Love and Lies

Chapter 15

The days that followed were a blur of work and silent tension. Alex remained distant, his demeanor even colder than before, and I found myself avoiding his gaze whenever possible. Kevin's cheerful presence was a welcome distraction, but even he couldn't completely dispel the unease that had settled over me.

One afternoon, as I was engrossed in my work, Alison and Richard approached Kevin's and my workstation.

"We have seen you two working really hard on the production and distribution of the cough medicine," said Alison.

"Yes, Samantha, considering your limited experience in such a stressful and fast-paced environment, you've done an excellent job. And you too, Kevin. Well done," Richard added.

"Thank you for the compliments, Alison and Richard. It means a lot," I said, smiling.

"We won't let you down," Kevin added, smiling.

"We know you won't," Alison replied with a smile. "So, we've organized a small dinner after work for you guys, as a token of our appreciation for your hard work."

"Really? That would be great," Kevin said excitedly.

"So, be ready at seven in the parking lot," Richard instructed.

"Okay, Richard. Thank you for the dinner; we'll be there on time," I said politely.

They left our cubicle, and we got back to work. Kevin was informing his wife that he would be late today. I also informed Sia that I would be late. Before we knew it, we were standing in the parking lot, waiting for Richard, who had forgotten his car keys in his office and went back to get them. While we waited, Alex appeared in the parking lot. Hopefully, he wasn't joining us for dinner, as Alison had mentioned he seemed busy earlier this morning.

But then Kevin, in his usual manner, had to invite him. "Sir, why don't you join us for dinner?" he asked.

"Is everyone going together?" Alex inquired.

"Yes, sir. The team, Alison, Richard, Jone, Samantha, and I," Kevin replied.

"Then I should join as well," Alex said.

Wasn't he busy? Why does he have to join? Just then, Richard arrived with the keys.

"So, guys, let's get going," he said excitedly. As we walked towards the cars, Richard turned to me. "Samantha, you'll be riding with Alex. My car is full and head scientist is going alone, why don't you give him some company, I hope you don't mind". He said while smiling.

I blinked in surprise. I didn't want to be alone with the devil in one car but I don't have any option but to go with him.

"Oh, okay, sure" I responded, trying to mask my emotion.

Alex's car was parked a bit further away. As we approached, he unlocked it remotely, and the lights flashed. I took a deep breath and got into the passenger seat. The tension was palpable as he started the engine, and we drove in silence.

The drive to the restaurant was in silence. He didn't say anything nor did I. I was glad he was not saying anything but I would glance at him occasionally. I couldn't stop myself but to look at his handsome side profile. In a few minutes Alex pulled up in front of the restaurant where the team was already waiting for us.