Young people of today say to live your life to the fullest for you'll never know when's your last. I can never say that I did so back in my teenage years unlike the others. Either I am busy with school, or being Harvey's good role model. I never felt I have accomplished anything worthwhile, other than being the daughter my parents want me to be. I wish I did.
I huffed in annoyance as I gave my watch a dispassionate glance, patience wearing thin. It's six thirty and here I am waiting outside like an idiot. And he said he'll be here by six. I bit my lower lip in frustration, wrapping the black coat around me tighter when a breeze passed by. The trees swaying and the moon bright in the sky. After I convinced Henry a few minutes ago, who insisted I wait inside, I was left here all alone at the porch.
If he doesn't arrive for another five minutes, I'm going back inside and forget the whole thing. But if I do, then my company will fall faster than wildfire in a forest. Tapping my heel clad foot on the floor in impatience, the temptation to go back inside is strong. Before I got ready for the party, I did my research on Chad Montgomery, curious to what the media has to say about him, even if there are tendencies that what they post are basically just rumors or false beliefs. But most of them are true. Apparently his brutality in being a businessman made him famous and respected by the society. Not only that, he's pretty popular with women, no that I am surprised about it.
He's probably even aware of it.
“Who are you waiting for sis? You know Mom's not coming back until tomorrow.” I turn around to see Harvey walking towards me in his blue pajamas and a chocolate bar in hand. When I got home after work, I went to find Mother, demanding an explanation, only to hear from Henry that she isn't around.
“She left a few hours ago to accompany your grandmother to the hospital. She will be staying there for the night and will come back tomorrow afternoon.” Dad answered when I asked for her whereabouts.
“Just a business partner, Harv.” I replied, giving him a small smile. “You should go back inside, it's cold out here.” If Harvey finds out Chad is taking me as his escort to this party, I don't know how he'll react. He'll probably flip and complain.
Much to my relief, Harvey nodded. “Yeah, I will. Take care sis and don't be out too late. You know Dad isn't over with the 'box' incident.” I was completely taken by surprise when Dad agreed. I was expecting that he'll disagree strongly and make a fuss about it with my mother.
Instead, he did the opposite. “I assigned as few bodyguards to be with you, and I informed Chad about it so you don't have anything to worry about dear.” Oh, and he is now first names with Chad Montgomery, another surprise for me. Brushing a few curls away from my neck, I pulled out a packet of mint flavored chewing gum from my silver clutch before popping the sweet gum into my mouth. Chewing hard, I grimaced and inhaled sharply. Well, the five minutes is up. Time to call this off and—
A loud car horn made me turn around before I could even reach the doorknob. A sleek black Audi A6 smoothly drove in, making me walk down the few flights of stairs, heels clicking against the marbled floor. Stopping right in front of me, a man climbed out of the driver's seat and opened the passenger seat. “Good evening Miss, Mr. Montgomery is inside.” He greeted, gesturing for me to enter the car.
Adjusting my coat, I nodded at the man. “Thank you.” I mumbled and climbed inside, the door closing afterwards. Turning to the blond beside me, I slightly narrowed my eyes. “You're late.” Chad didn't look up from his phone, too engrossed in typing.
“Had some problems at the office so I was sidetracked for a moment. Surely of all people, you'd understand.”
“Of course.” I answered spitefully, looking out of the window as the car drove out of my family's estate and down on the road. Lights flooding every mansion in the block, others were even surrounded by parked cars. Probably teens partying the night away, their parents oblivious to their usual anthem at night as they are too busy running their own company or keeping their jobs by working overnight.
I've never partied hard when I was a teenager. Well, I never partied at all unlike those who had nothing to lose and who like the wilder side of life. I was always busy due to homework, attending social gatherings with my family, participating in the school council, and keeping my grades high. Partying is the last thing on my mind, especially when I entered college.
