It was good that he came on foot, as most of the Dina Esra plaza was already used as parking. Upon arriving at the Hall’s entrance, Octavia could be seen receiving guests, along with her mother, Janet, a petite lady even compared to her daughter. While Octavia was about 5’3” feet short, her mother was barely 5 feet.
Present with both women were a few other people standing around them or to the side. Stephen recognised two people closer to Octavia who went to high school with them. A tall blonde woman called Phoebe and a lanky brown-haired man called Jeremy. Then, there was also a woman with a striking likeness to Janet. Stephen didn’t know her name, as he had only ever met Octavia’s parents and little brother, but he supposed she was either Janet’s sister or cousin.
A few paces away, the City’s Mayor, Mr. Victor Murray, could be seen talking animately with another man by his side.
Despite almost a dozen people present at the entrance, Stephen’s attention didn’t linger on anyone for long as he was busy admiring the stunning birthday girl.
His first impression was that she looked proud and powerful. Since the last time he saw her, Octavia had let her hair grow just past her shoulders. They were loosely tied in a bun, with a few strands circling her face and hiding her collarbone. Their colour was darker than usual, closer to bronze or cinnamon than the light brown he was used to seeing.
She was dressed in a white and black outfit, smooth and mainly without any ornament, save for a pair of gold hoop earrings and a discreet watch adorning her left wrist. Stephen wasn’t sure about the clothes material, but he thought it was probably silk or something similar.
She wore a sleeveless white halter for the top, and while most of her shoulders were still hidden by a loosely worn black vest, a hint of her waist could be glimpsed. The vest was paired with a high waist long black skirt which hugged her hips and part of her thighs.
Although Stephen was meeting his friend’s gaze, he could still glimpse her leg, a slit on the right side of the skirt revealing her knee. The cut on the skirt also made it easier to see the layer of tulle and highlight the black high-heels Octavia was wearing.
Overall, it showed that, while she wasn’t working, her company’s opening ceremony still was the most important event. Not her birthday.
“Nice to see you, Ava! Good evening, Mrs. Asper, Bea, Jez, everyone.”
“You made it! Good to see you too, Stev.” He knew she was mostly being polite, yet Ava’s smiles always brightened his days.
“Hi Stev, it’s been a while!”
“I did promise you I would. I’m even less likely to miss this day now that it will be doubly important as before! Congratulations!” At that, he looked towards the Mayor since his presence at her event was a good sign. “And happy birthday, too. That outfit really suits you. You look ravishing.”
“Thanks a lot! The roses are gorgeous. You’re not bad yourself! I hope you got better since Wednesday?”
“I have, yes. Sorry if I worried you, Ava."
He showed her the roses at this moment, taking the occasion to embrace her. It wasn't surprising that she didn’t take the roses but only smelled them. Nobody around was holding any flowers. Thus, it made more sense if all were put elsewhere than for no one to have brought any. In a lower voice, he followed while glancing at Janet and Bea.
“You both look great, too, ladies.”
“Hello Stephen, thank you, it’s been a while. These flowers really are pretty! Where did you get them?” Her mother asked as she took the bouquet in her hands.
Right… their stem was only wrapped in aluminium foil rather than a pretty plastic cover from a florist.
"Oh, I picked them from my garden before I left, although I wasn’t sure how many to take. I didn’t find enough to cut to make a bouquet with 34 or 26 flowers, so I picked 10. A nice, round number, I guess?”
“Really?! It must be a pretty garden you have. You’re quite lucky. The number’s perfect, young man. Bea, dear, could you put them with the others?” It hadn’t occurred to Stephen then to look for the meaning a number of flowers could have. Yet, from the pleased smile on Janet and Octavia’s face, he apparently hadn’t made a blunder.
“Will do, Janet. Come on, Stev, I will show you inside.” She took the bouquet with her, smelling them in passing. A gesture imitated by Jeremy, who went along with them.
“Right behind you, Bea. See you later, Ava, ladies.”
"See you later, Stev!"
