3. I Found You

Flashes of flash were immediately apparent when Tristan, Raphael, and Aurora entered the auditorium in the Foxtail Corporation building. All journalists seemed to be competing to cover the process of inaugurating the CEO, who in the future will lead the largest construction company in the United Kingdom.

Tristan, dressed in a navy suit, sat quietly next to Raphael. There wasn't the slightest hint of nervousness on his handsome face. After years of study, apprenticeship, and direct involvement in various tenders with Raphael, Tristan continues to try to convince all shareholders and company officials.

At the age of only 25, he is trying to prove to everyone that he deserves to be in the position his father once held. After two general shareholders' meetings, an agreement was finally reached that Tristan was indeed worthy of the position. For this reason, today, he will be officially inaugurated by the commissioners to carry out his duties correctly immediately.

"Thank you for your presence and the trust that the higher-ups of Foxtail Corporation have given me."

Tristan was now standing confidently in front of the pulpit. Gives his first speech as a CEO. Meanwhile, the media crew present immediately scrambled to capture the best moments from Tristan.

He has indeed attracted the broader public's attention in the past year because of his breakthroughs in the business world. Whatever it is when it comes to Tristan, it must be very in demand for news.

"As a newbie in the business world, of course, it is an honor for me to occupy the CEO position. I have high hopes that after leading this company, Foxtail Corporation will continue to grow. To become the only multinational construction company whose activities have shot up to various parts of the world."

The sound of applause from all the participants in the meeting could be heard filling the room. Flashes of camera lights hit Tristan, who was so fiery in explaining his vision and mission after being officially appointed leader.

"As the new CEO, what's the first thing you're going to do with this company?" asked one of the reporters.

Tristan smiled then answered so calmly. "Recently, I agreed to joint venture offers with several large companies from the Middle East to build the tallest building globally. I am optimistic that this project can be completed on time. international business scene."

Everyone clapped again. So many were amazed by Tristan's flexibility in explaining and dealing with the many questions asked. He looked relaxed, as if he didn't have the slightest burden.

"About the couple..." one of the reporters asked another question. "Does Mr. Tristan already have a potential partner and intends to end his single life soon? Given your current popularity, there must be a lot of women out there waiting in line to become a wife."

Again, Tristan smiled. He kindly answered the one by one the questions are given.

"For now, I haven't thought about getting married. As for my partner, later you will know who stole my heart was."

After finishing the question and answer session with several reporters, the man accompanied by Raphael and Aurora chose to leave the auditorium. Prepare to go to the CEO's room and start his work for the first time.

***

"Tristan Quartararo, are we bothering you?"

Tristan has just finished his first job as a CEO. Entering the lunch hour, he was surprised by the presence of friends who suddenly came to his office without contacting him first.

"Gosh, why are you guys here all of a sudden?" Tristan hastily got up.

The man then approached three men who seemed to be standing not far from the room's doorway.

"This was Edward's idea," one of them pointed. "That rancid playboy wanted to surprise you on purpose. Just like a child."

The man named Edward immediately chuckled. Then immediately handed over the cake box that he previously held.

"Oh, come on, Nick. Why are you talking so much? Wasn't this the three of us's idea? Why are you making me a scapegoat now?"

"But you were the originator, weren't you?" offense Nicholas. "You're the one who's been whining. In fact, you asked Jacob and I to pick you up immediately and accompany you to buy a birthday cake for Tristan," the man added.

"Is that true?" Tristan's turn to make sure. He looked at each of his friends in disbelief. He often joked that he didn't think his friends could be cute.

"Well . . . fine. I admit it. What Nicholas said is true."

Scratching the back of his neck uncomfortably, Edward finally acknowledged what Nicholas had said. He was closest to Tristan from the start of their friendship among his three friends. They always do something together.

Edward had considered Tristan like his own brother. Jacob and Nicholas even called them are twins.

"Indeed I dragged the two of them to come see you. After all, we really deserved to wish you a birthday and congratulations on your achievements today. Honestly, I'm personally even so proud of you."

Tristan smiled sadly. Without awkwardness, he immediately hugged his friends one by one. Say Thank you because since he first entered college until now, he has been working, and these three friends are always by his side. Not the slightest move in times of trouble or joy.

"Oh my God, I'm really touched by your words." He then asked his three friends to sit on the sofa immediately. There they all began to chit chat casually.

"So, how was your inauguration today? I saw in the headline news, your company's stock went up significantly after you officially became the new CEO," said Jacob. There was a hint of admiration tucked into his words. Of course, as a young CEO, he is also proud of what his friend has achieved.

Tristan immediately nodded. While cutting the birthday cake Edward brought, he casually took Jacob's question.

"I'm also very surprised, Jack. This is really a great achievement for me as a newbie. I didn't know this inauguration would even affect the company's stock. The commissioners also talked about it."

