Elliot suddenly held Avery's hand. She released her grip on her phone, and he instantly released her hand. Ben was right, he was directing the speech toward her. The managers’ jaws dropped.

Oh shit! Was something about to happen? Avery's face burned, and she took a gulp of the juice that she had filled her glass with.

Fortunately, today was only her birthday celebration and not her actual birthday. 'Getting a lecture on my birthday celebration, what a treat!' thought Avery sarcastically. Elliot went on and on about his secrets of success while raising his glass from time to time and drinking with everyone.

He did not seem to have forgotten that today was her birthday celebration.

Avery had two plates of pasta and a plate of fresh fruits. An hour later, and he was still droning on. She propped her head up with her hand as she gazed at him.

Elliot cleared his throat and turned to her, "Avery, did you understand what I just said?"

"Let's drink!" Avery looked down as she helped hers