Date: Fri, 8 Nov 2013 04:14:26 +0000
From: theadlaotribe@gmail.com
Subject: Love Assassin Chapter 4

Disclaimer: The following story is a work of fiction. It involves romantic
and/or sexual relationship between men. If you are offended of this subject
matter, if you are a minor, or if you are in a place where it is illegal to
read this type of literature, please stop reading now.

Copyright © 2013 by Fritz Diantan. All Rights Reserved. Except as
permitted under the law, no part of this publication may be reproduced
without the prior written permission of the Author.

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Love Assassin
Chapter Four: In the Moment


It had been a few weeks since I gave my handpicked team the challenge of an
ambitious project: to create a micro expression and voice modulation stress
analyzer that is sophisticated enough to detect deceit without the
requirement of special equipment or high processing power. My goal was to
market it to Human Resource Departments of our client companies so they can
use the software as part of their hiring procedures.

Including Vincent in the special team was part of my plan to finally push
my Love Assassin assignment forward. By being his team leader, I can
monitor his movements inside the company and I could influence his work,
preventing him from screwing up too much and getting himself prematurely
fired.

My second reason was to have an excuse to spend time with him without
arousing suspicion, either from him or from our co-workers. I spent the
time studying his habits, mentality, and reaction on certain situations. By
the end of the first week, I got a clear impression of how he think and
built a bond to make him less intimidated of me.

"Okay, we are in the final stage of this project," I said to the team as we
gathered in a bar near the office for our usual powwow. It was kind of my
thing to treat the teams I handle personally for drinks after work to go
over what still needs to be done instead of talking in a boring conference
room. It might be the less stuffy environment or the buzz from the alcohol
but I found that a lot of great ideas were generated during those informal
conversations.

"We still need to polish the interface," I said looking at Vincent who was
in charge of that. "And the processing power required is still too high in
my opinion. I need this program to be able to run and deliver even in a
mid-range specs laptop."

"But boss," said Gerald, after sipping his beer. "I'm not sure if that's
possible to do for both video and audio analysis unless our software is the
only program running in that computer."

"What if processing expression and modulation are not done simultaneously?"
said Natalie. "I mean, I saw the code and it can give results quickly but
needed a ton of power. What if we let it handle each task one at a time? It
might take longer but maybe it will reduce the processing requirement..."

"I actually thought of that but it will increase processing time by at
least 40%," said Derek. "A 15-minute raw video and audio will take 30
minutes to process in a 1.5 gigahertz quadcore computer."

"That's too high," I said, making a mental calculation. "It will take five
computers working non-stop for at least three days to process fifty
fifteen-minute raw footage."

"How about cloud computing?" suggested Vincent, suddenly.

I turned to him and so did everyone else around the table. I saw him try to
discreetly gulp down his nervousness due to suddenly being in the
spotlight, so I smiled to encourage him to go on.

"We can tweak the code and send a part of the footage to our servers for
processing. The data file will be smaller so bandwidth will not be a
problem and I think Mobius servers can easily handle the load," said
Vincent, looking obviously unsure whether it was a good idea to tell his
seniors what to do.

"What about security?" I asked putting him further in the spot. "Our
clients might not be inclined to share the data with us."

"Well, I was thinking we can recode the software to do what Natalie
suggested. Separate the video from the audio. The audio can be processed
locally then a copy of the audio-less video will be uploaded to our servers
which will send back a report for micro expression analysis. I think
without audio, temporarily sending an encrypted video file to our servers
is not a big risk. I mean, nowadays, there are more sensitive corporate
information getting shared through email in a daily basis."

The third and my most important reason was to give Vincent a way to earn my
approval, despite being manipulated into having it. I wanted him to feel as
though he gained my respect by doing good work and being in a team that I
will praise in the end.

After stating his suggestion, Vincent looked at me and I grinned back at
him. And by the looks of it, everyone in the team seemed to be in favor of
his idea as well.

