Page 26
While Krish was responding to some work texts, Trisha was going through a resort brochure outlining the nearby islands, excursions, and sightseeing options when she heard the voice of a woman a few feet away, standing at the reception desk, clearly frustrated.
The woman was dressed in a simple white linen shirt tucked into a pair of tailored beige shorts, with a lightweight tan jacket draped loosely over her shoulders. Her long, dark hair fell naturally down her back, while a pair of sunglasses rested on top of her head. Her appearance was simple and modest, yet the confidence with which she carried herself made her stand out.
“How could they leave without me?” she asked, clearly irritated. “I was told they would announce when the boat was ready to leave.”
The receptionist immediately apologised.
“Ma’am, we are extremely sorry. The transfer was called, but perhaps there was some confusion. The boat has already left.”
The woman stared at him in disbelief. “Some confusion?”
The receptionist offered another apologetic smile.
“Sorry, Ma’am. But we have arranged the next transfer for you. It should arrive shortly.”
“And if I miss my flight because of this?”
The receptionist’s expression became more careful.
“We completely understand your concern, Ma’am. If the delay causes you to miss your scheduled flight, the resort will take responsibility for your accommodation. We can offer you a complimentary night’s stay while we assist you with the necessary arrangements.”
Her eyebrows lifted. “What exactly am I supposed to do with a complimentary room if I miss my flight? Your staff failed to communicate the departure properly, and now you’re telling me that your solution is to give me a free night’s stay?”
The receptionist hesitated.
“We will personally coordinate with the transport team and help you reach the airport as soon as possible. And if, unfortunately, you do miss your flight, we will assist with rebooking your travel and provide the complimentary stay.”
She stared at him for another moment before finally exhaling. “Fine. Just make sure the next boat doesn’t leave without announcing it.”
“Yes, Ma’am. Absolutely.”
She closed her eyes for a moment, clearly trying to let go of her frustration. There was nothing else she could do. She walked back towards the seating area.
Trisha watched her for a second before glancing at Krish.
“She doesn’t look like someone who gives up easily.”
“Hmm. She did give them a tough time.” Krish smiled. “Not that I blame her. She has a flight to catch.”
The woman reached the couch beside theirs and suddenly stopped. Her expression changed as she searched through her handbag, then checked the pockets of her jacket.
“My phone...”
She glanced around the couch, then bent slightly to check beneath the small table. Trisha instantly helped, searching the area as well.
“Did you leave it on the sofa?” Trisha asked her.
“Yes. I was using it before I went to the reception.”
Trisha glanced towards the side of the couch. The phone had slipped between the armrest and the cushion, barely visible beneath the edge of her handbag. The woman hadn’t noticed it, but Trisha’s trained eyes caught the faint glimpse of it before either of them did.
“There it is.” Trisha immediately got up and pulled the phone from between the armrest and the cushion.
The woman heaved a sigh of relief. “Oh God. Thank you.”
She picked it up and checked the screen.
“I would have had a much bigger problem if I had lost it just four hours before my flight.”
