Chapter 5 Welcome Party

Elsie's POV

Straightening my back, I forced myself to stand tall and proud. I could feel people's eyes on me as I walked into my office to get my final personal belongings.

I had already packed my things, I just needed to sort out the documents and files for whoever was going to take over.

Up until now, Daniel had not called, but I'm positive after today, he would know what's up.

I handed the necessary things to my colleagues, standing at the door of my office, it was my little sanctuary and now it was ruined. It used to fill me with a sense of pride and joy but now I feel nauseated.

As I exited the building, my phone rang in my bag, picking it up, I soon realized who it was.

"McLean."

"Yes Sir."

"I trust you are doing well." Mr. Larson's voice boomed with life and energy. "I know you said you needed some time before you start work but the company is hosting a party, to welcome you."

"Oh, I don't think that's necessary."

"Nonsense, see to it that you make it."

"I appreciate it, Sir."

I stared at the phone as the call ended, who knew they still threw welcome parties for people? Oh well, I don't particularly have a choice. It sounded more like an order than a request.

It doesn't matter, this was my new office, I had to put up a show, I can't claim to want to attend. I wonder what the other colleagues would be like? Will they be fun and accepting or cold?

There was only one way to find out, I had to attend and as always dress like the star of the show.

The party was later in the evening, I still had a lot of time to get ready. As my first appearance in the company, I had to make a statement.

I stared at my reflection in the mirror and I was satisfied with what I saw. Chic, classy, and elegant, I absolutely adored the look I had going on.

I always believed in less is more and the dress paired with simple but expensive jewellery made me look stunning. It was almost time, I had to move on and this was the first place to start.

As expected of a successful law firm, they had a lounge specific for special occasions, my cheeks heated and my ears burned as I stepped into the party. Everyone present turned and focused on me.

I was not surprised, I was used to attention but for some strange reason, I felt conscious of myself and everybody around me.

To my surprise, everyone started clapping, approaching me, welcoming and smiling at me. I knew not all were genuine but I just went along with the vibe.

From experience, it's only a matter of time, these same faces that are happy and smiling might say the most outrageous things but for now, I will just go with it.

"Elsie." I heard a feminine giggle and there they were, I could already picture them in the gossip room.

"Welcome to the company."

"Thank you."

In the meantime I just enjoyed them while they were being nice, it was lively and I immersed myself in the conversations basking in the happiness emitting from the party.

"Don't drink too much, I don't want to hear about your exploits tomorrow." One of the ladies said to her friend, practically rolling her eyes in the process.

"If the exploits were with Albie won't you be interested?" She replied mischievously.

All the ladies around smiled and blushed, I was immediately curious, was I missing something?

"Don't mind them, Elsie." One said as she noticed my confusion. "It seems everyone loves Albie."

"Who wouldn't? He's handsome, hot, and a successful attorney."

"Not to mention, I heard he's wild in bed." She whispered and winked at me.

"Oh, what I would do to have him, he's every lady's dream."

The entrance suddenly became rowdy, I turned to meet eye to eye with the man in question. Speak of the devil.

He walked in confidently with a self-assurance that made him extremely powerful. Excusing himself from his group of friends, he made a beeline in my direction.

His eyes focused on me, I felt unease under his gaze and I tried to ignore the way my stomach tightened as he approached me.

Several women tried to get his attention, greeting him and striking mild conversations but he politely set them aside, not losing sight of my position.

"Elsie." A smile slowly played across his handsome face as he met up with me." It's a pleasure to see you."

"Same here Albie." I was surprised by how high my voice sounded, that was very strange.

"I'm very excited to have you on board."

I didn't know how to reply so I nodded and fought to get a hold of my voice. Why was I getting giddy? I've known and met him already.

"It seems we have been placed on the same team." I finally spoke and I was grateful my voice didn't squeak.

"Yes, it's about time, don't you think so?"

I laughed and it eased up my nervousness. I got a grip on my emotions which helped me to relax and enjoy the conversation.

A few others joined us but for some reason, I ended up talking to him more and I loved every second of it.

"Albie, stop hurdling the star of the party." One of his friends jokingly said.

"Well, she isn't complaining, are you?"

He looked at me intently, I just smiled and took a sip from my drink to avoid replying.

As the party wore on, I got the contacts of a few of my new acquaintances, I had fun and enjoyed myself but it was time to call it a night.

While I was arranging my stuff to leave, I felt a presence behind me. It was Albie.

"Leaving already?"

"Unfortunately, yes but I had so much fun, thank you."

"The pleasure was all mine, see you tomorrow."

"Oh sorry but I won't be coming to work tomorrow."

Tomorrow I had to meet up with the person I mistakenly switched cases with so I won't come to work.

His eyes glowed softly. "Guess you will find out." He walked off leaving me puzzled and wondering what he meant.