Accident Prone

Liz and Mia stuck together because Hunter and Max were busy with guests. 

Max was the center of attention, and he would often pull Hunter into the conversation. Hunter was sure that Max is doing it on purpose so that Hunter can't spend time with Mia.

Liz and Mia didn't know many people present, but that didn't stop them from drinking and chatting while observing the crowd from one of the tables they occupied.

Foxy stopped by to say 'hi', apologizing that she can't stay longer because she is crazy-busy. She is the main figure behind planning for this event and she was endlessly circling through the hall and the kitchen, making sure that everything is perfect. "I can rest when the last guest leaves."

Andrea would sit with Liz and Mia briefly, and then she would drift into a crowd for some time before returning with another drink in her hand.

Liz noticed that Andrea knows many people present and that several men who spoke with Andrea were stealing glances at Andrea's chest.

Once, during one of their coffee meetings, Andrea told Liz that she is used to lecherous gazes and that she mostly ignores them, and that sometimes she would use man's interest to her advantage. "It is a weapon I have. I might as well use it."

Liz is not sure if she could do that. She would probably call those men out for being despicable.

Nathan and Madeline were also there mingling with the crowd, and Sabrina and Ashton arrived about halfway into the event.

Sabrina and Ashton greeted everyone and then they found a place to sit. Liz and Mia smiled at the sight of Ashton who would lovingly pass snacks and drinks to his pregnant wife.

"Excuse me…" A man in his mid-thirties cleared his throat to get Mia's and Liz's attention while his eyes didn't leave Liz. "I was wondering if you are interested in a dance."

Liz was surprised that someone approached her. This is a purely business event, but based on the playful look in the man's eyes, he is not thinking about business at all.

Normally, Liz would accept it because it's just dancing, and she loves to dance. Also, this is a high-end event and not a club where people grind on each other. But since she is dating Max, Liz does not want to dance with anyone else, and also, she does not want to leave Mia on her own.

"Thank you for your offer. But I will need to pass. Maybe next time."

The man was not willing to abandon his mission. "Are you sure? I have good moves… Women have a good time in my arms…"

"Yes, she is sure." Max's icy voice came from the side. "She said NO. Leave."

Liz was touched that Max came to her rescue, but she had it under control and sometimes she thinks that his possessive caveman attitude is excessive.

"I should get more people to hit on me." Liz told Max.

"What?"

"You show up only when someone approaches me." Liz voiced her observation. "I thought that you are busy with your guests. Why are you keeping your eyes on me?"

"My eyes are always on you. And… these are not my guests. I can't wait for Nathan to make his announcement; I will get to shake hands with people and then we can leave."

"It should happen soon, right?" Mia asked.

Max didn't get a chance to answer. The music stopped and Nathan was on the stage tapping the microphone.

"This is my cue…" Max told Liz. He kissed her cheek quickly and moved toward the stage.

Mia tugged Liz toward the stage. "Let's go closer for a better view… I want to record it with my phone. Madeline and Sabrina are there… We should join them…"

…

Nathan started his speech about the history of the Alpha group and the things that happened while he was the CEO.

Max and Hunter stood two steps behind Nathan, one on each side, and everyone had to acknowledge that the handsome gene runs in the family.

A number of reporters were recording the stage, and everything looked very formal.

Max showed Liz the prepared press release from the Alpha group which is announcing Nathan's retirement and Max as the new CEO. The only thing missing was the photo which will make it official, and that photo will be taken in a few minutes.

Liz gazed at Max and her fingers were interlaced at her chest level.

"You look like a fangirl…" Mia teased Liz.

"Shhh…" Liz shushed Mia. She is Max's biggest fan.

Nathan paused his speech and observed the crowd. "You know why we gathered here, right? After more than thirty years at the helm of the Alpha group, I am ready to give the steering wheel to my successor and enjoy my retirement. Starting Monday, November 26, I will not be the CEO and my current office will be occupied by an outstanding young man who deserves to be the next CEO not only because we have the majority ownership of this company, but because his performance earned him approval from the board of directors. I will leave you in good hands. Please, join me in congratulating my son, Maximilian Anderson, on his new role as the CEO of the Alpha group!"

The guests burst into applause while Max and Nathan gave each other a man-hug on the stage. They shook hands and posed for the reporters for a few seconds, and then Max took the microphone.

"This man might be CEO Anderson to you, but to me, he is dad." Max started and then he pointed at the reporters who were below the stage. "I want a copy of his speech because it's rare to hear such accolades about myself from him. On a regular day, he would just scold me."

The crowd burst into laughter. Max is an expert in setting the right mood in the room.

"I want to thank everyone for kind sentiments, and I would not be the man I am today if not for the support of my family. Since I am aware of myself, they encouraged me to give my best and not give up. About six months ago, another person joined that group." Max's eyes landed on Liz. "Because of you, I believe that sky is not the limit. Thank you, Elizabeth."

Liz smiled and mouthed: 'I love you'.

Max winked at Liz and continued with his speech that described Max's vision about the future of the company. Max mentioned that Hunter will be working closely with him, upcoming changes in several departments, and a number of big projects which are slated for the next year.

"Thank you for your time and support. Please, enjoy the rest of the event…" Max ended his speech and hopped off the stage, straight for Liz.

"Max…" Liz was a bit uncomfortable. Everyone wants to congratulate Max, and now they are waiting for Max to finish hugging Liz.

"Let them wait… I want everyone to know that you are my number one priority…" Max spoke against Liz's lips. He was super-excited that he is finally the CEO and the only person with whom he wanted to share his happiness was in his arms.

Liz's fighting spirit dissolved completely, and she wrapped her arms around Max. How can she push him away when he said that she is his number one priority?

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