Need You

Chapter 39

It took almost three weeks before the court case was finally settled and by that time, the damage had already been done. A&H had lost clients, investors and a few workers even. We needed to find a way to get back on our feet quickly.

At my desk, engrossed in reviewing a stack of documents, a light knock came at the door. I looked up as Jay entered with his infectious smile.

"How's it going bossman?"

I grinned.

"Can I sit?" He asked and I nodded.

"What's up?"

"So I have been thinking about how we can regain the trust and confidence of our investors and possibly even attract new ones."

"What do you have in mind?" I asked intrigued.

"An office party."

That threw me off. "An office party? Are you sure that's the best approach?"

"It may not be the best approach but I think it's a right approach. Hear me out; we would invite a group of our investors, particularly those who might still be on the fence about continuing their association with us, and other people to work with. It'll be an opportunity for us to strengthen or rebuild those relationships." He elaborated enthusiastically.

"That's a bold idea." I grinned, considering Jay's proposal. My mind raced with opportunities the party could provide. "Let's do it." I decided.

"Yes bossman Harry!" He exclaimed as he stood. "I'll start planning right away."

I nodded and on his way out, I said, "Great idea by the way."

He came back to me later in the day with a plan. We discussed it and after making the necessary modifications, we were ready to set the ball rolling on throwing the party.

I pulled out my drawer and a wave of melancholy swept over me as I stared at what was inside - the notebook Amanda brought me the day she returned from the book convention.

Picking up the notebook which had the words, "My Muse" stylishly and boldly engraved in its hard cover, my mind took me back to the day she walked out of the office clearly disappointed in me, every step she took, making the crack in my heart bigger.

I hadn't seen or heard from her since then but seeing as the many opportunities this upcoming office party would provide, maybe a reconciliation between Amanda and me could be one of them and so I got my phone and called Nikki.

As certain as I was that she'd answer, she did. She and Ethel were already on the guest list and so after inviting them, I asked her to extend an invitation to Amanda as well.

The day of the office party arrived and the A&H workspace had been transformed into a vibrant and inviting space.

The walls were colourfully decorated and strategically arranged throughout the space were the tables showcasing a variety of foods and beverages.

Determined to make a positive impression, the A&H team, elegantly dressed, welcomed and engaged the guests.

The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as laughter and lively conversations between staff and associates mingled with the soft music playing in the background.

As I mingled among the guests, a wide grin spread across my face when I spotted two famiiar faces - Ethel and Nikki.

I approached them and was met with a warm smile from both.

"Congratulations Harry!" Ethel squealed as she pulled me into a hug. "I'm very proud of how far you've come."

"Thank you."