Kei, a colleague and friend, noticed Yuri's downcast demeanor as she approached her desk. With genuine concern,
Kei asked, "Yuri, are you alright? Was the boss upset with you about your performance?"
Before Yuri could respond, Kei placed a cup of black, strong tea on her desk.
"Here's your black tea, no sugar, just as you like it," Kei said with a comforting smile.
Yuri looked up and managed a grateful smile.
"Thank you," she replied, her voice carrying a note of warmth amidst her frustration.
Kei's curiosity piqued as she watched Yuri take a sip of the bitter tea.
"When did black tea become your favorite? I remember you used to avoid bitter foods like the plague. Now you start your mornings with this 'bitter water'."
Yuri took another sip, her gaze distant as she reflected on Kei's observation.
"Yeah, I'm wondering the same thing. But right now, this black water seems to give me the energy I need to get through the day."
Kei nodded, sensing the deeper meaning behind Yuri's words. "Well, I'm glad it's helping. If you ever need to talk, I'm here."
Yuri gave a small nod, appreciating the support. As Kei walked away, Yuri took another sip of her tea, finding a strange comfort in its bitterness as she braced herself for the rest of the day.
At 5:00 PM, the office began to empty as the end of the workday approached. Kei, glancing over her shoulder as she gathered her things, noticed Yuri still seated at her desk. She walked over and asked gently, "Yuri, are you okay being here alone, or would you like me to wait for you?"
Yuri looked up, her expression weary but resolute. "I'm fine, Kei. There's just a little bit of work left. I'll be out as soon as I finish."
Kei nodded with a supportive smile. "Alright, see you tomorrow then."
YOU ARE READING
Echoes of the Rain
RomanceIn a quiet corner of the city, where the relentless hum of life seemed to pause with each drop of rain, Yuri lived in a world of memories. It had been five years since Yohan had left, and yet, for Yuri, time had folded into an endless loop of days m...
