Chapter Four

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Liliana stepped into the employee changing room and found a neatly placed black party dress with her name on a tag. It was elegant but simple  clearly something prepared by the company. She quietly changed into it, smoothing the fabric and adjusting her hair in the mirror. After a moment, she took a deep breath and stepped out, ready to attend the event, even if she still had doubts about going.

The party was in full swing by the time she entered the decorated hall. Lights glowed softly, upbeat music played, and employees were scattered around, chatting, drinking, and laughing freely. It was a whole different world from the cold walls of Winston Corp.

Michael spotted her almost instantly.

“Wow, you actually came,” he said with a playful grin, walking toward her.

“Yeah, couldn’t say no to the boss,” she replied dryly.

He leaned closer. “So… any chance you’ve changed your mind about being my date?” 

Liliana gave a soft laugh.

“Sorry, Michael. I’m just here to blend in, not stand out.” 

“Still holding out for someone else?” he teased.

She didn’t respond, only smiled and excused herself to grab a drink.

Unbeknownst to her, Alexander Winston stood silently on the balcony above the party floor, his eyes fixed on her. He wasn’t here for the celebration he hated crowds  but something about Liliana’s presence had drawn him in. The way she moved, calm but alert, made her stand out without trying. She wasn’t like the others.

He watched her interact, saw how she gently pushed Michael away, how she didn’t fall into casual office gossip or games. And then, one of the newer employees  someone from finance  made his way to her, obviously flirting. Winston’s grip on the glass tightened.

Unable to hold back, he descended the stairs and approached her just as she turned to leave the crowd.

“You clean up well, Miss Liliana,” he said, his voice low.

She blinked in surprise, not expecting him to speak so casually  or compliment her.

“Thank you, sir. I… didn’t think you’d come.” 

“Neither did I,” he replied, pausing. “But I wanted to see what all the noise was about.”

Before she could answer, Trisha appeared behind him, tapping his arm.

“Sir, there’s someone from the board looking for you.” 

He didn’t turn. “Tell them I’ll be there shortly.”

Liliana stood still, unsure if she should excuse herself or stay.

“I assume you’re enjoying yourself?” he asked. 

She nodded. “Trying to, sir.”

“Good.” His gaze lingered on her for a second longer than necessary before he turned and walked away.

Later that night, after most of the employees had either left or moved to the outdoor area, Liliana stepped out for some air. The night was cool, calm  nothing like her thoughts. She leaned on the railing, letting the breeze touch her face.

A quiet footstep behind her made her turn. Mr. Winston.

They stood in silence for a moment. He didn’t say anything, but his presence felt heavier than the silence itself. Their eyes met  just briefly  and for a second, something unspoken passed between them.

Then he nodded once. “Don’t stay out too late.”

And just like that, he turned and walked away, leaving her heart slightly off rhythm.

Alexander Pov

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After the party,all the employees had already left, while some on the night shift were changing to continue their work

Alexander had finished his work for the day and ready to go home, but was surprised to see Lilianas office light still on. Curious, he walked toward the door and opened it slightly, only to see Liliana sitting in her desk typing in the mini laptop

"Miss Liliana".He called out

She looked up and their eyes met. He was the first to look away

"Sir, I'm almost done, I'll leave once I send this file to the Staffs".  She said

"Where do you live?" He asked

"Sir..?" she stammered

" Where do you live" he repeated

"Beside the black hood street". She answered

"Good now pack we're leaving". He said leaving no space for arguments

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