ONE EIGHTY

Arabella cursed her luck that afternoon. Of all the days to forget her umbrella, it had to be today. When the sun beat down mercilessly, and she lacked the funds for a cab or even the bus.

As if mocking her misfortune, Arabella had just returned from her third failed attempt at securing a better job. The promises of success in the big city seemed hollow now, overshadowed by the harsh reality of endless rejections and mounting bills.

"Move to the big city," they said. "You'll make it big," they said. But they conveniently forgot to mention the necessity of connections, leaving her to toil away in menial part-time positions with a salary that barely covered transportation.

Two months of struggling, and she was at her breaking point. Arabella resolved that if she didn't land a decent-paying job within the next two weeks, she'd retreat to the suburbs.

Easier said than done, however.

"Good afternoon! Would you like some refreshing ice cream on this scorching day?" A young lady approached Arabella, offering a tray of ice cream cups adorned with the word 'Kreamy'.

Arabella hesitated, her stomach rumbling in response to the tempting offer. "I would love some, but perhaps another time."

"But they're complimentary. Are you sure you don't want one?"

Complimentary?

FREE?

"Completely free?" Arabella inquired, seeking confirmation.

"Yes. We're distributing free ice cream to passersby in this sweltering weather. Courtesy of Kreamy's Sweet-Tooth Heaven."

A genuine smile spread across Arabella's face. "Thank you!" She accepted a chocolate cup, feeling a glimmer of relief wash over her.

"No problem, and if you're hungry, check out our main building," the girl added. "We're also offering our special cream puffs for free, but only for a limited time."

Arabella wasted no time, her hunger driving her forward.

Entering the shop, she was greeted by the cool blast of air conditioning, a welcome reprieve from the sweltering heat outside.

'Sweet-Tooth Heaven' proved to be an apt name. The aroma of freshly baked pastries filled the air, and Arabella couldn't help but be drawn in by the cozy atmosphere. Dessert-themed artwork adorned the walls, evoking a sense of nostalgia and comfort.

As promised, another employee stood near the entrance, offering complimentary cream puffs. "Would you like one or two?"

"Both for free?"

"Yes. Everyone visiting at this hour is entitled to two complimentary cream puffs, even without a purchase."

Arabella's spirits lifted at the unexpected generosity. "Thank you. I'll take two, please."

The employee smiled warmly, handing her the cream puffs and inviting her to return anytime.

Feeling a twinge of guilt for indulging in their promotional offerings without making a purchase, Arabella perused the displays, hoping to find something affordable that caught her interest.

And enjoy this free cool breeze a little more, as well.

Then something did catch her eye-not a confection, but a painting.

Her painting.

Arabella gasped in disbelief, her eyes widening as she took in the familiar sight. The painting she had created and gifted to her best friend over ten years ago, hung prominently in the center of the shop.

Did... did he sell it?

Her signature confirmed it.

'Signed Aybee to Kiream puffs'.

As she reached out to touch it, a male staff member intervened. "Please, refrain from touching that. It's highly valued by our boss, and while he wants everyone to admire it, he wouldn't want it damaged. I hope you understand."

"Of course," Arabella replied, feeling a pang of nostalgia wash over her.

"Thank you," he sighed in relief. "Can I assist you with anything else?"

"Um... may I ask who your boss is?"

"Mr. K. E. Lenoir."

"Kieran Lenoir?!"

"Yes?"

Arabella's heart raced as she turned to see the man himself, just steps away, having emerged from the 'Staff Only' door.

Kieran was as shocked as she was, but a smile crept across his face. "Arabella?"

In an instant, Arabella rushed over and enveloped him in a warm hug, surprising Kieran before he reciprocated, lifting her off the ground for a moment.

"Wow, someone's been hitting the gym," she teased.

"Shut up," he retorted with a laugh. "What are you doing here? I haven't seen you in ages!"

"Oh, you know, changes and such."

"Tell me everything. Let's go to my office." Kieran motioned to his employees. "You're all doing a fantastic job. I'll check in later."

"Thank you, sir," they chorused with beaming smiles.

"♡""♡""♡""♡""♡""♡""♡""♡"

Kieran's office resembled his old room, albeit larger and more luxurious, yet stepping into it instantly evoked memories for Arabella.

Shelves adorned with books filled every corner, a testament to Kieran's personality.

"This place is amazing," Arabella marveled aloud, taking in her surroundings.

