The room buzzed with chatter, laughter, and the clinking of champagne glasses as the celebration for the partnership between AJ Corporation and VisionTech was in full swing.
The grandeur of the ballroom, adorned with crystal chandeliers and golden decor, matched the excitement in the air.
Benita stood near the edge of the crowd, sipping her champagne and trying to suppress her growing anticipation.
Tonight was supposed to be her moment. Mr. Andrews had promised to acknowledge her efforts publicly. After all, she’d been instrumental in securing the partnership.
“This is it,” she muttered to herself, adjusting her emerald-green gown. “Finally, some recognition.”
She scanned the room, her eyes darting to the podium where Mr. Andrews was preparing to speak. Her heart raced as he tapped the microphone, silencing the crowd.
“Good evening, everyone,” Andrews began, his voice smooth and commanding. “Tonight, we celebrate the beginning of an incredible partnership between AJ Corporation and VisionTech. This deal signifies growth, innovation, and the bright future we’re building together.”
The audience clapped enthusiastically. Benita straightened her posture, ready to be called up.
“I want to thank the hardworking team at VisionTech for their dedication,” Andrews continued. “And, of course, a special thanks to AJ Corporation for trusting us with this opportunity.”
Benita held her breath, waiting for her name.
But instead, Andrews smiled broadly and concluded, “Here’s to a prosperous future for both companies! Enjoy the evening.”
The applause erupted again, but Benita’s heart sank.
“That’s it?” she whispered, her voice barely audible over the noise.
He didn’t mention her. Not a word.
Furious and hurt, Benita set her glass down and made her way through the crowd, her heels clicking against the marble floor.
She spotted Andrews near the bar, chatting casually with a few executives.
“Mr. Andrews,” she called, her tone sharper than intended.
He turned to her, his smile faltering when he saw the look on her face. “Benita. Enjoying the party?”
“Not really,” she said bluntly. “You promised to acknowledge my efforts tonight. What happened?”
Andrews sighed, looking uncomfortable. “Benita, this isn’t the time or place—”
“You told me you would,” she cut him off. “I worked day and night on that proposal. I deserve some credit.”
“Look,” Andrews said, lowering his voice, “I appreciate your hard work, but this is a team effort. Highlighting one person doesn’t reflect well on the company.”
Her jaw clenched. “Fine. Then are you at least considering the promotion or salary increase we discussed?”
Andrews hesitated, then sighed again. “Benita, pitching ideas is part of your job. That’s what you’re paid for. I don’t see why additional compensation is necessary.”
Her stomach dropped, anger bubbling to the surface. “So, you’re saying all my hard work means nothing?”
“Don’t take it personally,” he replied, waving dismissively. “You’re a valuable part of the team, but this is how it works.”
Before Benita could fire back, a familiar voice interrupted, dripping with amusement.
“You deserve that, don’t you?”
Benita froze, her blood running cold.
Slowly, she turned around, and there he was—Adrian.
He stood a few feet away, dressed in a tailored black suit that fit him perfectly, his dark eyes glinting with a mixture of mockery and intrigue. That same victorious smile from the boardroom played on his lips.
“Adrian,” she whispered, her voice barely audible.
“Benita,” he said smoothly, taking a step closer. “Fancy seeing you here.”
Her breath hitched as their eyes locked, the tension between them palpable.
All the frustration, anger, and confusion she’d been suppressing came rushing back, but his smug expression made her momentarily forget the words she wanted to say.