Irish Whiskey - An Ex-Lovers to Lovers Standalone

4

I m o g e n

The Rafiq couple were waiting for me at LAX. They immediately picked up my luggage from the trolley when I walked out of the airport. "Guys relax, I can take the trolley to the car just fine." As always, they didn't listen.

"We have an idea we'd like to discuss with you," Samsara said as she typed away on her tablet.

"Go ahead, I'll give it a listen."

"We thought it would be a good idea to hold an opening party to boost morale," Shoaib said as we exited the airport.

"Why that's a wonderful idea. Do we have enough funds for it?"

"We surprisingly do, that's why we thought about it."

"That's a great idea, guys, let's do it, what date are we thinking?" I asked.

"A week from today." I freeze

"That's, ... my birthday."

"Precisely why we suggested that date."

"Aw you guys, thank you." I gave my approval and informed my sisters about it.

"It'll be a good opportunity for you to familiarise yourself with this place. I have the guest list prepared, please look at it when you have time today."

"Efficient as always Shoaib." I compliment my competent secretary.

"Is Anne-Marie settled in?" I inquired.

"Yes, she arrived three days ago and was escorted to the residential building where the rest of our transferred employees are residing. It looks like it'll take some time for her to settle in. We've put Ms. Haley in charge of guiding her." Looks like she's in for a hard time.

"I have also informed her not to seek you out in the office and that even though you'll be guiding her, she'll be given no special treatment. I didn't look as perturbed as I had expected." Samsara said. The rest of the ride was quiet.

A   w e e k   l a t e r

I was surrounded by businesspersons clad in expensive clothing. I chatted with them amicably, some threw snide remarks my way but handled them skilfully. Not too polite but cordial enough. I invited a group of up-and-coming entrepreneurs, startup owners, and young professionals who shared my passion and vision. Their enthusiastic response to my speech left me nearly running out of business cards.

I spotted Thorald amidst a group of influential politicians. Considering I didn't recall inviting them, it was safe to assume Thorald was the mastermind behind this impromptu gathering. As our eyes met, Thorald quickly included me in their conversation. Now, I found myself face to face with the Governor, though I couldn't say I was particularly flattered to meet the sleazy old man. Chin up; friendly smile; you can do this.

I learnt that both the Governor and the Speaker's wives were patrons of my products. The revelation led to an unexpected proposal – they wanted to commission me to create a luxe version. It felt like hitting a jackpot! Expressing my gratitude, I subtly nudged Thorald, acknowledging his role in this fortuitous turn of events.

Securing a meeting with the Governor's and the Speaker's wives, who were now potential VIP clients, was a significant leap forward. It seemed my chance encounter with influential politicians was opening doors to an entirely new and lucrative venture.

I walked away from the old bunch, a big smile on my face, relishing the unexpected success with the influential politicians. But then, amid my victorious moment, I collided with someone I never expected to encounter here. His name wasn't supposed to be on the list; I had meticulously removed it, ensuring our paths wouldn't cross. He couldn't be here, could he? It had to be a figment of my imagination.