As Alex was enjoying his time with Director White and her daughter Emily, his phone suddenly rang, disrupting the warm, cozy atmosphere they had built. Thinking it might be a work-related call, Alex quickly checked his phone. To his surprise, it was Secretary Jessica.
"Strange," Alex muttered under his breath as he hesitated before answering. He wasn't expecting her to call, especially during New Year's Eve.
"Hello?" Alex answered, keeping his voice casual.
"Alex, where are you?" Jessica's voice came through, sounding a little distant, perhaps even a bit lonely. "I was wondering if you'd like to come over to my place and celebrate the New Year with me. Sam's still out of the country, and I'm all by myself."
Alex was caught off guard. He had grown close to Secretary Jessica over time, but he couldn't just leave now. The thought of abandoning Director White and Emily at such a festive time made him feel conflicted.
"I'm really sorry, Secretary Jessica," Alex said, trying to sound both apologetic and casual. "I've got other plans tonight. I'm spending time with some friends, and I can't really leave them. But thank you so much for inviting me. I hope you have a great New Year."
Jessica paused for a moment. "Alright, Alex. Thanks for letting me know. I guess it's just me and a glass of wine then. Have a great New Year, and we'll catch up soon."
"Of course," Alex replied, forcing a smile she couldn't see. "Take care. Happy New Year."
After hanging up, Alex sighed, the tension still lingering from the unexpected call. The sound must've caught Director White's attention, as she looked over with a curious smile.
"Who was that?" Director White asked, placing a dish on the table.
Alex hesitated for a second before answering. "It was Secretary Jessica. She invited me to her place for New Year's Eve. She's feeling a bit lonely since Sam is out of the country, and she's by herself at home."
Director White's smile faltered, replaced by a look of understanding. "It must be hard for her. I know her family doesn't stay in touch much, especially during the holidays. At times like these, it's easy to feel alone."
Alex nodded, the memory of his previous night with Secretary Jessica flashing in his mind. He chose his words carefully. "She was in a pretty bad mood when I visited her last night. I stayed for a bit to cheer her up, and it seemed to help." He kept his tone light and nonchalant, deciding to leave out the more personal details of that evening.
Director White raised an eyebrow slightly, but sensing Alex's hesitation to elaborate, she didn't push further. Instead, she stood up, removing her kitchen overalls, and motioned towards the bedroom.
"Let me freshen up before we start the real celebration," she said, disappearing into the other room.
Emily, ever playful, seized the opportunity. She picked up the bottle of daughter red wine, pouring three glasses. The rich amber color of the wine swirled in the light, and the sweet aroma filled the room.
"Try it, Uncle!" Emily encouraged, pushing one of the glasses towards Alex. She watched eagerly as he took a sip.
The wine was smooth, mellow, and surprisingly sweet. It had a refreshing quality that made it easy to drink, yet it carried a richness that hinted at its special brewing process. Alex savored it, feeling the warmth spread through his chest.
Emily couldn't resist trying it herself. She sipped her glass and then took another, clearly enjoying the taste.
"This wine isn't strong at all," she remarked, licking her lips. "It's so sweet! Uncle, let's toast first!"
Alex chuckled, shaking his head. "No, Emily. We can't start without your mother. We'll wait for her."
Emily groaned in mock frustration. "Hurry up, Mom! Uncle's waiting for you!" she called toward the bedroom.
Director White's voice echoed from the other room, amused. "I'm coming, I'm coming!"
Moments later, she emerged from the bedroom, having quickly freshened up. She had changed into a fitted T-shirt that accentuated her graceful curves. Her hair flowed loosely around her shoulders, and her face had a natural glow that radiated confidence and beauty.
For a second, Alex was taken aback. She looked stunning, like a vision of elegance and warmth. With the fine wine, the delicious food, and the company of such a beautiful woman, Alex couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of pride and contentment. Spending New Year's in such an environment felt like a true blessing.
Director White sat down at the table, noticing Emily's overly large glass of wine. "Emily," she scolded lightly, "why are you using such a big glass? You're only allowed a small one tonight. Go change it for a proper glass."
Emily pouted dramatically but complied, swapping her glass out for a smaller one.
Once she returned, Director White raised her glass and smiled warmly at both of them. "Now, let's raise a toast together, bid farewell to the old year, and welcome the new one!"
Alex smiled, feeling the warmth of the moment. He lifted his glass along with Emily and Director White.
"I wish you all the best in the coming year," Director White said with heartfelt sincerity. "May Emily do well in her studies, and may Alex get that promotion at work!"
Emily beamed, "I wish Uncle Alex good fortune and lots of money in the new year, and I wish my mom good health and happiness!"
The three of them clinked their glasses together, the soft tinkling sound adding to the sense of celebration and unity in the room.