One could not help but be enamored by the lively scene of children playing and laughing while maneuvering their skateboards through the streets, with the scorching heat of the summer sun beating down on them. As I strolled through the bustling town, the constant bombardment of street vendors selling their colorful and enticing snow cones further added to the vibrant atmosphere.  

The crisp, icy treat was a welcome respite from the sweltering temperatures, and the joyous sounds of children echoed in the air, creating a charming and cheerful ambiance. Lost in thoughts about a certain person, I roamed around town for some time.

From the moment that fateful day occurred, I have been unable to escape the constant presence of Ray in my thoughts. Her presence consumes me, and I often find myself lost in deep contemplation about her. However, I, like numerous others, was not significant to Ray. Girls and boys daydreamed, fixated, and adored her. This annoyed me since all I craved was for her to simply acknowledge me.

The sudden ring of my phone disrupted my thoughts and shifted my attention from Ray. As I blinked, I realised with amazement that I had walked quite a distance. I found myself standing at the bustling waterfront, surrounded by fishing boats and colorful stalls that offered everything from exquisite jewelry to delicious street food. The crisp, icy treat was a welcome respite from the sweltering temperatures, and the joyous sounds of children echoed in the air, creating a charming and cheerful ambiance. Lost in thoughts about a certain person, I roamed around town for some time.

From the moment that fateful day occurred, I have been unable to escape the constant presence of Ray in my thoughts. Her presence consumes me, and I often find myself lost in deep contemplation about her. However, I, like numerous others, was not significant to Ray. Girls and boys daydreamed, fixated, and adored her. This annoyed me since all I craved was for her to simply acknowledge me.

The sudden ring of my phone disrupted my thoughts and shifted my attention from Ray. As I blinked, I realised with amazement that I had walked quite a distance. I found myself standing at the bustling waterfront, surrounded by fishing boats and colorful stalls that offered everything from exquisite jewelry to delicious street food.

I reached into my bag and hastily retrieved my phone, my heart racing with anticipation. When I glanced at the caller ID, my breath caught in my throat and I let out a gasp. It was Liberty Company! 

With a deep breath, I answered the call.

"Is this Ms. Hyde?" She inquired through the phone. 

“Yes?”

"Hi there, this is Rias speaking. My apologies for not getting back to you sooner."

To be completely truthful, I was not anticipating her response today. Typically, didn’t they tend to take more time?

"I wanted to reach out and inform you that I will not be requiring your services. I apologise, but it appears that you do not meet the necessary qualifications. Perhaps you can reapply in the future."

“But—” 

"I would like to express our gratitude for your interest in our company.” 

I could not get a single word in as Rias continued to speak at an incredibly rapid pace. I suddenly felt my heart pound and my thoughts become erratic. I felt small and scared. My body's reaction was almost automatic, breaking out into a cold sweat. 

"Safe travels on your journey back," she mentioned before hanging up the phone.

With a heavy heart, I let out a deep sigh and pressed my lips together, trying to mask the emotions that threatened to spill out. Standing still, allowed myself a few moments to process the news that had just been delivered to me. So, she must have chosen Patrice for the job. Her seemingly bubbly disposition and smile was a stark contrast to my own reserved and introverted nature. 

Seeing Ray today, who appeared to have no recollection of our past encounter caused a deep sense of despair washed over me. I lifted my gaze to the vast expanse of blue sky, a stark contrast to the heaviness in my heart. Ray had stolen countless kisses and capture many hearts without even knowing it.  I gazed at the river, the sun's radiance danced upon its surface, creating a mesmerising sparkle that seemed to appear out of thin air.

"Ray,“ I said to myself. “I cannot believe you hold such a significant place in my heart. It's frustrating beyond belief."