Kieran smiled, retrieving a water bottle from the mini-fridge. "Thanks. Would you like anything? I know we mainly sell dessert food, but I can have someone pick something up from our nearby buddies."

"No, I'm fine. I haven't even finished the free ice cream and cream puffs you generously shared," she declined.

He nodded, taking a sip from the straw. Arabella couldn't discern the contents of the expensive-looking bottle, but everything about Kieran exuded wealth now.

"When did you become so rich!?" She blurted out, almost regretting it.

Kieran chuckled. "Insane story, not gonna lie, but basically, on God."

"No kidding. It's good to see this city actually does some people some good."

"How long have you been here?" he inquired.

"About two months now."

"Damn. Work?" he asked, already lowering the drink.

"Yeah, or at least I've been trying," she admitted, staring down at her feet. "...And also clearing my head too."

"Everything good?" he inquired, concerned.

"Yeah, kinda."

"Aybee..." he called softly, already setting the drink down on his desk to come closer. "What is it?"

"I mean, my mom passed away like seven months ago, though," she revealed.

"God. Aunt Andrea is dead?" He clamped his mouth in pure astonishment, "What happened?"

"She got shot during a robbery at her shop."

"Shit. Were the culprits caught?" She shook her head in response. "I'm so sorry, Arabella."

"Thanks, Ki." She gave a small smile, finding solace in his empthathy.

"So yeah, this change was something I needed to stay mentally and emotionally stable at least. Second, I couldn't continue depending on my brothers, especially now they're trying to starve me into coming back. I needed a real job." She dramatically clenched her fist, "A real pain in the ass that would distract me from my personal troubles. Oh yes."

He smiled tenderly, patting her head. "You haven't changed one bit, personality-wise, have you?"

Arabella stepped back and took a good look at him. "Well, you've changed so much."

"All good, though?"

"Yeah, yeah," she agreed, then added with a pout, "Your chubby cheeks are gone, though." She poked his now lean face. "What will I pinch now?"

"Exactly why I got rid of them," Kieran said, shooing her hand away.

Just then, there was a knock on the door.

"Yeah, come in."

It was the young lady he'd introduced her to earlier, Catherine, his secretary.

"Sir, would you like lunch from Mama Julie's?"

"Oh yeah. My usual, just double it. Then, have someone bring some snacks up here."

"You got it, boss!" Catherine gave a thumbs up and happily bounced out.

Arabella looked up at him. "No, for real, what happened? Show me your ways, Kieran. I'm begging."

He smirked and shrugged. "It kinda just happened. Started relatively simple four years ago, and now we're here."

"How are your grandparents, cousins, any new friends? Obviously still not getting any dates, so I'll skip asking about your nonexistent girlfriend," she teased, genuinely curious.

Kieran narrowed his eyes at her, on the verge of having the security throw her out. He still smirked and shot back, "Well, someone might be walking down the aisle soon."

Arabella's jaw dropped. "No way."

"I'm engaged, Aybee!"

"To whom?"

"A lovely lady named Mave Zo."

Arabella's shock was palpable. "Zo? As in Zo Zo?"

"The one and only prestigious Zo family."

"You've hit the jackpot."

Kieran rolled his eyes. "Hardly. And you? Still waiting for a centuries-old vampire to sweep you off your feet and fall madly in love within two days?"

"My vampire Prince will come."

"I'm sure...so still single then. Should I pretend to be surprised?"

"Shut up," Arabella said, playfully shoving him before feigning sadness into her sleeve. "Looks like life's leaving me in the dust. Broke, husbandless, vampire prince-less!"

"Drama queen," he chuckled, shaking his head. "I missed you. A lot."

"But you never reached out," Arabella said, her tone slightly hurt as she picked up the water bottle from the table, avoiding direct eye contact by pretending to admire the design.

The mood shifted slightly.

"True. Changed my number after freshman year, and social media isn't really my scene. I'm sorry."

Arabella found it hard to hold a grudge. Life had its own course.

"It's okay. I get it. I should apologize too."

"Totally fine."

"So, still besties?" Arabella finally looked at him.

He grinned, without missing a beat. "Always."

Catherine returned shortly after with the lunches, presenting a variety of snacks. It was quite plenty, so Kieran asked her to share some with the kitchen staff before their shift ended.

Kieran kindly offered Arabella a ride home after attending to a few tasks and bidding farewell to his staff. Arabella couldn't help but notice the smiles never disappeared from his workers' faces.

