Casual banter

The morning sun streamed through the car windows, casting a warm glow over the interior as Leo sat in the passenger seat, his gaze fixed on the world outside. He cradled his strawberry drink in both hands, the vibrant pink color a stark contrast to the swirling thoughts in his mind. Lost in a haze of confusion and frustration, he pouted, unaware of the playful glance Arie shot his way.

Hey, what’s with the long face?” Arie asked, a teasing lilt in his voice. He maneuvered the car through the bustling streets, the hum of the engine blending with the sounds of the city waking up. “Did your drink not meet your high standards, or are you just practicing for a role as a sad puppy?”

Leo turned his head slightly, rolling his eyes but unable to suppress a smile. “Very funny, Arie. I’m just… thinking.”

Thinking? You look like you’re about to start a dramatic monologue,” Arie replied, chuckling. “What’s going on in that head of yours?”Arie smirked, shaking his head. “You know, if you keep pouting like that, I might just have to start charging you for therapy sessions.”

Leo took a sip of his drink, the sweetness momentarily distracting him from the whirlwind of emotions. “Okay, okay, I’ll try to lighten up,” he conceded, a small smile breaking through his pout. “But you have to admit, it’s a little frustrating.”

As they approached Arie’s workplace, Leo took a deep breath, trying to shake off the lingering thoughts. “Thanks for the ride, Arie. I’ll try not to be such a downer next time.”

As Leo approached the sleek glass entrance of the office building, he felt a familiar sense of routine wash over him. The morning sun glinted off the polished surfaces, and the bustling energy of the city outside seeped into the lobby. He made his way to the front desk, where mimi the receptionist, was busy typing away on her computer.

Good morning, mimi !” Leo greeted, flashing his trademark smile.

“Morning, Leo!” she replied, looking up with a grin.

In a playful gesture, Leo leaned over the desk and gave her a quick handshake, followed by a light pat on the head. “You’re doing a great job keeping this place running smoothly,” he teased, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

Mimi rolled her eyes, feigning annoyance. “You better run before I throw something at you!”

With a laugh, Leo backed away, raising his hands in mock surrender as he dashed toward the elevator. He could hear her laughter behind him.

Once inside the elevator, Leo pressed the button for the top floor, feeling the familiar hum of the machinery as it began its ascent. He took a moment to collect his thoughts, mentally preparing for the day ahead. As the doors slid open, he stepped out into the bustling office space, the sounds of phones ringing and conversations buzzing around him.

Leo made his way to his desk, a small but organized space adorned with a few personal touches—a framed photo of him dancing, a small plant, and a colorful calendar filled with reminders. He settled into his chair, the familiar comfort of his workspace enveloping him.

After a few moments of checking emails and organizing his tasks, Leo gathered his notes and headed to the manager’s office. He knocked lightly on the door before entering.

Morning, Mr. Thom,” Leo said, his voice steady and professional.

Good morning, Leo! What do you have for me today?” Mr. Thom asked, looking up from his desk, a stack of papers in front of him.

Leo, do you know where the budget report for the gala is?” Mr. Thom asked, glancing up with a furrowed brow.

“Uh, I thought you had it,” Leo replied, trying to suppress a grin. “You know, the one you said you’d ‘definitely remember’ to file?”Mr. Thompson chuckled, shaking his head. “I guess my memory isn’t as sharp as I thought. Maybe I should start taking notes from you.”

“Or just hire a personal assistant,” Leo quipped, leaning against the doorframe. “I hear they’re great at keeping managers organized.”

“Ha! If only I could afford you full-time,” Mr. Thompson shot back, a playful glint in his eye. “But then I’d have to deal with your antics all day.”

True, I am quite the handful,” Leo said with a mock-serious expression. “But I promise to keep the pouting to a minimum.”

“Good to know. Now, get back to work before I change my mind about that personal assistant idea,” Mr. Thompson replied, waving him off with a smile.

Leo laughed as he walked back to his desk, feeling lighter after their exchange. Just as he settled into his chair, his phone rang, startling him. He jumped slightly, nearly knocking over his coffee cup.

Ugh, what now?” he muttered, glancing at the screen. It was Arie. He rolled his eyes, annoyance creeping in before he even answered. “What do you want, Arie?” he said, skipping the usual greetings.

“Hey, Leo! I was thinking I’d come by for lunch today!” Arie’s cheerful voice chimed through the speaker.

“Not today, I’m busy,” Leo replied, trying to sound firm.

“Come on! You can’t be that busy! Just a quick lunch, I promise!” Arie pleaded, his tone shifting to a more persuasive pitch.

“I really can’t, Arie. I have meetings and—”

“Please! I’ll even buy you that fancy sandwich you like and bring you your strawberry drink!” Arie interrupted, his voice dripping with enthusiasm.

Leo sighed, knowing he was losing the battle. “Fine! Just this once.”

“Yay! I’ll be there in thirty!” Arie exclaimed, and before Leo could change his mind, he heard the click of the call ending.

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