Echoes of Unrequited Love (Xaviera and Hogan) novel Chapter 5

The financial crisis was barely averted, and the whole studio breathed a sigh of relief.

To show her importance, on Cecilia's first day at work, Wallis threw her a welcome party.

They upgraded the team-building venue from a budget KTV to the swanky Fragrance Hotel.

All eight of us from the company showed up, waiting for her.

Out of boredom, Wallis crammed a dessert into his mouth and said, "She's the pampered little princess after all, even had to go change her outfit, tsk."

"That's the cash cow right there," I stated the obvious.

"It's like she's here to be worshiped, not to work."

I had a nagging bad feeling.

Lost in thought, a commotion from the hall snapped me back to reality. Following everyone's gaze, I saw Cecilia, clad in a tender pink tulle dress, on Hogan's arm, looking every bit the princess, a real showstopper.

Wallis quipped, "The real cash cow has arrived."

I didn't expect Hogan to come.

I always thought he wasn't into social scenes.

During college, whenever there were events in the department, even if the heads of the school were involved, Hogan would give them a wide berth.

He was aloof, even antisocial.

Back then, I was the one buttering up the school officials for him. Looking back, it was such a waste of time.

I downed my glass in one go and made a beeline towards them.

"Sorry everyone, Hogan insisted on escorting me to the welcome party," Cecilia said with a bashful softness that could disarm anyone.

I politely said, "Mr. Zade, having you here is an honor for us."

After all, these days, anyone who stood next to Hogan was either rich or noble.

Hearing my words, Wallis chimed in, "Xaviera had wanted to invite you, Mr. Zade, but was worried you'd be too busy. What a coincidence."

Wallis, the queen of white lies, spits them out so easily.

I nervously twitched my mouth into a smile, only to meet Hogan's probing gaze.