Someone made a suggestion, and the others quickly agreed.
Deanna was tempted but still had some concerns. She didn't know many people, so where would she find suitable participants for a social gathering?
As she was pondering, she heard Lance's cheerful voice beside her. "The Mercer Group has many single men and women. If you need participants, they can join."
"That's great! With the Mercer Group involved, I don't have to worry about not having enough people. Thank you!"
Deanna looked at Lance gratefully, knowing he was trying to help her solve the problem. Lance smiled gently in response.
Deanna returned his smile and announced to the others, "I just discussed with Mr. Mercer. We can organize the event with the Mercer Group. We'll notify you of the exact time later. In the meantime, those interested can sign up with Brent."
"Brent, I want to sign up."
"Me too."
"Count me in."
Everyone rushed to Brent, creating a lively but chaotic scene.
That night, perhaps because of the upcoming event, the research institute staff felt closer to Deanna. Almost everyone came to her with a drink.
By the end of the night, Deanna had lost count of how much she drank and was quite drunk. On the way back, although she was awake, her mind was elsewhere. She leaned against Lance, teasing him.
"Hey handsome, you're really good-looking. Can I touch you?"
Before Lance could respond, she reached out and touched his face. "So smooth! What skincare brand do you use? I'll get some for my fiancé."
Lance didn't know whether to laugh or be annoyed. Did she mistake him for someone else?
With a darkened gaze, Lance asked meaningfully, "You have a fiancé and still touch me? Aren't you afraid he'll get jealous?"
"Who touched you? I just wanted to know what skincare brand you use. I love my fiancé very much; don't think you can come between us."
Deanna's eyes widened as she spoke righteously, as if she hadn't been teasing him moments ago.
Lance couldn't help but laugh at her serious expression. Her declaration of love made him incredibly happy.
Suddenly, he pulled Deanna into his arms and kissed her soft lips before she could react.
Deanna was stunned, staring at Lance in shock. Noticing her wide eyes, Lance chuckled and whispered, "Close your eyes, silly."
Instinctively, Deanna closed her eyes. The kiss continued, and the temperature inside the car rose.
Just as Lance was about to lose control, he sensed something was off. Deanna's breathing was too steady and quiet.
When he let go of her, she slumped to one side. Quick to react, Lance caught her and held her close, amused.
She had fallen asleep.
The next day, nearing noon, Deanna woke up with a terrible headache from her hangover. But what embarrassed her more were the flashes of last night's events in her mind.
She felt mortified. She had teased Lance and mistaken him for someone else, even falling asleep during their kiss.
Just as she was regretting everything, Lance walked in. "You're awake. I had the kitchen prepare some hangover soup for you. Drink it while it's hot; it'll help with your hangover."
Lance approached with a bowl of soup. Deanna felt extremely awkward.
Ignoring her discomfort, Lance sat by the bed and handed her the soup as if he intended to feed her.
"I can drink it myself," Deanna said quickly, taking the bowl and gulping it down. "I should get up and head to the research institute."
She put down the bowl and tried to get out of bed, but Lance grabbed her wrist.
"No rush. I contacted Lionel and told him you'd be resting at home today."
With a gentle tug, Lance pulled Deanna into his arms and looked down at her. "Now that you're sober, let's talk about last night."
Deanna blinked innocently. "What happened last night? I was drunk and don't remember anything."
"Don't remember? No problem; I'll help you recall."