The ride to the venue is filled by silence, only the radio softly playing and Chad's occasional sighing made it less boring. Taking my phone out, I decided to text Francine to busy myself and to catch up with the red head.
To: Francine I'm bored, what's up?
In a matter of seconds, she replied back.
From: Francine Not much. Dad keeps complaining how careful we are when it comes to him. He insists that he's not on his deathbed and is all right. Dad is just stubborn. Nothing new.
I smiled, containing my laughter unless I'll look like a lunatic laughing by myself. That would be inappropriate.
To: Francine Just give him time Fran. He's not used to being in bed all day, right?
From: Francine Totally. Hahaha :D Is Harvey with you right now? Sean keeps requesting me to call him.
I gently bit my cheek, thinking of how to appease the little boy's requests. Sean and Harvey have been good friends ever since I introduced them to each other. It would be unfair in Sean's part if he keeps reaching out while Harvey is too busy with school or with his video games.
To: Francine Actually, I'm going to a party with a business partner. Harvey's back home. Tell him that Harvey will call him tomorrow afternoon and that he has nothing to worry about. (:
When she didn't reply for a full minute, I looked out of the dark tinted windows of the car once again to see that we had reached the city. The busy streets, people walking on the sidewalks while some entertainers are on the streets performing. The beautiful lights and the buzzing sounds made the city come alive.
“Mr. Montgomery?”
“What is it, Aaron?”
So that's his name.
“We have arrived, Sir.” Leaning forward, I stared at a tall luxurious looking building with the name Winston Hotel branded on it. I couldn't help but turn to Chad.
“You didn't tell me that we're having the party here at Mr. Winston's place. What's the occasion?”
“Ah, so you do know the man. I figured. It's his wife's birthday today.” He answered, still not looking up his phone. So this is why Mom wanted me to be his escort? She wants me to take her place and attend Christine Winston's birthday instead? Well, as long as it concerns my grandmother, I don't mind. But why didn't she just tell me straight ahead?
At the sight of photographers and the paparazzi at the entrance of the building, I began to play with my hands in nervousness. Why can't they just go home and spend time with their families instead? The car drove up the ramp and waited in line for our turn.
“Are you all right, Miss Maxwell?” I faced him to see Chad staring at me already, attention off his phone for the first time tonight. I rubbed my arm, feeling uncomfortable at the sight of the media.
“A little nervous…” I admitted. “I don't want to talk to the media.” They'll get ideas just seeing us together. Maybe tomorrow we will be the talk of the town, branded as the 'it' couple and we will be bugged about until they get details.
“Don't worry, not one could approach us since your dad's bodyguards are here. We can also avoid getting interviewed. I too hate the media.” Chad assured, his driver moving the car forward, waiting for the white limo ahead of us. This is it. When the limo sped away, our car drove forward. Aaron got out and opened the door for us. Chad stepped out first with ease, giving his arm for me to take. Swallowing, I took it and stepped out of the Audi.
The flashes of cameras nearly blinded me as they began to fire both of us with questions and demands for us to smile at their way. Smiling, we both walked down the carpet that seems to go on endlessly.
“Chad, why are you with Rachel Maxwell?”
“Rachel! Over here!”
“Are you two dating?”
“Smile for the camera, Rachel!”
Ignoring the demands of the press, dad's bodyguards whom I recognize quickly accompanied us to the entrance, blocking a few occasional interviewers. Chad successfully dodge a reaching hand with a microphone from another interviewer before both of us break for it. Once inside the building, safe from all the crazy photographers, I let out a breath of relief.
“You can let go now.” Chad mumbled in amusement. I glanced down at my hand gripping his arm tightly. Blushing madly, I let go as Chad grinned.
“S-sorry.” Clearing my throat, I pointed to the restroom. “I'll just go and freshen up for a bit.”
Chad nodded, “Sure. I'll just wait for you at the lounge area.”
