Learning to Live

Chapter 31

When I was a kid, I remember my dad would always say share and be kind to others. Even though I didn't heed his words in my adulthood, I did try to give back on occasion by hosting an annual Christmas Charity ball.

Like every year, everyone who's anyone was attending; from politicians, celebrities, restaurateurs. This year's benefits or donations will go to cancer research and to the people who've struggled with cancer.

I arrived with Jon at seven, outside the hotel were a lot of people, cars, and limos pulling up. Women in their most expensive gowns and men sporting in dapper tuxedos. My Charity gala was one always talked about since it brought in millions last year.

I booked a room at the hotel for Shana since she was working late and wouldn't get the time to go home and get dressed and attend the gala.

Jon at the moment looks like he's on cloud nine dancing with young rich women he managed to sweet talk. Since the breakup with Camelia, he's been happier than a puppy who's found where the kibble was stored. I know that it's a front because sometimes I'd see him looking so depressed when no one was watching.

There was alcohol, and though I was attending the meetings it was hard for me not to give in, still. So I had to find other distractions, meaning mingling. I'm never the one to start a conversation but I had to make an exception.

To my far right, I saw Mayor George Waite speaking with a woman in a floral gown. Before he was Mayor he attended my galas regularly and donated large sums each time.

"Mayor Waite, how are you?"

"Ian! Great turn out as per usual."

"Thank you. How's Mrs. Waite? I haven't seen her."

"She went to Washington to visit her mom. She sends her love."

"Be sure to thank her for me."

"Ian, this is Sarah McNealy. She is the CEO of Super tech." I turned around and saw Sarah smirking back at me.

"Sarah,"

"Hello, again Ian." she said with a smug smile on her face.

"You two know each other?" Mayor Waite asks.

"Unfortunately."

"Ah, there he is! My old friend Dr. Shermer." He points at a gentleman just arriving with a young woman on his arm. "I have to go and say hi. Talk to you later Ian, Ms. McNealy."

"Sure Mayor, Thank you for coming." i looked at Mayor Waite as he left and returned my glare at Sarah. "What are you doing here Sarah?"

"For charity of course. I'm not entirely heartless you know." She smirks and takes a glass of champagne from a nearby waiter.

I took a step away but when I thought about how she treated Lilith, I just couldn't help but ask, "How could you do that to Lilith? She was your best friend and partner."

"I don't tolerate traitors and the only way to make an example out of them is to expose them."

A photographer walks up in front of us, "Excuse me, can I get a photo of the two of you?"

"No thanks."

"Oh come on Ian, live a little," Sarah said with a smile faker than her nose. She steps closer to me and said through a toothy grin. "Let's show them that there is no bad blood between us." She pulled me closer and wraps her arm around my waist.

Before I said anything else, the camera light flashes almost blinding me. I wasn't ready and I probably looked awful in that photo.

I tug myself away from her grasp after the photographer wandered off, "Get your hands off me."