oh, I haven't introduced myself to you yet. I am Alexander Montgomery." He extended his palm in front of me and I extended it too.

"I am Isab-" my introduction was interrupted when I spotted the familiar figure of two people. My eyes widened and I couldn't believe seeing them here.

Why is this girl here? Of all the places we will meet again, why this event? How can they say that I'm desperate and I actually go? I was nervous and took back my hand that was still holding Alex's palm.

"Wait? You're Mr. Montgomery, right?" I bowed down when I heard the woman's voice. I don't want to be embarrassed again and I don't want to experience it now in front of a man.

"Yes, and you are?" Alex formally answered the woman.

"I'm Jessie Vlomder. Pleasure to make your acquaintance. Are you searching again for a new sugar baby?" It's not Alex's first time. I'm the only one who assumes we're the same but we're not.

"I cannot answer that. I happened to be invited here." I decided to step back and not to face them especially and I don't know what they will say to me. I was about to turn around when I heard what the woman said next.

"Really? So, who's that woman beside you? Not a new one?" I swallowed several times before facing them. I also have no place to hide, why am I still avoiding?

"N- no, We're not like that.. We just happened to meet here too." I noticed Alex's gaze on me so I just looked away.

"Ms. Heyes? Is that you?" My heart feels like it's going to come out because of the look my former manager gave me as if he was judging my personality now. I want to run away but I don't know where to escape.

The woman also took a breath and she still had a hand on her mouth that you thought was really impossible to see me here. "Really? That crew you fired? What a pity" my former manager didn't answer and just looked at where I was standing. I averted my gaze and bowed again.

The woman walked closer to me but I didn't even look at her because of the nervousness I was feeling right now. "Oh, wait, shouldn't you be washing the dishes right now?" It's a laugh like I see on TV. Those villains with devilish laughs?

I couldn't help but turn pale at what he said especially and the volume of his voice when he said that made many people look in our direction. "Good evening. I hope you all had fun being here," I really dared myself to say that word.

Alexander raised an eyebrow at the events after hearing our exchange "Is there a problem here?"

"Oh, nothing, he's just an ex-crew with a bit of history." The woman was the first to answer so I didn't say a word.

Alexander and I looked at each other.

His eyes were full of interest and concern. "Thank you for letting me know." he said while looking at me with a smile that I just avoided. I don't know what's going through his mind right now. All I wanted was to be able to go out peacefully after an hour, but today I was really looked at.

"They really are quite impressive, aren't they? You'd think that just because Alexander brought you here, you'd suddenly become a 'socialite.' But who would have thought, right?" she added, a smug satisfaction evident on her face.

I remained silent, trying not to allow the woman's words to disturb my mind. I don't want to answer because it will make everything more complicated.

Fortunately, they changed the topic so I was relieved and would just wait for them to finish talking before I left.

Author: I hope everyone is okay. I'm currently busy in my school so my update is very slow. Thank you for waiting for my update. So much appreciated.

"Enjoy the rest of the evening," Alexander bid to the two as if Alex didn't want to talk to the two anymore before he looked at me with a smile on his face.

"Do you want to come with me? There's an interesting art room here that I want to go to. Don't worry, I'll take you later" I nodded while smiling. He supported me until we reached the outside of the big room.

After opening the door, I was overwhelmed by the number of lined artworks. There are also sculptures and of course the paintings will not disappear.

Back then, I didn't pay much attention to the works of art because maybe I was just busy with work and school. I didn't know you had many interests other than work. I looked up at a painting placed in the corner.

The painting depicts a night sky filled with swirling, vibrant blue and yellow brushstrokes. The stars shine brightly against the deep blue background, and a crescent moon is visible in the upper right corner. Below the celestial scene, a small village with quaint houses and a church steeple can be seen, surrounded by rolling hills and cypress trees.

"The painting called The starry night created by the Dutch artist Vincent von Gogh in 1889. It is a famous painting" I heard Alex say behind me.

I became interested in the background of making this painting. I gently hold it and slide my hand down until I see the painter's perma.

"Many think the artist behind this painting expressed his intense emotions through the chaotic sky, while the calm village below might represent his wish for peace and stability. But only based on what I read. We don't really know what the true meaning of what they do. But I only know one thing. They express their true feelings through their paintings."

Every arts has a meaning and I know that there is a possibility that the conversation behind the painting is correct and it is also possible that it is not. Only the creator knows himself and his arts symbolization.

I accidentally looked at my watch, which I think has been with me for several years, but until now, it's still working.

It was eleven o'clock at night and I didn't even realize the time because of what was happening now. I was about to look at Alex when I accidentally tripped again. All I could do was close my eyes because I couldn't balance my stance but that didn't work because someone grabbed me again.

Alex gently held my shoulder so it was like we were hugging each other. My cheeks warmed up again because of our closeness and I could feel the heat of his body.

"You can't walk like this."

I was surprised by what he said. "What do you want m-" I was cut off when he immediately picked me up and held me.

I looked at Alex, who was now grinning at me. "This is better," he said and quickly stepped to his feet. I couldn't stop talking about what he did, especially now, and it felt like something was happening in my stomach.

"You don't have to do this Alex, please let me down," I said softly but he continued to walk until we left the room.

I blushed when all the people in the venue were looking in our direction especially and Alex actually chose to walk in the middle. I couldn't take the shame I felt anymore so I buried my whole face in his neck.

"A- alex, put me down. I can walk," I said in a low voice that seemed to be whispering.

"I will put you down until we reach the parking area. Don't worry we are outside so you can look around you." I looked around and he was right, we were already outside the venue and Alex was about to turn around to walk where the parking area is.

"You don't have to do that, it's embarrassing for you. I'm still heavy," I shyly told him when he put me down.

"Really? But you are light to me." I looked at him but he just laughed at me.

"I'm just kidding but it's okay, I can always lift you anytime you want." he even winked that my cheeks reddened. Why is this man's tendency to thrill?

My eyebrows crossed when I noticed a woman approaching us. It's like a single yank of his clothes will make him undress. He stared closely at Alex and it was as if he didn't even see me next to Alex.

He approached Alex and quickly kissed him on the cheek which stopped my action. I didn't know he had a girlfriend.

"Hi babe, I came here to see you." I bit my lip when I saw them kissing in front of me. I just turned around and walked straight out of the parking area.

Maybe I should get used to it because I know there are other men who are really sweet to others, not because they are interested otherwise, they just want to help and Alex is one of them. He maybe a playboy but he helped me many times today so I'm thankful for that.

I took a deep breath when I finally got outside of the hotel. I glanced at the place where Alex was. I hope we will meet again.

To Be Continued...