Birthday Book: A Special Story In Their Birthdays

Heizou's Birthday Special 2023: George Alagiah (Edition 2)

Same date as edition 1... (Monday, 24th of July, 2023)

Mika Schmidt and Shikanoin Heizou were in London for a special assignment. They had been investigating a mysterious case involving a series of arson attacks that seemed to be linked to a cult. They had been working closely with the BBC, who had provided them with some leads and contacts.

On the day of Heizou's birthday, Mika decided to surprise him with a cake and a gift. He had ordered a chocolate cake from a nearby bakery and bought him a book on detective fiction. He knew he was a fan of Sherlock Holmes and Agatha Christie. He also arranged for them to have dinner at a fancy restaurant that evening.

He knocked on his hotel room door and waited for him to open it. He looked surprised and happy to see her.

"Happy birthday, Heizou!" he exclaimed, holding the cake and the gift.

"Wow, Mika, you're so thoughtful! Thank you so much!" he said, taking them from him and inviting him in.

They sat on the couch and he opened the gift. He smiled when he saw the book.

"This is perfect, Mika. I love detective stories. How did you know?" he asked.

"I did some research on you," he teased. "I hope you don't mind."

"Not at all. I'm flattered that you took an interest in me," he said, looking at him with admiration.

They shared the cake and chatted for a while. They talked about their work, their hobbies, their families, and their dreams. They found out that they had a lot in common and enjoyed each other's company.

They got ready for dinner and took a taxi to the restaurant. It was a cozy place with dim lights and soft music. They ordered some alcohol-free and food and continued their conversation.

They were having a wonderful time until Mika's phone rang. He looked at the caller ID and saw that it was Sophie Raworth, the BBC newsreader who had been helping them with their case.

"Sorry, Heizou, I have to take this. It might be important," he said, excusing himself.

He answered the phone and heard Sophie's voice.

"Uh, Hello, Sophie?"

"Hi there, Mika. It's Sophie, I'm so sorry to interrupt your evening, but I have some bad news," Sophie said.

"What is it?" Mika asked, feeling a sense of dread.

"It's George Alagiah. He passed away this morning," Sophie said.

Mika felt a shock of disbelief and sadness. George Alagiah was one of the most respected journalists in the world and a mentor of his. He had been battling Bowel cancer for years and had recently announced that it had spread further. He was only 67 years old.

"Oh no, Sophie, that's terrible. How did it happen?" Mika asked.

"He died peacefully at his home in London, surrounded by his family and loved ones," Sophie said. "He fought until the bitter end."

Mika felt tears welling up in his eyes. He remembered how George had welcomed him and Heizou to the BBC Back in September 2022 just a month prior to the launch of the project "BBC's Genshin Impact" before George ceased from his work at the BBC and had given them valuable advice and support. He was more than just an outstanding journalist, he was also a kind, empathetic, and honourable man.

"I'm so sorry, Sophie. He was such a great person. I can't believe he's gone," Mika said.

"I know, Mika. He was loved by all and we will miss him enormously," Sophie said. "I just wanted to let you know as soon as possible."

"Thank you, Sophie. I appreciate it," Mika said.

"Are you okay? Do you need anything?" Sophie asked.

"I'm fine, Sophie. Thank you for calling me," Mika said.

"Okay, Mika. Take care of yourself. And please pass my condolences to Heizou as well," Sophie said.

"I will, Sophie. Goodbye," Mika said.

He hung up the phone and wiped his eyes. He felt a lump in his throat and a heaviness in his chest. He composed himself and returned to the table where Heizou was waiting for him.

He noticed his expression and asked: "Is everything okay?"

Mika shook his head and said: "No, Heizou. I have some bad news."

He told him about George's death and saw him react with shock and sorrow as well. He had also admired George as a journalist and a mentor. They held each other's hands and shared their grief.

They decided to cut their dinner short by packing up service and return to their hotel. They didn't feel like celebrating anymore. They needed some time to process their loss.

They got into another taxi and drove back to their hotel in silence. They hugged each other goodbye at the lobby and went to their separate rooms.

Mika lay down on his bed and stared at the ceiling. He felt numb and empty. He wondered how life could be so cruel and unfair sometimes.

He reached for his phone and sent a text message to Heizou.

"Hey, Heizou. I just wanted to say that I'm sorry for ruining your birthday. I hope you're okay."

He waited for a reply and soon received one.

"Mika, don't be sorry. It's not your fault. I'm glad you were with me today. You made me happy."

He smiled and typed back.

"Thank you, Heizou. You made me happy too."

They exchanged a few more messages and wished each other good night.

Mika closed his eyes and tried to sleep. He hoped that tomorrow would be a better day. He hoped that George was at peace. He hoped that Heizou would still be his friend.

He didn't know what the future would bring, but he knew that he wasn't alone. He had Heizou by his side. And that was something to be grateful for.