Supernova||Book 1 [Wattys 2024]

Episode 2.3 - Something To Think About

"Uh-oh." Jorah looked around

"What?" Avalon glanced at him.

"If we're going to this kind of place, it must be something serious."

Offering no verbal response, Avalon continued to lead the way down the alley.At least Jorah was dressed in casual clothes so he didn't look too conspicuous, in comparison to Avalon in his tailored suit.

As the two trekked, Jorah found himself immersed in a sensory symphony that stirred memories of his college days. Back then, instead of these suits they would come in their prestigious St. Jude's uniforms.

The air was thick with the tantalizing aroma of sizzling meats, fragrant spices, and freshly baked bread, weaving a tapestry of flavors that beckoned to him from every corner.

This was his favourite place. Neatly tucked away from the main thoroughfare and bustle of the city, this alley was lined with humble food stalls. Jorah loved everything about this beautifully chaotic place. A kaleidoscope of colors and sounds crashed together; vendors called out their offerings in lively voices and patrons milled about in search of their next culinary adventure.

There was a tacit understanding between the pair who made a beeline to the last stall. This stall had the most patrons. Customers were happily eating, engaging in lively conversation.

When Avalon and Jorah spotted an empty table,they quickly took their seats.

It felt like nothing had changed.The familiar aroma of grilled meat and spices tickled their nostrils. The old woman behind the counter looked up, her eyes lighting up with recognition and warmth when she saw Jorah and Avalon.

Nodding to the young man in the kitchen and wearing a smile, she walked over to their table.

"It's you." She greeted them delightfully. "It's been too long since you boys graced my humble stall with your presence. The usual, I presume?"

Jorah returned the old woman's smile, a wave of nostalgia washing over him. "You know us too well, Auntie," he replied. "Two orders of your famous dumplings, please."

"I saw your last movie." she said to Jorah. His face tightened slightly."It was so good." she beamed. "I always tell my neighbours that you used to eat here all the time when you were younger."

"What do you mean 'used to'." Jorah teased.

"Right, right." she smiled, "My mistake." She wiped her wrinkled hands in her apron "I'll get your order started."

"Thank you." Jorah smiled warmly.

Among the patrons recognition dawned on some of their faces. A few phones were pointed at them but Jorah paid it no mind. Perhaps it was the nostalgic environment but his mood was not too foul. If any of those onlookers approached for a photo, today was the day it would be granted.

After the woman left, Avalon looked at Jorah. "I just can't believe how much you love this place." He looked around. "I never imagined someone like you would eat at a place like this."

Jorah understood him perfectly well. Even now it might be unbelievable to know that Jorah Jindaya, heir to a fortune would be caught in such a place.

"Good food is good food." Jorah pointed out. Avalon nodded. "But you asked to meet here...what's this about?"

Avalon smiled appreciatively, pushing his glasses up on his nose."Your Manager called me."

"Why am I not surprised."

Tanner didn't usually enlist the help of others when dealing with him, but if he ever needed backup, Avalon was the one he would call.

"What was his complaint?" A smile tugged at Jorah's lips.