Temptation During Proclamation

Arthur glanced around the opulent ballroom and found Pamela heading on his way. He took a deep breath and turned back to Pamela, who was determined to engage in conversation and maintain appearances as she smiled widely.

"Hi, I thought of joining you here as it seems you're done talking to your guests. And I don't want you to be lonely tonight," Pamela said with a hint of teasing.

"Thank you, that's very thoughtful of your Pamela. What are you up to these days? Do you work for your dad's land development company?" Arthur strokes a conversation in respect of Pamela, the daughter of one of his father's friends.

"Yes. As a matter of fact, my dad was the one who encouraged me to take architecture to showcase my talent. He knew my dream was to become an architect and design buildings." Pamela's eyes sparkled as she answered, knowing Arthur showed interest in her. An opportunity she couldn't miss.

"Lucky your family is into land development where you can use your degree in architecture. That must be fulfilling."

"Yeah, but I wanna build my own company in the future. I don't want to depend on my parents all the time, you know."

"That's right, you should carve your own path," Arthur sipped his champagne before changing their topic. "So tell me, besides your passion for architecture, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?" he asked, his curiosity genuine despite the frustrating circumstances.

Pamela's face lit up as she replied, "I love traveling and exploring new places. My parents often took me on trips when I was younger, and it's something I've continued to do as an adult."

"Ah, traveling is one of my favorite hobbies as well," Arthur admitted, his eyes sparkling enthusiastically. "There's something about discovering new cultures and landscapes that makes me feel alive."

"Exactly!" Pamela agreed, her excitement evident. "It's like immersing yourself in a completely different world, even for a while. It broadens your horizons and challenges your perspectives."

Arthur found himself nodding along, surprised by how easily their conversation flowed. Despite their unconventional introduction, they have a genuine connection. However, he knew there was more to it knowing Lewises being close friends with Alicia. His gut told him.

Before he could delve deeper into their shared interests, a hush fell over the room as the master of ceremonies approached the stage.

"Ladies and gentlemen," the man announced, his voice carrying through the ballroom, "it is my great honor to introduce the new chairman of Hendricks Earthwise Consortium, Mr. Arthur Hendricks!"

Applause erupted as Arthur made his way to the stage, his heart pounding with pride and anxiety. Standing behind the podium, he scanned the sea of faces before him, each eager to hear his words. He took a deep breath and began to speak.

"Thank you all for being here tonight," he said, his voice steady and confident. "I am deeply honored to accept the role of chairman and follow in my father's footsteps."

"However, I must also acknowledge that this is a time of change for our company. We must embrace new ideas and innovations to ensure our continued success as we move forward. I promise to work tirelessly to uphold the values and legacy of Hendricks Earthwise Consortium while guiding us toward a brighter future."

"My 15 years of experience in business which started from a low position, might not be as good as my father, the late Robert Hendricks, but I am determined to lead this company with the same passion and dedication he had and integrity and vision. And with your support, I am confident we can achieve great things together."

The room burst into applause once more as Arthur concluded his speech, his chest swelling with determination. He knew the road ahead would be filled with challenges, but he was ready to face them head-on.

As he descended from the stage and returned to his seat, he couldn't help but glance at Pamela, her eyes shining with admiration. He wants to avoid the woman to avoid unnecessary issues. What if Helena saw me with another woman? Would she be jealous? I don't want her to think I have moved on quickly and, most of all, think that I am with another woman.

"Congratulations, Arthur," she purred, leaning in close enough for him to catch a whiff of her intoxicating perfume. "You were absolutely captivating up there." She sat on the chair next to Arthur.

"Thank you, Pamela," he replied, fixing his gaze on the delicate crystal glassware before him. He resisted the urge to fidget with his cufflinks, instead focusing on maintaining a calm demeanor.

"Tell me," she continued, casually twirling a strand of her golden hair around her fingers, "where will you celebrate your success tonight? I'd love to join you if you don't mind."

Arthur stifled a sigh, feeling the heat rise to his cheeks. He hadn't expected Pamela to be so forward, especially after their earlier conversation. He kept it in a friendly conversation. His mind raced, searching for a polite way to decline her offer without causing a scene.

"Actually, Pamela, I wouldn't want my girlfriend thinking I am fond of another beautiful woman," he admitted, hoping that would end her advances. "I appreciate the offer, though."

"Ah, I see." Her blue eyes flashed with disappointment, but she quickly recovered. "I apologize; I thought you were single, Mr. Hendricks. I heard about your broken relationship with Helena Greene."

"Who told you that?" Arthur snapped.

"Sorry, Arthur," Pamela panicked. "But the news spreads like fire; you are rich and famous. It's not unusual for people to pester news about you."

"What you've heard is not true. We are still together," he declared.

"But, why are you alone tonight? If I were your girlfriend, I wouldn't let you spend this night alone. Who knows, there might be women around who would snatch you."

"Pamela, I am not the kind that could be snatched," Arthur said sternly.

Pamela was taken aback but was able to calm herself quickly. "Well, if you ever need some company, just remember my offer still stands." She offered a flirtatious wink as she sipped her champagne, leaving Arthur to grapple with his anger. He has responsibilities to his girlfriend, family, and newly appointed position, and he wants to avoid dealing with another problem.

The nerve of this woman. Everything seemed so casual to her like it was her usual way of dealing with men. Is this one of her expertise? I wouldn't be surprised if it is.

"Excuse me," he muttered, rising from his chair. "I should make my rounds and speak to some board members."

"Of course, Chairman Hendricks," Pamela teased, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Duty calls, after all."

Arthur clenched his jaw and turned away before he could say something he might regret. He could feel the weight of Pamela's gaze as he navigated the opulent ballroom, mingling with the elite guests who eagerly congratulated him on his new role.

Alicia, I know you have something to do about this. You will stop once you're behind bars. Arthur heaved a sigh to calm himself. I have to stay in control. He reminded himself.

As he walked across the room, he couldn't help but glance back at Pamela one last time. She was still watching him, a mischievous grin playing on her lips, leaving him disgusted about the woman being so forward.

Why won't she leave me alone? I've made it clear that I have a girlfriend. I will deal with her, including the people behind this, some other time. Arthur forced himself to turn away, vowing to put Pamela out of his mind for the rest of the night.