One hundred and two

I stared on as the person approached us, his festures getting clearer now.

"It's Dominic," I whispered to myself, my surprise evident in my voice. I never expected him to be at the party. I mean. He didn't even mention knowing about it or anything of such. Even Vivian had told me he doesn't attend such gatherings unless it is for an official matter.

As Dominic walked in, it took a few minutes before people noticed his presence but the moment they did, the room hushed, and a quiet respect blanketed the atmosphere. Everyone quickly walked to their seats and settled down while he stood at the door.

"President, you're... here," Lawson is yhe first to speak, although in surprise and awkward.

The rest gradually took charge from that and in a matter of seconds, the lounge was echoing with greetings from everyone in the room. I also greeted him, albeit not very loudly.

"Has the parry just started?" He asked as he walked forward and took a seat across me. He looked rather relaxed as though he couldn't see that most of the people were on egg shells around him.

Lawson responded, "Yes sir, the party just began. We didn't expect..."

No one obviously expected him to come but Dominc didn't seem to care as he nodded casually.

Vivian settled down beside me, her curiosity mirroring my own. "Why is he here?" she asked in a hushed tone, a hint of disbelief in her voice. "I never thought he'd show up to something like this."

I nodded in agreement, my eyes still fixed on Dominic. "Yeah, I mean, you said he doesn't come to these things."

Vivian nodded beside me with her lips pursed. Dominic's gaze unexpectedly met mine, and a shiver ran down my spine. Probably to ease the tension, Vivian asked, "It's rare to see you in a place like this. President. We didn't expect you to join us."

Her question hung in the air, unanswered for a moment. Then, he replied, his voice calm yet holding an undertone of challenge, "Just needed a breather. Am I not allowed?"

Vivian chuckled nervously, her eyes darting between us. "Oh, no, of course not! I mean, you're more than welcome here. It's just, well, unexpected, that's all."

Dominic's lips curved into a half-smile, and his attention shifted back to the room. Vivian's words seemed to have ended the conversation, but the lingering intensity of his gaze remained. I couldn't help but notice how the mood in the room had shifted, everyone around us seemingly more attentive and serious.

It was rather stifling and it was easy to tell that everyone present was on edge and uncomfortable. Thankfully. Lawson was rather outspoken and he asked, "We shouldn't make this so boring. Let's play a game, everyone."