In the tapestry of their professional endeavors, Bryan and Joy found the winds of fortune blowing favorably in their direction. Not only did they secure contracts with an array of prominent and lesser-known associates, but some even reached out proactively, as if privy to the whispered tales of their impending business ventures.
Before their journey, shadows of doubt and anxiety had clouded their minds, fearing the business trip orchestrated by Andrew might be a ruse. Yet, reality gave them success that surpassed their wildest dreams, melting away their earlier apprehensions.
That evening, the duo took a serene stroll beside Hoan Kiem Lake. Hanoi’s relaxed and refreshing atmosphere was heightened by gentle breezes carrying the moist scent of the lake. Joy took a deep breath, her exhalation filled with nostalgia. “It’s been so long since I’ve visited the capital. It’s changed so much, yet its age-old charm remains untouched, just like the memories from years ago. I still vividly recall my first time in Hanoi, savoring a Trang Tien ice cream and feeling like no other treat could rival its taste. That ice cream has a unique and unforgettable flavor.”
Suddenly, her gaze shifted to Bryan, curiosity sparking. “I’ve heard you hail from this city too. Have you ever tasted the Trang Tien ice cream?”
A bitter-sweet smile crept onto Bryan’s face, revealing layers of unspoken memories. “Such luxuries were beyond my reach growing up. Even a simple ice cream was a lavish dream in those harder times.”
Reading between the lines of his past, Joy quickly suggested a visit to the original Trang Tien ice cream shop, a humble attempt to recapture the fragments of a childhood missed. Although Bryan was preoccupied with thoughts of a beloved, he couldn’t deny that a mere walk on a pleasant evening might feel a tad monotonous. He accompanied Joy to a bustling shop, where they waited in a long line for over thirty minutes before finally obtaining two cone ice creams. They then crossed the street to a popular spot where many stood, relishing their icy treats.
The ice cream wasn’t overpoweringly sweet but refreshing, creamy, and cooling. The cone was crisp, and the sensation of the ice cream melting on the tip of the tongue was utterly entrancing. Despite Bryan’s extensive ice cream tasting sessions across Vietnam and abroad, he had never encountered such a distinctive flavor. “It truly is unparalleled,” he commented.
Joy’s laughter echoed his sentiments as they continued to chat. Curiosity again bubbled within her as she inquired, “What twist of fate led you to Mary?”
A faint smile played on Bryan’s lips as he replied, reminiscing, “From the first meeting, my heart was stirred. I believe destiny brought us together in the most unexpected circumstance. I was the creditor, and she, the debtor. Looking back, I can only hope she forgives my mistakes.”
Engrossed in his tale, Joy pondered the unpredictable nature of relationships. She, too, had encountered Bryan in a dire situation. If it weren’t for him, what might’ve become of her? Yet, why couldn’t they be together?
With eyes heavy with sadness, Joy turned away, attempting to conceal the long-held disappointment nestled in her heart. Being a few years older than Bryan, she knew the sting of loneliness and the weariness of endless waiting. With each passing day, she yearned to reunite with the young man from her past.
Yet, when they finally stood face to face, the words trapped in her heart inexplicably remained unspoken. She knew Bryan could never comprehend her emotions, yet she hoped that working alongside him daily, exchanging words and shared glances, would be enough.
Noticing Joy’s prolonged silence, Bryan broke the stillness.
“Where did you draw inspiration for this piece?” he asked gently. “You must’ve been deeply saddened, harboring countless unspoken sentiments, to craft such a tragic fate for your character. While I may not be the most fortunate person, I recognize that many have faced even graver misfortunes than I.”
His words touched the raw pain that Joy constantly hid. At that moment, she desperately wanted to unveil her feelings, to let him understand her heart’s tumult, but her rationality held her back. She feared confessing might disrupt their working relationship and jeopardize their friendship.
Suddenly, Bryan’s phone buzzed, temporarily halting their conversation. A newly established bookstore in the capital was seeking collaboration and expressed interest in placing a significant order for an upcoming publication.
Hoping for a long-term partnership, they proposed purchasing around a hundred thousand copies of the new project and twenty thousand previous ones. All they asked for was a more favorable price than other clients.
Bryan was elated, feeling like luck had given him a radiant smile. He hastily agreed, setting a date to discuss the specifics. Puzzled by his sudden fortune, he pondered the stories he’d share with Mary upon returning.
Thus, the unfinished story between him and Joy remained interrupted, and their chance to share their innermost feelings slipped away. Upon catching onto the jubilation, Pearl smiled radiantly, masking her inner sadness. She acknowledged the orchestrated fate – those who arrive late forever remain so.
Upon returning to his hotel, Bryan enthusiastically recounted his achievements to Mary and promised her a surprise gift.
Mary, filled with anticipation, reminded him, “In any endeavor, always be cautious. The business world is a battlefield; a single misstep can lead to catastrophic losses.”