Spike of Fate | Yuki Ishikawa Fanfiction

CHAPTER 33

After days of contemplating whether to apply for the position, Aika suddenly found her fingers flying across the keyboard as she put the finishing touches on her application. The sun was setting outside her apartment window, casting a warm glow over her desk. With a deep breath, she saved the document and leaned back in her chair. It was done.

Picking up her phone, she dialed Gio's number. As it rang, she felt a mixture of nervousness and excitement bubbling up inside her.

"Hello, Aika," Gio's familiar voice came through the speaker.

"Hi Gio," Aika replied, trying to keep her voice steady. "I wanted to let you know that I've finished my application. I'm ready to submit it tomorrow."

There was a brief pause before Gio spoke again, his tone warm. "Excellent work, Aika. I have a proposition for you. How about I pick you up tomorrow morning and take you to meet my friend Leo in person? It would be a good opportunity for you to make a strong first impression."

Aika's eyes widened in surprise. "Really? That would be amazing, Gio. Thank you so much. But... are you sure it's not too much trouble?"

"Not at all," Gio assured her. "Your potential deserves to be recognized. I believe in giving promising talents the push they need. Be ready by 9 AM sharp."

"I will be. Thank you again, Gio. This means more than you know."

As Aika hung up the phone, she felt a surge of gratitude and determination. She spent the rest of the evening preparing, choosing her outfit carefully and reviewing her portfolio one last time.

The next morning, Aika stood outside her apartment building, nervously smoothing down her blazer. Gio's car pulled up, and she climbed in, clutching her portfolio tightly.

"Good morning, Gio," she said, managing a smile despite her nerves.

"Good morning, Aika," Gio replied, his usual stern expression softened slightly. "Are you ready for this?"

"As ready as I'll ever be," Aika said with a nervous laugh. "I just hope I can make a good impression."

"You will," Gio said confidently. "Just be yourself and let your work speak for itself."

As they drove, Gio filled the silence with praise for Aika's work during her internship. His words were glowing, highlighting her skills in sports journalism and her passion for volleyball.

"You know, Aika," Gio said, his eyes on the road, "when you first started your internship, I wasn't sure what to expect. But you've consistently surprised me with your dedication and talent."

Aika felt a warmth spread through her chest at his words. "Thank you, Gio. I've learned so much from you and the team. I never expected to find such a supportive mentor."

Gio's lips quirked into a small smile. "Well, you've earned it. Your coverage of the local football league was particularly impressive. You have a knack for capturing the spirit of the game, not just the facts."

They arrived at their destination and found themselves standing in front of the building where Aika's potential job was based. As they entered, Aika took a deep breath, steeling herself for the meeting ahead.

In the lobby, they were greeted by Leo, a tall man with a friendly smile and sharp eyes. Gio stepped forward, placing a hand on Aika's shoulder.

"Leo," Gio said warmly. "Allow me to introduce you to Aika Mori, the promising young journalist I've been telling you about."

Leo extended his hand, which Aika shook firmly. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Aika. Gio has spoken very highly of you."

"The pleasure is mine, sir," Aika replied, her voice steady despite her nerves. "I'm grateful for this opportunity."