Chapter3
1081 Words
"What libation may I procure for you?" the bartender inquired, his tone laced with polite professionalism.
"Um... In that case, may I request a meticulously crafted gin and tonic, if you please?" Joana responded, her fingers fidgeting with the clasp on her purse in a nervous gesture. She glanced discreetly around the bar, observing the other patrons immersed in their conversations and the dulcet melodies flowing from the piano gracefully played by a woman adorned in an eye-catching crimson gown.
After a brief interlude, the bartender returned with Joana's drink, ensuring every detail was executed to perfection. She mumbled her gratitude, the words slipping past her lips, and delicately swirled the liquid in her glass, attempting to find solace in the graceful motions as she settled into her seat, striving not to draw unnecessary attention.
"What could a captivating vision like you be doing nestled in solitude?" an alluring male voice suddenly interjected from beside Joana. Startled, she twitched involuntarily as she pivoted, discovering a middle-aged gentleman draped in a tailored suit, effortlessly leaning against the bar with a drink securely held in his hand. Silver strands seamlessly blended with his dark locks, his stature exuding an essence of vitality, while a distinctive aroma of whiskey accompanied his presence.
Caught off guard, Joana grappled to find an adequate response. An awkward laughter escaped her lips, interspersed with a tentative sip from her glass, aiming to convey her desire for a momentary solitude. Alas, her hopes were dashed as the gentleman persisted in his pursuit. Despite Elijah's prior demonstration of kindness, granting her entry to the bar and covering her expenses, Joana remained disinterested in engaging in conversation. After stumbling upon the disheartening affair involving her boyfriend, seeking solace took precedence over social interaction.
"Perchance, allow me the honor to offer you an enhanced elixir," the gentleman persisted, inching closer in an attempt to capture her undivided attention. "Something superior to the familiar gin and tonic. With my standing as a Beta and an abundance of resources at my disposal, any desire of yours shall be promptly gratified..."
"I'm content with my present beverage," Joana replied with a placid smile, masking her internal aversion towards the term "Beta." "I appreciate your kindness regardless."
The gentleman disregarded her subdued expression, either oblivious to or apathetic toward her lack of enthusiasm. Unyielding, he found his place on the adjacent barstool, his proximity permeating an undeniable unease. "I'm known as Anthony Scale," he introduced himself, proffering his slightly clammy hand for a handshake.
Obligingly, Joana reciprocated the gesture, albeit fleetingly, cautious of the moisture lingering on his palm. "I'm Joana," she murmured, yearning to expedite the interaction.
Anthony remained unperturbed, prolonging their conversation. "Your name holds intriguing allure. Did you know, I bear the esteemed mantle of a Beta in the realm of…”
Joana's mind went blank as Anthony continued his ceaseless chatter, boasting about his wealth, family lineage, and extravagant possessions. Despite her earnest attempts to maintain a polite facade, Joana grew increasingly frustrated, yearning for an escape from the conversation.
Seeking respite, Joana interjected abruptly, "I apologize, but I really need to use the restroom." Her interruption cut off Anthony's monologue about the merits of various types of yachts, prompting a flicker of annoyance on his face. Unperturbed by his reaction, Joana swiftly gathered her purse, determined to find a momentary reprieve from their tiresome exchange.
Closing the door of the restroom behind her, Joana leaned against the sink, taking a few moments to collect herself. She splashed water on her face, appreciating the temporary respite it provided. After checking her phone to ensure Anthony had grown disinterested and left his position at the bar, Joana emerged from the restroom, relieved to find him absent upon her return to her seat. Settling back down, she let out a small sigh of relief, grateful for the temporary respite.
However, her momentary relief was soon disrupted by the bartender approaching with a vibrant red cocktail. Informing Joana that the drink was from Anthony, the bartender maintained a subtle smile. Accepting the glass, Joana briefly glanced over her shoulder, noting Anthony's watchful gaze. In an effort to avoid any confrontation, she raised the glass in silent gratitude before focusing her attention on the drink. Taking cautious sips, she remained aware of the potential risks that accompanied accepting drinks from strangers.
With each passing minute, Joana began to feel light-headed, and the room appeared slightly distorted. Realizing the misstep she had made, Joana attempted to rise from the bar but found her movements unsteady. Inadvertently, she stumbled into the proximity of a nearby individual.
"Whoa there," Anthony's voice expressed surprise as he instinctively wrapped his arms around Joana. "Looks like you've had a bit too much to drink. Let me take you home."
Joana's heart raced, her disoriented state rendering her unable to provide a firm response. Just as her vision threatened to fade, another voice infiltrated the scene with a commanding presence.
"Where are you taking her?" Elijah's voice reverberated with authority, prompting a visible pause in Anthony's demeanor.
"I... I was just helping her. She had too much to drink. We're old friends," Anthony stammered, his explanation faltering under Elijah's intense scrutiny.
Feeling relief wash over her, Joana clung onto consciousness, hopeful that Elijah's presence would navigate her to safety.
"Is this true?" Elijah queried, leaning closer and entering Joana's field of vision. Her gaze locked with his piercing gray eyes, and all she could manage was a slight shake of her head.
The events that followed remained fragmented in Joana's memory. The next thing she recollected was finding solace in Wyatt's warm embrace within the confines of the car's backseat.
"Where is your place of residence?" Wyatt inquired, his voice conveying both concern and care.
Struggling to form a coherent response, Joana's attempt was halted by Wyatt, who recognized her disoriented state. "I will take you to a hotel," he decided, the protective instinct guiding his decision.
In her semi-conscious state, the sensation of Wyatt's comforting arms encircling her caused a tingling feeling to course through Joana's body. Mumuring unintelligibly, she unconsciously nestled herself in the crook of his neck. Wyatt drew back, muttering something about her mental state, yet there was an undeniable allure to his cologne that compelled Joana to persist...
And before she knew it, she felt the unexpected surrender of Wyatt, the prosperous and captivating CEO of WR Corp, as he yielded to the touch she bestowed upon him.
- Writer
