Amid the routine of the office day, Emma found herself immersed in her work, diligently completing tasks and tackling challenges. As she focused on her assignments, there was a sudden interruption – her manager arrived at her desk.
"I almost completed my task, manager!" Emma informed, glancing up from her work.
In response, the manager extended his hand, a gesture that sparked confusion in Emma. However, before she could voice her question, he said, "Congratulations, you got the promotion you deserved."
"Really?" Emma exclaimed, her eyes widening in surprise and excitement. The words hung in the air for a moment as the realization set in. A wave of joy swept over her, and she couldn't help but share the good news with her friend and colleague.
"Congratulations, Em!" Charlotte joined in the excitement, adding her heartfelt wishes to the mix.
Emma, still in a state of pleasant shock, processed the unexpected turn of events. The promotion she had worked hard for, the recognition she deserved, was now a reality. The office day had transformed into a day of triumph, marking a significant milestone in Emma's career.
As Charlotte warmly embraced Emma, the atmosphere in the office buzzed with congratulations and cheerful vibes.
"Finally, you got what you wanted!" Charlotte exclaimed, expressing the shared joy of Emma's accomplishment.
"Thanks, Char!" Emma replied, her smile reflecting the genuine happiness radiating from within.
"We are getting drinks tonight!" Emma announced, her excitement contagious and echoing through the workplace.
"Well, Emma, I have to go home urgently today!" Charlotte conveyed, a hint of regret in her voice.
"Oh, it's okay. We have another day for celebration!" Emma reassured her, her optimism and enthusiasm undiminished.
After the initial excitement and congratulations, Emma, with a thoughtful expression, decided to make the evening truly special. She pulled out her phone and dialed Issable's number.
"Hey, Issy," Emma greeted.
"Hi, Emma! What's up?" Issable replied.
"I've got something special tonight, and I was wondering if you could take care of Lily for me. It's a little unexpected, but I want to make the most of this promotion celebration," Emma explained.
"Of course! I'd be happy to take care of Lily. You go and enjoy your celebration, Emma!" Issable responded with enthusiasm.
"Thanks, Issy! I really appreciate it. I'll make it up to you, promise!" Emma assured her.
After arranging for Lily's care, Emma decided to share her joy with Alex. She dialed his number, waiting eagerly for him to pick up.
"Hello?" Alex's voice came through the phone.
"Hey, Alex! Guess what?" Emma's excitement was palpable.
"What's up, Emma?" Alex replied with curiosity.
"I got a promotion at work! I was thinking, let's celebrate tonight. How about meeting for drinks?" Emma suggested.
"Wow, that's amazing news! Congratulations, Emma! I'm in for the celebration. Where should we meet?" Alex responded, sharing in her joy.
"There's a nice bar downtown. Let's meet there around 8 PM. What do you think?" Emma suggested.
"Sounds perfect! I'll see you at 8. Can't wait to celebrate with you!" Alex said with enthusiasm.
With plans set for the evening, Emma couldn't help but smile, looking forward to both the celebration and spending quality time with Alex.
The soft glow of the bar's ambiance surrounded them as Alex sat patiently, scrolling through his mobile. When Emma entered, the dim light highlighted her smile, making her way toward him.
"Hey honey!" Emma's voice carried a mixture of excitement and warmth.
Alex stood up, enveloping her in a congratulatory hug. "Congratulations on the promotion, Emma. You truly deserve it."
Emma's cheeks flushed with a tinge of embarrassment. "What's this? It's embarrassing, you goof!"
"You deserve this!" Alex insisted, offering words of praise.
After the heartfelt moment, they settled at a cozy corner table and decided to celebrate with a couple of beers. The ambiance echoed with their laughter and conversation, creating an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie.
As the beer flowed, Emma found herself in a slightly tipsy state, laughing freely and enjoying the carefree moment. Alex, noticing her merry mood, suggested, "Emma, let's head home."
Emma's joyous state became evident in her refusal, "No! I can't!"
Undeterred, Alex suggested playfully, "How about you hop on my back?"
Amused by the idea, Emma gleefully agreed, "Yes, my horse!" Her laughter echoed in the cozy corner of the pub.
With a warm smile, Alex carefully assisted Emma onto his back. "Let's go!" she exclaimed, pointing towards the path ahead.
"Alright, alright," Alex chuckled, embracing the playful moment with enthusiasm.
Exiting the pub, the city lights illuminated the night as they strolled along the sidewalk. With care and consideration, Alex hailed a cab. He gently guided Emma into the backseat, ensuring she was comfortable for the ride home.
As the cab navigated through the city streets, carrying the duo towards the warmth and familiarity of their home, the journey became a silent reflection of the night's shared moments.
Upon reaching home, Alex once again offered to carry Emma on his back. She giggled, embracing the playful gesture, and hopped onto his back with childlike delight.
Approaching their apartment building, Alex headed towards the elevator, only to discover it was under maintenance for the day. Undeterred, he decided to take the stairs, carrying Emma on his back. Ascending each step, their laughter resonated through the stairwell.
"Alex!" Emma called out like a child seeking attention.
"Yes?" he responded, his tone filled with affection.
"I love you!" Emma declared, her words punctuated by the joyous rub of her face against his.
"I love you too!" Alex chuckled, savoring the precious moment.
As they reached their floor, Emma, still perched on Alex's back, playfully urged, "Carry me to my room!"
"Alright, alright," Alex agreed with a grin. He carefully navigated the hallway and finally reached Emma's room.
With a tender care, Alex ensured Emma was comfortably settled on the bed. As he stood by her side, Emma's playful eyes met his, and she patted the space beside her, signaling him to join.
Alex, chuckling at her tipsy antics, decided to lie down beside her. The warmth of the room and the shared laughter created a cozy atmosphere. Emma, in her slightly intoxicated state, snuggled closer to Alex, wrapping her arms around him.
In the quiet embrace of the night, Alex found himself ensnared in a haunting dream. It was a vivid portrayal of a world where everyone he held dear abandoned him, leaving him in a desolate state. The unsettling dream unfolded, each scene a painful reminder of the potential loss.
Suddenly, Alex jolted awake, the echoes of the dream still lingering in his mind. He found himself in the familiar surroundings of their room, but the remnants of the dream lingered, casting a shadow over the reality.
Emma, sensing his restlessness, turned towards him with concern. "What happened, Alex?" she asked, her voice soft with genuine worry.
In response, Alex pulled her into a tight hug, as if seeking solace from the imagined turmoil of his dream. "I thought you left me!" he confessed, his voice laced with vulnerability.
Emma, taken aback by the intensity of his emotions, didn't utter a word. Instead, she caressed his back, silently offering comfort. Yet, in a surge of mixed emotions, she couldn't contain her reaction. With a swift motion, her hand met his cheek in a resounding slap.
"What was that for?" Alex asked, surprised.
"That's for even thinking I would leave you," Emma replied, her eyes reflecting a blend of hurt and understanding.
As Alex sat in the kitchen, Issable handed him a plate of breakfast. She couldn't help but notice the redness on his cheek, and concern flashed across her face.
"What happened to your cheek, brother?" she inquired, her eyes narrowing inquisitively.
Alex sighed, "Well, I had a strange dream last night, and Emma slapped me when I told her about it."
Issable raised an eyebrow, a mixture of surprise and amusement playing on her face. "A dream? What was it?"
"I dreamt that you guys abandoned me," Alex revealed.
The next second, Issable gave him a light slap on the other cheek, adding a touch of playful sternness. "In your dreams, brother. We're not going anywhere."