The next day, Maja headed back to her roommates, feeling better after the weekend at home. Britt and Alessia were excited to see her back, and she shared updates on her talking with Kalani. And it was clear that Britt was the most intrigued, and encouraged Maja to go for it.

"I know this may sound repetitive, but this actually could be what you're looking for. I know you love a good challenge, and maybe this is it."

"I have to agree," Alessia chimed in, "in all the years I've known you, this is genuinely one hell of an opportunity! Plus, you get to see the other side of the world! That'd be cool as hell."

"Have you talked to your parents about this?" Maja shook her head.

"Not yet, I barely avoided a lecture from my dad when I told him about declining the previous offer; I still need a bit more time to consider this."

"How're you gonna budget? You said that the only way onto the island is by boat?" Alessia asked.

"Well, Kalani said that the entire trip would be covered for me, so any money spent would be for personal use, like buying clothes or sunblock or whatever else I'd need."

"Do you even have summer clothes?"

"Kind of? I know I need new stuff anyway. I have a few pairs of shorts and T-shirts."

"Hmmm. Well, all I can say is continue to talk to Kalani more, and work on a plan for the trip so you know what to expect." Britt offered, "See what else she can offer you."

For the following three days, Maja continued to talk with Kalani, slowly getting to know her and more about Motunui. Slowly but surely, Maja felt more convinced to take the job.

Maja even considered asking Henry if she could show Kalani the Star Reader, believing she would be interested in looking at it. However, it was still much of a work in progress, and it wasn't quite ready for use. She felt a little bad about the thought that she would be leaving him to work on it alone while she pursued this, but he had been the first to know about it, and the first to encourage her.

Maybe… maybe this wouldn't be so bad.

Together the girls collaborated on the outline of the trip, and the details of what Maja's main role would be.

K: I'd be more than happy to offer you a tour of the island, as you'll likely be spending a considerable amount of time here, and you'll want to get to know the community here.

M: Of course! Makes perfect sense, I'd love to experience everything Motunui has to offer. You're really hyping it up, and I'm feeling more confident and excited!

K: I'm glad to hear it! I've talked to my colleagues and close friends a bit more and told them about you, they're equally excited to meet and get to know you!

M: Close friends?

K: Yup, one of my childhood best friends is an expert conservationist here. He'll be your go-to for learning about the land and sea. He plans to be involved as much as possible.

M: Well, that's very sweet of you and him. So, in terms of actually getting there, how would that work?

K: Right, well, based on some searching, your best bet would be to take a flight from Oslo to Samoa.

M: Oh, geez, how long of a flight is that?

K: Just over 38 hours approx. You'll be needing at least one layover in Los Angeles, California; or Honolulu, Hawai'i.

M: Oh.

K: Yeah, and then you'd take a boat from Samoa to Niue, another island near Motunui. And from Niue, you take another boat to Motunui. In total, your trip would take about 4 and a half days.

Maja's eyes were wide as she processed the information. She'd never taken such a long trip.

M: Wow, okay… um…

K: I know it's a hefty trip. But I can assure you, on your arrival, you can take time to sleep and adjust to the time difference. I've worked out your lodging, too. You'll be staying with me and my mother, as we have a spare bedroom and plenty of space. Hope that's alright?

M: Oh! That works, honestly. I'd feel more comfortable staying with someone I'm familiar with.

K: Lol, yeah don't worry, we'll have plenty of time to hang out and chat. Once you've recovered and adjusted though, you will have to attend a couple of parties. Whenever we welcome someone new, we always throw a celebration to honor and welcome them. Lots of music, dancing, and food ofc.

M: Well, can't say no to that.

K: Duh!

After further discussing, the girls completed the trip outline; Maja's flight and boat trips, her lodging, her exact position and her pay, and fitting in cultural events she would be required to attend.

K: Also, please ensure you're up to date on all your shots and vaccines. Get your passport ready as well, and make sure you find all the amenities and supplies you'll need. And I strongly recommend at least two large suitcases, I know that you'll leave Motunui with at least some goodies. I'll provide a full list of everything you'll need. Don't worry if something might be missing, as it'll be provided here.

With everything seemingly squared away, Maja felt it was time to finally tell her parents and brother about the job and the trip. She expected a possible lecture from her father, questioning everything about it. When she came home again the following weekend, she prepared a little PowerPoint slideshow to explain everything to them, displaying it on the TV in the living room.

As expected, her father was a bit skeptical of the whole idea, especially of Maja traveling internationally by herself.

"A 38-hour flight? Boat trips? You've never done the latter before."

"I imagine it's like a cruise, but it sucks," Johann piped up.

"I mean, Maja's done her research, she's gotten to know this Kalani. And you said Britt and Alessia approve?" Katrina said, and Maja nodded.

"Mhm, they do. As does Henry. I've discussed it with all three of them, and they say I should go for it. Henry is especially encouraging. Plus, Kalani said she was working on getting the whole trip covered, save for personal expenses. I've given this a lot of thought, and not only do I want to go for the experience, but it's something totally different. Giving professional insight on a project like this? It's something I heard my professors talk about in their professional lives, and now I have this opportunity. It could change everything for me. I truly do believe it's exactly what I need."

Frederick and Katrina looked at each other, and Katrina seemed the most supportive, a little apprehensive, but not unreasonably so.

"Freddy, we should let her. It will give her a new experience, and it's out of her comfort zone. It's worth letting her do it."

"I think it sounds dope," Johann said with a wry grin, but genuinely meaning it. Even though he knew he was a pain to his sister, he could see a twinkle in her eye. She was motivated in a way he'd never seen before, and she knew he supported her.

Frederick was silent for a long while as he thought about everything his daughter presented him with. It was a huge leap forward, and he had always told her to take risks and be open-minded. And now, this job trip had exactly what he told her to look for. With a sigh, he glanced up at Maja, still standing next to her computer.

"Alright, Maja. Your mother and brother are right. As are your friends. It's a lot to take in, I'll admit, but… I think it would be good for you. If you decide to commit, we'll support you."