Navigating the unknown
The next day dawned with Harvey deciding to venture into the restaurant where Imelda toiled away. As he strolled in, the room seemed to pause, every gaze directed at him. His striking features commanded attention – a chiseled face, a strong jawline, and eyes that held an air of mystery. The room bathed in the glow of his smile, a ray of sunshine illuminating the atmosphere. With confidence oozing from every pore, Harvey found an empty table, pulled out his phone, and began scrolling. Imelda, engrossed with another customer, initially missed his entrance but when she finally turned to take his order, she couldn't help but be taken aback by his near-perfect presence. "What's the deal with this guy?" she mumbled to herself. But in that instant,Harvey seized the moment, cheekily raised his eyebrows and asked with a loud voice, "Hey Imelda, wouldn't you take my order?" The room's attention shifted to Imelda and a silent judgment hung in the air.
Harvey's demeanor frustrated Imelda, yet she managed to maintain a professional smile as she took his order. The spicy tuna crispy rice and a mojito were his choices, but when asked if he wanted anything else, Harvey was already immersed in his phone. Imelda processed the order and soon the food arrived. Harvey only ate a few bites, asked for the bill and promptly departed. Imelda sighed with relief at his early exit, thinking she was free from his peculiar antics. However, her relief was short-lived as her boss called her over suggesting she take a few days off. He explained that the property was sold the night before, bringing impending changes to the staff. Her boss advised her to go home early and await contact from the new owners. The abrupt turn of events left Imelda confused, her job security now hanging in the balance.
In a flurry, Imelda changed into casual clothes in the ladies' bathroom, grabbed her bag, and hastily left the restaurant. The weight of uncertainty pressed on her shoulders and she needed time to contemplate her next steps. Stepping outside, she was met with the last person she wanted to encounter – Harvey. "Let me drop you off, Miss Imelda. The sun is scorching today, and I'd love to lend a helping hand," he offered, to which Imelda retorted with disdain, declaring her preference to walk. Ignoring her refusal, Harvey persisted, shadowing her with an irritating presence. Imelda's frustration erupted as she halted abruptly, confronting him with seething anger. "What the hell is wrong with you? Is this how you stalk people? I swear, I'll call the cops and have your sorry ass locked up!". Harvey who was unfazed by her outburst, calmly asked, "Is this how you talk to your new boss?"
The revelation caught Imelda off guard. Was Harvey truly her new boss? The prospect puzzled her, and her disdain turned into silent contemplation. If he indeed owned the place where she worked, she couldn't afford to offend him. After all,she desperately needed her job. Harvey sensing her bewilderment reassured her, suggesting they talk things through. He walked to the driver's seat, gesturing for her to join him.
Imelda who was conflicted, hesitated before reluctantly accepting the offer. She quietly nodded,reassuring herself that she had her pocket knife for protection if needed. As she cautiously approached the car,she couldn't help but marvel at the sleek design and luxury of Harvey's car. The drive was silent, a three-minute journey filled with unspoken tension. Reaching her apartment, Harvey observed the neighborhood's shabby appearance. The houses looked old and worn-down, making him wonder if the people here lived comfortably. A frown formed on his face as he silently pondered this thought.
As soon as the car came to a stop in front of her house, Imelda hurriedly got out and rushed towards her apartment. However, Harvey's commanding tone stopped her in her tracks, causing her to pause halfway. Despite not turning around, she could feel his gaze on her. "You should take the week off and rest," he stated firmly, a smile stretching across his face. Imelda's mind raced with confusion and uncertainty as she hurriedly walked inside her house standing with her back pressed against the door. The weight of Harvey's words hung heavily in the air, leaving her with a mix of emotions. Confusion, frustration, and a hint of fear swirled within her mind. She couldn't understand why he was being so insistent about her taking time off and why her job might be at risk if she didn't comply. Doubts filled her thoughts as she replayed their brief conversation in her head, trying to decipher his true intentions. "What does he want?" she murmured softly, her voice filled with a tinge of vulnerability.