CHAPTER 34: A WEEK OF SURPRISES
One Week Ago
At the Office
Bose, standing at the head of the conference table with a determined look, addressed the team. “Listen up, everyone. This year, our company received an invitation from the national company. I need you all to represent us and make a strong impression.”
Oki’s eyes sparkled with curiosity. “National company? That sounds like a big opportunity.”
Haari, a hint of anxiety in his voice, asked, “Did we get promoted?”
Bose shook his head. “Not yet. The promotion depends entirely on how you represent us.”
Rafta, brows furrowed, asked, “So if we mess up, what happens?”
Bose’s expression was serious. “Then our company stays where it is. We might not get another chance like this soon.”
Haari, feeling the weight of responsibility, suggested, “Why not hire professionals? We don’t have experience in this.”
Bose’s gaze was steady. “I believe in you. That’s why I’m entrusting our company’s future to you.”
Rafta, voice tinged with concern, added, “And if we fail?”
Bose’s reply was blunt. “Then feel free to stay home.”
Oki, trying to lighten the mood, said, “Come on, we’ve handled tough situations before. We can do this.”
Haari nodded, though still visibly worried. “Habi-san is right. We’ve got skills. We just need to focus.”
Rafta, with a deep breath, said, “Alright, if we’re doing this, let’s make a plan. When is the presentation?”
Bose consulted his notes. “The presentation is in two weeks. You’ll need to prepare thoroughly.”
Ashi, who had been quietly listening, spoke up. “We should break down the tasks. Assign roles based on our strengths.”
Bose smiled slightly. “I’m glad to see you’re already thinking strategically. That’s the spirit I’m looking for.”
Haari raised a hand. “Could we have some additional resources or guidance? Maybe a mentor or someone who has experience with this kind of presentation?”
Bose considered this for a moment. “I’ll see what I can arrange. But remember, the core of the presentation will rely on your individual contributions.”
Oki, determined, said, “We’ll make it work. We’ve got this.”
Rafta, nodding, added, “Let’s schedule a meeting right away to start planning. We need to make every minute count.”
Bose gave a firm nod. “Good. I’m counting on you all. Make it count.”
At Goa Airport
The team exited the airport, eyes wide with the novelty of the new environment. Oki, excitedly pointing towards the distant beach, said, “Let’s head to the beach!”
Haari, weary from the journey, replied, “But we just arrived.”
Rafta, with a yawn, suggested, “Everyone’s tired. Let’s check into the hotel for now and visit the beach tomorrow.”
"Yeah , he is right."
Ashi, nodding in agreement, said, “I’m tired too. We can explore the beach tomorrow.”
Oki's enthusiasm didn't wane as he looked out at the horizon. “Come on, the beach looks amazing! It’s only a short walk.”
Haari sighed, adjusting his backpack. “I get it, Habi-san. The beach is great and all, but we need to settle in first. We’ll be more refreshed for tomorrow if we rest now.”
Rafta stretched, clearly exhausted. “Seriously, I don’t think I can even walk another step. A hot shower and a nap sound like a dream right now.”
Stolen story; please report.
Ashi gave a sympathetic smile to Oki. “I know you’re excited, but let’s be honest. We won’t enjoy the beach if we’re all dragging our feet by then.”
Oki frowned but then brightened up with a compromise. “Alright, how about we drop off our stuff and grab a quick bite at a nearby café? We can still get a little taste of the area today.”
Haari perked up at the mention of food. “I’m in for that. As long as it doesn’t involve too much walking.”
Rafta chuckled. “A quick bite sounds good. Maybe we can find a place with a view of the beach, so Oki can at least get a glimpse.”
Ashi laughed softly. “Deal. And if we’re lucky, we might catch a sunset from wherever we eat.”
Oki’s eyes sparkled at the thought. “Okay, that works for me. Let’s find a café and enjoy what we can today!”
The group, now with a plan, started heading towards a nearby café, the promise of a relaxing evening ahead lifting their spirits.
At the Hotel
Oki was frantically rummaging through her suitcase, her face showing distress. “Oh no, how could this happen?”
Ashi, noticing Oki’s panic, asked, “What’s wrong, Habi-san?”
Oki’s eyes were filled with tears. “I forgot my swimsuit at home. Now I can’t enjoy the beach tomorrow.”
Rafta, trying to stay positive, said, “So what if you forgot the swimsuit? It’s not mandatory to wear one at the beach.”
Haari, considering the situation, suggested, “If she forgot it, we can buy another one here. Goa has plenty of swimsuit shops.”
Oki’s face brightened with hope. “That’s a great idea! Thank you!”
