Zemblanity

Chapter 5

When we arrived at the entrance, flags were hoisted at every other groove on the building, featuring swirling patterns of blue and white. We exited the vehicle and stepped onto the carpet, likely laid out for esteemed guests. Nanotech cameras floated around, capturing images from all angles, which was always fascinating to watch.

Recalling Aunt Rachel's words, we made sure to put up our best behavior as we entered the hall. Despite the blinding lights, the people dancing, chatting, and networking. Auntie introduced us to some of her coworkers, and from the corner of my eye  a man approached us, I couldn't help but notice his tie, which matched Auntie's dress.

The boys furrowed their brows at the man's tie, looking every bit like brothers. Catching Auntie's attention, the man greeted her warmly, clearly familiar with her. I couldn't help but imagine Evander's reaction to their interaction, and the thought brought a smirk to my lips.

After exchanging pleasantries, the man expressed his desire to dance with Aunt Rachel, leaving us behind. We watched from the corner as they danced, and Evander leaned in to whisper to me, "is he, her superior or not? Because I'm quite sure they're far too close to each other for just mere employee and boss relationship " Andy's smile indicated that he found the situation amusing.

Rolling my eyes at Evander's speculation, I replied, "Leave it be. If there was something significant, Aunt Rachel would tell us." He brought his hand to his forehead and rubbed hard.

"Just the idea is gross, plus she could do better. He was a bit rude wasn't he Andy?" Evander questioned, startling Andy from his evaluation of the man. He looked over at us bug eyed.

"You have something to say about every man that she is remotely close with, and she hasn't shown any interest in a man since she had to take us in " i replied for Andy.

"That is exactly why we need to be on our toes. Plus, I think how they react to us is a good indicator of their personality...and you saw the tie, didn't you?" I didn't refute anything because what he said is true. It's not like we are better options at giving advice. We are biased and Aunt Rachel doesn't seem to have many friends honestly. Coworkers she has but not friends.

"yeah, yeah. You're right but what are you gonna do? Interrogate him? " I mused.

It got quiet, I spun around to face him. He had that stupid thinking face on "NO"

He ignored me and turned to Andy. He knew I wouldn't do it and I wouldn't let him do it. He really likes to get Andy into things. If Andy agreed to do it himself, I wouldn't stop him from doing it.

"well Andy, you up to be interrogate him?" I tried to give Andy a glare over Evander's shoulder in warning. But I was blocked, damn Evander and his height.

"I don't think that would work considering he has a baby face" I spoke up before he could answer.

Ignoring me "sure, can't be too hard." Looking over at me Andy spoke "I'm bored and Evander will get off your back about it too. Win-win situation." Evander made a noise of confirmation and an affronted noise. My mouth only fell open at that.

"Okay Andrew chop chop let's get to work. We are on a time crunch here. We need to work with the time we have "Andy just rolls his eyes at him and goes off to sate his boredom.

I only closed my eyes and took a deep breath, and hoped for the best.

"Now let's see what they have to eat here," Evander said without hesitation, and we headed over to the tables. The spread was impressive, with assortments ranging from delicate dishes to hearty fare. Evander and I filled our plates and found a table in the furthest corner to enjoy our meal.

"Do you think the man will answer Andy's questions? For all we know, we read the situation wrong, and Andy might get in trouble with Auntie," I voiced my concern. i realized the vegetables are richer in color than the ones found in markets.

"Andy will probably ask in a roundabout way and figure it out. Besides, we both know Auntie wouldn't hold it against him," Evander replied confidently.

"I'm quite sure it's this behavior she was worried about," I mused. 

"I mean she expects it from us not Andy, she shouldn't have overlooked him" he was right, aunty seemed to overlook a lot of things these days. If she is worried about Evander not staying in line, she was worried about the wrong twin. I remember the incident with Andy and his peers. She told me I should have gotten more punches in. She didn't know from the first punch he was out cold, and the second punch I broke his nose causing the boy to have issue with breathing. How she didn't know that well, Evander told the rest of the boy's friends as a warning to not let the extent of the injuries reach aunty about it or else. Andy had been nursing his injuries in a corner and knew not to refute his words. Evander takes care of damage control and is my safety pin.

As we continued eating, Evander suddenly stood up and declared, "I'm going to look around."

"Just make sure not to go into the museum room or touch anything. Be back in 20 minutes tops, okay?" I reminded him firmly.

"Okay, mother," Evander teased, eliciting an irritated response from me. Nonetheless, I let his remark slide as he left the table.

Left alone at the table, I scanned the room and noticed a young man, perhaps around 20 years old, making his way through the crowd. He appeared intelligent, though not particularly striking in looks. Nonetheless, he was a welcome sight amidst the older attendees. As more of the younger generation filtered in, I returned my focus to my notes, attempting to absorb as much information as possible. I couldn't help but wonder why Miss Gonzalez insisted on giving a test on the first day of the week. Did she not have anything better to do?

When I glanced up again, I realized the young man was heading straight towards me. My heart quickened as he showed no signs of stopping at any other table. Rising from my seat as casually as possible, I began to move away, thankful for the spaciousness of the hall. Glancing back, I noticed several other ladies trying to catch his attention, but he seemed oblivious to their advances. Come on, talk to them, I silently urged, but it became apparent that I would have to take matters into my own hands and walk away.