A Love Story in San Francisco

Chapter 13: Kofi's Enthusiasm

Emma's continued stay, he strongly praised Emma's resilience and usefulness to Emma's boss, Rachael, implying that with Emma around, the drilling project in the heart of Africa would move forward more quickly, and would help TWP to complete the phases of the investment more quickly, making it an excellent case study.

Emma was also thankful for Kofi's support, "Don't get so carried away" Lucas said to Emma, "It's never long term in Africa, you know, I miss you so much."

Emma was a bit pleased, not only was her work in Africa highly recognized, but she also took the opportunity to give Lucas a taste of what it was like to be apart for a short time, "I'll make it up to him when I get back" Emma thought to herself. She decided to ask Rachael for a month's extension and sent an e-mail.

Kofi has taken Lucas's place in her psychology to a certain extent. Kofi meets Emma early in the morning for breakfast and then goes to the village to inspect the situation, finding funny stories on the way, and solving any communication barriers he may encounter. Emma relies on him and has a soft spot for him, but only in the sense that she is comfortable with him and is not afraid of anything in Africa.

But Kofi seems to want to take it to the next level, and the day after Emma sends the email, he intentionally or unintentionally buys a beautiful rose at the market and gives it to Emma, saying with his trademark charming smile, "Here, for you, I think this flower is as beautiful as you are." Emma took it a little unnaturally, but politely, not awkwardly, said thank you to Kofi. Then just a day later, Kofi invited Emma out for an evening meal, saying it was the best kebab restaurant in Addis Ababa. Emma first thought she was inviting representatives of a few charities who had come along, but later found out that she was the only one invited.

At the table, Kofi asked Emma very gentlemanly, "Emma, would I have the honor of being your boyfriend?"

Emma was surprised, and she hinted that Kofi was aware that Emma had a boyfriend in the US.

She decisively rebuffed to, "No Kofi, I appreciate you always being so helpful, but I already have a boyfriend, thank you."

Kofi was obviously well prepared for this and a sad but obviously acceptable expression spread across her face, "I knew it, but I couldn't help but try to make my feelings clear to you, thank you for being so direct, I'm sorry."

"I'm the one who's sorry Kofi, you have a really good sense of humor, and a strong body, you deserve to find something better." Emma said reassuringly.

"Don't worry, I'm fine, it's the first time I've ever been rejected, but this feels kinda refreshing." Kofi said tactfully not wanting to be so awkward.

The two then skimmed through dinner quite cooperatively, Emma thinking that the kebab store was actually pretty good and that she could bring Lucas in for a bit if he came over. To avoid Lucas objecting to his request for an extension, Emma chose not to say anything to Lucas about Kofi's confession.

But the awkwardness between the two was inevitable, and the next day Kofi didn't invite Emma to breakfast with him, choosing instead to wait for Emma in the departure hall to leave with him.