Page 8 of King of Deception

“It’s just water,” he nudged the glass closer, and I snatched it, angrily glaring at him.

“Where’s your tray?”

“I’m not a tray kinda guy,” he smirked.

Chugging down the water, I handed him the glass. “Here. Can I go now and maybe try to salvage this evening?”

“Do you always antagonize those who try to help you?”

My eyes grew wider. “Excuse me?”

“I just had the harasser kicked out without even knowing him, yet I get the feeling that—”

“He wasn’t even invited here, so don’t worry, okay?” I shifted, ready to leave.

“Is it because I’m a waiter?”

Amazed by his audacity, I stopped in my tracks as my shoulders slouched, turning to him. “What now?”

“You wanna move on to talk to more… important people?”

Narrowing my eyes, I inched a bit closer, talking slowly, “I was invited here by the father of the bride. He didn’t have to do that, and God knows I don’t even belong here. The least I could do is have the decency to apologize for the scene my ex-boyfriend caused… so this really has nothing to do with your poor and frankly disgusting assumption. Okay?”

Lifting up his chin, he coolly smiled. “You know Mr. Engelbert?”

Drawing a sharp, audible breath, I pressed my lips together before sternly stating, “I’m gonna walk away now. Thanks for all your help. Good luck with the rest of this.”

Before he could respond, I marched away, pressing my clutch under my arm and holding up my long dress as I cursed everything that had been happening since I’d arrived.

“Ella, where do you keep disappearing to?” Mr. Johnson frowned with some blame in his tone. “And what was your ex doing here?”

“I’m sorry,” I sighed, shaking my head. “I didn’t—he just showed up.”

“Just showed up?” his eyebrows met above the bridge of his nose.

“I know. I feel terrible. I don’t know what’s gotten into him.”

“Ella.” He placed a hand behind my shoulder as he led me toward Mr. Engelbert’s table. “Listen to me. Ever since you and that young man parted ways, I must admit, you’ve had more energetic—”

“I know—”

“You’ve been more focused. You could really use all of that at this time in your career.”

“I know. And I promise no more distractions. I really appreciate all your support, and I’m committed to making you proud.”

“Well, then,” he smiled, holding up his head. “Let’s make sure Danny Engelbert remembers your name this time, shall we?”

Stretching my lips into a wide smile, I eagerly nodded.

Since I knew that Engelbert must have noticed how I failed to pay attention to his toast, I was apprehensive about every word that came out of my mouth during our brief conversation at his table. Nonetheless, he politely introduced me to his wife and the rest of his family. It wasn’t long before we were joined by my boss, and a brief exchange about work ensued.

As they talked about the imminent restructure in our department, my boss proudly said, “And Ella has proven to be one of our most valuable accountants in the division.”

The waiter hovered somewhere behind them as if passing through, and he winked at me. Winked. For the first time, I noticed how handsome he was. Perhaps because I was a little more relaxed, or it could have been the lighting. Either way, I felt my smile grow into a grin as I repeatedly blinked at him.

He sure did look good.

The rest of the night went smoothly, with me finally getting to mingle with everyone I was supposed to speak with. I was introduced to the bride’s brother and his wife, discussed some work matters with Mr. Johnson, and even danced a little with my boss. His wife was a sweetheart, making a joke about how well he danced with me while tripping with her.

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