Chapter 52

I took my gaze to my fingers which were on my lap and a tear slipped out of my eyes. I sniffed in, trying to stop the tears, but it just won't stop. I've been a crying mess since I came back from the restaurant. I don't even know why I'm crying. My mind went back to what happened in the restaurant and I sighed. Why did I even shout at James? He didn't even do anything wrong to harm me, he helped me instead, but I just went ahead to yell at him, instead of being thankful.

I don't even know why I'm hurting like this. It's my fault that I can't do anything right, but still... I feel so ashamed. I really thought nothing really happened this time, having no idea that it was all James' handwork. It made me feel stupid. How would I even face him again? Another tear fell again, and I wiped it off.

My eyes went to the clock and a loud sigh left my lips. It was only five minutes before the conference started, but I really don't feel like going.

"Ahhh!" My shoulders slumped down. I can't believe I'm starting off like this. My eyes remained on the clock as I watched as the time ticked and just as the clock ticked on the 12pm, I sprang up going over to the mirror, but I was taken aback at the sight of my red, puffy eyes. Did I cry this much?

Rushing over to the bathroom, I watched my face before heading back out. I applied little lips gloss, took my phone and small sling purse before heading out of the room. I won't miss this because of my silliness.

I made my way to the conference hall. Thankfully, they were just about starting. I made my way to one of the seats and settled down. As I did, my eyes landed on James who was staring at me, but I quickly looked away.

The session started with a keynote speech by an Italian speaker before we moved on to panel discussions on various industries. Many CEO'S shares their insights and experiences, one of which was James, who stood out while doing so. His confidence and charisma as he spoke left me in awe. I found myself drawing to his words, unable to get the thought of how attractive he looked while presenting.

Aiish. I know shouldn't be doing this right now, but I can't help it.

As I exited the hall with the other CEOs, a loud sigh escaped my lips, releasing the pent-up energy from the intense session. We spent more than two hours as planned, but it was worth it. I learnt quite a lot, and my brain felt refreshed. However, I was famished. My stomach was growling with hunger, so I quickly made my way to the restaurant, ordered the quickest thing I could get which was cheese hamburger.

Skipping breakfast really made me hungry and right now, I hope not to be distracted by anyone. But of course, that wish can not be answered with the type of people I knew here. James showed up, sitting right in front of me the moment the waitress came back with my order.

Ignoring his presence, not because I was angry, but because I was ashamed, I picked my burger and took a huge bite, listening as he ordered for his own food. Glancing briefly at him, I choked on the burger when I saw him staring right at me. His expression changed to worry as he poured a glass of water before handing it to me.

I blinked, my eyes darting between the water and James concerned face. Should I take it or not? Of course, I should. It would be weird if I start acting awkward. I forced a smile and took the glass from him. As I drank, our gaze locked and I felt a flutter in my heart. Lowering the glass, I gulped, my throat suddenly dry even after I just drank water. James gaze remained fixed on me, his worry palpable.

I chucked nervously, "I'm fine. You should stop worrying about me. I can take care of myself." I said, and he sighed. "About what happened in the morning – "

"I don't want to talk about it." I cut in and taking another huge bite, I stood up.

"Wait - where are you going?" He stood up too.

"I'm going to my room."

"But you are not done eating." He motioned at the remaining piece of my burger.

"I'm full." I smiled and turned to go, but he held me, his touch sending sparks to my body. "If this is because of me, then I will leave."

"You don't have to. You ordered something, remember?" I told him, tilting my head slightly.

"I don't mi – "

"Enjoy your meal, James." I cut in, removed his hand from mine, turned around and walked out of the restaurant, releasing a loud breath immediately.

My mind went to the sparks I got when held my hand, and I sighed. What was that? Taking one last glance at the restaurant, I walked into the elevator and pressed my room floor.

Shutting the door loudly, I sauntered to my bed, slumping on it. I took my phone to see a text from Mr Greg.

HOW IS IT FOR A START? DO YOU LIKE IT? AND WHAT ABOUT YOUR ROOM, IS IT COMFORTABLE?

I smiled, typing in a response before tossing my phone on the space beside me. My gaze drifted upwards, lost in thought of today's event as I stared at the ceiling it for a while. At some point, sleep tugged at my eyes and I succumbed to it. I could as well prepare my body for the dinner gathering tonight.