Quest for the Ultimate Artifact

Later, at King Carlos Restaurant near the Pineapple Tech building, Austin picked up their ordered meals at the counter. The delicious aroma of Italian dishes mingled with laughter, the soft clinking of glasses, and the lively atmosphere that surrounded him. Just as he turned to return to the table, a sudden clatter pierced the cozy hum of conversation, drawing everyone's attention and silencing the restaurant.

A nearby waitress stood frozen, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. Steam rose from the spilled spaghetti and meatballs, now splattered across the tiles and the lap of an unfortunate customer. The man stood abruptly, twisting his face into an expression of pure irritation.

"I'm so sorry!" the waitress stammered. "I... I didn't mean to... please let me help you clean up!"

The customer waved her off sharply. "Do you have any idea what you've done? Just look at my clothes!" His voice rose, attracting more stares from the surrounding tables. A few patrons chuckled at the spectacle, while others whispered among themselves, shaking their heads in disapproval.

"Why is this even happening around me?" Austin thought. Obviously, this scene was painfully familiar. Before he realized it, Austin was moving, setting his tray down on the nearest table and walking toward the mess.

"Hey," he said gently, crouching to pick up the scattered plates. "Let me help. I know this feeling," he said to the waitress. 

Startled, the waitress replied, "Oh, no, you don't have to..."

"It's fine. Really." He grabbed a handful of napkins and began blotting the floor, shooting her a reassuring smile.

The customer, still grumbling, eventually waved them both away and stormed out, leaving Austin and the waitress muttering complaints about the service under their breath. 

When the floor was clear, the waitress let out a relieved sigh. "Thank you for stepping in," she said softly, her lips curving into a grateful smile. 

"No problem," Austin replied as he stood, dusting his hands on a napkin.

As he returned with the tray, he noticed that Vanessa had been watching him all along from their table, her expression one of intrigue. Austin walked over with their meals, placing them down on the table covered with a crisp white tablecloth, a sense of pride swelling within him.

"That was kind of you," she said as he took a seat. "You and that waitress seem to have a lot in common."

Austin chuckled, feeling slightly embarrassed. "Yeah, I know. Guess I couldn't just stand by and watch someone else go through that as well."

"It's rare to see someone step in like that,"

"Oh, it was nothing," Austin replied, feeling a little self-conscious.

"I think it was something," she said with a thoughtful smile.

They began their meal, and the conversation flowed easily. After a moment, Vanessa set down her glass and studied him intently. "Do you like challenges?" she asked.

Her question took Austin by surprise, but he responded with a smile. "Yeah, I do."

She nodded, her gaze steady and inquisitive. "What types of challenges?"

Austin leaned back in his chair, contemplating his response.

"The messy ones," he replied with a grin, assuming it was a joke question.

"The messy ones?" She raised an eyebrow, intrigued.

 "I enjoy tackling complex problems."

"What is your role with the team at Pineapple Tech?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.

"I'm a software engineer," he replied.

"Oh, good!" Vanessa acknowledged. "When I started L&V, we were just a few people in a basement. There were plenty of setbacks, and I had to handle a lot of chaos from unhappy clients. In fact, I faced a great deal of discouragement; people told me I would never accomplish it. I was also disappointed with how things were, but I didn't back down—I embraced the challenge."

Austin looked at her with admiration as he listened to the story of her journey. "So, you built this company by yourself from nothing?"

She offered a modest smile. "Yes, but only because I enjoy tough challenges. I didn't let any bad vibe get in my head or hold me back. Too many individuals who could have succeeded let negative vibes infiltrate their minds due to a few harsh words or tough breaks. Too many potentials and talents out there are being wasted."

He nodded, inspired by her commitment. "I understand what you mean. I used to take out people's trash cans while I was studying—just to make ends meet."

She raised her eyebrows in surprise. "Really?"

"Yes, I wanted to graduate, and I knew I had to endure the discomfort. I kept reminding myself that it was all temporary."

Her gaze softened as she leaned in slightly. "People with our drive are rare." She reached into her bag and pulled out a sleek leather folder. "It was refreshing to meet someone who genuinely cares about their journey, and that's why I believe you might be a perfect fit for a particular role I am about to offer."

Austin's heart skipped a beat as he gazed at the file she had opened, which revealed neatly organized papers and a sleek tablet. 

"What's this about?" Austin asked curiously.

"We're expanding our software development team, and I could use someone with your skills," Vanessa explained, sliding a document across the table, her eyes shining with anticipation. "I see a real potential in you, Austin."

"So consider this a proposal," she said simply. "I would love to have you at L&V Enterprises."