Adrian's heart was pumping through his mouth, the car pulled over to his side , he walked closer and the window rolled down.
"Get in loser we're going partying".
.
.
.
"Just get in" Rosalind opened the door for him. After seating they set off. That vine reference hit him like a flash bang. The drive starts but the silence drags on. Adrian starts coming to his realizing he hasn't said a word to her.
"Hi, uh, I got you this Mrs.Powel" Adrian says as he points to the corsage.
"Aw that's sweet , reminds me of prom nights. Also while we are there call me Rosalind , it'd be chaos if the board members realize I brought an intern to the gala."Rosalind speaks clearly , her voice although sweet but distracted by driving and the stress of the event.
Adrian again sits silently , watching cars zip by, he sneaks a glance at her but its dark in the car and the evening city lights were too rampant. Trying not to be obvious he couldn't admire her as much.
"SOO , what did you do today?" Adrian trying to make light conversation.
" Prepared for the speech, got the dress dry cleaned and booked the babysitter." Rosalind replied still paying half attention to driving.
" Baby sitter huh, how old is your kid." A silence followed for 3 seconds, Adrian experienced empires rise and fall in that time. 'Don't ask something too personal' and he asked the divorcee who he likes about her kid.
" 5 years 11 months, its his birthday in 2 weeks." Rosalind replied calmly.
'Phew, I guess she didn't mind that. Lets not get too invasive, whats another topic, uhhh' " What's this speech you've prepared".
"In the glove box , it's a few pages long". Roslaind points to the glovebox.
Adrian pulls out enough pages that would amount to a small book. 'A few huh?'. "Wow, this is extensive to say the least." Adrian replied with a grin. He starts going through the speech reding out a few lines here and there. He was enthralled and engaged , a speech for an event where probably the rich pompous assholes would.t even appreciate such words , these could make the speech writers for national leaders blush. He went through that speech twice and was almost through his third reading when the car stopped.
"We're here. Now remember , if anyone asks you any questions just point them to me, don't tell them youre an intern." Roslaind drew closer, her scent was intoxicating, Adrian saw her eyes upclose and they were worth getting lost into.
"Yes ma'am. Although you should know, I was in my school's debate team for a few weeks so I'm pretty good at lying and--" Adrian was talking as they stepped out the car. They were finally in some good lighting. He finally saw her whole.
Usually a force of nature in the corporate boardroom, today she was a vision sculpted for an evening of elegance. The sharp, decisive manager had been replaced by a siren, a whisper of power wrapped in silk and starlight.
Her gown, a masterpiece of midnight blue, clung to her figure like a lover's embrace, the fabric whispering secrets with every movement. It flowed like liquid moonlight, pooling at her feet in a soft, ethereal cloud. The deep color served as the perfect canvas for the delicate embroidery of silver thread that danced across the bodice, mimicking constellations and tracing the elegant curve of her spine. The dress dipped low in the back, revealing the smooth expanse of her skin, a subtle hint of the power she held within.
Her hair, usually bound in a severe bun for the office, cascaded down her back in shimmering waves. The inky black strands, touched with hints of midnight blue, seemed to absorb and reflect the light simultaneously, creating an aura of mystery. A few strategically placed diamond clips, like captured stars, sparkled amidst the darkness.
Her makeup was a study in contrasts. Her skin, naturally pale, was flawlessly illuminated, giving her an almost otherworldly glow. Her eyes, usually sharp and calculating, were softened with expertly applied shadow, a smoky blend of sapphire and amethyst that accentuated their striking crimson hue. They held a spark of amusement, a hint of the playful demon that lurked beneath the composed surface. Her lips, full and sculpted, were painted a deep, luscious shade of wine red, a bold statement against the delicate porcelain of her complexion. A single diamond pendant rested delicately in the hollow of her throat, catching the light and drawing attention to the graceful curve of her neck.