Stephen was unsure of his two companions' relationship, but Phoebe and Jeremy were almost always seen together since he had known them in high school. Not that they ever displayed being a couple. They were more like unrelated sister and brother. On her part, Phoebe was wearing a long green dress flowing around her legs, with a simple cloth belt accentuating her waist. In contrast, Jeremy wore a light blue-grey suit.
“So! Wednesday?!”
“…We just talked on the phone. I had a bad day, and Ava noticed.”
Both probably already knew what had happened, but Stephen had no intention to satisfy their curiosity. Giving them any information was like letting a shark smell blood. They became relentless and wouldn’t stop until they grilled him about everything.
“Riiight. What kind of bad day? A date that went wrong?”
“Just work, being work. It was stupid, really. How are the both of you doing? Actually, where are you living these days, still Lumen City?”
“I do. Bea moved back here. However, I’m looking to do the same. With both Ava and Bea having moved, it’s tempting.”
“I’m sharing an apartment with a friend, but it’s temporary. I’d like to find my own place soon. Maybe you could host me for a while in your house? Or was Ava the only one you missed?”
“No can do. I have an eight-year-old girl to look after. I can’t afford to house anyone else.”
“...Wait, What?”
“Comtess, was it?”
“At least Jez is following. You officially lost your chance to be a tenant since you can’t remember that cutie.”
“Shut up, just show us some pictures, all right?”
Diverting the conversation using the power of the dog’s cuteness was always a success. He did comply, taking out his phone to share Comtess’s awesomeness.
They walked inside the building through a large glass door. A side room welcomed them with many tables lined along its walls. Dozens of bouquets were covering them, creating a vivid display of colours.
“She really, is, the cutest! And here goes your roses. They smell wonderful. Did you not have any red roses, or was it intentional?”
“Maybe? I did look briefly into what to pick or not, but then there are so many interpretations of colours. By the way, what does the number ten mean?”
“Wouldn’t you like to know?” Stephen couldn’t help but roll his eyes at that non-answer.
“And what would you like to know?”
“What message were you hoping to give with those flowers?”
“Except from that.”
“Tsk. You’re lucky I love Comtess. I’m still not telling you.”
“If you want to put away your blazer, there’s a dressing on this side. Or for your bag, too.”
As Jeremy showed, a door on the right side of the anteroom led to another side room. It was kept open by a stopper on the ground, revealing the many coats, jackets and other guest’s outer clothing.
“Seriously, Bea? You didn’t even remember she existed minutes ago… Thanks, Jez. Though, I will probably keep my bag. Do you have any idea when Ava is going to talk about her company? I wouldn’t be surprised if she made a schedule for everything.”
This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.
“She did, yes. I will show you. Ah! Comtess’s so adorable when she’s rolling over like that! Hmm, I’d be shocked if we could follow that schedule for the whole evening. Oh, also, talking of planning, we got a little surprise ready with some of her Uni’s friends and previous colleagues, if you want to participate?”
Rather than showing the way, Phoebe dragged him, holding his arm while pressing herself to his side to better see the pictures on his phone. Jeremy followed on the other side, just as interested in the furry ball of joy, even if less expressive on that part. His following comments on the nature of that surprise were quite welcomed.
“Everything’s already made. You will just have to grab a text and say something. It’s a compilation of sketches.”
“Wouldn’t it be weird if I joined while not participating before?”
“Not at all. There’s already plenty of people who got invited afterwards to be part of it.”
As they entered the main Hall, Stephen saw all the arrangements made for the night. Usually, this Hall was mainly used to host expositions, concerts or plays. While on the lower side compared to more specialised buildings, it still was a hundred square meters, plus it had a stage counted separately, visible on the left side of the room upon entering.
This time, the wall along the entrance had been decorated with metal grids to support pictures instead of paintings or curtains. Then, the other walls were lined with round white tables, a coral table runner in their centre. Chairs, arrayed facing the stage, occupied the central space. This one was opened, a podium on its right side with a large white screen visible on the back, presumably for displays. While he could see many people already present inside, Stephen didn’t pay much attention.