"I think that's a great solution to the speed and processing problem," I
said. "We can release a slower but fully offline version and we can also
offer the faster solution with cloud computing. We can even expand to a
subscription service suite on that, heck even integrate it to other service
we may offer in the future."

Vincent got a couple of pats on the back and we all toasted for the success
of the software. After everyone finished their drinks, we all stood up and
got out of the bar. As my team went our separate ways, I held Vincent's
shoulder as we waited for cabs.

"Good job, newbie," I said, massaging his shoulder. I clearly heard him
moan which made me chuckle. "Knotted shoulders huh? Typing all day will
give you that."

"Ha ha ha. Yeah. I never thought working for a software company will be
such a workout," Vincent said smiling. "I wasn't sure about my idea at
first... didn't want to look as though I'm overstepping."

"We're a team and everyone understands what that means. Internally, you'll
get the credit but at the end of the day, we are all working for
Mobius. The work each of us do contributes to the company's credibility
including everyone in it. A win-win no matter who thought of the solution,"
I said, gripping his shoulder firmly for a few seconds then letting it go.

A cab stopped in front of us and Vincent graciously offered it to me but I
waved at him to take it.

"You go home and rest. You'll probably have to help out with the revising
of the software. You got the idea, you write the code," I winked at him.

Vincent grimaced then laughed. He got into the cab and waved at me through
the window.

I watched the cab until it rounded a corner and smiled to myself. Vincent
was young, opinionated, and though a bit green in many ways, I knew he had
a great future in Mobius or even beyond. As I climb to my cab and told the
driver my address, I began think what will happen to him after I'm done
with my assignment for Love Assassin. Many of my targets learned my lesson
about love being a dangerous illusion and now spend their time, as far as I
know, enjoying their unattached status.

But some targets also got scarred like the one guy I made realize he can
get attracted to men. I knew from the beginning that hurt can sometimes be
inevitable and sometimes even necessary to make people realize what love
and romantic relationships really is. But, as the my cab swerved around the
almost empty streets towards my home, I wondered if scarring Vincent was
the best way to go, being young as he was... or maybe I should postpone the
assignment and let him discover it on his own?

"Hmm..." I found myself sighing.

I never had second thoughts before.

***

After more weeks of calibrating, recoding, testing and retesting, I was
confident that the analysis software (we named "Phoebus" after the Greek
god of prophecy) was ready to be launched and pitched to our clients. Alex
and Bong were ecstatic when my team did the first internal test and had
given their full support from then on. Both executives were also excited by
the implications and what the software can do for the credibility of the
company and many of the employees were also very impressed by the work my
team accomplished.

As a way to celebrate the program's completion and also as a way to
formally introduce it to clients, Penny suggested we hold a company
gala. And in just a week, she organized one of the grandest events our
company had ever done. Even if it was short notice, a lot of our clients
here and abroad gave confirmation to attend due to the software's promised
capabilities and low price tag.

Everyone was dressed to kill and as I arrived, I saw that Bong, Alex, and
Penny were already charming many clients. I walked around and watched at a
distance as some members of the development team helped them demo the
software in separate showcase tables where we set-up ordinary desktop and
laptop computers. After seeing that the clients looked genuinely impressed
by the demonstrations, I let myself appreciate the large hotel ballroom
that Penny chose for the event.

Everything looked grand and the room was decorated beautifully as music
played all around. Large banners and LED monitors displayed the Mobius logo
and played videos about the software. The buffet table looked like heaven
and even had a champagne tower. I wondered how my assistant pulled off such
a feat in just a week.

"The man of the hour has finally arrived," Bong announced after spotting
me.

"Mr. Jorvina," said one of the CEO's beside Bong as I approached. "This is
quite an accomplishment you've done. Congratulations!"

Shaking his hand, I said, "Well, I'm very fortunate to have brilliant and
dedicated co-workers."

Many clients expressed their congratulations and interest to get access
with the affordable software. After smiling and entertaining several
customers for an hour, I went to get a drink and saw Vincent near the bar
with a pretty girl I recognized as Jenna. As I approached, I sensed the
tension between them after seeing the small frown forming on Vincent's
forehead and the disinterested, almost bored expression on Jenna's face.

