Chapter 2:The Private Room
399 Words
The restaurant had never felt so tense.
Every waiter and waitress moved with extra caution, afraid to make even the smallest mistake.
Melanie frowned as she tied her apron.
"What happened?" she whispered to one of the waitresses.
"He's here."
"Who?"
The waitress lowered her voice.
"Adrian Voss."
Before Melanie could ask another question, the manager hurried past them toward the private VIP dining room at the end of the hallway.
Everyone watched as he disappeared behind the polished wooden door.
Several minutes later, he returned, adjusting his tie with a nervous smile.
He clapped his hands to get everyone's attention.
"Listen carefully. Mr. Voss will be having a business meeting shortly. He doesn't like unnecessary interruptions, loud conversations, or mistakes. I want everyone at their best tonight."
His eyes swept across the staff before settling on Melanie.
"You."
Melanie looked up.
"Sir?"
"Mr. Voss specifically requested that one person handle his table from beginning to end."
A murmur spread among the staff.
The manager continued.
"And that person is you."
"What?" Melanie blinked.
"Me?"
"Yes. You'll take his orders, serve the meals, and make sure he isn't disturbed."
She stared at him in disbelief.
"But... I've never served him before."
"Neither have the others. Just be professional."
The manager lowered his voice.
"And whatever happens, don't give him a reason to complain."
Melanie nodded nervously.
"I understand."
A few of the waitresses exchanged jealous glances.
"She's lucky."
"Lucky?" another scoffed. "Serving Adrian Voss? More like terrifying."
Melanie ignored them.
She picked up her order pad, took a deep breath, and walked toward the private dining room.
Stopping outside the door, she knocked softly.
"Come in."
His deep voice was calm but commanding.
She opened the door.
The room was elegant and quiet.
Adrian Voss sat at the head of the table, reviewing documents while two men in expensive suits waited for the meeting to begin.
Without looking up, he spoke.
"The menu."
Melanie stepped forward and placed it neatly before him.
"Good evening, sir. My name is Melanie, and I'll be serving you tonight."
For the first time, Adrian looked up.
His sharp eyes met hers for only a second.
Long enough to recognize the waitress from earlier.
Long enough for Melanie to feel strangely exposed under his gaze.
He closed the menu without opening it.
"I already know what I want."
Melanie straightened.
I'm listening, sir .
- Writer