Rosalind's presence commanded attention without demanding it. She moved through the crowd with a quiet confidence, her steps fluid and graceful. The subtle sway of her hips, the gentle curve of her waist, the elegant line of her shoulders – all spoke of a woman in complete control of her power, both in the boardroom and beyond. She was a symphony of contrasts: strength and vulnerability, ice and fire, darkness and light. Tonight, Rosalind Powel was not just a manager; she was a masterpiece.
"Woah. You look beautiful." Adrian's voice barely got out from his jaw dropped mouth.
"Thank you, you look great too, that suit has a nice rustic look."
"Thanks, I got it specially for today."
"Ooh, nice. Okay lets go". Rosalind locked hands with him. Adrian chest puffed and back straightened he walks in the hyena's den.
Drinks flowing , whispers whisping , their clothes with such fine fibers that they didn't even rustle, all with eyes above their head, a collection of high society pompous pricks at first glance. Mrs. Powel was no less ,she was a beast steering conversations like a drift racer handling remarks, insults and non-subtle flirts like a pro tennis player , the ball never landing in her court. Of those a few younger men stood out , seeking every chance they had to get Mrs. Powel alone.
"Powel, why don't you join us in the vip lounge, we have many "business" deals to discuss." Said one of the three.
"Mr. Berkley thank you for the invite, but it would be better if your father joined since your experience in golf and poker won't come in handy." She spoke with a smile but the words were the bullet that shattered their fragile ego.
' Daammnnnn' Adrian thought as he almost choked on his champagene. He stood close by just in case they got weird or confrontive.
" Oh you watch Powel. Enjoy the party, I heard the Chardonnay is to die for." The brat and his friends walked away mumbling to themselves.
" You handled that well". 'I hope we never see them again' Adrian says trying to act cool.
" Stop that".
" What?"
"You're imagining how to get back at them. Don't" Rosalind said firmly. Adrian still shocked by her response, it was as if she read his mind.
" You're way to obvious, your face is an open book". Rosalind smiled cheek to cheek.
" Oh yeah , what am I thinking now". Adrian said as he put down his glass.
"Nothing good, also I'm too old for you". Rosalind whisked away to the bar to get some peace. While Adrian stood still. His face now beat red.
'How the hell did she know? Am I that easy to read?'. His mind now racing a million miles and hour, he didn't even notice what her expression was, a streak of pink on her cheeks, could be the alcohol , could be something else. The party went on, She kept her calm and conversed with the other attendees introducing Adrian as the project head when asked , not letting him speak a word, making excuses for Wells and Hartley while not seeming like a kissass, convincing them its not the investors who are in control but us. Amazed by her skills Adrian kept making mental notes , keeping his brain distracted otherwise he too would be swept up in her charms. The reason someone so smart can interact so nicely with a bunch of asshats while coming off as charming and in charge, she truly was a beast.
After enough conversations Adrian just stood back at the bar as he was tired just listening to the business talk. As much as he wanted to be next to her full time it became obvious she could handle them better alone when she isn't lying for me too. He sat and eatched her from a distance, what was barely 10 feet felt like worlds apart.
"She's a tough one, I would have blown someone's head off if they were this sleazy". A random redhead just walked up and sat next to him and said that shit. Adrian just stared at her for a good half minute before responding.
"Whoooo are you?"
"Bette Sans Souci, Special Forces, we're here to accompany General Eiling". She shook his hand firmly, as for Adrian..
" You need to learn how to handshake if you're pretending to be in the big leagues." She complained, more like adviced. Adrian again gobsmacked by her astute guess, with his cover completely blown he darted his eyes around , looked back at her and let out a sigh.
"You should know I got interviewed just last week." He said trying to brush her off with a half truth, adjusting his suit and laying back on the counter.
" For what? Did they need a tour guide for Star Labs?" She let out a chuckle. Adrian slipped a little hearing the accuracy of her answer. Hearing how many nails she hit on the head you'd assume she was a sniper. He finally gave up on his façade.
"Sorry for busting your balls , I have this habit of teasing rookies". Better finally smiled warmly, patted him on the back indicating she is not going to out him.