"Well, what does my protege feel about his first corporate party?" I asked
loudly. Vincent turned and completely changed his expression upon seeing
me.

"This is awesome and great turnout! Never thought Mobius knew how to party
in style," he said as I shook his hand. "Oh, sir. This Jenna Rodriguez, my
girlfriend. Jenna, this is Mr. Dante Jorvina, Mobious' CEO."

Vincent introduced my with so much pride but Jenna just gave a small smile
as she shook my hand.

"Pleasure to meet you," she said though I did not miss the hint of sarcasm.

After researching Jenna's background, I knew she came from money. Meeting
her for the first time gave me the impression that she was a spoiled brat
that knew how to look sophisticated and classy, at least on the
surface. Her father was a big shot business man with various companies and
well-known for owning one of the largest fast-food chains in the country.

"The pleasure's all mine," I said, giving her my most charming smile. "You
must be very proud of Vincent? He did a great job."

"Yes, of course," Jenna said, smiling thinly. "Digitizing the corporate
hiring process is an interesting idea, though I hope it turn into something
more than a fad."

"I agree and I'm reassured by the reaction I got tonight from many
clients," I said not letting my charming smile fade. "Are you enjoying the
party?"

"It's good. Almost reminds me of the corporate galas my father hold for
TechnoSAT. This is smaller though but it's charming."

"The last TechnoSAT gala I attended was really great. But I do hope they
recover the loss they garnered last quarter or I might sell my stocks," I
said winking at her then added, "Well, enjoy the rest of the party. It's
nice to meet you Ms. Rodriguez."

She just smiled as I walked towards the open bar. I stopped my eyes from
rolling as I ordered a shot of vodka. I always hated talking to privileged
people like Jenna. I have encountered CEOs who just inhereted their status
and it always gave me a headache when I had to be polite and courteous when
all I wanted to do was stuff things up their pompous asses. Well, I guess I
did that with Mr. Hendri Chen...

The night went on and the party started to calm down. I talked to more
clients and was not even surprised by how receptive they were to the
Phoebus Program because I knew the price tag was a steal and the possible
benefits was clear during the demos. Plus, I made sure to instruct Bong,
Alex, and Penny to make an impression that the software can actually give
companies a cutting-edge image. Knowing that all companies want to look
cool and high-tech, I knew clients will eat it up.

As most clients started to leave, Mobius employees started to enjoy
themselves and dance as the music got more upbeat. I went to get another
drink and saw Vincent talking to Jenna at a distance from most of the
crowd. There was no shouting but I knew by the upset look on Vincent's face
and defiant expression on Jenna's that they were arguing. I observed them
discreetly and smiled a little as Jenna walked away, leaving her boyfriend
standing alone with a scowl. He then walked straight to the bar where I
stood casually drinking a brandy.

"Everything okay? Where's Jenna?" I asked after Vincent drank a shot of
tequila and ordered another immediately.

He only answered after two more shots which amused me as he started to turn
red.

"She left. Said she's bored and wanted us to leave. I told her it was rude
to go when the rest of Mobious are still here," said Vincent drinking
another shot.

"Okay, okay, pace yourself," I said holding his arm when he grabbed for
another shot. "Tell me what happened."

Vincent's head was bowed as he looked at the bar for a few seconds, then
said, "I'm sorry on how she acted. You were polite and professional even
after she insulted our party."

"Well, TechnoSAT's quarterly loss put her in her place but I'm pretty sure
you're upset by something more important than that."

"She didn't care," Vincent murmured softly. "My first big software project
for Mobius and she just couldn't care less."

I squeezed his arm gently then stroked it a few time to comfort him.

"I know you love her and pardon this comment but screw what she thinks."

Vincent turned his head to me and his bloodshot eyes grew in surprise. I
smiled at him and we started to laugh. It was probably due to the alcohol
in our system but it took a while for us to calm down.

