2 Chapter Two

Alex gave a nervous laugh. “I hope he isn’t doing that anytime soon though.” The men laughed along with him, not sensing his uneasiness. They made small talks and soon enough it was time for the event to start. Alex excused himself as he went to take a seat besides his mother, on one of the round tables. He watched his father get on the small stage set up in the huge room.

“Good evening ladies and gentlemen. It’s really a pleasure seeing you all gathered here tonight in honour of my invitation. As you know it, my wife

and I always host this annual fund raising party where we auction some of valuables to try to give back to the community, charity and to those who always contribute to make this fund raising a success, we are ever so grateful. We had lots of gifts coming up from well-meaning individuals who chose to sponsor this party. Please give a round of applause to them.” The crowd erupted in an applause. His father tapped the mic to get the attention of the guests.

“Without further ado, the auction would commence immediately.” His father stepped down from the stage and a middle aged man took over to begin the auction. The auction kicked off. He listened, as antique articles, portraits and properties were sold off at outrageous amounts. He tried to block everything out by listening to the classical music playing from a band at the far right corner of the room. About two hours into the auctioning he decided to take a break by going to the rest room. He excused himself and made for the restroom. He locked himself in the bathroom already exhausted from the party. He felt like creeping to his room and just falling asleep. After about twenty minutes of being locked in, he decided to come out of hiding. Seems like luck was on his side. When he got back to the party, they were already done with the auction. He heaved a relieved sigh and went straight to the buffet.

“Hi,” he heard someone greet as he helped himself to serve his food.

“Hey,” he said without bothering to look at the person. He felt the person move closer to him and turned to face the person in annoyance.

“Can I help you?” He saw her gulp, she nervously pushed her hair aside. “No uh, I just wanted to say hello,” she answered nervously. He sized her up before going back to what he was doing. When he was done he left there without a second glance at her. He hated it when women flock around him, even though sometimes he was tempted to enjoy the attention he received from female folks.

Like he wasn't just avoiding being cornered, he came face to face with Mr. Marshal.

“Alexander,” Mr. Marshal called out. Alex groaned, cursing under his breath. He wished the ground would just open up and swallow him right now.

“Mr. Marshal,” he said in a bitter tone, surprising himself. “I’ve been looking for you.”

“How unfortunate,” he said with a sober look. ‘How unfortunate that you eventually saw me,’ he thought.

“I’ve been meaning to discuss something with you,” Mr. Marshal said in a low tone.

Alex resisted the urge to roll his eyes. Like he didn't already know what he wanted to speak to him about. “I wonder what that could be.”

“Let’s step outside for a bit of fresh air.” Alex nodded his head and followed Mr. Marshal outside to the porch. He relished the night breeze taking a deep breath.

“How’s the film going?” Mr. Marshal asked taking a sip of his champagne.

“It’s been well.” Alex answered curtly, his hand on the railing while the other held his plate of food.

Mr. Marshal nodded his head while taking a long sip of his drink. Alex cocked his head to look at him.

“I’ll just go straight to the point,” Mr. Marshal said turning fully to face him. Alex copied his action this time taking small bites from his food. He didn’t care if he was rude, he was famished.

“I know you’re almost done with the production of the current film,” Mr. Marshal continued. “And my sources tell me that you’re commencing the start of your new movie sooner than expected so I have a favour to ask of you.”

Alex dropped his plate on the railing. “What exactly are you asking of me Mr. Marshal?”

Mr. Marshal cleared his throat. “My daughter Evie loves your movie. She’s been dying to work with you. It’s the only thing she wants from me.” Alex scoffed, shaking his head. “Mr. Marshal, you know I don’t work with amateurs”.

“Evie works hard. She’s a fast learner and she wouldn’t disappoint you.” “Mr. Marshal, sentiments have nothing to do with this.”

“You’re a good director Alex, I trust you can groom her to what she wants to be.”

“I’m sorry Mr. Marshal, I can’t grant your wish.”

“I’m willing to sponsor the next film,” Mr. Marshal pleaded desperately. Alex ran his hand through his hair. Ever since he knew Mr. Marshal that’s the only request he made and he was getting very tired of it. “I already have sponsors Mr. Marshal besides it’s not like I’m broke I don’t need your help with my movie.”

“Alex I know you don’t. But please consider the wish of a desperate father.”

Alex blew out a breath. “Fine Mr. Marshal, I’ll give it a thought. Ask your daughter to come see me.”

Mr. Marshal seemed to be satisfied with the answer. Alex made for the door leading back into the house but stopped at the threshold.

“She would audition like every other person and if I don’t find her worthy, she’s out.”

A wide smile spread on Mr. Marshal’s face. He nodded his head. “She wouldn't’ disappoint you.”

Alex answered without turning around. “She better not.” He said before walking out. He was done with the conversation. He walked straight into

his room. He didn't even bother interacting with anyone. In his room, he tossed his blazer aside and sat down on the bed still dressed. He looked around the room. Even though his parents didn't live very far from his house, he still didn't visit often. Heck, he couldn't even remember the last time he had slept in this room. Everything still looked exactly how he left it years back. He never had the time to discard some of his things, even though he had slept here a few times after leaving home for good. He slumped down on the bed. He could hear the faint music coming downstairs. He sighed turning on his side,He came face to face with a picture, he smiled at the memory, He stared at the picture of the younger version of himself smiling, hand flung on his younger brother. Kicking off his shoes, he fell asleep, still dressed.