"Don't be. I'm just trying to get better at this so I don't be a burden." His eyes instinctively went towards Rosalind.
"Out of your league kid. She lives in a different world." Better said solemnly sipping her drink.
"If you're escort should you be drinking?" Adrian snarked at her unable to come up with a good answer.
" Such a fine woman tied down by a man who doesn't care. Like the blacksmith who doesn't care about a diamond." Bette's tone shifted, her eyes focussed on Rosalind in a unsavory manner.
" Well she got divorced. Didn't you hear". Adrian smiled as he knew something she didn't . Better looked at him, looked back at Rosalind, looked back at Adrian and put down her glass.
Bette set OFF. She paced with determination, her only goal, her dream was now and open bird ready to spread it's feathers right in front of her.
"Woah wait!" Adrian runs and grabs Bette.
" What are you thinking ?" Adrian asked still holding her back.
" You're in the slow lane I'm overtaking". Bette locked eyes with Adrian , her determination as a flame in her eyes .
" I call dibs" Adrian blurted.
" You can't just call dibs on her, she's a person. She has the right to choose the perfect partner for her". Bette ranted.
"Should have called dibs first."
" So not fair… Will you get your hands off me now". Adrian let's go and lightly dusts her shoulders. "FYI I only stopped because I wanted to , no way you could have stopped me with those noodle arms." She snarked.
" Well, care for another drink. I'll make it expensive, they can't say no cause it is technically my party after all." Adrian invites her to the booth.
" Sure rookie". They laugh and drink , sharing stories , forgetting they were fighting only minutes ago.
About 20 meters away stood Rosalind, her eyes shifting to them every now and then, her mood destabilized and heart heavy. She clenched her first subconsciously, then looked down and wondered why. This feeling was not new to her and she knew to act on it immediately. Her eyes scanned and found something or .. someone. The Berkley brat and his friends around the tables. She walked close to their table ,turned her back to them and called a server.
" Excuse me, hand me that drink and here's a 100. Every minute you see my hand empty hand me a new drink." Rosalind spoke loudly so Berkley could clearly hear her. She wanted to be played.
About half an hour passed, Bette about to bid her goodbyes , she was on guard duty after all and can't be absent for this long.
" Make sure you do good to her. Do Good for her? DO HER!!. Don't do her on the first date."
"How do I call you, for advice ?" Adrian asked.
" I'm military I'll find you ". Bette wasclearly slurring her words, she was on her 4th … plate of shots yet she instantly shifted tones, special forces training must be wild. On the other hand Adrian barely got through a bottle of beer. He knew if he got drunk he might say something to the wrong person and blow his cover. He sips his beer and sees her walk away.
" I wonder where Mrs. Powel is stand—" Adrian now scanning the room to find her when someone suddenly sloshes to his side. It's her.. is it her. She almost flopped on the bar table. Adrian carefully lifted her luscious locks to find it was his beloved Rosalind. What in the quantifiable universe could happen to put her in this state. Her eyes shot open and she jolted back up.
" HEYYY ADRIANN, HOW'S IT HANGING ?". She goes on rambling some gibberish and playing with the little umbrella on her drink. ' Welp she's drunk, bit loud, cute seeing her acting out all carefree. NO Snap out, what do I do, questioning her seems a dumb answer but'.
"Rosalind , hey, so how many drinks did you have?" Adrian spoke as he grabbed her trying to keep her steady.
" Well 2-3 -4, this many" She said holding up all ten fingures, that's not too bad, "times 2" Okay maybe a little bad.
" I feel a bit hot". Rosalind sat up and stared at him.
" From what I've heard that tends to happen when you have that many drinks, haha" He let out a nervous laugh. Rosalind pulled him closer.
" I feel hot down there too. Its like a furnace". Rosalind whispered in her sultry voice. Those words were enough to break any man's integrity, but not our protagonist, he is a gentleman, a noble soul, a..
"I'll get you some ice water".
