21

"I appreciate the offer, but I'm afraid I can't attend," I said, trying to keep my voice firm and professional.

"I'm swamped with work and I just don't have the time to spare." Auden's expression turned serious.

"I know you're busy, but this is important," he said.

"This is a chance to network and make valuable connections that could benefit the company. I think you should reconsider." I bit my lip, considering his words. I didn't want to let him down, but I also didn't want to overcommit and burn myself out.

I reached out and took the invitation card from the desk, my hands trembling slightly.

"I accept," I said, my voice clear and confident.

"I'll do my best to represent you and the company in the best possible light." Auden nodded, a small smile playing on his lips.

"I know you will," he said.

"Now, let's get to work. We have a lot to do to get ready for the gala." I straightened my shoulders, ready to tackle whatever challenges lay ahead. For the first time in a long time,

Auden stood up from the chair, straightening his jacket. "I'll leave you to it then," he said. "I'm sure you have a lot of work to do." I nodded, already feeling the weight of my increased responsibilities.

But I also felt a sense of excitement, and I was determined to prove myself. "Thank you for the opportunity," I said. "I won't let you down." Auden gave me a warm smile and turned to leave. I watched him go, feeling a strange mix of anxiety and anticipation.

The door opened and Amelia walked in, she looked at me, a puzzled expression on her face.

"I'm sorry to intrude," she said, "but I couldn't help but notice Auden who just left your office. I don't mean to pry, but is he someone important now?" I smiled, realizing that my mother had no idea I was working with him now.

“We're working on that deal I told you about," I explained. Amelia's eyes widened in surprise. "Wow," she said.

"That's quite a news story." She says, I knew she was trying to say something else but wanted me to say so myself.

She looked at me with a mischievous smile on her face.

"So, is there something going on between you and Auden?" she asked, her tone playful. I felt my cheeks flush with embarrassment.

“Amelia!" I said, a little exasperated. "There's nothing like that. We're just colleagues." Amelia laughed. Auden was a pain in the ass, there was never a good moment with him, so I couldn't bore her with my story.

Amelia's eyes landed on the invitation card, her expression turned serious. "What's this?" she asked, picking it up and reading it over. I explained about the gala and my role in preparing for it.

Her eyes widened as she took in the details. .

"This is quite an important event," she said.

"It sounds like a lot of work." I nodded, feeling the weight of responsibility settling on my shoulders.

"It is, but I'm up for the challenge," I said, trying to sound confident.

Amelia looked at me with a concerned expression.

"Are you sure you're up for this?" she asked. "It's a lot of pressure, and you don't have to prove anything to anyone." I appreciated her concern, but I felt determined to show what I was capable of.

"I know it's a big responsibility," I said,

"but I want to do this. I know I can handle it."

Amelia still looked unsure, but she nodded, respecting my decision.

"Well, just make sure you take care of yourself," she said. "Don't work yourself too hard.”

“Don't worry, I got this. I have you with me” I teased, she smiled showing her white dentition. She looked beautiful today,

She was dressed in a stunning emerald green gown, the color complimenting her olive skin tone perfectly.

The dress was fitted and modest, with a simple neckline and a hem that fell just below her knees. She looked radiant, like a queen on her throne. I couldn't help but feel a little jealous, wishing that I could look as beautiful as she did. But I knew that I could never match her style, and I was content to let her shine.

"You look amazing," I said, feeling a twinge of envy.

"Thank you," she replied, her smile bright and warm.

"I'm going to a charity gala," she replied, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "It's for a cause that's very close to my heart, and I'm looking forward to it." I was intrigued,

How's that?”

"The gala is to raise money for a new hospital wing," she explained.

"The hospital is in desperate need of funds, and this event will make a big difference. I'm honored to be a part of it." Her passion was contagious, and I felt inspired by her commitment to the cause.

“Just like you, my child. I hope to help more kids.”

I couldn't help but feel curious about the hospital,

"What is the hospital like?" I asked, eagerly.

Amelia's face lit up as she began to tell me about the hospital and its mission. "It's a small, community-based hospital," she explained.

"It serves a lot of people who don't have access to other healthcare options. The staff there is amazing, and they work so hard to provide the best care possible. I feel honored to be able to support them in any way I can." I was impressed by her dedication and passion.

"I'd like to make a donation," I said, my heart racing with excitement. Amelia beamed at me, her eyes shining with pride.

"That's so generous of you," she said, well she was rubbing off on me.

"I know it will make a big difference to the hospital and the people they serve." I was thrilled to be able to help, and I felt a sense of connection to Amelia that I hadn't felt before.

“I'll have Anita send it over. Make sure you stay safe, ok?” I stood up hugging her.

“Fine…get back to work, I'll see you at home..” She said giving me a peck then walked, I sighed as I watched her leave, I turned to see the stack of files pulled up on the table,

“Oh great …just great.”