Honestly, if Kieran were my boss, I'd be pretty blissful too.

Exiting the building together, they headed to his sleek black SUV. Arabella was struck again by the realization that her best friend was actually quite wealthy now. It was surprising that his attitude hadn't changed with the size of his bank account, or was that just an old friend privilege? No, that couldn't be the case. Kieran was just a sweetheart to everyone, no matter what.

"Stop standing there imagining car sex and hop in," he teased as he approached the driver's seat.

"Kieran, you've got such a dirty mind," Arabella shot back, opening the passenger door. "You're probably the one reminiscing about car adventures with Mave," she added with a smirk.

"At least I'm getting some action~"

"Shut up," she playfully punched his arm.

"You trying to get us killed?" he chuckled, focusing on the road. "Where do you live again?"

"Backwater Street."

"That's not the safest area," Kieran sounded concerned.

"I know, but options are limited. Crashing at a friend's place until I can afford my own spot."

"What's she like?"

"Just alright. Misky's a bit annoying but manageable. She's cautious, given the neighborhood," Arabella explained.

Kieran seemed skeptical but dropped the subject. "Just be careful, okay? And if you need help with a place, I can lend a hand."

Arabella smiled. "I know."

Their banter continued until Kieran's car stopped at Misky's house, signaling the end of their ride.

Before getting out, Arabella placed her hand over his. "You wouldn't believe the day I've had. Argument with Misky, tussle with a stray cat, scolding from Malakai over the phone, rejected from a job interview, and almost roasted alive in this heat."

"Damn."

"Yeah, it's been a day. You and your dessert shop was the highlight. Thank you."

"I should be thanking you. You made me laugh and walk down the good parts of memory lane." he said sincerely, giving her hand a gentle squeeze.

Suddenly, Arabella remembered something. "Where's your phone?"

Kieran unlocked it and handed it to her.

"Wow, this thing's heavy," she remarked, holding it in her hands.

"It eats well," he quipped.

The phone's homescreen displayed a woman, presumably his fiancée. She exuded elegance with her short, dark hair framing her face and highlighting her pouty lips. Despite her petite stature, her presence was captivating, suggesting confidence and poise.

It warmed Arabella's heart.

"Hey, is your girlfriend single?"

"Cut it out," he chuckled.

She giggled, saving her number in his phone. "Don't ghost me again. Text me when you get home, okay?"

"Sure thing."

Arabella watched the car drive away until it vanished from sight, sighing softly.

"♡""♡""♡""♡""♡""♡""♡""♡"

Arabella hailed as Kieran's car approached. He pulled up, greeting her with a smile and opening the door for her.

"Afternoon~"

"Afternoon, Aybee. How did it go?"

"Hectic. This interview tops them all. It wasn't just an interview; it felt like a marathon. First, a multiple-choice exam, then a two-hour drawing session, followed by presenting and defending your work to the judges before they bombard you with questions," she recounted, sighing. "The moment they asked me to pay ten thousand naira just to apply, I knew it wouldn't be easy."

It was thanks to the money Kieran had been lending her that she could even afford it.

Kieran chuckled. "Well, you made it through. What kind of questions did they throw at you?"

Arabella cleared her throat, mimicking the interviewer's voice. "'You're vying for the Digital Arts teaching position, correct? As an art historian, I believe digital art undermines the effort put into traditional art. Why should we hire you and risk our students losing their appreciation for paintbrushes and canvases?'"

"Damn."

"Exactly! I had to defend how digital art is a valid form of expression, tracing its evolution from cave paintings to graphic tablets. I argued that art takes many forms, each with its own value."

"That sounds reasonable."

"He didn't seem impressed." She groaned, covering her face. "What if my answer was too cliché?"

"You spoke your truth. Don't fret." Then, with a curious gleam in his eye, Kieran asked, "Did you catch his name?"

"Nah. But a woman there called him Dean, so I assume he's in charge of the faculty."

"Or..." A mischievous grin crossed Kieran's face, but he shook his head. "Never mind. It'll be more amusing if you find out on your own."

"What does that mean?"

"Forget it."

Arabella narrowed her eyes but let it go. "I really hope I land this one. It's a long shot, but the salary is tempting. Over 300K a month almost sounds too good to be true."

"It's legit. Palette Arts Academy is top-tier. I think the students' tuition alone is over a million or two."

