IN YOUR ARMS TONIGHT (COMPLETED)

CHAPTER 13

The beginning of March.

I had a surprise in store that I had never imagined.

"A special award in the the store design category? For the wine bar?"

"Yes, I just got the call from an editor with Design Express,"Mr Way said.

"Really? That's...."

"Unbelievable!"Nueng said excitedly. "That's the word that's all over your face Jeff."

"Hey..Its rude to poke fun at someone like that,"Michael complained. "Good for you though. Its amazing getting an award for your first job."

Everyone in the team congratulates me.

"Thank you but it wasnt all me. I got a ton of support from Michael on this."

"Aw, shucks..You're making me blush."

"Too bad for you Michael. You were one of the finalists," Nueng said.

"Dont say that... You'll make me cry."

"Its about time you started applying yourself to more public awards anyway Michael,"Mr Way advised. "How about interior design award?"

"Er but Mr Way, I've got a long way to go for that."

"Hev. vou never know till you try right?"Nueng encouraged.

"Enough about me. This is about Jeff. Let's have a party sometime soon okay?"

"Please... You dont have to do that."

"Dont worry about it. Its just a pretext for everybody to go out drinking anyway."

Nueng clapped his hands excitedly. "If we're doing that, let's rent out a whole bar for the party!"

"Good idea. Want to negotiate with the wine bar?"Mr Way asked.

I feel like things keep getting bigger..

That night, I told Alan about the award over dinner.

"Is that award a big thing?"

"I guess its supposed to be, in this industry at least."

"So the people at the office are holding an award party. Would you like to come? Its two week from Wednesday and it starts at 7."

"Where will it be?"

"The wine bar. How about it?"

i gave him a pleading look.

"I'll think about it if I can find the time."

"Thanks..."

"I havent decided if I'll go yet if you realize."

"But you'll think about it. That's enough to make me happy."

"......"

"Oh, but you're busy with work, dont push yourself."

"Of course I wont."

The day of the party....

"And here's to Jeff's award. Cheers!"

All followed Mr Way's lead. "Cheers!"

Everyone tipped back glasses filled with white wine.

"Congratulations Jeff. Good for you!"Pop said.

"Thanks."

"Winner and Charlie say they're coming later."

"Really? I'll have to thank them."

"By the way, where's your husband?"

"He said he'd come if he could make it.. But he seemed busy lately, so I guess he's having a hard time..."