After eight months of collaboration, the final project had reached its culmination, and only a few days remained before the book would grace the bookstore shelves. Initially, Joy harbored deep skepticism about the project’s prospects of success, but now, she had total faith in the publishing house’s competence, particularly in the young editor, Mary.
Today was the project wrap-up meeting, and the renowned author Joy arrived early. She wore a jewel-toned crop blazer with two rows of brilliantly gleaming buttons. Her skirt, which ended mid-calf, featured button-adorned pockets that accentuated her slender legs. She looks like a successful young entrepreneur with her classy, enclosed shoes. Every bit Joy, one of the novel authors known for her eccentric and distinctive personality, was often reflected in her fashion choices.
Her style oscillated between elegant, quirky, casual, and extravagant. She was a chic fashion devotee of famed designer labels, and mentioning her brought to mind a young, multi-talented individual with liberal spending habits, a profound understanding of various domains, and an unconventional spirit. Her rich, creative soul meant that every work she produced bore its unique flavor, never repetitive or tedious, always fresh and engaging.
To today’s youth, she was an idol. Every statement she created on social media trended and was adored by many.
Once everyone had assembled, Ms. Selina signaled the commencement of the meeting. The agenda was to review the project’s achievement and, in gratitude for everyone’s hard work, the company had a modest gift – a two-day excursion to a distant city.
The room filled with crisp applause and jubilant laughter at the end of the head editor’s announcement. Everyone was excitedly discussing what additional items they needed to buy or what outfit to flaunt to look even more radiant and stand out. Some were even planning to change their profile pictures for this special occasion.
“Everyone, may you have a few moments, please?” Joy raised her voice to capture the crowd’s attention, her elegant voice resonating.
“We have walked a long journey together to arrive at this day. Our path was initially strewn with obstacles due to unfortunate misunderstandings, but we exceeded expectations. Although the book hasn’t hit the shelves yet, the pre-orders have far exceeded my imagination. Thank everyone at the publishing house for supporting me throughout this journey. I will always remember and appreciate the sincerity you have all shown me. Once again, thank you.”
The earnest demeanor of Joy was truly surprising; she was like an unpredictable gust of wind that could change direction so swiftly that even nature could not foresee it.
Johny-Hydro glanced at Mary and Jessy and whispered, “Must be used to flipping rice paper pancakes back in the day, the. That’s a cheater attitude so quickly. From wanting to cancel the contract due to distrust, now she’s expressing her ‘sincere gratitude.”
As Johny-Hydro finished, Joy continued speaking.
“I know that there may still be people here who are not satisfied with me because I am demanding or because they haven’t fully understood me or are envious of me. I want to co-sponsor this picnic trip to compensate for everyone’s efforts and recent grievances about me.”
“Applause! Applause!”
Johny – Hydro’s thunderous applause surprised and excited everyone.
Jessy sat beside him, pouting her lips.
“Oh my! There are even two grilled rice paper sellers.”
Mary softly chuckled, gently nudging Jessy’s arm, afraid Johny would hear. She found it exciting and looked forward to this trip.
In the morning, before the sun had risen above the distant skyscrapers, Mary had woken up to prepare for the trip. The spring breeze lightly swept through every street corner, bringing a refreshing touch of nature to this bustling city. Throughout the night, Mary couldn’t close her eyes. Her sleeping habits have gradually changed since she started working with Andrew. Instead, her mind became more and more dreamy. She had thought about many things, mostly related to “him,” like a person lost in a labyrinth unable to find an exit. As they say, there’s no better way to be sober than to be drunk with love.
From the city, they traveled to the outskirts and followed Highway No. 1, with the car humming along the road toward the resort where they would spend this trip. The further they were from the city, the sparser the houses became, the streets grew narrower, and the pace of life slowed down significantly.
Mary closed her eyes, feeling the leisurely, calm, and comfortable atmosphere. She took a deep breath of the fresh air and exhaled gently, savoring the sweet taste of life. After months of busyness, Mary was exhausted from all the trivial matters. It was time for her to reward herself with some enjoyable rest days.
Mary dozed off as the car moved, her tiny head nodding back and forth. Andrew silently smiled from behind, thinking, “She is really…” He slowly moved forward, sat beside her, and lightly supported her head, falling onto his shoulder. Every time they hit a speed bump, he cushioned her head to prevent it from hitting anything, and she sank deeper into sleep. Andrew occasionally glanced at her while reading a book. He attentively observed her and smiled, wondering what she might be dreaming about that made her so blissful.
When she was called awake, it was midday, and the city of Phan Thiet was right in front of them. She had been here once before, but it had been a long time, and this particular sightseeing spot was still new. The group checked into their rooms and prepared for lunch. In the afternoon, they would begin their journey of exploration and experience the much-anticipated services of this tourist destination.
The midday meal mainly consisted of simple yet delicious seafood dishes. Most of the guests came from the southern provinces. Their tastes were similar to the locals of Phan Thiet. Hence, they quickly adapted.
Johny – Hydro, as always, was responsible at these gatherings, tasked with grilling the grouper fish and fresh clams for everyone. The aromatic fragrance of scallions in hot oil wafted into their nostrils, tantalizing their senses. Unable to restrain himself, Johny exclaimed.
“A cold beer would indeed be the cherry on top!”
Jessy, seated opposite, teased in response.
“Talking big again, are we? Remember last time? You were so drunk. We had a hard time getting you home.”
“That’s in the past. If you don’t believe me, let’s have a wild night tonight.”