Amara – Reunion

Author's note: this is from Seraphina's point of view

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The car stopped in front of the luxurious hotel and I looked at the tight security that was lined on both sides of the red carpet.

Is this a company party or a gala for movie stars? Actually, with all those security guys in black suits, it looked more like a reception for the president.

The event started more than an hour ago, but Aldus said that we are right on time and that coming earlier would be a waste.

Aldus told me that the whole hotel is booked for this event, so there will be no outsiders. Cameras are prohibited, and his men are securing the perimeter to ensure no one sneaks in and causes trouble.

I peeled my eyes from the window and turned to Aldus. "I'm nervous."

Aldus crooked an eyebrow. "What are you nervous about? Security is ours, the event is ours, the guests are ours, and if anyone makes you uncomfortable, you can always outrun them."

I couldn't believe that he was joking. "You are having fun with this."

Aldus chuckled. "And you should have fun as well, Serina. It's a party full of people who will try to impress us. Well, you mostly because you are the new face. If anyone should be nervous, that should be people who are inside."

Aldus didn't wait for my response. He stepped out of the car and walked to my side. He glanced around before opening the door for me and offering me his hand to take.

Aldus praised my look, but he was extra-handsome in his sharp dark blue suit. We wore matching outfits!

I linked my arm with his and we walked inside the hotel as I observed the luxurious decor.

Staff members waited for us in the hallway, and one of them showed us which way to go in order to reach the back of the stage without going through the event hall.

The presentations were in progress and people busied themselves backstage in order to make sure things go as expected. I knew that I would wait here with Aldus until the end because he will deliver the speech after the presentations are done, and he requested that I accompany him.

Through the narrow window, I sneakily observed the event hall.

The stage was relatively small, but there were big screens on the walls all around that projected the presenter and his (or her) slides.

The event hall had clean lines, modern chandeliers with geometric patterns, and seating was arranged around tables that could accommodate four to eight people. Some tables were bar height, for people to stand around them and chat.

Next to the stage was an empty area, and I guessed that's reserved for dancing.

With dim indigo lighting, it reminded me of a posh nightclub instead of a business event in a luxurious hotel.

Staff weaved their way among guests, delivering drinks and snacks and I estimated more than three hundred people in attendance.

It was a black-tie event, and it looked fancy with men in sharp suits and women in elegant gowns. I didn't have any formal event in my memories, so this was the first one for me. I was anxious.

The good thing was that Aldus was with me and somehow I gathered courage from his proximity.

I could guess that most of the executives I met in the previous two days were in attendance, so I should know some faces, but their presence was not giving me relief because they probably wanted to matchmake me. 

Ah, I hope that they get a hint I'm not interested. Those guys don't know me, they don't care how I look or what my interests are; however, the identity of Aldus's daughter is appealing, and I had no idea what to expect.

"This is the last presentation…", Aldus's voice startled me.

He noticed that I'm jumpy.

"Are you OK?"

"Yes, yes. A bit nervous, but OK."

Aldus shook his head at my silly behavior. "It will be fine. You look amazing and you don't need to talk. I hope you will do me the honor of the first dance."

Dance with Aldus sounded nice. We danced a few times when he peeked during my lessons and signora Simone (my dance tutor) pulled him in as my partner. At that time, I was enjoying Aldus grumpily following instructions given by signora Simone, but this will be different. Official. I looked forward to dancing with my father. He is an amazing dancer.

I was nervous to be on the stage, but it was only for a second until I focused on Aldus and pretended that no one else is present.

I stood next to Aldus and listened to his speech. He thanked all the guests for coming, presenters for sharing their achievements and vision, and he expressed his hope that Notte Pharmaceuticals will continue its strong trend.

His speech was on point without excess words or fillers; he oozed confidence and I was proud that he is my father.

When he finished talking about the company, Aldus gestured toward me and introduced me.

"For the ones who are wondering who this magnificent young lady is, this is my daughter, Seraphina. I am pleased that she agreed to get involved with Notte Pharmaceuticals and share her expertise. The upper management witnessed her performance during meetings in the last few days and they were able to confirm that she is much more than just a pretty face. Currently, we are working side-by-side and gradually she will be taking over more responsibilities in the company."

Aldus paused as the audience made 'oh' sounds and clapped. I couldn't stop my lips from stretching into a smile when he turned to look at me and continued talking.

"I am fortunate that she is accompanying me tonight. A number of you had a chance to meet her previously, as for the others, feel free to stop by and introduce yourself…"

Aldus wished everyone an enjoyable evening, and it was time to dance.

He offered me his hand, palm up, and I put my hand in his before we descended on the empty area for dancing.

My heart was full knowing that this amazing man brought me back to life and he gave me a new life as well. As Seraphina, I am not only immortal but also respected and valued and I couldn't be happier that he believes in me.

I promised silently never to take Aldus for granted. I have two decades worth of memories filled with shitty parents, and I know a good one when is right in front of me.

I took a shaky breath when I realized that it was just Aldus and me on the dancefloor, and others were watching us.

"Don't pay attention to others.", Aldus said only for me to hear. "Listen to music and follow my lead…"

How did he know what's on my mind?

I gave him a small nod, confirming that my focus is on him. It's fantastic how I was able to tap into his confidence and dispel my insecurities.

My hand was in his, and his free palm rested high on my back as I held onto his shoulder.

A slow jazz tune started, and I smiled as Aldus directed my movements expertly with a slight flick of his wrist and soft changes of pressure on my back.

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