"That means, your existence is really awaited by the public at large."

Nicholas took it seriously. "It seems that they are indeed interested in all your recent endeavors and pursuits. I have to admit, all the brilliant ideas you have shown have brought a breath of fresh air to this business."

"Tristan, you really are proud." This time it was Edward who spoke. The man did not want to lose congratulating his best friend.

"For God's sake, I'm so jealous of you. Hopefully one day, I can occupy the position of CEO of Alexis and shine like you are today," he chuckled in awe.

Then, the three chose to enjoy the cake that Tristan had just cut and handed. While devouring it, they continued to discuss various topics casually.

"By the way, isn't there a small party? Some kind of celebration of your birthday and your success today?" Edward asked, taking a bite of the cake in his hand. It has become a tradition for all of them when celebrate something, and there will be a party. Either on a large scale or privately with close friends.

"Gosh you're right. Since the past few days have been so busy, I didn't even think about going there. But how about we have a party tonight?" Jacob placed her cake plate on the table. Reaching for the teacup, then took a sip of the drink.

The man nodded in agreement with the idea Tristan had just put forward. "I agree. Let's celebrate at the American Bar."

"Yes, Jacob is right. The American Bar is the perfect place for all of us to celebrate this." Nicholas joined in.

"But, can you bring a partner tonight?" Edward asked carefully. "I mean, tonight's party will be just us and we. Or can you bring a girlfriend too?"

Nicholas, who sat across from Edward, immediately put on a cynical face. He knew where his friend's conversation was headed. "So what if I may? You want to bring a partner?"

Edward nodded. "Of course."

"What other woman would you like to bring Edward Oliviera with this time?" asked Nicholas. "There's a woman you eyeing right now. I meant to introduce her to you. I think I get along well with that woman."

Nicholas snorted. He was tired of hearing the pearls of wisdom that Edward often said. Almost on every date Edward introduced, he always said the exact words. "So that you know, I'm even tired of reading, let alone hearing your news on gossip portals that are always rumored to change partners."

"It's called Playboy, isn't it?" debate Edward didn't want to lose. "Besides, it's hard to enjoy life when I'm still young. After all, they're the ones who are always chasing after me. But most importantly of all, I've never cheated on anyone or dated anyone else's partner."

Nicholas chuckled lazily. He knew very well the nature of this one friend. It's no secret that only Edward likes to change partners or date the most among the four of them.

"I pray that one day you get hit by the stone. Who knows, one day you'll have to bother chasing the woman you have a crush on." Edward pressed his lips together tightly. He wanted to swear at the ugly prayer that his best friend had just said.

But because he saw Jacob, who gave a signal not to fight back, Edward could only take a breath and then try to answer casually. "That's not going to happen, Nicholas Alistair."

***

As mutually agreed, the four friends decided to gather at America Bar at precisely eight o'clock in the evening. Tristan himself, this time, brought along Aurora to accompany him.

After making reservations and ordering appetizers, Tristan could see Jacob arriving first at the venue with Tita, his girlfriend with him. Then, not long after, Nicholas was also present, bringing Claire, his fiancée.

"We're not late, are we?" Jacob asked as he pulled out a chair and motioned for his girlfriend to sit down.

"Don't worry. Aurora and I only arrived 10 minutes ago," said Tristan. After that, he sat down and started a conversation.

"Tristan, congratulations on your birthday and your achievements today. I know this gift is not much. But at least Nicholas and I are sincere in giving it to you," Claire said as she handed a black box as a birthday present for Tristan this time.

"Gosh, there's no need to bother. You just came. I'm very grateful," said the man.

"But no matter what, you deserve all this." Tita, in her seat, also added. The woman then took out a parcel then handed it to Tristan.

"It's me and Jacob who chose it specifically. We hope you'll like it."

"Of course." On the sidelines of their conversation, Edward, who had been waiting for so long, finally arrived. With a smile, the man immediately approached the woman he was carrying.

"Sorry, I'm a little late. I have to get a present first," Edward said as he handed over the things he had brought. A box containing a watch he especially gave to his best friend. "Once again, happy birthday Tristan. At your age this time, I hope all the dreams that have not been realized can be rushed."

Tristan, standing at that time, immediately hugged Edward with great emotion. When unraveling the hug, his focus was immediately on the beautiful woman his best friend was carrying.

"Ed, don't you want to introduce this beautiful woman next to you?"

"Oh my gosh. I almost forgot," Edward replied. The man then turned to the woman standing right next to him.

“ Let Me Introducing my friends. This beautiful lady is Sophia Walters."

Tristan stared intently at the brown bead in front of him. Seconds later, he held out his hand while smiling a meaningful smile.

"Tristan Quartararo. Nice to meet you."