Instead, he focused on what lay directly on their left as they entered. Two easel boards, with one having the aforementioned schedule written on it. While the other had the dinner arrangements. It was, unsurprisingly, considering Octavia certainly was the one who made it, written stylishly and colourfully.
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- Arrival of guests | Before 7 p.m. → 7:15 p.m.
- Presentation of the company – Name reveal | 7:20 p.m. → 8:00 p.m.
- Dinner | 8:15 p.m. → 10:00 p.m.
- Pause for gifts | 10:00 p.m→ 10:45 p.m.
- Dinner | 10:45 p.m→ Midnight
- Ball / after party | Midnight → Forever ever after?
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As Phoebe mentioned, there wasn’t any doubt that the times written wouldn’t be followed. It also made it clear the event had started quite late. But then, it was Friday. As Stephen checked his watch, he saw it was only 7:05 p.m. He thus threw a look behind and could see more people had entered the anteroom while others had also arrived outside.
As time passed, Stephen talked with Phoebe and Jeremy until they left him after a couple of minutes to return with Octavia. Meanwhile, Stephen stayed inside to discuss with the other guests. He met her father, Gerald Asper, and her little brother, Luis. Both were much taller than the ladies of the family. It was hard to know that Luis was the younger one, at twenty-nine years old. Other people also included many cousins, aunts and uncles, then a few colleagues.
Roughly on time, based on the schedule, Octavia entered the Hall and went toward the stage, where she disappeared at the back. She resurfaced a couple of minutes later, the room’s lights all lessening except those that remained focused on Octavia. She spent some time testing the micro, then waited for most people to enter. When only a couple could be seen smoking outside, she felt ready to start her speech.
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“A good evening to all of you, and most of all, Thank you.
Thank you for being here tonight and willing to support me. Thank you for having already supported me over the years.
It is, for me, a dream come true. I never believed I would reach that point when I was younger, but I did, thanks to all of you.
I’m creating my company. Which, as you might have wondered, will be named Asperstate - Urban Renewal.
I say my company, but none of that would have been possible without your support. Some more than others, maybe. But if you’re here, it’s that one way or another, you helped me along this path. And for that, I’m glad to be part of your life. And for you to be part of mine.”
She then paused for a moment to sip water and catch her breath. It was taken as an invitation to applaud and congratulate her, everyone’s praises getting lost in the brouhaha. Octavia had to wait a dozen seconds before it became silent enough to continue her speech.
“About Asperstate, my goal in creating this company is to give our city a new breath of life. Or even beyond if all goes well.
I’ve always loved exploring cities and knowing how interesting buildings were made. I’m sure I’ve lost count of how many churches, museums and ruins I have explored since I was young. Most of you went at least once with me on one of those trips.
Then, while learning more over the years, I decided I wanted to be part of this. Our homes and the places where we live define a large part of our lives, and I want to get the chance to make my voice heard. To put down my own little stone to the huge edifice that is human history. Its Legacy.
It does sound presumptuous, right? Yet, here we are. And even if the changes I brought about with Asperstate would only amount to a pebble or a grain of sand in the grand scheme of things, it’s all right.
What it means for the company and about the goals I have is that I’d like to make our city more accessible and welcoming. All the while ensuring we preserve our environment.
Hence, I want to find ways to waste fewer resources, not only energy, like water and electricity but also materials.
Then, to rebuild and repurpose old buildings that are abandoned or even in ruins.
For both of those points, there are a few people I’d like to thank personally, as they were the main reason I managed to give life to that dream of mine so early on.
Firstly, Mrs Loretta Strachan, our Minister of Heritage, whose representative, Mrs Maybell Egerton, is present this evening. Their approval and financial support were needed to kickstart the company and make it a reality. Mrs. Egerton, it is a pleasure to have met you. I hope you can convey my gratitude to the Minister.
Then, to Sylvester Atkins, the president of the company Green Matters, whose associate, Mr Eugene Crowle, is also present. Their company produce construction materials that can be recycled. Something I believe is essential to respect the direction I want Asperstate to take. This is the start of what I hope will be a profitable partnership.
