Vivica’s smile felt a bit stiff. She couldn't quite handle so much flattery from her colleagues.
The dinner was set up as an open cocktail party rather than a formal sit-down meal in a private room. An endless supply of gourmet food, desserts, and drinks was available for everyone, and you could even dance while you ate.
People came over to clink glasses with Vivica, but frowned when they saw she was holding a glass of juice.
“Vivica, on a night like this, you have to have a drink!”
Vivica knew that as the host, it would be more sincere to drink alcohol. But she was trying to conceive.
“I’m sorry, I have to go to the hospital later to be with my son, so I can’t drink tonight.”
“Oh, come on, just a little bit. As long as you don’t get drunk.”
Her colleagues were about to press further when Zavier appeared from nowhere. “Have you all forgotten the department rule? No pressuring anyone to drink at gatherings. Whoever does has to chug their drink.”
With him stepping in, everyone let it go. Vivica raised her juice glass and clinked it with her colleagues’ in a symbolic toast.
After most had eaten their fill, the group dispersed to find activities they enjoyed.
Vivica sat on a sofa, texting with Joseph.
[I asked you to find something more casual and reasonably priced, and you booked a members-only club. Now my colleagues are even more convinced I'm some rich heiress.]
Joseph had just left work and was on his way to the club. Roderic was driving, so he had time to chat with his wife from the back seat.
[You said you wanted good food, good drinks, and fun. That place fits the bill.]
...
Holly noticed her frequently checking her phone and leaned in. “Are you anxious to get to the hospital to be with your son?”
Vivica nodded sheepishly.
“Then I’ll tell everyone to wrap it up!” Holly said, about to stand up and make the announcement for her.
“Don’t,” Vivica said, pulling her back down. “You all keep having fun. I’ll just head out first. When everyone’s had their fill, you can just leave. Don’t worry about anything else.”
Holly smiled at her. “Alright then. You really spoiled us tonight.”

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