Chapter Two : Okay...

The sun's up, and here we are, gathered like a quirky bunch of superheroes in a team meeting.

"I vote for adding a touch of elegance to this place. It's got its charm," Sheely suggests, looking like she just stepped out of a fashion magazine, even though she's a vintage interiors enthusiast.

"Wait, are you trying to turn it into a monk's meditation retreat?" Shiro fires back, arms crossed. He's got one foot in traditional roots and the other in modern swag. I'm secretly hoping for a rom-com plot twist between these two.

"Guys, let's stick to what the client wants," I jump in, hoping to avert a décor war before hair-pulling begins.

Charlie, our unexpected wildcard, strolls in. Now, I had a picture of him in a tailored suit, but instead, he's all messy hair and casual pajamas. Rocking the comfy chic vibe, are we?

"Morning, Charlie!" I greet him, with a hint of amusement.

"Not quite morning, because I might nap and then start the day fresh but Good morning to all of you," he grins. 

Well he not exactly what I expected. 

As we continue our morning brainstorming session, the ideas fly faster than seagulls hunting for french fries.

"Hey, what about a disco ball in the living room?" I throw out, only half-joking.

Shiro raises an eyebrow, deadpanning, "Yeah, right. Because nothing says 'vintage charm' like a shiny ball reflecting neon lights."

We all burst into laughter, and even Charlie, who's been lounging on a couch, chuckles from his cozy corner.

"Disco ball it is then!" I declare dramatically, earning a few eye rolls and some playful groans.

Sheely chimes in, "Well, if we're going for relics of the past, why not bring in some lava lamps too?"

"Ooh, and a pet rock collection!" I add, barely keeping a straight face.

Charlie, our unsuspecting comedy critic, raises an eyebrow and says with mock seriousness, "And don't forget the 8-track tape player."

We dissolve into fits of laughter, imagining this ancient-meets-outrageous interior decorating scheme.

Amidst the laughter and playful banter, there's a moment of unexpected nostalgia that sweeps through the room. As the echo of Charlie's mention of the 8-track tape player hangs in the air, a sudden quietness falls upon the team.

I can't help but smile as I'm transported back to the memories of my childhood. The warmth of my mom's cozy living room, the crackling sound of the tapes as they played my favorite songs, and the joy of dancing around with carefree abandon. It's funny how a simple comment can trigger a rush of emotions, connecting us to the past in such a profound way.

Glancing around the room, I notice that I'm not the only one lost in thought. Sheely's expression softens as she gazes into the distance, perhaps reminiscing about the vintage pieces that hold a special place in her heart. Shiro's stern demeanor seems to momentarily soften, his eyes distant as if he's retracing the steps of his own journey through time.

Even Charlie, the unexpected wildcard, appears to have a hint of sentiment in his eyes. It's as if this lighthearted conversation about quirky décor has touched a deeper chord within all of us.

As the laughter subsides and the room settles into a comfortable silence, I can't help but feel a sense of camaraderie. We might be a quirky bunch of superheroes gathered in a team meeting, but beneath the surface, we're all individuals with our own stories, memories, and emotions.

"Hey," Charlie's voice breaks the silence, his tone softer than before, "you know, there's something beautiful about blending the past with the present. It's like paying tribute to where we come from while embracing the journey that's led us here."

His words resonate deeply, capturing the essence of the moment. We may have come together to discuss interior design and client preferences, but in this unexpected pause, we've also uncovered a shared connection—a reminder that beneath our everyday roles, we're all human, shaped by our experiences and the memories that have molded us.

With a collective nod, we move forward, not just as a team of designers, but as a group of individuals who bring a piece of their own history into the creative process. As we continue brainstorming, the ideas flow with renewed enthusiasm, now infused with a touch of sentimentality. And amidst the laughter and planning, I find myself grateful for the unexpected moments of connection that make our team truly unique—a quirky bunch of superheroes, indeed.

Day 60th in the house

Its already been a month in this house and now this house feels like home. Well, folks, it's been a wild ride. Who knew that a bunch of interior design enthusiasts could turn a house into a melting pot of charm, swag, and utter quirkiness in just sixty days? As I make my way through the now-familiar halls, I can't help but marvel at the mishmash of styles that have somehow blended into something... surprisingly cohesive.

The sun beams through the windows, giving our disco ball a chance to shine. Yes, we stuck with the disco ball idea, and let me tell you, it's become the official MVP of our design decisions. It's like the room is having its own party, and honestly, we might have spent more time dancing around it than making actual design choices.

Speaking of choices, Sheely's elegance is a perfect contrast to Shiro's modern swag. Although, I have to say, there's been a subtle change in the air between them. Could it be that all this design chaos has given rise to a potential rom-com plot twist? I've caught Shiro stealing glances at Sheely when he thinks no one's looking, and Sheely's been known to blush whenever they're in close proximity. Ah, love in the time of quirky interior design.

But let's not forget about our resident wildcard, Charlie. His pajama-clad appearances have become a staple, and I'm convinced he's onto something with his comfy chic vibe. Who needs tailored suits when you can rock a bedhead and pajamas like a pro?

As I stroll, I finally reach the best vantage point I could find for today. It's the spot where Sheely and Shiro seem to be lost in their own world, gazing into each other's eyes with an unmistakable connection. I can't resist—I have to witness this. Carefully arranging myself, I settle into my chosen spot, feeling like I've stumbled upon a scene from a romantic movie.

But just as I get settled, I notice two ocean-deep eyes staring right back at me, accompanied by a mischievous grin. Caught red-handed, I can't help but offer a sheepish smile. "Would you mind a company?" Charlie playfully asks, fully aware of my not-so-stealthy observation.

