"Charlie, they just happened to pass by. Since they're already here, why not let them stay?" His voice was light, almost as if he were trying to make it seem like a trivial matter.
Then, turning to the two men, he ordered, "You two, keep an eye out and make sure Mr. Ross' glass is never empty."
Oscar and Bruno exchanged knowing grins and quickly agreed.
Once the celebration banquet began, the atmosphere became lively. Toasts were made in my name, each one accompanied by the clinking of glasses and forced laughter. At first, I took a few sips out of courtesy, but before long, the alcohol began to take its toll, my vision swimming as dizziness settled over me like a heavy fog.
I tried to refuse the next drink, but before I could set the glass down, Tristan suddenly clamped a firm hand on my shoulder, his grip almost bruising. "Come on, Charlie! It's a celebration! Don't be a buzzkill."
Before I could protest, Oscar and Bruno moved in, each gripping one of my arms as they pried my mouth open.
"Before coming here, Mr. Ross said he's in a great mood. If anyone else wants to toast him, do it now—don't keep him waiting!" Tristan announced loudly, his voice filled with amusement.
Some of the attendees hesitated, uncertain about how far they should take things. Then, as if on cue, Zane stepped forward and poured a full glass of liquor into my mouth.
"Mr. Ross, this one's for you!" Zane grinned, forcing the liquid down my throat before I could react. The burn was immediate, a scorching sensation that spread from my throat to my stomach.
Drunk and disoriented, I struggled weakly, but the room seemed to tilt around me. The faces blurred together, laughter ringing in my ears like a distant echo.
Tristan leaned in close, his breath hot against my ear. "Charlie, I offered you a mansion, yet you refused. Now, I have to take you there myself."
My vision wavered, but my anger burned through the haze. That bastard. He was actually forcing me into this.
As if satisfied with the turn of events, Tristan turned away and pulled Vanessa into his arms, openly kissing her in front of everyone. Yet, not a single person reacted—it was as if they had all decided to ignore what was happening right before their eyes.