Chapter 23: A Chance to Shine: Ashi’s Culinary Journey

The next day, as Mr. Patel was working with his team, he called Ashi into his office. "Ashi, we’re out of some office supplies—paper, pens, a few other things. I need you to get them right away."

"Understood, Mr. Patel. I’ll head to the market," Ashi replied.

On her way to the elevator, Ashi bumped into Haari, who was standing there with a cup of coffee. He had a stack of files under his arm and looked slightly distracted.

“Kichiro-san,” Ashi greeted.

“Hmm?” Haari looked up from his coffee, his attention shifting to Ashi.

“What are you up to?” Ashi asked, noticing his scattered papers.

“I was organizing some files, but right now I’m taking a break,” Haari said, taking a sip of his coffee and setting the files down on a nearby table.

“Would you like to come with me?” Ashi asked.

"Where?" Haari asked, curious.

“Mr. Patel needs these supplies urgently, so I'm going to the market,” Ashi explained.

“Sure,” Haari agreed.

Outside the company, Haari and Ashi walked towards the mall. The city streets buzzed with activity, and Ashi glanced at Haari, who seemed to be enjoying the crisp air.

“Which store are we looking for?” Haari asked as they entered the mall.

“I’m not exactly sure. I haven’t done this kind of errand before,” Ashi admitted, looking around at the various shops.

“ Me too, In that case, let’s go to the mall,” Haari suggested, his tone practical.

“The mall? Isn’t that a bit expensive?” Ashi hesitated as they approached the escalator.

" So what it's not like he told us where to get these stuffs and also it's not like we were going pay for it , it going from the company fund." Haari said with a shrug, leading the way.

"I know, but…" Ashi began, still feeling uncertain.

"Let’s go already," Haari said with a playful nudge, and they ascended to the mall’s upper level.

As they wandered through the mall, Haari tried to lighten the mood. “You know, I think it’s a good idea to get out of the office once in a while. It might even inspire some new ideas.”

Ashi smiled faintly. “I suppose you're right. It’s just that I haven’t had much time to explore places like this.”

“So, which store are we looking for?” Haari asked as they entered the mall.

“I have no idea,” Ashi said, glancing around. “I’ve never been tasked with this before.”

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“Then let’s just check the Stationery Section then,” Haari said.

After gathering the items they needed, Haari suggested, “Nicawa-san, how about we grab a bite to eat while we’re here?”

“We’re supposed to be working.” Ashi replied, her eyes scanning the bustling food court.

“Don’t worry. It’s not like anyone’s going to check up on us. Let’s just eat and then head back,” Haari insisted, his tone lighthearted.

“Okay, but let’s be quick,” Ashi agreed, following him.

They settled at a food court. “What do you want to eat?” Haari asked, looking at the menu boards.

“I’ll have noodles,” Ashi decided.

“Alright, I’ll get a masala dosa for myself,” Haari said, heading towards the counter.

After finishing their meal, Haari looked at Ashi and said, “How about some ice cream now?”

“Kichiro-san, we’re getting late,” Ashi protested, glancing at her watch.

“It’ll be quick,” Haari promised, already heading towards the ice cream stand.

As they enjoyed their ice cream, Ashi’s attention was caught by an advertisement for a food competition. Her eyes sparkled with interest. “I’d love to participate in that,” she murmured to herself, though she felt a bit embarrassed.

After they finished their ice cream, Haari said, “You go ahead, Nicawa-san. I’ll catch up with you later.”

“Why?” Ashi asked, surprised.

“There’s something I need to take care of,” Haari replied, a hint of mystery in his voice.

“Okay, just don’t take too long,” Ashi said, giving him a curious look.

Back at the office, Ashi handed over the supplies to Mr. Patel. “Mr. Patel, here are the items you requested.”

“Thanks, Nicawa-san. This is a big help,” Mr. Patel said, looking pleased.

“No need to thank me,” Ashi said with a warm smile. “Since we work for the same company, it’s only natural for us to help each other out.”

Ashi returned to her desk, reflecting on the day’s events and feeling a mix of excitement and anxiety about the competition.

"Ah, Nicawa-san, did you happen to see Haari anywhere?" Rafta asked as he approached.

"Oh, Kichiro-san is at the mall," Ashi replied, organizing her desk.

"At the mall? Why?" Rafta inquired, raising an eyebrow.

"Mr. Patel asked me to pick up a few things from the market, so I invited Kichiro-san to help me. When we were heading back, Kichiro-san mentioned he had something else to take care of and would be coming back soon. Is there anything I can assist you with?" Ashi offered.

"No, it’s alright; it wasn’t that big of deal," Rafta said, appreciating her offer.

Ashi nodded understandingly. "Alright, if you need any help, just let me know."

Rafta offered a grateful smile. "Thank you, Nicawa-san. I’ll keep that in mind."

Haari walked in, looking slightly disheveled but cheerful. “Sorry I’m late,” he said, glancing around. “I got caught up with a few things at the mall. Is everything alright?”

“Yes, everything’s fine,” Ashi reassured him. “Densi-san was just asking about you. But it turns out it wasn’t urgent.”

Haari nodded, relieved. “Good to hear. Let’s catch up on what I missed.”

As evening approached, Ashi packed her things to leave.

“Nicawa-san,” Haari called out.

“Hm? Kichiro-san?” Ashi responded.

Haari handed her a small piece of paper.

"What's this?" Ashi asked.

“This is a ticket for the food competition. I noticed you were interested earlier, so I went ahead and registered you.”

Ashi’s eyes widened. “Really? You did this for me?”

“Yeah,” Haari said. “I hope you don’t mind. I thought you’d want to participate.”

Ashi hesitated, her gaze drifting to the ticket. “I’m not sure… I mean, my cooking isn’t anything special. It’s just something my grandma taught me when I was a kid. I don’t have any formal training.”

Haari smiled encouragingly. “Nicawa-san, you bring lunch for me every day, and each time it’s been incredible. I’ve seen how much care and skill you put into your cooking. You have a talent that’s worth sharing.”

Ashi’s shoulders relaxed a bit, though she still looked unsure. “But what if I’m not good enough? What if my dishes don’t compare to the others?”

“Your dishes are amazing,” Haari insisted, his voice firm but kind. “Trust me, you have a unique touch. This competition isn’t just about being the best; it’s about sharing what you love. I believe you’ll do great.”

* I just wanted share what I love,*Ashi thoughts.

Ashi's eyes softened as she considered his words. “You really think so?”

“Absolutely,” Haari said with a reassuring smile. “You’ve already proven your talent. This is your chance to shine even brighter. I’ll help you prepare for the competition, and we’ll make sure you’re ready.”

Ashi smiled, feeling a surge of confidence. “Thank you, Kichiro-san. If you believe in me that much, then I’ll give it a try. I wouldn’t want to waste this opportunity after all you’ve done.”

“Great!” Haari said, clearly excited. “Let’s get started then. I’m sure you’ll be fantastic.”

To be continue...............