Page 46 of Upgraded Friendship

“Hey, Tanya,” I say, trying to sound upbeat despite the heaviness in my chest.

“Hey, Josh! What’s going on? Andrea couldn’t talk when I asked her.” Tanya’s voice fills the line, her tone expectant.

My heart sinks at the mention of the wedding, but I quickly steer the conversation away from that topic. “Listen, I actually wanted to ask you about the items we need for the restaurant. Have you made any progress on that?”

Tanya picks up on my shift in tone and quickly follows suit. “Oh, right! I’ve been doing some research, and I think I’ve got a pretty good list going. Let me go through it with you.”

I nod, grateful she is easily distracted. “Great, go ahead.”

As Tanya starts listing off the items we need, I listen attentively, picturing the interior of the restaurant taking shape with each item she mentions.

“First up, we’ll need new tables and chairs. I found a supplier that offers customizable options, so we can choose the colors and materials that best fit our aesthetic.”

The thought of furnishing the restaurant brings a sense of excitement to my chest. I can already envision the cozy atmosphere we’ll create for our customers.

“Next, we’ll need kitchen equipment. I’ve been in touch with a few suppliers, and I think I’ve found some great deals on stoves, ovens, and refrigerators. We can schedule a visit to check out the options in person.”

I smile, feeling a surge of anticipation at the thought of outfitting the kitchen. I can’t wait to start experimenting with new recipes and flavors.

“And don’t forget about the decor! I’ve been browsing through catalogs and Pinterest boards to get some inspiration. I think we should focus on warm tones and cozy lighting to create a welcoming atmosphere.”

Tanya’s enthusiasm is infectious, and I find myself nodding along with her ideas. With her creativity and passion, I know we’ll transform the restaurant into a place that feels like home.

As Tanya continues to list off the remaining items, my mind is filled with images of our future venture. Despite the challenges ahead, I feel a sense of determination growing within me. Focusing on the restaurant can help me forget what just happened inside.

***

I haven’t talked to Andrea since I left the disaster of a wedding, finding a ride with a group of guests heading back to the city.

I decide to go to work on as many shifts as possible to keep my mind busy. Despite my efforts to push the thoughts aside, they linger at the back of my mind, refusing to be ignored.

But as soon as I step through the door, I’m met with concerned looks from my colleagues, particularly Alice, who seems more determined than ever to get to the bottom of my mood.

“Morning, Josh. You look terrible,” Alice remarks, her brow furrowed with worry.

I force a smile, hoping to brush off her concern. “Just a rough night, nothing to worry about. Let’s focus on getting through the day, yeah?”

But Alice isn’t so easily deterred. Throughout the evening, she continues to hover nearby, peppering me with questions about what’s bothering me. Each time, I deflect with vague answers, insisting that it’s nothing she needs to worry about.

As the night wears on and Alice’s persistence shows no signs of waning, I find myself growing increasingly frustrated. “Alice, seriously, I appreciate your concern, but I’ve got this under control. Let’s just focus on our work, okay?”

But Alice doesn’t seem satisfied with my response. As the end of her shift approaches, she corners me near the break room, her expression serious.

“Josh, I’m not leaving until you tell me what’s going on. You’ve been acting off all day, and it’s starting to worry me,” she says, her tone firm.

I sigh, realizing that there’s no escaping her relentless interrogation. “It’s just...girl drama, okay? Personal stuff that I’d rather not get into,” I admit, feeling a sense of defeat wash over me.

Alice nods understandingly, her eyes softening with empathy. “I get it. Relationships can be messy. But you don’t have to go through it alone, you know. Sometimes it helps to talk about it.”

I appreciate her offer of support, but the last thing I want to do is burden her with my problems. “Thanks, Alice. I’ll keep that in mind,” I say, hoping to change the subject.

But Alice isn’t ready to let me off the hook just yet. With a mischievous twinkle in her eye, she launches into a series of lighthearted jokes and anecdotes, determined to lift my spirits.

“Well at least you have girl problems. There are guys out there that don’t even look at ladies, you should count yourself fortunate,” she says, with all confidence.

“Oh God, I’m so grateful that I have to wake up looking terrible, just because I have girl drama.” I reply, my tone laced with sarcasm.

And we both have a laugh.

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