Rosalind knocked back out. 'Well, she is completely drunk, I guess repressed sexual drive kicks in with alcohol consumption, although it does seem weird considering she said these parties are almost a monthly occurrence'. Not a complete dumbass he is. Adrian trying to asses the situation whilekeeping one eye on her. Maybe it was one of her enemies, someone who she pissed off..
" Good evening everyone. I'm sure we are having great fun but now it's time to listen, a few words by tonight's speaker…" An announcement rung out from the stage, Adrian went in panic mode.
"Nonononononono".
" I would like to call upon S.T.A.R. Labs executive, Mrs. Rosalind Powel".
" Fuck". Adrian darting his eyes around looking for something, anything. He saw on a table , an old man with grey hair and surrounded by army personnel. Among them stood out a redhead, Bette!. He ran towards her then slowed down to not alert the gurlards. He called to her from a distance.
" Bette, look after Rosa, at the bar, gotta run". Adrian rushed again knowing she got the message, using the nickname Rosa so no one leseWould understand. Luckily he had gone through her speech and had the greatest ability a speaker can have, to bullshit on the spot and have people believe them.
As he stood there he told the announcer " She was only escorting me, I am the speaker today, announce that would you".
" My apologies sir, must have been a mixup , what's your name sir?" the announcer asked quietly.
Adrian stopped for a second to think of a fake name, but a smile on his face depicted a devious idea.
" Rathaway, Hartley Rathaway."
Minutes go by and the speech ends in applause as most speeches do. To his surprise Adrian wasn't so nervous about the speech as he was about Rosalind . Although atop the podium he had a good vantage point and saw Bette comforting Rosalind he was still worried she might shout and embarress herself.
" Great speech, you did decent for an impromptu appearance Although your non verbals could use some work." Bette chuckled, pointing out Adrian just stood still, no hand or neck movement, his glasses his his eyes but she knew they were glued on Rosalind.
" Yeah give me a break. Plus it was her speech I just memorized it on the drive here."
"So now what?" Bette asked as Adrian was the only sober one.
" Well SHE clearly can't talk much less drive, you're busy so I'll just take her to my place".
" Gasp, how could you take advantage of such a situation and of such a lovely woman". Bette said sarcastically while she lifted Rosalind's head.
" Yeah, party time!!. Hic!" Rosalind still completely out of it.
" Yeah I don't know her address but I do know she wouldn't want her son looking at her in this condition."
" True. You want a ride , I can get you one". Bette offered.
" It's fine, just get someone to look after a car, I'll take her in a cab". Adrian said as he gently shook Rosalind.
" Mrs. Powel, it's time to get up". Adrian said like a parent to their child. A few seconds go by.
"Yup she's not waking up, I'll help you carry her out, and this". Bette put a Army cap on Rosalind's head making it difficult to recognise her.
As they carried her out slowly , Adrian asked was calm, he had switched into caring brother. They say in the cab and bid goodbyes. A few minutes go by and Adrian starts thinking back, what an eventful day already reminiscing about it. Suddenly the car takes a sharp turn, the driver curses the other vehicle for sweeving, while the turn caused Rosalind to shake. Her head fell on Adrian's shoulder as she was half asleep and fully drunk. That's when it hit him.
' Wait, I'm in a cab, going to my home , at night, with the lady I have a huge crush on.
Isn't this when something happens. No no no, she is drunk, that would be taking advantage of her.'
'But she said she was feeling got down there, she is ready for you'.
'What no, shit up brain.'
Suddenly he hears a sound, it's from Powel.Her hands tightening around his arm and her breathing irregular.
'Is she purring? Like a cat?'
Her eyes wide open as she looks up. Her face millimetres away from Adrian, their gaze locked. Her rosy lips parted to say something.
Another honk of the cab driver makes it difficult to hear, only Adrian could listen to what she said and a he was not ready to hear that.
The night is young and with enough liquid courage in their bodies maybe something more memorable will happen tonight.
Maybe tonight the boy will become a man.