Chapter 37: Chapter 37

'Listen, Raymond. 1Q84 is really interesting to read. Try to take your time reading. I can lend it to you if you want.'

Strange. He could see Arnold before his eyes. Sitting opposite him, busy explaining the storyline of the novel that he always avoided because he did not like complicated themed novels. The man explained quickly all the advantages of the novel, minus some parts of the story that he thought would be more fun if he were interested in reading his recommendation. He found himself talking.

'No. I told you so many times. I don't like complicated things like that. Besides, can you stop playing this Beethoven instrumental? I feel sleepy because of listening to classical music,' he said, yawning wide.

The man clicked his tongue, calling the virtual assistant installed in his house to mute the music the man had just played thirty minutes ago. 'You should spare your time to listening to classical music. It's good for your brain development and relaxation. Oh, by the way, I have good news!'

He immediately approached Arnold, who raised his head, looking proud. 'What?'

'I just got promoted as a bank manager—hey! You're too close! Back off, back off!'

'What the heck!? I'm just curious!' Raymond grumbled as Arnold pushed him away. He saw his friend's face flushed slightly. 'Okay, I was wrong. But what did you say? Did you get promoted? Congratulations! How about we celebrate your job promotion today? Want to order food?'

'I want to eat at that Indonesian restaurant that just opened last week.'

'You can't order them online! We must come over there. Want to go there now?'

Arnold shook his head quickly. 'Don't wanna. I just got home. Buy it as a gift for my success today. Please? With a cherry on the top?'

'No. The line is long, you know!'

'But, but I want to eat them ...,' Arnold put on a sad face, then rolled on the carpeted floor. 'Buy it or not?'

He smiled wryly, holding back resentment. He always was like this. Every time Arnold wanted to ask for something, his best friend would roll on the floor until his wish was granted. He gave up, moved from his place. Why was he always could not resist Arnold's puppy eyes, anyway? He should have refused firmly.

'Okay, I'll buy it. Stop rolling around like that. You're not in the age making that silly face!'

'Yey! Raymond is really kind!'

He rolled his eyes as soon as he saw Arnold no longer rolling on the carpeted floor. No, he should not have gone. He should be there, with Arnold. But his body said differently. He moved out of Arnold's apartment, humming softly as he imagined the celebration of success with his friend.

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