Business trip

The next morning, Zeriel arrived at the office and found Alisha already at her desk, engrossed in her work. He took a deep breath. The memory of their awkward encounter from the previous day still lingered in his mind, but he knew he needed to address it if they were to move forward.

 Zeriel walked over to Alisha's desk, trying to appear casual despite the nerves that gnawed at him. "Good morning, Alisha," he greeted her with a smile.

 Alisha looked up, her eyes widening slightly as she saw Zeriel approaching. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment as the memories of yesterday's incident flooded back. She stammered, struggling to find the right words. "G-Good morning, Mr Z-Zeriel," she managed to say, her voice barely above a whisper.

Zeriel noticed Alisha's discomfort and realized that she was still affected by what had happened. He decided to break the ice gently. "Listen, Alisha, about the previous day... I apologise for the awkwardness.

 It was an accident, and I hope it didn't make you uncomfortable." Alisha bit her lip, grateful that Zeriel addressed the situation directly. She mustered up the courage to respond, her voice still shaky. "No, it's okay, sir. I understand accidents happen.

 "Why is he sounding so polite all of a sudden?" she thought.

"And speaking of work, I have some news for you. We have a business trip tomorrow, I know it's short notice but you have to close half day and plan for it. I'll have my driver pick you up tomorrow morning"  he said and leaves the office in a straight face Alisha's face turned pale as her boss, Zeriel, dropped the bombshell about the emergency business trip.

She felt a mix of panic and frustration, knowing that preparing for such a trip on such short notice would be challenging. "I thought as much, he's back to his mean self, I wonder how he switches up so easily,how do i survive with this weirdo of a boss on this trip" she thought,looking worried.

 "I have to inform my team and put someone in charge while I'm gone", Lisha whispered to herself as she stood off from her desk to go call a brief meeting with her team members.

 As Alisha gathered her team members for a brief meeting, she couldn't help but notice a few murmurs and glances exchanged amongst some of the female employees. She could sense a tinge of envy in the air, and it made her slightly uncomfortable. Taking charge of the situation, she began addressing her team.

 "Good morning, everyone. I have an important announcement to make," Alisha began, projecting her voice to capture everyone's attention. "I've been asked by the CEO Mr Zeriel to accompany him on an emergency business trip.

 As a result, I'll be away for the next few days." The room buzzed with a mix of curiosity and surprise. Alisha continued, her tone assertive yet reassuring. "I have complete confidence in each one of you to carry on with our ongoing projects. The research and development of fragrances and perfumes are in your capable hands. I expect you to maintain your focus and deliver the exceptional work we're known for." She turned towards Daniel, the team supervisor, and smiled appreciatively. "During my absence, I'm entrusting the management of the department to Daniel.

He will oversee the day-to-day operations and act as the point of contact for any urgent matters." Daniel nodded, accepting the responsibility bestowed upon him.

Alisha's gaze returned to the team, addressing the murmurs she had noticed earlier. "I understand that this opportunity may have caused some mixed feelings among you. Please remember that we are a team, and our success lies in supporting and uplifting one another. I am grateful for the chance to represent our department and share the knowledge and experiences gained during this trip with all of you." The room fell silent as Alisha's words sank in.

 She continued, her voice warm and encouraging. "I encourage each one of you to continue your research and exploration. Let's collaborate, share ideas, and push the boundaries of our creativity. Remember, success isn't limited to one person but rather a reflection of our collective efforts." Alisha concluded the meeting, allowing her team to process the information and prepare for her absence.

As the team members dispersed, Alisha couldn't help but hope that her reassurances had quelled any lingering envy. She remained determined to foster a supportive and collaborative work environment, where everyone could thrive and celebrate each other's successes.

 After the brief meeting Alisha rounded up and packed a few belongings and headed home as she was instructed by her boss to go home early.

 she arrived home, exhausted and overwhelmed, she found her best friend Maddie still at her place. Alisha sighed heavily and slumped onto the couch, catching her breath. "Maddie, you won't believe what just happened," she said, her voice tinged with a hint of stress. Maddie perked up, curious about the sudden turn of events. "What's going on, Alisha? You look like you've seen a ghost!"

Alisha recounted the conversation with her boss, explaining the urgent need to prepare for the unexpected business trip the next day. "I mean, I have so much to do, and I don't even know where to start. It's just too much!" Alisha lamented, her voice filled with worry.

Maddie, always the optimist, grinned mischievously. "Oh, Alisha, this might be an amazing opportunity! Think about it. You'll be traveling with Zeriel, your strict but incredibly successful boss. Who knows what doors this trip might open for you? Besides, you've been single for ages, and Zeriel is a catch. You could end up hitting it off!" She chuckles. Alisha stared at Maddie, a mixture of surprise and disbelief on her face.

 "Are you serious, Maddie? This is hardly the time to think about dating! and most especially not to that cold blooded mean boss of mine. I have a mountain of work to do, and I'm stressing out about the trip itself. I don't need any distractions!" Maddie shrugged playfully. "I get it, Alisha, but sometimes life surprises us. Just keep an open mind, and who knows? This trip might turn out to be a game-changer. You deserve some excitement in your life." Alisha couldn't help but crack a small smile at Maddie's enthusiasm.

Deep down, she knew her friend had a point. Maybe this trip could lead to something unexpected and positive. With a newfound determination, she nodded. "Alright, Maddie. I'll try to keep an open mind, but my priority right now is getting through this trip successfully." Maddie clapped her hands together. "That's the spirit, Alisha! I'll help you with the preparations. We'll make sure you're ready to conquer the world alongside Zeriel!"

Alisha chuckled, grateful for Maddie's unwavering support. With her friend by her side, she felt a glimmer of hope and the strength to face the challenges ahead. Little did she know, this business trip would mark the beginning of a significant turning point in her life.

Over the next few hours, Alisha dedicated herself to preparing for the business trip. She researched the conference agenda, booked their flights and accommodations, and gathered all the necessary materials. After the long hours of research,It was already 10pm in the night, Alisha looked so exhausted, she yawned, Maddie walked in with a plate of pasta she just prepared while Alisha was busy with her pc. "Here", Maddie gave the food to Alisha and sits beside her, "eat up and sleep early, you have a long day tomorrow".

Alisha collected the food giving her friend the poppy look, " what would I have done without you, thank you babe" as she blew kisses. "Don't stay late, come join me on the bed when you're done eating", Maddie yawns as she stands up and heads inside the bedroom.