I bought all of us some ramen since there was a ramen store nearby. I wish for them to eat more, but lunch is almost over, so this might do.
I let Ren hold most of the food and I the drinks. He was sighing all the time. I don't get why but this is entirely needed for a working force.
"I don't know what got you so worked up," I said to him as we walked towards his new bar. "But lunch is a very, very important meal. And they'd start working later so they need all the energy they could get to survive this afternoon's ordeal."
He sighed before answering, "I know. But they really don't – "
"Shut it." I said and stared at him angrily. "If I hear one more phrase about them not needing food, I'm gonna sue you against the labor code. You clearly do not know how to take care of your employees."
We reached the bar without him saying another word. Maybe he's contemplating his wrongdoing, good for him.
I called the guys over, "Hey guys! I brought you some lunch."
The guys stood up and I noticed they all looked at Ren, who just nodded at them. I guess they're afraid to disobey his commands. Clearly, I need to teach this guy some lessons in handling people.
I gave each of them the food and watched as they devoured the food, a satisfied smile gracing my lips.
I didn't notice Ren came close to me until he nudged me.
"What?" I asked him, irritated.
"Don't you want to eat?"
I blushed. So he's concerned about me.
"Yeah. Let's eat together."
He nodded and we sat on a pile of wood. As soon as I opened the packaging, I literally forgot the people around. The aroma of the ramen was so good I was transported to heaven.
I ate a little faster, fearing that the ramen would chase me out from that imaginary heaven. Although I felt my tongue was a little bit scalded, I didn't care. I really wanted to finish the ramen wholeheartedly.
As I slurped the remaining soup, I saw in the corner of my eye the dumbstruck look of Ren and the boys.
I smiled at them, my eyes shining. Is it their first time seeing a sexy beauty like me eat like a boar? I laughed inside. Well that's how amazing I am.
"Nina," I heard Ren call me.
"Yes?" I answered sweetly.
"I'm taking you home."
Wait what? "Now? Won't you allow me to stay? I could be of help regarding the use of materials."
Ren looked at me sternly. "No, we can manage it from here. I'm really, really thankful." He made a slight bow to show his gratitude.
But I'm not yet done. "But I can – "
"I will be overstepping my boundaries. Besides, this area would be full of dust. You might get sick."
I sighed, realizing I can't win him. "Oh, well whatever you say. Just notify me if there are problems or what."
Ren nodded. "Sure. Are you ready?"
"Yeah, what can I possibly do more? Let's go," I said with my enthusiasm deflating. I faced the workers who were still busy eating. They aren't done yet, why? Whatever, maybe they're just savoring it's deliciousness.
"Bye guys!" They replied with a bye. I shrugged. If that's it then that's it.
I rode Ren's car and remained silent the entire ride. I'm a little bit confused about his ways in life. I really wanted to ask him how he deals with his subordinates, but my other conscience tells me I do not have the right. I feel like I'm getting comfy with him when in fact our relationship is purely based on business, no strings attached.
But I'm really getting curious. My curiosity urges me to ask him but I'm afraid. I'm afraid if I overstep too soon, I might change the way we deal with each other.
I sighed loudly.
"What's wrong?"
I jumped in fright. I forgot I'm with Ren. "No, nothing."
He didn't answer. Clearly, he doesn't care. But why would he care? I'm getting sentimental all of a sudden.
I could now see the top of my gate. Ah home? So quickly?
He parked the car at the side of the road. I looked at him and said, "Contact me if everything's done, okay?"
"Yeah."
"When could that probably be?" I wanted to prolong the conversation but I don't know why.
"Maybe after the new year."
"Oh, okay. If you can't reach me, just see me at my office. The password is Dobby."
"Huh?" he looked at me confused.
"Trust me you'll need that." The password was a way for my secretary to know who the people are allowed to see me inside without appointment. Giving him that privilege is a one in a million.
"Bye! Take care!" I said with a flying kiss.
The car turned and that was the last time I saw him.
On the third day after the new year, operations in our company started to function. Our first magazine issue of the year was due on the second week of the month. We have prepared it ahead and is now only awaiting for some final touches. I was seated in my office, browsing on the marketing proposals the January team submitted, when the secretary called me for a visitor.
"Visitor? But it's almost closing time."
"Yeah, he says it's urgent."
Hmmm who could it be? "Did you ask for the password?"
"Yeah. It's Dobby."
"Oh, then let him in." That Dobby was exclusive to him. And Ren, you are super late.