564 First step

Ian led the group towards his office. While Valerie and Stuart were right behind him, Aria was two steps behind them, with Preston following her closely. He was too excited to see her. Even though she was in the front and he could not see her pretty face, he was just contented to being this close to her. It had been a long time since he last saw her, and now that she was right near him, he did not let go of this mind-blowing opportunity.

Preston hurried to catch up with her, and he cleared his throat to gain her attention. Aria was taken aback to find the man suddenly walking beside her and she gave him a confused look.

"Hello." Preston greeted her with a wide smile. He was beaming in delight. Even his eyes were twinkling in joy, and Aria blinked at him, wondering what had got him all exhilarated.

"Hello." She replied with a smile of her own, still perplexed by the man's abnormal behavior.

"You might not remember me."