Lastly, thanks to Mr Victor Murray, the Mayor of our lovely city, who was willing to trust me and help me get in touch with the relevant people. As well as his deputy, Mr Barton Lewis, who assisted me in those procedures. Thus, The Mayor’s office is our first client and probably the most important one for many years.
If Mr Murray would like to join me up the stage, I’d like everyone to witness this moment when I sign Asperstate’s first project, hopefully one of many to follow.”
At that point, the Mayor did went up the stage while two of Octavia’s colleagues brought a table, before which the man sat. He was then joined by Octavia, who picked the micro fixed until now onto the podium.
“Some of you might already know about this. When you follow the eastern ring road towards the industrial belt, several old residential buildings are left empty and misused. A couple of those are going to get demolished. The land around it, which until now was an open-air parking, will also be remodelled. Instead, we will build a more welcoming area, with two parks, one for children, and equipped with facilities to collect water and use solar energy. Overall, a more communal and friendly place which should house a few hundred households.”
The white screen at the back of the stage then showed an overview of the table and the documents that were getting signed. It looked official enough, and Stephen couldn’t tell if it was a rehearsal to make it public or if those were the real documents.
It didn’t matter to anyone, as an ovation still erupted within the Hall. Even from down there, Stephen could swear he saw Octavia blush. She might often appear composed and self-assured, receiving everyone’s support as she did still got to her.
“Thank you for entrusting me with this project, sir.” At that, they both shook hands before standing up, Mr Murray rejoining his previous place down below while Octavia returned behind the podium.
“Thanks, everyone… I won’t ever say it enough. Without all of you, it still wouldn’t be anything but a dream. Without those six persons I mentioned, I wouldn’t have received any funding or a worthwhile client and the means to create this company while respecting the constraints I gave myself.
Another six people who helped me turn Asperstate into a reality are the colleagues who decided to follow me. Thanks to whom I felt confident enough to start. Andrew, Annabell, Katie, Vance, Julia and Carmen.” Each of them waved and answered as their name was said, either saying thanks in turn or other kind words. “I’m blessed to have you at my side. We wouldn't be there if you hadn’t heard me rambling about this dream or supported me in our work to look for a way to make it happen. You might not be the face of the company, but you’ll still be shareholders, and I hope to count on your support for this adventure.
That brings me to this last point. Asperstate may have a client and an initial capital, but it is only the strict minimum so I can launch my plans. If any of you wish to invest, I’d like to think it’s the perfect time. The amount doesn’t matter: any small things, at a good time and in the right direction, can lead to great changes. The only difference is whether you’ll be an investor or a shareholder.
I can’t give you an exact number on where the line between both is situated. But you can consider that anything under ten thousand won’t amount to enough shares. Not to justify giving you a voice in the company. So, if you want to be part of the wheel rather than the current pushing it, I invite you to join on the side so I can share more details about my plans.
For the others, don’t worry, you’re in good hands! I’m sure Mom, Dad and Luis have prepared quite a few things to keep you entertained.
Thank you, everyone, for being here and also for your birthday wishes! I’ve no idea where I’m going to put all those flowers. They’re all resplendent.”
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The speech brought a tear to Stephen’s eyes. He couldn’t be any happier and prouder for his friend than now. Her invitation for the investments prompted him to move forward. Along with him were a few other people, including Phoebe.
What Octavia had referred to as ‘the side’ was a door leading to the backstage, where a small conference room had been arranged. The five officials from either the Mayor's office, the ministry or the supplier company were the first to enter. Followed behind four other people, only one of whom Stephen thought he recognised as an uncle of Octavia. Also present were two friends from university or school, Phoebe being one of them, the other was an androgynous-looking person called Simon. And finally, closing the march were the six colleagues Octavia had mentioned during her speech.
The group of eighteen people sat around the table while Octavia stayed up at one end, a pleased smile adorning her face. Stephen believed he saw a brief startled look in her gaze as she saw some of the people present. That he was one of them didn’t bother him much, even if it meant he would enjoy that much more her reaction upon learning of his investment's details.