Suddenly, I Am Rich

It was already Tuesday. From the moment they walked into the office, Mara's phone hadn't stopped ringing. Jet2's team was working on the online site that day.

However, their work doesn't mean working on their own. Instead, it meant constant back-and-forth calls, follow-up emails, and the occasional urgent request for new product photos or product details.

They were so busy that day.

"No, that's not the image we sent." By mid-morning, Mara couldn't count how many times Jet2's team called her.

"Yes, I know it's the one in your database, but that's because you didn't replace it. No, don't argue with me, just replace it."

Gray was at his desk checking through the updated stock list when she suddenly called across the table.

"Gray, they're missing half of our bakery items. Didn't we send them the latest sheet?"

"We did," Gray answered as he turned to her. He was frowning. "I also double checked the list, and so did Joel."

"Then they lost it," Mara muttered, already pulling up the file herself. "I'll send it again."

"Alright."

The rest of the day went much the same. Jet2's tech team kept reporting "minor" bugs. There were things like incorrect pricing on certain products, missing tags, and weird glitches where a single apple would somehow cost as much as a steak dinner.

By the time the sun started setting, they had gone through the entire grocery list three times. Mara had a notebook filled with scribbles, cross-outs, and big red marks next to anything that still wasn't resolved.

At exactly 4:58 PM, Jet2 finally sent the updated product list and system link. Mara reviewed it immediately.

Mara's eyes narrowed as she scrolled down the list, one finger tracing each line on the screen. When she finally reached the bottom, she didn't relax. Instead, she opened the file a second time, just to be sure.

She had to do it carefully and thoroughly since 1 mistake can impact their store's reputation.

Only when she was satisfied did she hit "Send" and forward the updated link to Gray.

"I sent you the updated link, Gray," she quickly informed after sending it.

"You can double-check it on your end, but it's good so far."

"Alright. Coordinate with Joel and send him the link, too. Just for him to know the updates regarding it."

"Will do, Sir."

After hearing the answer, Gray clicked the link open. It loaded, and within seconds, his screen was filled with rows and columns of product codes, item names, images, prices, tags.

Everything had to be exact as what they had in store.

Gray knew that a single mismatch could mean customers ordering one thing and receiving another. And in their line of business, that kind of mistake could kill customers' trust overnight.

"You may go home if you want. I'll stay here and finish this." Gray spared a glance at Mara.

They were already way past normal working hours.

"Nah. It's fine. I still have some files to look into for tomorrow."

Gray just nodded at her answer.

For another hour, they continued working. Neither of them complained. They knew exactly how important this project was.

This wasn't just about getting the online store running. It was about knowing that first impressions really do last.

They knew that the moment the delivery app went live, people would judge them based on speed, convenience, and, most importantly, how easy it was to use.

A messy interface? It will surely annoy people.

Confusing product categories? It's bad, especially for the older generation.

Slow response time? They will surely get bad reviews before the week is over.

Even if it will be their first time, they want the delivery app to be seamless. It should be smooth, fast, and intuitive. Something that even a half-distracted parent ordering groceries on a lunch break could navigate without a second thought.

Gray leaned back in his chair after finishing his review.

"You know," he said with a faint chuckle, "I still can't believe they built all of this in less than a week."

"I know, right?" Mara chuckled, now that she realized it.

"Still," Gray said, scrolling through the dashboard. "It's well-organized. Categories are neat, the search bar works, and product images look nice. The way they sorted fresh produce from pantry items is pretty clean and logical."

"That's because we've been breathing down on their necks since day one." Mara playfully rolled her eyes.

Gray smirked.

"Fair enough. Guess now we just cross our fingers for tomorrow's test run." He muttered before shutting his laptop for a moment.

- - -

Wednesday arrived faster. Gray barely had enough sleep after reviewing the site details three times yesterday. He was restless and was also nervous.

Today, they would finally test out the app.

They asked the staff of the grocery store to act as the customers throughout the day. They wanted to see if it would be stable throughout the whole day.

With Gray's instruction, they also set up a booth near the store's entrance. It was to promote the app and also encourage the incoming customers to help them test-run ordering too.

Those would agree would be given a special code that they could use on the app. The code would allow them to avail special promos and discounts.

"Has the booth already been set up?"

Gray and Mara arrived at the grocery store's office before the sun was even fully up.

The air outside was still cool, and the streets were quieter than usual.

"Yup. The service team had already set it up."

"Good morning, Sir. Good morning, Ms. Mara." Joel was already doing rounds around the store when the two walked in.

Gray's brow rose in surprise.

"Good morning to you, too, Joel." He greeted with an easy smile. I see that you're early today."

Joel laughed respectfully.

"Yes, Sir. I know that today is a big day so I figured I better get here before the crowd."

"That's good to here." Gray appreciated the man's effort.

"Also, Sir. With your instruction, I have already assigned a couple of people to stay at the booth. They'll be the ones promoting it to customers, explaining how to download the app, and handing out the special code for the discounts."

"Good." Gray gave a small approving nod. "Now let's just wait for Jet2's representative to arrive, and then we can get this day rolling."