Office Desires

30. Maybe

At the elegant hotel, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as guests gathered for a sophisticated jazz event. The lobby, adorned with dimmed lights and tasteful decor, resonated with the soft hum of conversations and the clinking of glasses. The air was infused with the enchanting melodies of a live jazz band, their smooth tunes creating a captivating ambiance.

As attendees mingled and found their seats in the plush surroundings, the hotel staff ensured every detail was impeccably arranged. The stage, bathed in a warm spotlight, awaited the talented musicians who were set to grace the evening with their musical prowess. The anticipation in the air was palpable, heightened by the flickering candlelight that added an intimate touch to the event.

The clock ticked closer to the scheduled performance, the crowd settled into their seats, eager to be transported into the world of jazz. The rhythmic beats and soulful improvisations of the musicians echoed through the venue, casting a spell on the audience. Faces lit up with appreciation as the jazz ensemble skillfully navigated through each note, creating an immersive experience that transcended the boundaries of time and space.

Descending the stairs in her elegant black dress, Debbie could feel Lou's gaze on her. The room pulsed with the rhythm of the jazz music, creating an atmosphere charged with anticipation. As she reached the bottom of the stairs, Debbie took a deep breath, mustering the courage to approach Lou at the bar.

"Hey there," she said with a coy smile, her eyes meeting Lou's.

Lou, nursing her drink, smirked playfully. "Well, look who's all dolled up. Special occasion?"

Debbie chuckled, a nervous energy beneath her confident facade. "Just felt like dressing up tonight. You know, jazz night and all."

Lou raised an eyebrow, her gaze lingering on Debbie. "You clean up nicely. Almost didn't recognize you."

"Why does it feel like a false compliment ?"Debbie sighed.

"No I was flattering you." Lou uttered with her famous smirked.

Debbie rolled her eyes, a hint of a smile playing on her lips. "Flattery will get you nowhere."

Lou chuckled, taking a sip of her drink. "Nowhere? That's a shame. I was hoping for at least a step or two closer."

As Debbie settled onto the barstool next to Lou, the air between them shifted. The jazz music swirled around them, and for a moment, Debbie felt like she was in a scene from a classic movie. She took a sip of her drink, glancing sideways at Lou.

"You're quiet tonight," Lou observed, a softness in her eyes that Debbie hadn't expected.

Debbie shrugged, trying to maintain her composure. "Just soaking in the music and the atmosphere."

Lou leaned in, her lips close to Debbie's ear. "Or maybe you're just trying to mesmerize me."

Debbie blushed, the unexpected intimacy catching her off guard. "Mesmerize you? Please, I think I've had enough of your teasing for one night."

The jazz melodies continued to weave through the air. Suddenly, a girl approached Lou with an air of familiarity that sent a pang of jealousy through Debbie.

"Hey, Lou!" the girl greeted, her tone a little too friendly for Debbie's liking.

Lou looked up, a casual smile on her face. "Hey there. Long time no see."

The girl flicked her gaze toward Debbie, her eyes lingering for a moment before returning to Lou. "Who's your friend?"

Debbie shifted uncomfortably, her jealousy bubbling beneath the surface.  "This is Debbie. Debbie, meet Cassy."