I chuckle softly, my "why not" expression saying it all. There's no denying that Sheely and Shiro's unfolding connection is too captivating to pass up. And as I settle in alongside Charlie, we become the amused spectators of a romantic moment that feels straight out of a storybook. The Sheely and Shiro show continues, and we're here for it, popcorn not required.

Well, it seems I've stumbled into the front row seats of the Sheely-Shiro Show, and let me tell you, the drama is better than any reality TV. As Charlie and I exchange amused glances, it's like we're watching a romantic movie unfold right before our eyes. I can practically hear the dramatic music in the background, and I half-expect someone to start narrating the scene with a deep voice.

I lean in to Charlie, barely containing my excitement. "You know, I always suspected there was more than just design discussions going on between them."

Charlie chuckles softly, his eyes never leaving the captivating spectacle. "Well, it's certainly turned into a live show now."

Sheely and Shiro continue to exchange charged looks and playful banter, and I can't help but wonder if they're aware that the entire room is practically crackling with their chemistry. It's like they're speaking their own language, one filled with unspoken desires and subtle hints. If this were a movie, I'd be the overly invested audience member, shouting advice at the screen.

"Go for it, Sheely! You've got this!" I whisper under my breath, causing Charlie to chuckle beside me.

As Sheely leans in, her lips brushing against Shiro's ear, I can practically feel the electric jolt of their connection. And then, boom! She goes in for the kiss, bold and unapologetic, like she's taking charge of her own romantic storyline. And let me tell you, Shiro is not complaining. The kiss ignites a spark that sets the room on fire, and I have to resist the urge to clap and cheer like a supportive friend in a rom-com.

When the kiss ends, they share a breathless smile, and it's like the room is suddenly filled with confetti and fireworks. I turn to Charlie, who's grinning like he's just witnessed the grand finale of a spectacular fireworks show.

"Ah, young love," he says, his tone playful. "Who would've thought our interior design escapade would turn into a romance novel?"

I can't help but burst into laughter at his comment. "Honestly, Charlie, I wouldn't be surprised if a romance novel comes out of this. 'Passion and Paint Swatches: A Tale of Love and Interior Design.'"

Charlie chuckles, nodding in agreement. "And we'd be the quirky sidekicks, providing comic relief in the background."

As Sheely and Shiro share a more lighthearted moment, I can't help but feel a wave of happiness wash over me. Amidst the audacious designs and the unexpected romance, our little team has become a family, complete with all the quirks and dynamics that make life truly entertaining.

I nudge Charlie playfully. "Well, my friend, it looks like our little team has more twists and turns than a roller coaster. Who would've thought interior design could be so... eventful?"

Charlie grins, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Eventful is an understatement. But you know what they say, life is an adventure, and sometimes, the most memorable moments are the ones you least expect."

"Oh! Already found a writer for a book about them," I chuckle, adding to the imaginary narrative. And that's when, out of nowhere, Charlie puts his head on my shoulder, a gesture that catches me off guard.

I blink at him, momentarily surprised by his unexpected display of camaraderie. "Uh, Charlie, you okay there?"

He lifts his head, a playful glint in his eyes. "Just getting into the whole 'comic relief' sidekick role, you know?"

I laugh, shaking my head. "Well, you're definitely nailing it. Who knew our journey in interior design would also involve becoming part of a rom-com?"

Charlie smirks. "Life has a funny way of surprising us."

As we watch Sheely and Shiro continue to exchange banter and stolen glances, I can't help but feel a deep sense of contentment. This unexpected friendship, the quirky moments, and the blossoming romance—all of it has turned our adventure into something truly special.

"Who would've thought that designing spaces could lead to designing relationships?" I muse, more to myself than anyone else.

Charlie looks at me with mock seriousness. "You know, maybe we're onto something here. 'Matchmakers by Day, Designers by Night.'"

I burst into laughter, unable to contain myself. "Oh, Charlie, you're going to give them a run for their money in the romance department!"

Charlie grins. "Hey, if we can create swoon-worthy interiors, why not some swoon-worthy connections too?"

As Sheely and Shiro's playful interaction comes to a lighthearted conclusion, I can't help but smile. The room is filled with an energy that's as vibrant as the eclectic décor we've crafted over the past sixty days.

And as Charlie and I exchange a knowing glance, I realize that we might not have capes or superpowers, but we've created something truly extraordinary—a team of quirky, passionate individuals who have turned a house into a home and a simple project into an unforgettable journey.

With a mischievous glint in his eye, Charlie leans in and whispers, "You know, if this whole interior design thing doesn't work out, we could always start a matchmaking business. 'From Throw Pillows to Love Pillows—your one-stop shop for stylish spaces and sizzling connections!'"

I burst into laughter, unable to hold back my amusement. "Charlie, you're a genius! Who wouldn't want their home and heart to be given a makeover at the same time?"

Charlie chuckles, his laughter infectious. "Exactly! We'd be the ultimate dynamic duo, making love and design dreams come true."

And so, amidst the laughter and playful banter, we dream up a whole new business venture that involves equal parts design expertise and romantic intuition. As the day continues, our brainstorming takes a delightful detour into the world of hilariously creative business ideas, leaving us all in stitches and realizing that sometimes the best plans are the ones you never saw coming.

But what I saw coming were the bunch of texts from my neighbors and everyone I know.

"Rush home fast, he is dead," the messages read, their urgency and starkness hitting me like a tidal wave.

I wish that 'he' is not my dad

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