“R-right.” I stammered and turned on my heel, walking towards the restroom down the hall. The room is filled with old and young women all dressed in their finest, either using the toilet or reapplying their makeup. Staring at the mirror, I tucked back a curl and looked for any flaws on my face. My make up seems fine, the eyeliner doesn't smudge, neither my lipstick. Thankful that nothing is wrong and that the hairspray made the curls on my hair stay the same, I removed my black coat before folding it neatly.
I smoothen my black one shouldered dress, sequins decorating the shoulder while the back is open. Taking a deep breath, I walked out of the restroom to get my coat in check. After that, I went to the lounge area to see Chad leaning on the wall, arms crossed on his chest. “Mr. Montgomery.” I mumbled, catching his attention.
Eyes taking in my outfit, Chad smiled. “Nice dress, Miss Maxwell. Shall we?” I took his arm and both of us entered the ballroom of the hotel. A few guests stared at us, some in surprise, others as if expecting us, while some eyed us in envy. The latter took me in surprise, why should they even envy us? Can't they see that me and Chad are just friends? Wait, are we even friends? Like, real friends?
Classical music played throughout the room, instruments from violins to guitars playing in harmony. The atmosphere is regal and beautiful, I would enjoy it if it weren't for the fact that Chad's hand is pressing against my bare back, the feeling of shyness hitting me.
“You ready to greet the birthday celebrant?” Chad asked above a whisper as we passed by a few known businessmen and women of this society.
I nodded slightly. “Yeah I am. Why?” Nodding to the couple approaching us, he forced a smile.
“Good, because here they come.”
Michael Winston together with his wife smiled widely at us. “Good evening Chad, glad you could come.” The dark-haired man greeted, shaking hands with us. “Ah, hello Miss Maxwell. So happy to see you here.”
“Pleasure is all mine Mr. Winston.” Turning to his wife, I smiled, playing the perfect guest. “Happy birthday Mrs. Winston, you look beautiful as ever.”
The woman gushed. “Thank you dear, I can say the same to you. I received a message from your mother that she couldn't come, saying she has some emergency to take care of.”
“Yes, she has, but I'm sure if she didn't have, Mother would be here to wish you on your happiest day.”
Mrs. Winston grinned. “Well, enjoy the party and hope you like the entertainment.” She said, waving at us as her husband led them away to greet their other guests. Chad took the lead once again before pulling out a seat for me in one of the vacant tables.
“Thanks.”
“Do you want a drink?” Chad asked when a few minutes passed by just staring at the people surrounding us.
“Wine, please.” I replied, exhaling softly.
“I'll be back,” He said, standing up from his seat and walking away. To pass the time, I took my phone out once again to check if Francine had replied to see that she did.
From: Francine You should bring me next time, I'll shake the party up a little. ;)
I giggled at her reply, knowing she would do it if she had the chance. Throughout high school, Francine always listened to me while I narrate to her how boring social gatherings are, especially when all you have to do is throw praise to the celebrant and interact with guests who are either younger or older than you. Usually, they only talk to the important ones, who have power and the most influential person in the room. The only thing I liked about parties like these are the potential business partners, investors and possible mergers.
Francine would always tell me to bring her next time, promising to turn the boring party into a wild one. Unlike me, Francine has so much history, colorful history, during her high school days. But she never pressured me into alcohol or the usual things teens do. She respected my decisions and I did the same to her, but I couldn't help but scold her along with Patton. She would yell in a drunken rage at Patton, be silent and cry before she gets over it. She never yelled at me, let alone argue.
“I'll never argue with you Rach. Everybody knows you'll win, plus you're scary when mad.” She once said, I didn't know whether she was joking or not. Still don't.
To: Francine You'll turn it into some kind of frat house party? Is that what you have in mind now?
I could tell she is grinning ear to ear at this moment, reminiscing the old days.
From: Francine Definitely. ;)
“Here's your wine, Miss Maxwell.” A bit startled, I immediately looked up to see a glass full of red wine handed to me by Chad. I accepted it gratefully, throwing him a smile.
