Out of Reach (PUBLISHED)

06

“PATIENCE is the capacity to tolerate shits.”

Senthie Salvador had a remarkable ability to tolerate things that others might find intolerable. She firmly believed that a bad temper could invariably lead to unfavorable situations, as exemplified by the events of her very first day in business.

 ***

Walter, with a puzzled expression, asked, “Huh? Where is that coming from?”

Senthie’s daydream had momentarily made her forget Walter’s presence, until his remark snapped her back to reality. She shifted her gaze toward him, noticing him sitting on the sofa near the front counter.

“It came from me, obviously,” she replied, rolling her eyes at his sarcastic tone. “Just don’t open your mouth, okay? You’re starting to ruin my mood!”

However, Walter’s attention was fixed on something outside the store. She glanced outside to see nothing unusual but empty hallways and neighboring shops. “Whatever. Just keep your eyes there.”

Checking the clock, Senthie noted that it was already 10 AM, and her nervousness had reached its peak. Her heart pounded with excitement, like a dream on the verge of becoming reality.

Amidst her racing heart, Walter suddenly exclaimed, “Hey, Sen! Your lucky charm is coming!”

“Finally, a customer!” She swiftly rose from her stool, smoothing down her hair and adjusting her turquoise dress. She moved beyond the counter, taking a few steps toward the store’s center, ready to greet the customer. “Good mo--” But her words trailed off in surprise. “Kenzo?”

“Hi, Sen,” he greeted with a shy smile, his hand finding its way to the back of his neck.

“Bro!” Walter called out, leaping up from his seat and inviting him to share a fist bump and a friendly hug. It had been nearly a year since they’d last seen each other. Kenzo’s bright smile in response hinted at newfound happiness.

“I never thought you’d be here so early!” Walter remarked, slinging an arm around his best friend’s neck.

“Ken, uh, why are you here?” Senthie inquired, puzzled by his unexpected appearance. He couldn’t be my lucky charm; he’s not a customer, she thought.

“I asked him to meet me here, but isn’t it weird that he had no idea about your store opening here?” Walter chimed in, his gaze shifting between Kenzo and Senthie. “Why didn’t you tell him?”

“The thing is . . .” Kenzo began, placing a hand on the back of his neck.

“The thing is what?” Walter pressed; his impatience palpable.

Senthie sensed Kenzo’s discomfort and knew she had to intervene. He seemed lost and distant, not even making eye contact with anyone. His hand dropped to his side, his hair falling to partially obscure his jawline. He licked his lips, preparing to speak once more. However, before he could continue, Senthie decided to take a bold approach. She clapped her hands as forcefully and loudly as she could, aiming for the kind of stunt she’d seen in Assassination Classroom, one of her favorite anime series.

She marveled at the effectiveness of her impromptu stunt. Both appeared thoroughly stunned, and seizing this brief moment of bewilderment, she subtly guided their shoulders, urging them to turn and gently pushing them toward the exit. “Bystanders aren’t allowed here, so move your butts out!”

She caught a glimpse of Walter’s furrowed brows as if he were silently questioning what just happened. She smiled at her little victory, continuing to push them toward the exit. “Go on, move it!”