Ashi, trying to be reassuring, added, “We can make it a little adventure. Maybe we’ll find something fun in the shops.”
Rafta nodded. “Yeah, and you might even get a better swimsuit than the one you left at home!”
Haari chuckled. “Exactly. Plus, it gives us a chance to explore more of the city.”
Oki, wiping away her tears, said, “You’re right. It’s not the end of the world. Let’s find a place where I can get a new swimsuit.”
Ashi smiled encouragingly. “How about we ask the hotel concierge for recommendations? They might know the best spots.”
Haari agreed. “Good idea. They might even have a few suggestions for nearby cafés or restaurants too.”
Oki took a deep breath. “Okay, let’s get going then. I’m excited to see what we can find!”
As they prepared to head out, Rafta added, “And who knows, we might stumble upon some other cool places while we’re at it.”
Ashi laughed. “That’s the spirit! Let’s make the most of today.”
The Next Day
Haari looked around the hotel room with a sense of bewilderment. “How did I end up like this?”
Ashi, looking concerned, asked, “Kichiro-san, do you have any plans?”
Haari, trying to think, replied, “Ah, plans for what?”
Ashi clarified, “It’s not like they’re coming back soon. Do you have any ideas for killing some time?”
Haari, looking puzzled, his thoughts in his mind, *Killing... some time? But how? I can’t think straight right now.*
Ashi suggested, “Do you know any place to hang out?”
*Oh , so that's what she talking about* haari thoughts.
Haari, understanding now, replied, “Yeah, you’re right, Nicawa-san. It’s not like we have anything to do either.”
Ashi agreed, “Yeah, and it’s boring to be free.”
Haari, remembering something, said, “Oh yeah, I saw on the internet that there’s a popular aquarium nearby. What was its name again? Ah, Hybss, yeah, that was the name. So, wanna check that one out?”
Ashi’s face lit up. “Sounds great! Let’s go. Oh, could you wait for a moment? I need to change my clothes.”
Haari noticed Ashi’s nightcap and felt a blush on his cheeks. *Now that I think of it, Nicawa-san, she's wearing her nightcap, and I didn’t even notice it until she mentioned it.*
Haari’s face turned red.
Ashi went into the changing room. *How could I be this careless? I forgot to change out of my morning clothes,*she muttered to herself, her face also turning red.
Haari waited outside, feeling a mix of embarrassment and anticipation. Once Ashi emerged, they were ready to explore the aquarium together, making the most of their unexpected adventure.
At the Aquarium
Ashi’s face was filled with awe as she admired the Neon Tetras. “Wow, look at them! They’re so vibrant!”
Haari, smiling at her enthusiasm, replied, “Yes, they’re quite beautiful.”
Ashi’s excitement grew. “My uncle had these at home, but seeing them here is amazing. Look, there are more!”
Haari chuckled. “You’re like a kid in a candy store.”
Ashi laughed. “Well, I guess you could say that. I’ve always loved fish, and this place is like a dream come true.”
Two hours later, Ashi was still captivated. “Is that a Sea Goldfish? Oh my gosh!”
Haari observed her with amusement. “Yes, that’s a Sea Goldfish. You seem to be having a wonderful time.”
Ashi’s eyes sparkled. “They have Tropheus fish too! I never thought I’d see one in person.”
Haari, curious, asked, “Why’s that?”
Ashi, eyes wide with excitement, explained, “Tropheus fish are rare in our country. Seeing them here is incredible!”
Haari, appreciating Ashi’s enthusiasm, said, “I’m glad you’re enjoying it. It’s nice to see someone so passionate about something.”
Ashi grinned. “Thank you! I’ve always wanted to see these fish up close. It feels like a little victory.”
Haari, feeling a bit shy, said, “I’m just glad I could help make that happen.”
Ashi’s smile was warm and sincere. “It meant a lot to me. I’m so grateful for today.”
Haari, feeling a sense of fulfillment, smiled. “Sometimes, the best experiences come from unexpected surprises.”
Ashi’s smile widened as she responded, “Absolutely. Here’s to more unexpected adventures and memorable moments.”
As they continued to explore the aquarium, Haari suggested, “Why don’t we grab a bite to eat afterwards? There’s a café nearby that I heard has great reviews.”
Ashi’s eyes lit up. “That sounds perfect. I’d love to keep the day going.”
Later, at the café, Haari and Ashi reflected on their day. Haari raised his glass, feeling a mix of satisfaction and camaraderie. “Cheers to new experiences and making memories.”
Ashi clinked her glass with his. “Cheers! Here’s to the adventures we haven’t yet had.”
As they enjoyed their evening, the room was filled with laughter and conversation, marking a memorable chapter in their journey together.
To be continue..........