203 See You Again

It was the day of the product launch. Zesty collaborated with XCG's reusables to eliminate disposable takeout containers and to give special discounts to customers who brings their own container for takeouts.

Midori Xiu wore a dusty blue neoprene tea-length dress, with round neckline and A-line skirt, and layered with soft tulle embroidered with dainty navy blue carnations. Her blue solid pumps added some height and more poise to her look.

Verdan Zhou extended his hand in greeting when he came to her. "It's nice to see you again, CEO Xiu." He flashed his nice set of teeth.

Midori Xiu forced a smile. "Likewise."

Riley Adams gulped. Earlier that day, his wife had slit eyes as she bid him good luck on his job as she nursed their newborn infant. "See you later, Honey!" The words still echo in his head. He took from that moment the courage to brace himself to this event. However, hearing the earlier pleasantries, he might be mixed into a complicated situation.

He cleared his throat. "CEO Zhou, this way pleaae." He gestured in pursuit of his boss.

Midori's blue heels strode onto the beige carpet of the hall and straight up to the stage.

Janice Chen, the offiial endorser and the leading actor in the TV commercial for the latest in takeout of Zesty came out holding one of the containers, with her flashy smile of big teeth and bloody red lips. She wore an emerald tea-length dress and white heels, matching the logo of the food chain.

The collaboration of the two large companies and the promotion of their new products were featured in every news company which covered the event.

When the press and guests were calmed down into an early dinner, the heads of the two companies sat by each other with their assistants joining them in their table.

"So, be honest with me. Have you ever sat down and eaten in any Zesty branch?" Verdan Zhou asked with a smile.

"Of course." Midori took a glass and sipped some iced tea. She gulped. "Not."

Verdan Zhou chuckled. The serious woman has a sense of humor within her.

He leaned in closer to whisper in her ear. "Truth is, neither have I."

She blushed due to the close distance.

"So, why don't we drive down the closest branch and take in...well, real food?" He eyed the buffet filled with finger foods and liquor shots.

She finally laughed. This time, her smile was genuine.

This made him smile with a mixture of joy and regret in his eyes.

"It's the lamest pickup line!" She continued laughing.

"You have a beautiful smile." Verdan Zhou had a gentle smile with admiration in his eyes.

"Ha! Look who's talking!"

"You like my smile too?"

"Too?" Her eyebrows furrowed.

"I like it fine. You like it that much?" Verdan Zhou had a teasing grin.

She shook her head.

"No?"

"How come no one ever got you to endorse a toothpaste brand? Your teeth can match veneers..."

He had a pretentious frown. "I'm not so sure if that is a compliment or should I feel insulted."

Midori laughed.

"So, are you in for a taste of Zesty?"

"I believe your employees will be delighted to serve the CEO."

"Can I take that as a 'yes'?"

She chuckled. "Sure."

With this, the tensed up Riley Adams shoot up into a standing position just before his boss can completely stand from the seat.

As if remembering that she had her assistant with her, Midori shot him a look.

"Oh yeah...Adams, you are dismissed for the night?"

Riley Adams was so shocked, he almost lost footing. "I...uhm..."

"I'm not gonna disappear into thin air, Adams. Go home to your wife and son."

He politely bowed. "Thank you, CEO." And just like that, Riley Adams strode away, exiting the hall, before his boss changes her mind.

"So, shall we?" Verdan Zhou offered his arm.

Midori looked at it for a while before siding with her demons and took his arm.

""""""

"Did you have fun?" Takagi Ryuuji just came from the balcony in his pyjamas and greeted with a smile when Midori entered their bedroom.

"It was fine. I guess it could be considered successful?"

"You don't look too happy..."

She already shut the door and locked herself into the bathroom.

She heaved a deep sigh as she stepped into the shower.

It pains her to lie to him, but she did enjoy herself with the company of her ex.