Red Flag [COMPLETED]

Chapter 19

IRENE

This banquet thingy of the Manobans is highly important. I recalled how my best friend turned girlfriend would miss our friends' birthday party just so she could be present at their family gathering. Most likely the family does this for an important announcement or perhaps about restructuring the firm. It is not my first time being there. Lisa has invited me countless times. But apparently, I just go there for an appearance to show my support and go somewhere else. First, I don't think my presence is highly important, second, I am not really fond of Lisa's family except for her parents. Lastly, the banquet isn't interesting enough. But being her girlfriend changed my views in life. I have to be supportive of my girlfriend no matter how much I hate being there.

So I decided to pick an elegant but simple black dress that would compliment Lisa's business suit. She said she was going to wear her usual favorite attire. It's cute to have match attire with her. I am still nervous because this is going to be our first time together in an event as a couple though we are the only ones who are aware of it.

I checked the time. It's almost 6 pm. I told Lisa I can just meet her there. Of course, she insisted on picking me up but I refused. I'll go there with Yeri so I am fine. Someone is going to drive for me.

When we got to the hotel venue, Yeri immediately walked away to meet Somi while I was left looking for my girlfriend. My sister is just so whipped that she completely forgot she just told me she won't be showing her real feelings to Somi. Ugh, their relationship is more complicated compared to ours. Why do kids make things worse?

As I roamed around finding the reserved table under my name. I also enjoyed the music. The live band was playing slow jazz music in the background. And you can hear people chatting around. Some familiar faces greeted me and I greeted them back. There were other guests that I haven't met before. It kinda looked like there was a grand ball. But I didn't pay much attention because my eyes were busy looking for someone too important.  At the back of my mind. I did have a question though. Why was the place overcrowded? Like they invited many fine young men by purpose. I wondered where my girlfriend was sitting or who was with her. I spotted her parents and other family members. But no luck in finding my pretty blonde.

Our heads turned to the stage when the music suddenly stopped. There was my gorgeous girlfriend standing next to her grandpa. She looked so regal in her suit that I knew everyone was complimenting her. Damn! That's my woman. How I wish I can shout to these men she's already taken. They were too stunned to even close their mouths. Yes, she is a drop-dead gorgeous with a beautiful brain. I am nothing but a lovesick puppy. I could only see her aside she was literally standing out there. When Lisa said it's usual it's not just something you can really say usual because she looks so great in everything too. With her height, body proportion, and the way she projects anyone would think she's a professional model, not a lawyer.

"Everyone, thank you for coming." The old Manoban started his thank you speech as usual. "Tonight is the new beginning for our family. First, the restructuring of the company. It is known to many that my second son, Arthur will follow my steps and I trust him fully. Unfortunately, Arthur did not marry and has no heir. So we cannot let the tradition be cut. Also next to Arthur is my reliable granddaughter Lalisa. Everyone in the family agreed that she suits best to assist her uncle. She's the most eligible to take the spot after him. We are lucky she's back and healthy. It has been so long since she last joined us at this banquet, right? And Arthur and Lalisa are really close to each other. They teamed up and won a lot of cases before." He was both proud of his son and granddaughter. The list of their achievements goes on. Fortunately, I did not grow tired of hearing those because I am always proud of Lisa too. The guests applauded him. "Another thing we have invited bachelors and respected men in their fields as well," He wiggled his brows teasingly. "Who knows? Lisa might get interested in anyone tonight, right? She's been working hard and it is best she would find someone who can help her in the future. This young woman is too stubborn. We told her to date but she's not interested. I don't think she has someone in mind already because she only thinks about work." I could almost choke as I heard him say that. Lisa looked like she wanted to vomit and murmured something to his grandpa. She then took the microphone.