Odyssey of the City of Lights

Odyssey of the City of Lights - Book 1 - Chapter 14

The grumpy boss returned before Aaron arrived, clutching a big yellow envelope. "Here's your package. Stop by tomorrow to fill out employment papers."

I nodded. "Thank you, sir."

Aaron pulled into the garage on his truck, got out, and walked up. "Hey, boss, how did he do?"

Grumpy boss laughed. "This corn-fed boy is stronger than the bots and smart enough to learn quickly. He's hired."

Aaron beamed at me, "Thank Boss."

"Thank you for the new workhorse," the grumpy boss said as he nodded and walked away.

I didn't know how to feel about that description.

As the boss disappeared through the door to the offices, Aaron turned to me. "Good job, man. We need to celebrate. What do you want to do?"

I shrugged. "I'm still broke, so how about you tell me what you are willing to do to celebrate."

Aaron laughed, unlocking the car. As we sat down, he said, "Let's grab some food and go from there?"

My stomach growled on command, "Sure."

We drove over to the apartment, but instead of going in, Aaron led me across the street to a busy building. As we entered the bustling food court, I was immediately struck by its vibrancy. The large, open space was filled with a mix of tantalizing aromas that blended together, creating an enticing scent.

"Wow," I breathed, taking in the lively atmosphere around us. The court was divided into various sections, each featuring different types of cuisine, from traditional local dishes to exotic international flavors. Colorful stalls lined the walls, their bright signage beckoning customers to try their specialties.

Aaron nudged me, grinning. "Looks good huh? When I moved into the apartment I was broke for a few months eating here everyday I had money."

"Definitely! I can see that," I agreed, feeling a surge of excitement as we walked through the energetic crowd. Rows of communal tables occupied the center of the court, where people of all ages and backgrounds sat together, enjoying their meals amidst laughter and chatter. Above, hanging plants and soft, warm lights gave the area a cozy, welcoming feel. Looking at the hanging plants, I realized that there were floors above the food court since the building was much taller than the 20-foot ceiling.

The sounds of sizzling grills, clinking cutlery, and laughter filled the air, making it impossible not to get caught up in the dynamic energy of the place. Every now and then, a burst of laughter or a cheer from a group of friends added to the lively atmosphere. People moved about comfortably – some waiting in queues for their orders, others walking around with trays searching for a spot to sit. In one corner, a small stage hosted a musician I didn't recognize but sounded world-class. I was going to ask Aaron who they were at some point.

"Let's find something to eat," Aaron suggested, guiding me towards a row of stalls. "What are you in the mood for?"

"I'm not sure," I admitted, my eyes darting from one stall to another as I tried to take in all the options. "Everything looks so good."

"Alright," Aaron said, scanning the various stalls, "we're celebrating you getting a job, so don't worry about when you'll get paid. My treat. What looks good to you?" His enthusiasm was contagious, and I couldn't help but smile.

I glanced around, feeling out of place amidst the exotic food options. "I don't really know any of these... except that soup over there," I replied, pointing hesitantly at a stall serving steaming bowls of broth. It looked just like pot stew from my village.