Thalassa

:Chapter 4:

ART GALA 

Art Gala. The prestigious social gathering to all new and famous artists, guests, celebrities and press has been held on the full moon night. Charmaine started to sigh in resignation, still eyes on the road while thinking what will happen to her during the Gala. The fact that she’s attending in such a crowded place drains her energy already. 

“Why is this ride taking so long?” Shwayne complained, one cause of her headache these past few days. 

She eyed the rear mirror, sharply darted to his grumpy face. “Well, someone was engrossed of his painting he actually spent three hours straight and forgot the fucking Gala. Whose fault is it?” 

Shwayne plastered a feign innocence. “Uh…me?” 

“Great, good job. Very well answered, sir.” Charmaine sarcastics was on point that made Shwayne scoff in disbelief. 

“I was mixing paint, you know. It takes time to create special colors according to its tone and shade. Of course I have to start from scratch again if I put in the wrong amount. I’ve been mixing, estimating, and observing the color for two hours straight! I don’t want to paint a wishy-washy painting—it should be realistic, see through the audience's eyes and soul, in depth to their mind. In short a grand masterpiece. Also…” 

Charmaine only exhales deeply because of her boss’ yapping. If she discovered one trait of this guy it would be him, being a yapper kid. He keeps babbling stuff about painting that almost busted her sense of hearing. Shayne was not just a dramatic, childish, and a migraine source, he’s also a one of a hell chatterbox. 

“I did the actual painting within one hour so, don’t accuse me. You make me like the culprit here, it’s rude.” 

So, is it my fault? Charmaine thought. “Have you done your opening speech, sir? The Gala will start exactly at ten.” 

“...” 

A complete silence between them. Only the engine of the car grudging inside as it speeds in the middle of the road. Charmaine raised an eyebrow. Realization hits her and needs confirmation. 

“You forgot to make one…” 

“...” 

He’s hopeless. “It’s not too late to back out now, we can turn back to make one.” 

“Back out? And another boring ride? No, thanks. It’s frustrating to sit here like a paralyzed person. Dang, I also forgot to make a speech—exactly at ten, no? but we only have two hours left.” 

Charmaine turns the steering wheel. “Instead of rambling there, why don’t you pick out a pen and paper and start running your mind with appropriate statements for your speech?” 

Shwayne let out an irritating huff. Perks of being famous. Damon must be the one who volunteered for this hassle task! Instead of just attending the Gala with peace in mind, now I have to write almost a book of speech. Ugh! 

He sighs again until his eyes averted at his bodyguard. And then, a brilliant idea crosses his mind.

“Make one for me, then.” Charmaine automatically steps the break that made Shwayne leaned forward. “Hey! Did you also drop your driver lessons? My nose hurts.” 

“Because you’re passing your responsibility to me, idiot. Why would I make your own speech?” 

Shwayne tugged a cocky grin as he pulled back his composure. “I’m your boss, your client, whatever I tell you to do, you have to obey. And I’m sucks in writing speeches, so I’ll pass that charge to you.”