200 Lunch at the Alpha Group HQ 2 (1/2)

”You either leave on your own, or I will get security to throw you out.”, Valerie said arrogantly.

Liz was exasperated. Why is Valerie asking for trouble?

Liz imagined that Max will come to pick her up, Valerie will realize that she made a huge mistake and stare at them with her mouth open wide and learn her lesson. But it seems that is not happening, and now that Valerie mentioned Liz being thrown out by security, there is no way that Liz will let it go. Especially not now when she sees that their audience is increasing.

Liz narrowed her eyes at Valerie. ”Throw me out? Based on what?”

Valerie lifted her chin arrogantly. ”You have no right to linger here.”

”This is a public space. If not, it would be a requirement to show some ID at the entrance.”

Valerie bobbed her head. ”Yes, it's public. For people who have some business in this building. You have none.” Valerie paused and narrowed her eyes at Liz. ”Don't think that I believe that Max is expecting you. I don't believe that you texted him, and don't bother showing me that you actually sent a text because that could be sent to anyone.”

Every time Valerie said 'Max', Liz's ears ached. ”Valerie, I wonder what gives you the right to address Mr. Anderson so casually.”

Valerie was surprised by this change of topic. ”That is none of your business.”

”You believe that you have the right to question my presence here, and I believe that I have the right to know why you are addressing him like you are close.”

”Maybe we are close.”, Valerie said smugly.

Liz didn't believe Valerie. ”I doubt that. If you are close to him you would not be stuck here at the reception. If you are close to Mr. Anderson, he would keep you… closer.” Liz pointed up, indicating to higher floors.

”Maybe I am stuck at the reception, but I still have the right to get security to kick you out of here.”, Valerie said through her teeth.

”What is going on here?”, Max's stern voice boomed from the side.

Max didn't hear what is going on, but the body language of Liz and Valerie didn't look like they are having a pleasant conversation.

In a few quick steps, he was by Liz's side.

Max looked at Liz and smiled apologetically. ”Sorry that it took me so long.”

”It's OK. You are on time.” Liz nodded at Foxy who was two steps behind Max before her gaze moved to Valery whose expression showed how shocked she is.

Liz smirked. If Valerie had any hopes that Liz will drop this, she is gravely mistaken.

”Max, if you arrived a few seconds later, I would be kicked out by the security by this woman who claims to be close to you.”

Max was not sure he heard Liz right. ”What?”

Liz gestured with her eyes toward Valerie who was so pale that she looked like a ghost.

Max understood that Liz is upset because of Valerie, and that the latter needs to explain. He looked at her nametag and demanded sternly: ”Valerie. Explain.”

”Mr. Anderson…”, Valerie stuttered.

Liz lifted her hand, interrupting Valerie impatiently. ”Mr. Anderson? Until a few seconds ago, you called him Max and you insinuated that the two of you are close. Which one is it?”

”I… I…”, Valerie was unable to come up with a response.

Liz sneered. ”What happened? You can't talk? And just a minute ago you had no problems talking ambiguously like you are Max's lover.”

”I have no idea who this woman is.”, Max told Liz seriously.

Liz forced a smile and spoke to Max while her mocking glance didn't leave Valerie. ”Maybe you should tell her that because she accused me of being some random woman in a pretty dress and that I'm lying that you will have your lunch with me.”

Max glanced down at Liz's skirt and leaned closer to Liz while speaking softly: ”She is right about the dress. That is a pretty dress. You are beautiful.”

Liz frowned at Max and whispered: ”This is not a good time for flirting.”

Max whispered back: ”I can flirt with my girlfriend anytime I feel like.”