𝐖𝐇𝐈𝐓𝐄 𝐅𝐄𝐑𝐑𝐀𝐑𝐈 | 𝐂𝐋𝟏𝟔

𝐗𝐋𝐕𝐈𝐈

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August 18th 2024

ZAHRA NICHOLS

The summer break was coming to an end, or for most of us, it had already ended, and we were back to the grind. Amara wouldn't be joining us this time around; she decided to give school another shot after countless therapy sessions. I'd moved out of Keir's place, now renting a small but cozy studio. Wesley had just sent the last box of my things, and with that, we were complete.

I was on my way back to the office, clutching a ham and cheese sandwich in one hand and running through crosswalks to make it on time. With the city bustling around me, everyone hurrying somewhere. I finally reached the office building, slightly out of breath but relieved to be indoors.

"Hey, Walsh," I greeted Keir as I made my way to my desk, setting my sandwich down and taking off my coat.

"Hey. You know, life has been so much better since you moved out. Way more peaceful, and clumps of brown hair have stopped clogging the drain," he said, not looking up from his laptop.

"Glad to hear that," I replied, rolling my eyes as I settled my things. I knew Keir missed having a roommate, even if he wouldn't admit it.

"Another thing, I'm dating Miles," Keir said casually, still focused on his screen.

"Oh my god!" I squealed, my excitement getting the better of me. Several heads turned our way, and I quickly lowered my voice. "You can finally keep a guy!" I added in a hushed tone.

Not long after Alma's wedding, Keir had gone on a date with a guy named Miles. They seemed to hit it off immediately, and I remembered Keir texting me that night to book a room because the flat would be "occupied."

"Okay, you can shut up about it now," he joked, a slight blush creeping up his cheeks.

"So, that's it, right? You're happy?" I asked.

"Yes, I am," he said, finally looking up and giving me a warm smile. 

As I smiled back, Anderson came bursting through the door, his entrance getting the entire room's attention. "Can anyone tell me what it says in the email I sent you?" he declared, his eyes scanning the desks and laptops.

"Train tickets, sir," Cox answered.

"Correct. Attached are your seats and times to the Netherlands, Amsterdam if you need the specifics." Anderson said, crossing his arms.

"But these say the train's on the 18th of August. That's today," Keir questioned.

"Yes, Walsh. I have planned a spontaneous team morale-building activity in Amsterdam, and due to scheduling issues, the trip's been moved up," Anderson stated matter-of-factly.

"I've got nothing packed. How are we supposed to get to the airport in time?" Hansen asked.

"Go home right now. The day's ended for you guys. Go pack, say your goodbyes, and meet me at the station by three, sharp," Anderson instructed, turning on his heel and marching out of the room. "Dismissed."

The room erupted in sudden activity as everyone rushed to gather their things. I glanced at Keir, who looked just as confused as I felt.

"Well, I guess we better get moving," I said, grabbing my coat and sandwich.