Ever so slowly, Charles turned to meet the intense gaze of the birthday celebrant.
"Hey, can you get me a glass of apple juice?" the voice came smooth, almost commanding.
With a subtle nod, Charles turned on his heel and made his way toward the bar, where an array of colorful juices shimmered beneath the soft glow of the overhead lights.
Charles pulled out a chilled can of apple juice, placing it carefully on his tray.
With measured steps, he walked back toward Mr. Edison and as soon as he reached the birthday celebrant, Charles cracked open the can with a soft hiss and poured the golden liquid into the waiting glass on his tray.
"Here you go, sir," Charles whispered, extending the glass to Mr. Edison with a composed smile.
"Thanks," he purred before walking away.
All the while Charles had been moving through the crowd, offering drinks with a practiced smile, his mind was nowhere near the party.
