Isla and Daniel arrived at the workplace. She walked with hesitant steps until Daniel gently pulled her by the hand to encourage her, dispelling her fear and shyness as he said:
- "This isn't the Isla I know—the one I first met when she threw me into the sea and soaked my clothes with all her boldness and courage."
Isla replied:
- "I really am brave, but this world is still strange to me. I know nothing about it."
Daniel responded, reassuring her:
- "Don't worry, my love. You'll get used to it and learn to deal with everyone. It's just a matter of time. But I advise you not to show anyone your fear or astonishment."
Feeling slightly reassured, Isla answered:
- "Alright, darling. I'll do my best to appear natural. If it weren't for you being by my side and my father's wishes, I would have backed out."
At that moment, Daniel found himself moving closer to her. He wrapped her tightly in his arms, pressing a kiss to her lips. Then, he whispered in her ear, promising he would never leave her no matter the circumstances.
Reassured, Isla clasped his hands firmly. Then, they knocked softly on the manager's door, asking for permission to enter. The manager welcomed them warmly, invited them to sit, and greeted them politely.
He did not forget to offer his condolences for her father, speaking highly of him and the achievements he made throughout his years of research. His words about her father stirred a wave of nostalgia in Isla, nearly bringing her to tears. But she quickly composed herself, reminding herself that she was in the manager's office, and her work required her to display a strong personality. She resolved to stay firm and not show any weakness that might invite pity.
The manager brought out her father's file, and they began studying it together. After some effort and discussions, they concluded that further research would be necessary, involving deep-sea exploration. However, this would require traveling back to Isla's island. The manager chose not to mention this immediately, intending to bring it up later—once Isla became more familiar with the work, comfortable with the team, and they had assembled the group that would accompany her there.
That evening, Isla returned to her aunt's house with Daniel, who insisted on escorting her home. She was filled with joy at the thought of one day returning to her friend Iris and swimming with her again.
Daniel noticed the change in her mood and guessed what was on her mind. He realized that no matter how far she ventured, she could never abandon her homeland. She was like a fish—if taken out of the sea, its fate would inevitably be death. He began contemplating how he could accompany her, unable to bear the thought of being apart from her. After all, she had become his very breath, and he couldn't imagine life without her.