Chapter 26 - The Ex-Boss (1/2)

They arrived at the hotel where the product launch was supposed to happen. Both of them exited the car at the same time, grabbing attention from the people present at the entrance. The couple looked eye-catchingly gorgeous.

Adam handed the keys to a valet who was standing near him. He then glanced at Stella who had made her way around the car and was standing next to him now. Stella looked up and smiled at him. Adam smiled back at her and headed in with Stella following two steps behind him.

Adam stopped in his tracks to turn around and looked at her, narrowing his eyes during the process. ”What have I told you about walking behind me?” Adam asked her.

”I know that you don't like it, but I am here as your assistant, not a friend.” Stella replied, her voice barely audible, but enough for Adam to understand.

”So what?” Adam asked her again.

”So, I cannot walk next to you.” Stella almost wanted to smack him on his head.

”Yes you can.” Adam was adamant, not wanting to step back. ”You will walk next to me little lady, whether you like it or not.” He added stubbornly.

”But, Adam--” She wanted to reply but was interrupted by him. ”Stella, please listen to me.” He said coming one step closer to her. ”I know what you are thinking. I can understand your concern as well. But I really won't like you walking behind me. You are my friend. And don't worry, no one will say anything to you.”

Stella was still a bit hesitant, looking everywhere but at him.

”Do you think just anyone can have the guts to bully someone by my side. Do you have such less faith in your friend?” He asked her looking deeply in her eyes, giving her a bitter smile.

”Okay! Fine.” Stella raised her hands up in the air in defeat. 'Seriously, no one can argue with this guy.'

Adam gave her a toothy grin listening to her reply.

After their little banter, they entered the hall side by side. As soon as they entered, a number of people approached Adam, paying their respects and greetings to get in the good books of the young man. But unknown to them, Adam was unfazed by all of this. His Dad never raised him to be like those people who easily got manipulated. Adam didn't pay any heed to their flattering. He hated such people, who would do anything just to earn some benefits for their own selves.

Listening to their boring one-sided conversations, Adam's gaze drifted to his surroundings looking for a particular person. He found her sitting on a stool by the bar.

'What is she doing there?' His eyes narrowed at her petite figure. ”Excuse me!” He said to the people surrounding him and turned to head to the bar without waiting for their reply.

”What are you doing here?” He asked her, taking the free stool next to her.

”What do you think?” She rolled her eyes at him.

”You roll your eyes a lot. Don't you?” Adam asked her, which was more like a statement.

”Only at those who annoy me a lot.” She retorted.

Adam couldn't help but chuckle at her reply. ”Would you like some?” She asked him tilting her glass towards him.

”Thank you, but no. I don't drink at such events. And I have to drive us back as well.” He declined her politely asking the bartender for a glass of fresh orange juice.