Mixed signals

It was their annual company summer party and the hall was packed with people from all walks of life. It was not supposed to be a formal party as the theme was Legends and Myths but white collar people could make things seem uptight all the time. The co-owners of Petals Cosmetics and Pharmaceuticals were the chief hosts of the get-together though the public face of the company, Mr Peter Torres, was more appreciated. His partner was barely known to any, as he spent most of his time on the road, traveling the world.

"Mr Torres, may I just say how lovely this party is? Everything looks well put together. You must give me the contacts of your event planner," Lady Carletta praised, looking here and there.

"She probably wants everyone to notice her new diamond necklace," Regina, Peter's wife whispered to her eldest daughter, who tittered into her palm.

"Thank you, Carletta but it was my darling Gina who did all the planning. Maybe you should talk to her about it. I'll give you ladies some room," Peter gave her a little nod and exited gracefully. Regina mouthed 'Coward' at him and he winked, letting off his sexiest smile. She grumbled under her breath and gave Carletta her best fake smile.

Men walked in and out with their escorts on their arm, mistresses and wives alike. The theme enabled women to dress as skimpy as they liked: spilling cleavages, tanned laps and backs, bleached hair and excess makeup. The live band was delivering a soft tune, perfect for a slow waltz and enough to keep waists swaying.

Suddenly, the music stopped and everyone's eyes were glued to the entrance where an enchanting man stood, a model at his elbow. Jealous female eyes ate the female alive where she clung innocently to him. The mysterious man had a lock of dark hair hanging over his right eye but his wicked smile charmed the whole room.

"Richard, it is so good to see you," Peter exclaimed, moving in to enclose him in a hug though Richard was the bigger man. Richard chuckled in a sexy bass and patted Peter's back in a brotherly manner.

"It's good to be back, Pete. Oh, my manners! Pete, this is Lauren, my date and Lauren, this is ....."

"Mr Peter Torres. Everyone knows Mr Peter," Lauren completed, going red in the cheeks.

"Ouch! I must be out of existence then. Where is dear Gina? I came here to see her, not you, you old bat."

"She is right here," Gina announced herself and turned her cheek left and right to receive French kisses from her husband's best man. She punched him in the gut after the pleasantries and he faked doubling over in pain.

"Gina, what have I done now?" Richard asked, pouting his full, pink lips.

"That's for missing all my baby showers, my kids' birthdays, our 15th wedding anniversary, the company's 15th anniversary....oh my God, you bastard!" She got ready to take another swing at him but he got out of it in time.

"Hey, hey! I'm here now, ain't I? I will make up to you guys somehow, I promise. Now where are my pretties?" Richard asked, changing the subject. The reason behind his life on the road was best known to him and it was better that way.

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