Chapter 22

Narrator
Camille was done with her work that day and she was going down the escalator when few of her seniors spot her coming down and one of them said,
“Hi there, you want to join us for a drink? The treat is from our Leader.”
Camille hesitates, “I am a little busy this evening.” She said.
“Are you hesitating because we are from a different team? Don’t worry, your team members and your team leader are coming too. We have this gathering every once in a while.” Another explained.
Camille was hesitant as she didn’t want to get drunk again.
“Apparently she cannot. I asked her to do my work for me.” Grayson’s voice could be heard from behind Camille and everyone quickly greeted him.
“Did you finish my work yet, Ms Parker?” Grayson said raising his eye brow.
“Not yet, sir.” Camille said.
Grayson then said, ” please continue with your plan. Ms Parker have to do my work.”
Everyone walked away as quickly as possible after saying good bye to their boss.
“Thanks for that one.”
“Never give into pressure. I know it is hard because they are your seniors and you cannot say No, but at times like this I think you should. Anyway, I have to leave for home. My assistant, will drop you home.” Grayson emphasized on the word, My assistant which made Camille questioned his motives.
“Why are you saying it like that?”
“What do you mean?” Grayson asked innocently.
“Like it sounds like you are emphasizing on the word assistant.”
“It is just my way of saying things.”
“Thank you for that offer but I am good. I can go home by myself.”
“It’s not like you have a choice. He is waiting outside. I will see you around, Ms Parker and I hope My Assistant will be nice to you.” Grayson said as he walked towards the exit.
Camille looked confused but hesitated as she walked out of the building. She didn’t expect Brandon to be waiting for her. When she opened the car she peeped in and said, “Hi.”
Brandon smiled at her and said, “Hello there, I was waiting for you. Get in. It is pretty cold outside. As soon as she got in
“So you are the assistant?” Camille asked as she put on her seat belt
“Assistant? Who? Me?” Brandon was looking so lost
“You are Mr. Grayson’s Assistant right?”
“Did he call me his assistant?” Brandon said in disbelief.
“Well, I myself I am so confused.” Camille said.
“I am not his assistant, but I can assure you he is my assistant.” Brandon said as he drove out of the office. “We are going for dinner I am starving.”
Camille looked at him confused.
“Dinner is on me.” Brandon said.
“I should be treating you because you took me to the office and you are dropping me home.”
“You don’t have to feel so uncomfortable about that, it was on my way so I dropped you and I will be more uncomfortable if you feel uncomfortable.”
Camille didn’t know what to say.
“Do you like French cuisine?” Brandon asked looking at her for a brief moment
“Anything is fine.” Camille said
“I don’t want to hear that though. What would you like to eat?” He asked.
“I am not a picky eater, so I am fine with any food.”
Brandon had no idea what to do so he drove to a huge hotel and Camille looked at him surprised.
“Since we couldn’t decide the food I thought we might as well try their international all you can eat buffet. I only heard about it but I never tried it before.”
“I am not sure about that.” Camille said looking at the expensive hotel.
Brandon could see Camille’s discomfort and decided to drive somewhere else.
“Where would you like to go, I am sorry if you felt uncomfortable. I didn’t mean to.” Brandon said.
“No. It’s okay.” Camille said confused.
“What do you suggest? Where should we go?” Brandon smiled to comfort Camille.
“Do you like hand pulled ramen? I know a place where they sell the best hand pulled ramen, but there is usually a long line.” Camille asked.
“I can wait with you.” Brandon said. “Can you lead the way?”
“Wow” Brandon said so surprised by the long line in front of them. They were at least-the 10th number in the waiting list.
“Having hand pulled noodle is the best in this cold weather. Don’t you think?” Camille asked.
Brandon smiled but it was an uncertain smile. He never had to wait for anything. He always gets what he wants and as soon as possible. He decided to be like the normal people and wait in the cold weather as he blew on his hand to keep himself warm. Camille felt guilty and quickly excused herself and returned with gloves and heat pack and give it to Brandon with a sheepish smile.
“I am sorry for putting you in this situation.”
“You don’t have to.” Brandon said brushing it off. “The weather is not that bad” he lied
“Wear the gloves and use the heat pack.” Camille said as she made him wear and use the hot pack. Brandon looked at her lovingly until someone called them inside to be seated.