((( Rhio POv's )))
The sun was already setting against a dark purple sky and my dim reflection on the glass window stared back at me. I tightened my tie and donned on my coat, "Fine. I'll not embarrass you."
"Deo," I called as I went out.
"Sir…" He stood from his designated seating just outside my office area.
"Call my phone in twenty minutes."
My men followed me out but I let them. I'm not going to let this be a date for two and I'm expecting she'll get annoyed.
The restaurant was empty except for a woman seated inside a little gazebo-like setup. She stood up at my presence. Her red heels made her height fell just a few inch short from mine. She was in the same ankle-length red bodice that was slit at the side to show off some fair legs.
A model?
My eyes traveled from her to the dining setup. Two seats waited under an arched topiary. A basket of daisies glitzed the heart of the table and few candles were lit romantically. Except everything that'll happen wouldn't be as romantic.
She elegantly furrowed her long black hair to her shoulder and smiled at me.
"Hi Rhio." She extended her arm for a handshake, "Jessica Mendez."
I ignored her and sat on the seat my valet pulled out for me.
"Le bonjour," the waiter greeted as he poured the expensive wine on our glasses, "2001 Chateau Bellefont-Belcier."
I ordered for the menu while Jessica sat back to her chair. She didn't seem to mind my indifference. I played with my glass a little as I impatiently waited for Deo's call. Seconds ticked too slowly but my mood brightened up when my phone buzzed in my pocket.
I picked it up with interest and answered it audibly in front of her, "Sure. I'll be back as soon as I can."
She patiently waited and thought I'd still be sitting by when the call ended.
"Cheers?" I lifted my glass and waited for her to clink hers against it.
She did. "Cheers."
I swiftly emptied the liquid and walked away. My men followed. But before I was out of her sight, I turned my back and smiled. "Enjoy your dinner."
When I arrived back to the office, Niel's presence greeted me menacingly. His arms suddenly crossed across his chest as he stood in wait at the hallway like an ornamental knight. He seemed to have just finished conversing with somebody in his phone. I knew it has something to do with my earlier date.
"How's the food Rhio?" he asked through clenched jaws.
It was more of a challenge than a question.
"Appetizingly delicious."
"You shamed Ms. Mendez," he finally blurted, "Her father had just called me to withdraw their recent dealings with us. Aren't you thinking of our losses?"
"Not really," I shrugged as I walked past him.