Everyone in the office got a notification, a notice for the company's upcoming party in two weeks to celebrate the most expensive jewellery sold in a 3-hour auction. Excitement buzzed through the air as the date approached, and the anticipation was palpable.
Finally, the night of the party arrived. The company venue had been transformed into a dazzling celebration space, adorned with glittering decorations that reflected the company's success. Golden and silver streamers hung from the ceiling, and crystal chandeliers cast a warm glow over the room. Tables were draped in elegant linens, and the air was filled with the enticing aroma of gourmet food.
Callistus arrived, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. He wore a sharp suit, the dark fabric contrasting with his light shirt, and he'd even managed to tame his unruly hair. As he stepped inside, he was greeted by the sight of his colleagues laughing, chatting, and dancing. The DJ played a mix of upbeat songs that had everyone on their feet, and the bartenders were busy crafting colourful drinks.
Callistus mingled with his colleagues, enjoying the lighthearted atmosphere. He danced a little, chatted with Mia and the others, and even joined in a few group photos. Mia was in high spirits, her laughter infectious as she recounted funny anecdotes from the office. Danish, looking stunning in a dark blue suit, teased Callistus about his dancing skills, or lack thereof.
"Come on, Callistus," Danish said with a grin. "You can do better than that!"
Callistus laughed, attempting a clumsy spin that ended with him nearly tripping. "I'll leave the fancy moves to you," he replied, grinning back at Danish.
Callistus socialised more that night, meeting Danish's friends like Haikal, Afiq and Akmal. Callistus had some fun around them all, although not having the same interests, talking with them was interesting.
After a while, the noise and the crowd became overwhelming. Callistus excused himself, needing a break from the sensory overload. He slipped out of the main hall and wandered into the quieter halls of the building.The beautiful designs he was mesmerised about last time. The contrast was stark, the silence soothing after the cacophony of the party. He sighed in relief, appreciating the calm.
As he rounded a corner, he unexpectedly bumped into someone again.
"Who-?" Callistus exclaimed, surprised.
Ivan looked equally startled for a moment before breaking into a smile. "Callistus? What are you doing out here?"
"Just needed a breather from all the noise and people," Callistus admitted, returning Ivan's smile.
"I get that," Ivan said, leaning against the wall. "Sometimes it's nice to step away for a bit."
They stood there for a moment, simply enjoying each other's company. Ivan's gaze softened as he looked at Callistus. "You look good tonight," he said, his voice gentle.
Callistus felt a blush creeping up his cheeks. "Thanks. You dressed up pretty well too."
Ivan chuckled, the sound warm and genuine. "So, did you have fun at the party?"
"Yeah, it's been great. But it's even better now," Callistus said, surprising himself with his honesty.
Ivan's eyes sparkled with amusement. "Oh? And why is that?"
"Because I ran into you," Callistus replied, his voice barely above a whisper.
Ivan's smile widened, and he took a step closer. "You know, Callistus, I've been thinking a lot about you lately."
Callistus looked up, his heart pounding. "You have?"
"Yeah," Ivan said, his tone earnest. "You're special to me, and I want you to know that."
Callistus felt a flutter in his chest. "I-"
Before he could say anything more, Ivan gently reached out and tucked a strand of hair behind Callistus's ear. "You don't have to say anything. Just know that I'm here for you, no matter what."
They stood there in the dimly lit hallway, the air between them charged with unspoken emotions. Callistus felt a warmth spreading through him, a feeling of being truly seen and cared for.
"Thank you, Ivan," Callistus said softly. "That means a lot to me."
Ivan nodded, his hand lingering for a moment before he stepped back. "Do you want to see something?"
Callistus looked puzzled but agreed. Ivan led him to the elevator and up to the top floor.
"Close your eyes," Ivan said, gently covering Callistus's eyes with his hand.
"I hope you're not planning to throw me off," Callistus joked.
Ivan chuckled as they stepped out into the cold night air. When they stopped, Ivan removed his hand. Callistus opened his eyes to a breathtaking view of the moon. The sight left him mesmerised.
Ivan leaned on the railing, "People rarely come up here, but I wanted to show you what they're missing."
Callistus turned to face Ivan, his eyes reflecting the moonlight. Ivan smiled at him warmly.
"Do you want to head back now?" Ivan asked.
Callistus smiled, feeling lighter than he had all night. "Let's stay a while and enjoy the quiet."
—
When they walked back to the party together, the atmosphere in the hall seemed even more electric. They rejoined the festivities, but this time, there was a subtle shift in the air between them. It was as if a veil had been lifted, and the connection they shared was now clear and undeniable.
Throughout the night, they found themselves gravitating toward each other. During a particularly lively song, Ivan pulled Callistus onto the dance floor, guiding him through a series of playful moves. Callistus laughed, his earlier awkwardness forgotten in the joy of the moment.
"You're not so bad at this after all," Ivan teased, his eyes twinkling.
"Thanks to you," Callistus replied, feeling a surge of confidence.
Later, as the night began to wind down, they retreated to a quieter corner of the venue. They found a cozy spot by a large window overlooking the city skyline. The twinkling lights outside mirrored the sparkling decorations inside, creating a magical backdrop for their conversation.
"I'm glad you had this party," Callistus said, looking out at the view.
"Me too," Ivan replied, his gaze fixed on Callistus. "It's been a good night."
Callistus turned to meet Ivan's eyes, feeling a swell of emotions. "Ivan, I don't know what to say…"
Ivan reached out, taking Callistus's hand in his. "You don't have to say anything," he said softly.
They sat there, hand in hand, the world around them fading away. In that moment, everything felt right. The party, the people, the music—it all seemed distant compared to the warmth and connection they shared.
As the final songs played and people began to trickle out, Ivan and Callistus remained in their corner, lost in their own world.
When it was finally time to leave, they walked out together, the cool night air wrapping around them. Ivan offered Callistus his jacket, and they shared a quiet laugh about the chivalrous gesture.
"Thank you for tonight," Callistus said as they stood by the entrance.
"No, thank you," Ivan replied, his voice sincere. "For everything."
A car pulled up, and Ivan opened the door for Callistus before getting in himself.