The luxurious company event took place in the bustling ballroom of the city's most prestigious hotel. Golden lights refracted through crystal chandeliers, casting a dazzling glow over the smiling faces of the guests. It was a gathering of business elites, dressed in impeccably tailored suits and glamorous evening gowns, mingling and networking with fervor. Wayne stood at a corner, his mood starkly contrasting with the ambiance around him.
"Another tedious university collaboration," he muttered to himself, idly swirling a glass of champagne in his hand as if to pass the time. The evening's gala was a joint venture between Sangen Corporation and Clear River University. Each year, Sangen Corporation partnered with renowned universities nationwide, inviting outstanding students to participate in projects, with the chance for direct employment opportunities. For recent graduates, entry into Sangen Corporation was a coveted dream, making this event highly sought after by all.
As the CEO of Sangen Corporation, Wayne was obligated to participate in these initiatives, serving as a mentor in the one-on-one mentoring sessions.
"Wayne, over here! We need your input," called out a colleague beside him, interrupting his thoughts. Wayne sighed and made his way towards the group, unintentionally glancing towards the other side of the event.
It was then that a figure caught his eye. Hailey stood there in a simple yet elegant light blue dress, exuding a natural charm that belied her nervous demeanor. Her gaze darted around anxiously, lips pressed together in silent encouragement.
"She... seems familiar," Wayne thought suddenly, but couldn't quite place the memory. He found himself unable to look away, his heart beginning to race.
In that fleeting moment when their eyes met, time seemed to stand still. Hailey's eyes widened briefly in surprise before she quickly averted her gaze, as if to conceal her emotions. Yet Wayne felt an inexplicable sense of familiarity, like a chord struck gently in his heart.
"Hey, Wayne, over here!" his colleague's voice snapped him back to reality, forcing Wayne to turn away. But the longing for that figure only grew stronger within him.
Shortly after, the event's organizers announced the need to divide into smaller groups for discussions. When Wayne saw that he and the girl were assigned to the same group, a long-forgotten excitement and anticipation stirred within him. As they sat together again, the atmosphere between them grew subtly charged.
"You... seem a bit unfamiliar with these kinds of occasions," Wayne broke the silence first, his tone light yet curious.
Hailey hesitated for a moment, then offered a faint smile. "Yeah, I'm a bit nervous. But I'm here for the school project."
"I know. I'm your mentor for this project. You can call me Wayne," he smiled warmly, trying to bridge the gap between them.
They began discussing the project in earnest. Despite Hailey being an undergraduate, Wayne was struck by her sharp business instincts. She cut straight to the point with many issues and even proposed some creative and feasible solutions.
As their discussion deepened, a mutual understanding gradually formed between them. Hailey's voice was gentle yet firm, and Wayne found himself drawn to her sincerity, the feeling of familiarity intensifying within him.
"I think if we could improve this project, our company would gain significant recognition," Hailey expressed passionately, her eyes sparkling with intelligence.
"You're right. That's a very good idea," Wayne nodded in agreement, genuinely impressed by her talent.
At that moment, Hailey accidentally brushed her hand against Wayne's. The brief contact left them both momentarily stunned, their heartbeats accelerating involuntarily. Their eyes met again, and for that instant, it felt as if time stood still.
"Sorry, I didn't mean to," Hailey quickly withdrew her hand, cheeks tinged with a slight blush, silently berating herself for losing composure.
"It's okay. These events always have unexpected moments," Wayne chuckled softly, trying to ease the awkwardness.
As the event reached its climax, with music filling the air and guests gathering in animated conversation, Wayne and Hailey found themselves momentarily unable to immerse in the lively atmosphere. Instead, they exchanged a smile that spoke volumes.
"You're quite remarkable," Wayne suddenly remarked, his gaze steady and earnest.
"What? Me?" Hailey blinked in surprise, not expecting Wayne to be so direct.
"Yes, your ideas and demeanor have amazed me. I find myself wanting to know more about you," Wayne's voice was gentle yet confident.
A warmth spread through Hailey's heart, tinged with a hint of embarrassment. "Actually, I admire you a lot too. To become CEO at such a young age, that's really impressive."
"I've just been lucky," Wayne smiled modestly, though inwardly proud of her praise.
In this subtle atmosphere, their mutual attraction grew stronger. Though their appearances were unfamiliar to each other, their hearts had already left a profound impression.
As the event gradually drew to a close, Wayne couldn't help but think how wonderful it would be to have more opportunities to interact with Hailey.
"Wayne, can we discuss this project together after the event?" Hailey gathered her courage, eyes sparkling with anticipation.
"Of course, I look forward to it!" Wayne replied without hesitation, secretly rejoicing inwardly.