The Business Party<2

Apollo admired the woman as he took in her appearance. She was stunning, with her fair complexion and her brown hair cut into a modern pixie cut. Her makeup was flawlessly applied, enhancing her natural beauty, and her lips were painted a glossy deep red. Her long, form-fitting red mermaid dress accentuated her curves, making her look both elegant and seductive.

"See you around," Blanche answered, her French accent adding an air of sophistication to her voice. Mr. Clad then interjected, "Did I mention that Blanche owns a thriving beauty and makeup company?"

Apollo's interest was piqued, and he responded with genuine admiration, "Oh really? That's quite impressive."

Blanche smiled at his compliment. "Thanks," she said as they shook hands.

"It was a pleasure meeting you, Blanche Clad," Apollo said, and with a polite nod to Mr. Clad, he bid farewell and walked away.

"He's a good-looking man," Blanche observed, her eyes following Apollo as he engaged in conversation with another business associate. Mr. Clad chuckled and took a sip of his champagne. "That's what everyone says," he confirmed.

"How old is he?" Blanche inquired.

"Twenty-seven," Mr. Clad answered. Recognizing her string of questions, he teased, "Too many questions, eh?"

Mr. Clad smiled and inquired , "And how was France? I never inquired earlier."

Blanche's expression softened slightly at the mention of her trip. "France was wonderful," she said, her thoughts drifting to the cobblestone streets and charming cafes. "The cities are so beautiful, and the people are so friendly."

Mr. Clad nodded, listening intently. "I'm glad you enjoyed yourself," he said, taking another sip of his champagne.

Blanche's gaze returned to Apollo, who was still engaged in conversation. "Is he single?" she asked suddenly, a hint of curiosity in her voice.

Mr. Clad couldn't help but chuckle at his daughter's direct question. "Yes, he's single," he confirmed.

Blanche's eyes remained fixed on Apollo, her intrigue growing. "Is he seeing anyone?" she pressed.

"No, he's not currently seeing anyone," Mr. Clad replied, taking another sip of his champagne. "In fact, Apollo isn't really the type to settle down or fall in love."

Blanche's interest was piqued by Mr. Clad's revelation about Apollo's lack of romantic inclinations. "Not the romantic type, huh?" she mused, before shifting the conversation.

"How is the business?" she inquired, changing the subject.

Their conversation continued, discussing work matters as they sipped their champagne and observed the party guests.

*******

Aaron's distracted gaze scanned the room, his thoughts consumed by the question of Stella Cruze's potential arrival. With a single-minded focus, he was determined to convince her to accept his offer. Despite his sharp observations, no trace of her was seen yet, leaving him growing increasingly agitated. He reached out and snatched a glass of champagne from a passing waiter, his thoughts still fixated on the elusive Stella Cruze.

Aaron's fingers fidgeted with the stem of the champagne glass as he continued to scan the room. Each passing moment seemed to intensify his sense of disappointment, and his thoughts were still engrossed in the same question: would she come? He took a large gulp of the champagne, the cold, bubbly liquid doing nothing to drown out the frustration that was building within him. The party continued around him, but Aaron's focus remained fixed on the entrance, waiting, watching, hoping to catch a glimpse of Stella Cruze.

As Aaron stood, silently seething, Apollo approached, champagne in hand. A smirk tugged at the corner of Apollo's mouth as he observed Aaron's brooding demeanor. He leaned closer, as if sharing a secret, and teased, "Still waiting for Stella Cruze to make an appearance?"

Apollo's smirk widened as he observed Aaron's irritated frown, and he couldn't resist a teasing remark. "Oh, I feel sorry for you," he said, his tone dripping with sarcasm.

"I see you visited her and she declined your proposal?"Aaron said 

Apollo then confirmed, "Yes, I visited her, and she turned down your proposition, just as you assumed."

"Looks like I made you miss an opportunity."Apollo teased.

In the midst of their intense exchange, the sharp sound of high heels against the hardwood floor echoed through the room. The entire crowd spun around in unison, their gazes fixed on the entrance where the new guests were making their grand entrance.