CHAPTER 42: NEW DYNAMICS

A few weeks after the unforgettable office party, the atmosphere in the company was charged with a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Word had spread that a new employee was joining the team—someone sent by the national company to assess and improve overall performance.

When Riku arrived, the 25-year , man quickly caught the attention of everyone around him. With sharp features, a confident demeanor, and a friendly smile, he introduced himself as he walked through the office.

“Hey everyone, I’m Riku! I’m here to help us take things to the next level,” he said, his voice warm and inviting.

Whispers filled the office as employees speculated about his purpose. Ashi exchanged glances with Oki, a mix of curiosity and intrigue written on her face. “I wonder what he’ll change around here,” Ashi murmured, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear.

“Probably everything,” Oki replied, a hint of nervousness in her tone.

Riku spent the first week observing the company environment. He moved from team to team, taking notes and listening intently. One afternoon, he caught sight of Ashi deep in discussion with her colleagues, her passion evident as she animatedly described a new project.

“Wow, you really know your stuff,” he remarked, leaning against the doorframe, crossing his arms.

Ashi looked up, slightly startled. “Oh, thanks! I’m just trying to make sure we stay on track with our goals.”

“I like that. You’ve got a good head on your shoulders,” Riku said, flashing her a smile. “I’d love to hear more about your ideas sometime.”

“Sure! I’ve got a few plans I’ve been working on,” Ashi replied, her interest piqued. “What about you? What’s your strategy for the team?”

Riku paused, thoughtful. “I’m still figuring that out. I believe collaboration is key. We should build on each other's strengths. It’s a bit like a team sport, right?”

Ashi laughed lightly. “Exactly! It’s all about teamwork.”

As the week went by, Riku gathered everyone in the conference room. The atmosphere was tense with anticipation. “Thanks for coming, everyone. I know you’re all curious about my plans,” he began, meeting the curious gazes of his colleagues. “I’m here as a consultant from the national company. My goal is to help streamline our operations and enhance performance.”

Bose nodded in acknowledgment. “We’re looking forward to your insights, Mr. Riku.”

“Over the past week, I’ve analyzed our workflows and noticed some areas for improvement,” Riku continued, his tone earnest. “I believe we need to leverage everyone’s strengths effectively. So, here’s what I’m proposing.”

The room fell silent as he outlined his restructuring plans. “Haari, you’ve shown remarkable skill with documentation, so I’m assigning you to the documentary team with the new hires.”

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Haari’s eyes widened. “Wait, what?”

“ You’re going to do great,” Riku said, grinning.

“Habi-san, I’d like you to lead the observation team. Your keen eye for detail will be crucial in tackling future errors,” Riku said, shifting his focus.

Oki felt a mix of apprehension and excitement. *Wait what?* “I’ll do my best,” she replied, her heart racing.

“Rafta, you have a talent for organization. You’ll join a team dedicated to arranging and storing files systematically,” Riku continued. Rafta beamed with pride. * What in the hell is happening here why our team falling apart, somebody say something I know you don't want this so why aren't.*

As Riku finished his restructuring, he felt satisfied with the teams he had formed. He was eager to witness how the new arrangements would boost productivity and morale.

Over the next few weeks, Riku continued to foster a positive environment. He made a point to connect with everyone, encouraging open communication. One afternoon, during a brainstorming session, Ashi and Riku found themselves sharing ideas and laughter.

“You really think that approach could work?” Ashi asked, a playful glint in her eyes.

“Absolutely! But you’d have to convince the rest of the team to get on board,” Riku replied, grinning.

Ashi chuckled. “Ok I do my best.”

Meanwhile, Oki couldn’t help but watch from a distance. As she observed Riku’s effortless rapport with Ashi. “He’s really hitting it off with her, isn’t he?” she muttered to herself.

“Who?” Haari asked, noticing her expression.

“Riku and Ashi. They seem to be getting along a bit too well,” Oki said, crossing her arms.

Haari shrugged. “They’re just working together. It’s good for the team, isn’t it? Besides, you have your own strengths to contribute.”

“Yeah, I guess,” Oki replied, trying to mask her discomfort. “But it feels like... I don’t know, something more?”

“Maybe it’s just friendly collaboration?” Haari suggested, raising an eyebrow. “You’re not worried, are you?”

“No, it’s just... never mind,” Oki sighed, turning back to her work.

Haari said that but from inside he agreed with Oki for Riku to being so friendly with Ashi.

One afternoon, Riku called for a company-wide meeting. “I want to acknowledge the hard work everyone has been putting in. To celebrate our progress, we’re going to have a team-building retreat next month! It’ll be a chance for us to bond outside the office.”

Cheers erupted from the employees, and excitement filled the air. Ashi leaned over to Oki, her eyes sparkling. “This is going to be so much fun!"

Oki forced a smile. “Yeah, it should be great,” she said, her voice lacking enthusiasm.

“Come on, Oki! Don’t tell me you’re not excited about some time away from the office!” Ashi said, nudging her playfully.

“I am, just... you know, a bit busy with everything,” Oki replied, brushing her feelings aside.

As Riku walked away, deep in conversation with Ashi,Haari noticed them and felt a weight settling on his shoulders. He found himself grappling with emotions He didn’t fully understand—part admiration for Ashi’s confidence and part a sense of longing for a similar connection.

Later, as the teams worked diligently, Oki caught Riku’s eye. “Hey, Riku,” she called out, trying to keep her voice steady. “Can we talk about the observation team’s goals?”

“Of course! I’d love to hear your thoughts,” Riku replied, walking over.

“Thanks. I want to ensure we’re tackling the right issues before they become problems,” Oki said, her voice more confident now.

“Absolutely. We should set specific targets and regularly review our progress,” Riku suggested, his expression earnest. “What do you think?”

“I think that sounds great. We could create a checklist for common errors,” Oki replied, feeling a sense of relief.

“Perfect! Let’s draft something together. I value your input,” Riku said, a hint of admiration in his voice.

“Really?” Oki replied.

As they spoke, Riku glanced at Ashi across the room, who was animatedly discussing ideas with Haari. A spark of intrigue lit up in his eyes. He turned back to Oki. “By the way, how are you feeling about the upcoming retreat? Any plans?”

Oki hesitated. “I’m hoping it’ll be a good opportunity to build teamwork, but... I guess I’m also a bit nervous about how everything will turn out.”

“Totally understandable,” Riku said. “But it’s a chance for everyone to relax and bond. I’m sure it’ll be fun.”

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