"The software is great because you and the team did a brilliant,
magnificent job. You deserve to be proud. You earned it. Enjoy this moment
and don't care what other people think," I said, giving his arm another
squeeze then let go handing him the shot glass.

Vincent took the shot glass and we toasted.

The party started to die down and many Mobius employees either went home or
went upstairs to several rooms the company booked for those we expected to
get wasted. I had a good buzz but not enough to make the world turn but
Vincent was another matter. Upset by his girlfriend's abrupt exit, he drank
a shot too many and swayed as he stood up. I caught him as his knees
buckled and we laughed drunkenly.

"Dude, you're going upstairs," I said to Vincent then instructed one of the
bartenders to go to the front desk and get me a key for an available room.

After the bartender returned, I helped Vincent to the elevator and we
ascended. Feeling embarrassed that the CEO was holding him up, Vincent
tried with all his might to stand straight but I kept his arm around my
shoulder to keep him from swaying. Feeling his body next to mine, I got the
first impression on how fit and toned he was.

We entered the room and after I turned on a light, I saw that there was
only one bed. It was not a big deal as I did not plan on staying but as I
closed the door with my foot and walked towards the mattress, Vincent
stopped walking and entwined his other arm to my shoulder, hugging me.

"Thanks boss," he whispered, the side of his face next to mine. "I'm sorry
for... the inconvenience."

He could barely finish a sentence without hiccuping midway which I found
cute. I hugged him back and as his body pressed to me, I could not help but
start to get aroused.

"It's part of the executive package," I said softly, moving my hands on his
back comfortingly.

In his drunken state, Vincent's head lolled and rested on my shoulder as I
continued to massage him. We stood there silent for a few minutes and I let
my hands travel on the length of his back. He sighed several times so I let
my hands venture lower and lower until one touched his ass gently. I did
not get a reaction the first time so I repeated it and let one stay
there. I started to massage between his shoulder blades and gently squeeze
his butt when I distinctly heard him moan.

"You like this?" I asked gently and felt him tense up a little but did not
move away. I continued to massage his ass and felt his embrace tighten,
both his hands grabbing the back of my suit. I felt a stir on his pants and
a growing lump pressing on my thigh.

"It's okay," I reassured him as he started to back away. I tightened my
arms around him and his forehead rested on my shoulder.

I moved my head and kissed his cheek. He did not react so I kissed the
corner of his mouth. I felt his jaw set and his hands tighten its grip. I
thought he will pull off but when Vincent moved his head to the side, I
pressed my lips on his. He let his mouth open a bit I sucked his lower lip
gently. He moaned.

Grabbing his ass hard with both hands, I pressed our bodies together. He
started to kiss back and as I gave him my tongue, sucked it lightly. We
kissed like lovers as I continued to fondle his butt and the more pressure
I used the more passionate he got with the kiss. I pulled away and looked
at his face. Vincent's eyes were close and his slightly parted lips looked
red.

"Do you want this?" I asked him almost lovingly, then licked his lips
softly. I saw him swallow then bit his lower lip. I moved my lips between
his shoulder and neck then nibbled it mildly. He gasped when my teeth
scraped his flesh.

"I won't do anything you don't want," I whispered. "But if you want me to
go on, tell me..."

Vincent continued to bit his lip then lowered his head to my shoulder. His
hug tightened a little bit so I continued to massage his back and ass for a
few more minutes. He was no longer tense and gave out a few deep breaths,
almost like a purring kitten.

After a while, I stopped and released his embrace by taking his arms off my
shoulder. I unbuttoned his shirt while he swayed in place, his head still
on my shoulder. I guided him towards the bed then gently pushed dropped his
torso to the mattress and lifted his feet up. I took off his shoes and gave
both his feet a short massage.

I looked up and saw that Vincent's eyes were now half open due to be drunk,
looking at me with a sad, confused expression. I stood up at the side of
the bed then patted his head and started to turn when he grabbed my arm.

