Unpacking was quick. Not because I'm efficient, quite contrary - because I'm lazy and only opened two boxes. Well, there are some casual and some work clothes and kitchen must haves. It'll do. Small amount of clothes landed quickly into the drawers and on the few hangers. Kitchen box contained my favourite cups, tea and cutlery. I was quite lucky that Estel left me some old stuff of hers – like plates and kettle. That did made my life a bit easier, not needing to bring over or buy. I made a cup of roiba tea and decided to call it a day. Apartment was really quiet and that send me few waves of loneliness. I decided to grab my tea and check out the garden. It was getting dark, so I turned the lights down, that opened door wouldn't invite moths and mosquitos and went out to the balcony leaving the door open to let some fresh air in. It felt serene. Neighbour on the left built a small wall to make his balcony more private. Landlord's balcony was only small rail away, but it was all dark – seemed he wasn't home still. I walked to the edge and took a look at the garden. It was full of solar lights in different shapes and sizes - hanging yellow lanterns, pink and purple flowers, colourful string lights and white meteor showers. It looked majestic! All I need in this balcony – some pot plant, lounge chair and small table – for cup of tea and a book. And with this view I need nothing else. Evening was getting chilly, so I slurped my tea and went inside.
In the morning I had my symbolic job interview. Place was easy to reach. Security let me in, I just needed to wait for boss' secretary to come pick me up. She arrived and measured me with a frown in her face. Not sure what was wrong, but she clearly didn't approve me. Her words were all polite text coming out without any emotion, but the way she looked and waved me to wait at the entrance before she notifies my boss – wasn't friendly at all. Company employers did wore very corporate clothing. While in my home branch we weren't as strict. This is London I guess. And I was dressed more as a business student rather than a business woman. Even Lakisha, the secretary, was dressed as straight from the "Suits".
I was invited into my boss' office. She glanced at her watch before saying the greetings. I came on time. But Lakisha called me just after the agreed time. Not sure what was her deal.
The interview went smooth otherwise. It was very basic check list on my responsibilities and knowledge needed, just to check am I up to date. After all, that was the main reason I was hired – they lost the employee and needed immediate replacement, without the need to train. Also security check might take up to a month. She seemed pleased with me. I was quickly introduced to the team. Everyone seemed nice and friendly. Except Lakisha. For some reason that girl kept sending murderous glances towards me all day. We'll see what's her problem. The rest were nice and I think I found my new work bestie. Alex was so sweet. Offered me help, invited to lunch together, really made my day as comfortable as possible. That was a really nice thing to do.
The first week at work was going really well. I couldn't shake the feeling, that Lakisha is drawing targets on my back each time I looked at her. I made new friends. Alex was really helpful in everything. As usual in the new places – first ones to introduce themselves and pull all the details were the office's gossip bank. Samantha and Peter were always lurking together and whispering about everyone. They both were very stylish set. Sam somehow managed to pull off "rock chick" look while still keeping up with smart office attire, and Pete was a stereotypical posh gay in three piece suit. So on my second day they both invited themselves to have lunch with me and Alex.
"So what's your beef, love?" started Peter, while holding a mini sandwich with his three fingers and showing off a massive ring "I've never seen anyone taken to this position so quickly, pardon my curiosity".
"Well, I worked in another branch before, so technically I'm not new, I'm just transferred" I replied "I moved to London, so needed to leave old workplace. I'm so lucky and happy that my position came available just like that. I felt so lucky! Good things do happen!"
Everyone got paler and quiet. Peter and Samantha changed weird looks, while her murmuring "Not to Lucy" and started staring at their food, like it's the most interesting thing in the world.
"What? What did I say? Who's Lucy?"
Alex cleared her throat and slowly started "Well, Lucy was the girl, who's position you took. She died few weeks ago. Her car got into accident. It was instant."
The silence at the lunch table was very uncomfortable. Air felt thick and I felt hard to breath. I instantly regretted my words and especially my happy tone.
"I'm sorry" I mumbled "I had absolutely no idea. It is so tragic."
"It is…" All nodded.
"Was Lakisha good friends with her?" I decided to let my curiosity out.
"What? No!" laughed Sam "the only person Lakisha cares IS Lakisha. Why you even think that?" her eyes narrowed.
"Well, maybe it's just me, but seemed maybe she wasn't too happy with me coming to the office."
"It's nothing to do with you" Peter shook his head "She wanted to bring her boyfriend to this position. Monica said she'll consider his application. But then, suddenly she cancelled the whole interviewing process and took you in. Lakisha was only promised the interview and nothing more, but she is looking at it as you personally stole the job and better pay from her boyfriend.
"Should I talk with her?" I really didn't want bad blood between us.
"Nah, I do not think you will get anywhere."
"Yeah, Lakisha is all about herself and not to make any friends, unless it's beneficial to her."
The lunch finished with small talk, but I couldn't get out of my head what happened to poor Lucy.
Next morning I was so into deep thoughts, that I didn't see where I go and bumped into a stranger's chest while coming out of the elevator. Yes, that's exactly what I need to be known for at work – being the clumsy one. I blushed and started apologising.
Charming stranger just smiled "it's always nice when a beautiful girl comes into my life".
"Again, I am very sorry, don't know where my eyes were."
"No worries. Are you the new girl in Monica's team?"
"Yes, hi, I'm Kitty."
"Donovan. Nice to meet you."
"Nice to meet you to. And again, I do apologise, I usually do not bump into people."
"Don't worry" he smiled and winked while walking away "I hope more mornings would start so pleasant".
Oh dear, why I have to do this at my first week? But luckily, I did avoided such accidents further. I was getting used to work, it was really nice seeing Estel so often. I really enjoyed peace in my apartment, even I still need to unpack half of the boxes… But it was always excuse not to. Like today – BBQ party at Estel's. So many people. I do feel a little uncomfortable. I'm not super extravert person and I don't know anyone here, except Estel with Frank. My tactics are simple – grab a drink and stand close to the snacks table. I wave Estel, hoping that she will join me. Suddenly Estel drags some poor tall guy my direction, that is obviously very uncomfortable about the whole situation as I am.
"Kitty, I want you to meet Ben. He moved to London about three months ago. Ben, this is my bestie – Kitty. She moved to London about two weeks ago. See guys, you have so much in common – discuss!"
After odd handshake follows quite long pause, good that soon Ben recovers.
"Oh wow that was straight forward…"
"I know, right? Estel doesn't have shy bone in her."
"No, she doesn't. So how is London treating you?"
"I love it so far, but I must admit I don't leave my lovely apartment much. I visited most places of interested many times while visiting Estel. I also must admit – I'm a little bit scared to get lost. Everything is new. I sometimes struggle with accents, and my smartphone is not so smart when I need it. Did you know, that map app stops working every time you need it the most?"
"Hahaha, I sure do! Well, you'll need few months and soon you'll feel proper Londoner. Beginnings are always a bit hard: do not have many friends, don't know many good places to go, need to adapt. But changes are good. If you'd like, we can change numbers and I can show you around next weekend. What do you think?"