As Dianna approached, Alex's entire demeanor transformed. His tense shoulders eased, and a warm smile spread across his face, illuminating his features. His eyes lit up with genuine delight, and he stood up straight, his posture exuding confidence. The sight of Dianna had a profound effect on him, and he visibly relaxed in her presence.
"Hey, Alex, I see you have company," Dianna said, her voice like music, filling the space with warmth and kindness. Her radiant smile only added to Alex's ease, "none more important than you, I assure you." he said beaming back at her, clearly enchanted.
Elisa, on the other hand, seethed with fury as she watched the exchange. Her eyes narrowed, and her gaze darted between Alex and Dianna, her mind racing with questions. Why was Alex so comfortable around Dianna? Why was he smiling at her like that? A surge of jealousy coursed through her veins, and she felt her anger simmering just below the surface.
"Look at Alex, trying to schmooze with the rich and famous," Elisa jeered, her voice dripping with malice. "I guess serving drinks wasn't enough; now he's angling for a handout from Dianna's overflowing wealth."
Mark joined the chorus of mockery, his tone laced with condescension. "Yeah, Alex, we all know you're desperate. You showed up thinking you'd be pouring champagne, but now you're trying to cozy up to Dianna, hoping she'll toss you a few crumbs from her table."
Alex's expression remained serene, his focus solely on Dianna as they chatted. "Dianna that was beautiful performance. I've always been fascinated by your songwriting process. What inspires your creativity?"
Dianna's eyes sparkled. "Thank you Alex Well, that's a great question, Alex. I find inspiration in the world around me – nature, people, experiences. My latest song was influenced by my travels and the stories I've encountered."
Elisa snorted, rolling her eyes. "Oh please, Alex, you think you can relate to Dianna's luxurious lifestyle? You were barely able to provide for me when we were married."
Alex ignored Elisa's jab, his attention still focused on Dianna. "That's amazing, Dianna. I've always admired people who can accurately capture a moment into music, and I admire your talent."
Dianna smiled warmly. "Thank you, Alex. I think music has the power to transport people to that exact moment to experience what every songwriter experienced."
As the mockery continued, Alex's eyes never wavered from Dianna's face. He laughed at her jokes, asked thoughtful questions, and listened intently to her responses. The connection between was wonderful, a palpable sense of mutual respect and understanding blossoming.
Elisa's anger simmered, her jealousy festering like an open wound. She couldn't comprehend why Dianna, a renowned singer, would bother with someone like Alex – someone she perceived as beneath her. The thought of Alex receiving attention from someone so esteemed only added fuel to Elisa's burning resentment.
Mark, too, seemed perplexed by Alex's ability to ignore their jabs. He continued to taunt, his words growing more vicious, but Alex remained impervious. Dianna, sensing the tension, placed a reassuring hand on Alex's arm, her touch a subtle display of solidarity.
Dianna's was as surprised she witnessed Elisa and Mark's venomous taunts directed at Alex. She had seen Williams, a respected industry figure, bowing respectfully to Alex just moments before, and couldn't reconcile that image with the way Alex was now being treated. It was clear that Alex was a man of significance, yet he allowed the insults to roll off his back without a flicker of response.
Intrigued, Dianna chose to ignore the tension and continued chatting with Alex, using her warmth and charisma to distract him from the hurtful words. She asked him about his interests, his passions, and his thoughts on music, art, and life. Alex, grateful for the reprieve, engaged fully with Dianna, their conversation flowing effortlessly.
As they talked, Dianna couldn't help but notice the stark contrast between Alex's demeanor and the cruelty of Elisa and Mark's words. She saw a depth in Alex, a quiet strength that commanded respect, and wondered why he didn't stand up for himself against their taunts.
Dianna ignored their mocking comments, her focus solely on Alex. "So, Alex, what do you think about the music industry? Do you think it's changed much over the years?"
Alex thought for a moment before responding, his voice filled with thoughtful consideration. "I think the music industry has evolved significantly, but the core of what makes music great remains the same. It's still about connecting with people and sharing emotions."
Elisa and Mark continued to mock Alex, their voices filled with ridicule. "Oh, wow, Alex is actually giving his opinion on music. How cute," Elisa said. "What would a poor classless waiter know about music ."
Mark snickered. "Yeah, I'm sure he's got a real ear for music. I mean, who needs talent or experience when you've got a waiter's insight?"
Dianna nodded in agreement. "I know, right? Music is like a universal language. It can bring people together like nothing else can. Music has the power to transcend time and touch people's hearts."
Dianna ignored Elisa's jibe, her focus still on Alex. "So, Alex, have you ever thought about pursuing a career in music?"
Alex chuckled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Me? No way. I don't have the talent or the confidence. But I love supporting those who do."
Mark snickered. "Yeah, by serving them drinks and clearing their tables."
"Really, but you seem to know a lot about the entertainment industry seeing as you and William get along so well." Dianna replied.
Alex smiled. "I and William get along because he's so very humble and down to earth. As for the entertainment industry, I do have a little knowledge about it but I'd rather let professionals like your self and William handle the ropes."
Just as Dianna was becoming more engrossed in their conversation, Williams approached, his presence commanding attention. "Sorry to interrupt, but Dianna, it's time for your performance. You're on in five minutes."
Dianna nodded, reluctantly tearing her attention away from Alex. "I'm sorry, Alex, but I have to go. It was wonderful talking with you."
Alex smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "The pleasure was mine, Dianna. You have a wonderful performance. I'll walk with you," he said, his voice low and smooth.
Dianna smiled, nodding graciously, and together they followed Williams towards the stage. Elisa's eyes widened in outrage as she watched Alex leave with Dianna, her mind racing with jealousy. How could he be so attached to someone he had just met? Didn't he know his place? Elisa's anger grew.
She couldn't believe Alex would so openly flaunt his infatuation with Dianna, leaving her behind like a discarded relic. "Look at him," she hissed, her voice barely audible over the music. "He's so besotted, he can't even bear to be apart from her. It's disgusting." But Alex paid no heed to her.