“Thank you,” I mumbled, sipping the drink. Chad let out a long breath, sitting down in absolute comfort as he drank his own glass of whiskey. Another round of silence surrounded the two of us, the party continuing on, oblivious to our own discomfort. Well, if Chad Montgomery ever experiences discomfort, it seems like he doesn't even have a care in the world.
“Do you find enjoyment in going to parties like this?”
“Pardon me?”
Chad motioned to the room, all the glitz and the glamour. “Do you find enjoyment in attending these parties?” I returned my gaze to the dance floor, shaking my head.
“To be honest, I don't. But ever since I was young, my parents would bring me to social gatherings like this. I'm used to it, but I don't enjoy it.” When I faced him, his eyes stared at me akin to curiosity. I couldn't help but stare back, “What?" I asked softly, taken aback by such a look.
“Hey Chad!” We both looked away, Chad composing himself, turning to the person who called for him. A man in his late twenties approached our table, green bright eyes complimenting his young face.
“Hey man,” Chad greeted the man by giving him a pat. “What's up?”
“Man, there are a lot of beautiful ladies tonight.” The man grinned, running his hand through his black wavy hair. “Who's this lovely lady, Chad?” He asked, gesturing to me.
“Dave, this is Rachel Maxwell. Miss Maxwell, this is Dave.”
“You could've introduced me properly man.” Dave rolled his eyes at Chad, who only ignored him. “I'm Dave Anderson, CFO of Anderson Co.” I held out my hand for Dave who shook it eagerly. Chad scoffing on his seat.
“Nice to meet you Mr. Anderson.” I smiled.
“Just call me Dave, beautiful.” He winked, I withdrew my hand, swallowing hard at his words.
“A-all right.”
Chad groaned, pushing the man away. “Seriously, don't you have someone else to bother?" At Chad's complaints, Dave only laughed and hit his back. Hard enough to make Chad glare at his friend.
“Well, the moment I saw you, I knew I had to come over. Especially now that I met Miss Rachel here.” Rolling his eyes, Chad shooed him away. “Go and make out with a bottle of wine. I'm busy.”
Dave walked away, laughing loudly enough to make people stare at him, probably wondering what was so funny. The looks on their faces although made me want to laugh. Chad sighed as he stared at Dave's retreating back. “I'm sorry about him. He's just being silly like he usually is, but Dave's a good guy. Immature, but a good man.” I nodded, somewhat agreeing.
“I see.”
Inhaling sharply, he sipped on his whiskey once again, comforted by the atmosphere. Emptying my glass, I motioned for a waiter to fill it up once again. Another glass wouldn't hurt. “So, when do you want us to discuss the terms?” Chad questioned as I set my glass down after taking a few languid sips.
I shrugged. “The sooner the better, I guess Mr. Montgomery.”
Leaning back on his chair, Chad crossed his arms. “Well, since we're friends, and business partners, it's time to drop the formalities. You can call me Chad instead of Mr. Montgomery, makes me feel less old.”
I raised an eyebrow. “Do you let your investors and other business partners call you by your first name? Isn't that a bit, unprofessional?”
He let out a bark of laughter before sipping his drink, setting the glass down on the table. "I admit that I don't let them, but we're friends, are we not?" Looking down, I played with my half-filled glass. “I guess you're right.”
“Can I call you Rachel? What about Rach?” He smiled and I felt my skin burn at the notion. Clearing my throat, I forced a smile.
“Just Rachel.”
“Okay then 'just Rachel'.”
I rolled my eyes when he raised his glass. “To our alliance.” I lifted my glass, a small smile gracing my lips.
“To our alliance, Montgomery.” Smiling at each other, we gently collided our glasses and drank. I watched with tightly sealed lips as Chad drank his whiskey until it was empty.
I'll just hope this alliance of ours will be worth it, Chad.