"I..." he began hoarsely but did not continue.

His grip on my arm was firm but not painful. I looked at him and saw that
he was staring up at me. Sitting at the mattress, I held the side of his
face and lowered my lips to his, all the while looking at his eyes. We
kissed tenderly and I felt Vincent's hand hold the back of my head.

"It's okay," I said, ending our kiss and smiling at him gently. "We can
figure it out later."

He just gazed at me, looking lost. I gave him another peck then stood up
and left the room before I could not stop myself.

I walked quickly to the elevator and pushed the button to the parking
garage. My buzz was gone but my heart was pounding. I did not plan to make
a move on Vincent tonight and even though he was receptive, I'm worried
that my actions might scare or freak him out. As the elevator descended, I
tried to think of the worst case scenarios after what just happened in that
room. But my mind was not working the way it should because all I could
think about was how much I enjoyed kissing Vincent.

The elevator doors opened and I walked out as confident as I can manage
despite the hard-on that was making a prominent bulge in my pants. The
parking garage was deserted except for a lone security guard making his
rounds. I caught him discreetly glance down to my crotch and lick his
lips. I knew that look very well as Hendri Chen gave it to me every time I
saw him.

I stopped walking, took out my phone and pretended to check for
messages. The guard went behind a pillar shining his flashlight to a dark
corner of the garage but was looking at me instead. I pocketed my phone and
approached the stocky, young man.

"When's your break?" I asked him, looking straight at his eyes.

"Sir?" he replied, surprised.

"I said, when's your break?" I said as I closed the distance between us and
quickly taking his free hand then putting it to my hard-on. He tried to
pull his hand back but I gripped it tightly.

"Sir, this is--"

"You're not interested?" I growled. "But you looked as though you wanted to
eat me. When's your break? Answer me."

He stopped struggling and I felt his hand grabbed my bulge. I released my
hold but his hand remained on my crotch.

"I'm... I'm just finishing my shift, sir. Last round..." the guard said
nervously.

I was not worried about getting discovered. I knew there were no CCTVs near
our area and the pillar casted a shadow on us. Plus, being a CEO who just
spent hundreds of thousands to use the hotel for a well-publicized event,
I'm sure the management will believe my version of the story over whatever
this guard said.

"Clock out and meet me in front of the convenience store near the hotel in
ten minutes," I said authoritatively. "Be a second late and I'll be gone."

I walked to my car. Looking up the rear view, the guard quickly run towards
the security office. I started my car and exited the garage then parked in
front of the convenience store. I walked in to buy some energy drink and
when I got out, the guard was standing near my car.

"Get in," I said.

Immediately after closing the passenger door, I grabbed the back of his
head and pushed his face down my lap.

"Pull it out and suck it," I commanded after starting the car.

I felt my fly open and a hand pulling my dick out of my boxers. Warm
wetness engulfed my dick but I pushed the guard's head down forcefully so I
can change gears. I heard him choke but continued on sucking as I searched
for the nearest drive-in motel.

To be continued...


From the Author:

Yes! Finally another chapter. It took a while and I apologize for those who
were expecting it sooner. Last month got crazy because I turned 25 (yehey!)
got a bit overwhelmed by family and friends activities. But November will
hopefully be a slow month for me (in the aspect of social and personal
obligations, at least) so I'm aiming to write more chapters. Fingers
crossed!

My contemporary, fantasy, adventure novel ~ ADLAO: The Hidden Tribe ~ is
now available in Amazon.com (Kindle Edition). If you like my writing and
want to express your support, please get a copy :) Paperback edition is
still getting sort out but will be available soon.

ADLAO: The Hidden Tribe:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F1JUK7S

You can also show support by sending words of encouragement or a simple
hello so I'm reassured that there are actual people reading this story. If
you wish, I also notify you when a chapter is available. Drop an email at
theadlaotribe@gmail.com

If your curious about me and my thought process, you can visit
http://theadlaotribe.wordpress.com

Thanks for reading!

Peace,
Fritz Diantan