I glanced up at Mr. Brown, who was on stage. Despite the murmurs from the crowd, he seemed unaffected, still as captivating and radiant as ever, speaking fluidly and effortlessly.
Unsure if he noticed the intensity of my stare, he casually turned around, sweeping his gaze across the audience.
Our eyes met.
I quickly averted my gaze, feeling overwhelmed and awkward.
"Kelly, come up here," he called out suddenly in front of everyone.
The crowd had started to cheer and tease. I had no idea what he was planning.
Almost as if compelled by some unseen force, I walked up and stood next to Mr. Brown. He wrapped an arm around me, pulled me close, and announced, "As of today, Kelly Emmie is officially my girlfriend."
I was speechless, my eyes wide as I tried to process his words.
A smug smile played across Mr. Brown's lips.
After that night, it was like I had a target on my back at work. People avoided me, their looks tinged with suspicion.
Handing over documents or trying to make small talk met with curt responses; they'd take the files and hurry off.
I felt uneasy all over. In the break room, I caught up with the marketing director, the only one who seemed friendly.
"What's with everyone? Is it because I'm Mr. Brown's girlfriend now?" I asked.
"You're still new here, Kelly. There's a lot you don't know. Just give it time," she said, her discomfort apparent.
She hesitated, then whispered before leaving, "Keep your distance from Mr. Brown, okay? Just enough to stay safe."
I didn't fully grasp her warning, choosing instead to ignore it.
I believed in my work quality and skills; I was with Mr. Brown because he treated me better than anyone else ever had.
I was just following my heart; they had no right to judge.
Mr. Brown usually drove me home, but that night, he suddenly turned around.
"Where are you heading?" I asked, puzzled.
"To my place," he stated flatly.
"We've only been together a few days. Isn't this too soon?" I questioned, my voice tinged with hesitation.
"What's the problem? You're my girlfriend now," he retorted, almost defensively.
Influenced by my traditional upbringing, I was uncomfortable.
"I think I'll head to my own home. If it's too much trouble, you can drop me off, and I'll take a cab," I offered diplomatically.