Standing Next To You

~ The one on the beach

*Please vote <3*

"Do we really need to go under reconstruction again?" you mutter to Hobi.

It's been only a month since you two closed the restaurant for a few days to expand the kitchen. Now the owner next door has decided to sell his property, and Hobi wants to add that space to your restaurant so you'll be able to fit more guests. His idea is great and innovative, but you wonder if you really want to expand your restaurant. You like the way things are—just a cute little place where every customer can feel special. After expanding, you're scared that the old feeling will go away. This restaurant is your baby, and you don't want to change that fact.

"We always have to decline people, and I want to include everyone in our magical world. I know you're freaking out about losing our spark, but what if this is a way for us to create a fire out of that spark?" Hobi says, his voice full of enthusiasm.

He waits a few seconds for you to reply. His words stick with you, leaving you with nothing to say.

"Please trust me on this one." His eyes lock onto yours, filled with sincerity and determination.

Normally, you would stand your ground, but something in Hobi's gaze makes you believe in him.

"You will close forever if you're wrong on this," you warn.

Without a second thought, he grabs your hand and shakes it.

"Deal."

Satisfied, you watch him walk out proudly.

"Hello? Where are you going?" you call after him.

"I already talked to the owner yesterday. He texted me before you came in. The papers are ready. Let's sign them."

"Let me get this straight. You already handled everything without knowing if I would agree or not?"

"You can never say no to me, Kiki. Let's go—we have to prepare for our last day because I already contacted people to start the reconstruction."

"I can't believe you," you sigh, following him out. "What about people who booked for tomorrow?"

"I sent them a 30% discount voucher, and we didn't receive any complaints."

"The man you are..." You sigh while opening the door to the store next door.

Inside, you are met with a big space, a little bigger than your restaurant. Still, you don't feel the warmth of the store like you do when you enter your restaurant.

"Hello, Hobi, and you must be the lovely business partner," the owner says, holding your hand and kissing it, making the hairs on your arm stand up. His energy feels off, and you want to get this over with.

"The documents?" you ask.

"They're right here." He smiles while pointing at the desk.

"We need a few minutes to read through them."

"Be my guest."

Taking the papers, you and Hobi read every line and make sure not to overlook any details.

"Nothing seems off, but I feel uneasy," you whisper to Hobi.

"Why?" Hobi asks.

"Maybe I'm wrong. Let's sign it and get it over with."

Taking the pen, both of you sign the papers.

"My people will handle the rest," the man smiles.

"No need. My friend also does this, and she lives about 10 minutes away. I'll call her, and she'll be here right away."