"Fine arts schools are pricey." Arabella began to worry. "Come to think of it, why did I even apply?"

"Don't sweat it. You've got this."

"Easy for you to say when you haven't faced so much rejection."

"One more won't hurt that much."

"Kieran!"

"But you'll nail it. Trust me." Kieran turned the car towards their destination. "Let's head to my shop and take your mind off it, okay?"

"Fine."

Kieran parked outside their destination, another branch of Kreamy situated in the bustling side of town.

"Wow," Arabella breathed, marveling at the lavish surroundings. This was a top-notch establishment. "Is this the flagship store?"

"Nope, that honor goes to the one we visited earlier. That's the OG, my pride and joy," Kieran replied with a grin.

Arabella felt a pang of warmth knowing that Kieran had hung her painting at his original shop.

"This one's bigger and more upscale, perfect for the high-end clientele in this area."

"Aren't you the generous father?" Arabella teased, a hint of sarcasm in her tone.

Kieran chuckled, leading the way towards the entrance. "Hey, someone's gotta keep the business running smoothly, right?"

Inside, the atmosphere was bustling with activity. Customers chatted animatedly while enjoying their treats, and the staff moved with purpose behind the counter.

The minute Kieran stepped his foot past the front door, a robotic male voice resonated throughout the building.

"Welcome, Mr. Lenoir."

Kieran shut his eyes, wincing visibly. "So much for security system," he muttered.

"Did the building just greet you?" Arabella asked, trying to bite back a laugh.

"Yup," Kieran sighed, "meet BAI, ZOSAI's Business AI system designed to safeguard business establishments with cutting-edge technology. It also aids with activities like taking orders, accepting complaints and feedbacks, keeping tabs of numbers. Generally acting like a disbodied worker around."

"Sick."

"Mave made it." He added proudly.

"She's too perfect."

"I know!" Kieran had to restrain himself from fanboying.

As Kieran and Arabella continued their conversation, a young couple approached the counter, looking somewhat lost amidst the bustling activity.

"Excuse me," the woman said tentatively, glancing around. "We're new here and not sure what to order."

Without missing a beat, the robotic voice of BAI chimed in. "Hello, valued customers. Welcome to Kreamy. How can I assist you today?"

The couple exchanged surprised glances before the man spoke up. "Uh, we're not sure what flavors you have."

Before the couple could finish their sentence, BAI responded with a detailed list of flavors, complete with recommendations based on popular choices and customer reviews.

The couple looked impressed as they made their selections, thanking BAI before moving to a nearby table.

Arabella watched in amazement. "That's incredible. BAI really does everything."

Kieran nodded. "Yeah, it's pretty handy. Mave's been working on it for a while now, constantly updating and improving its capabilities."

Just then, a staff member approached with their order, a plate of freshly baked pastries and two steaming cups of coffee.

"Here you go, Mr. Lenoir," the staff member said with a smile.

Kieran thanked them before turning back to Arabella. "Ready to dig in?"

Arabella grinned, taking a sip of her coffee. "Absolutely."

The two friends shared a moment of quiet admiration for Mave's ingenuity before continuing on with their day, the bustling atmosphere of the shop buzzing around them.

Kieran handed Arabella a golden card across the table during their lunch.

"I'd prefer a black card, thanks," Arabella quipped.

"Come on, this is a rare Kreamy deluxe card," Kieran explained dramatically. "Reserved for family and really, really close friends, like you and Mave. With this, you can have anything at any Kreamy store for free. But remember, with great power comes great responsibility."

Arabella rolled her eyes as she took the card, noticing her name printed on it. "Gee, thanks, Uncle Ben."

"Hey, watch it!" Kieran playfully scolded.

Arabella examined the card with a smirk, running her fingers over its smooth surface. "Does this mean I can have the entire store delivered to my doorstep?"

Kieran chuckled. "Nice try, but let's not bankrupt me just yet."

Arabella laughed, slipping the card into her purse. "Well, it'd be your fault for giving me the card in the first place."

"Fair enough," Kieran agreed, taking a sip of his drink. "But seriously, enjoy it. Consider it a small token of appreciation for being such an awesome friend even after all these years."

Arabella smiled, touched by his words. "Thanks, Kieran. I'll make sure to put it to good use."

As they finished their lunch and prepared to leave, Arabella couldn't help but feel grateful for moments like these, filled with laughter and friendship. And she knew that with her new Kreamy deluxe card in hand, there would be many more to come.