No Strings Attached

-23-

"I don't know, Jace."

"I understand that but... do you have a certain girl in your mind right now?" My lips twitched when I thought of Eleanor.

Jace gasped before pointing his finger to me, "See! You smiled! I knew it. You just thought of a girl. Who is she, man?"

"It's none of your business." Jace gave me a disapproving look.

I shrugged my shoulders, "I'll tell you when it's not complicated." He nodded in understanding.

"If that's the case, I understand. But you make sure to invite me to your wedding." He threatened but he gave me a laugh before patting my back. And I was left alone in the Conference Room.

***

I went back to my office a few more minutes after Jace left the Conference Room. When I arrived, my coffee was already there in the table. Claire even added two donuts which were placed on a small plate.

I grabbed the cup of coffee before sipping in it. The meeting with the Finance Department earlier is my last meeting for today. After that, everything should be ready and I will just have to give my approval.

"Chance?" I looked up when Claire called me. She was peaking from the office door.

"May problema ba?"

"Nothing, but someone came here to see you." She gave me a smile―a very unusual smile then she was gone from the door. Hindi pa man ako nanakapag-react ay pumasok si Eleanor sa loob ng office ko.

I was stunned for a moment.

Then I inhaled sharply as I steadied myself. Is this for real? But why is she here? She should be busy minding her Finals.

"Hi." Eleanor smiled and I smiled back almost immediately. I didn't realize my heart was pounding so loudly until she took a seat across me.

"Hey." Napaupo na din ako sa upuan ko. She was as beautiful as always. She's wearing a black-and-white checkered skirt, a yellow lace blouse with a white polo underneath. Her hair was laid down and she had the casual smile on her face.

"Siguro nagtatataka ka: Why the hell am I here?" She started. I smiled as I shook my head.

"Well just so you know, it's Lana's birthday on Sunday. She's turning 5." She explained. I nodded as I watched her. Uhm, what does it have to do with me?

"Lana wanted you there. She told me that I should inivite 'Mr. Chance' over."

"So I have to be there on Sunday?" I asked.

"Uhm, I'm not forcing you. It depends on you. Besides, I know you're busy right now due to the approaching Holidays."