Staying Late or Heading Home
A free A2-level English story for language learners, readable online in 7 languages, with an option to listen via the free Storyteller app.
Hassan splits his evening between helping a coworker finish an urgent report and making it to his sister's family dinner.
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Hassan's coworker Nessa asks for help finishing a big report. The deadline is tomorrow morning.
At the same time, Hassan's sister Keiko plans a family dinner tonight. Everyone will be there.
"I really need your help," Nessa says. "I can't finish this alone by morning."
Hassan checks the clock. It's already five thirty. The dinner starts at seven.
"I promised my sister I'd be there," Hassan says. "But I don't want to leave you stuck."
Nessa looks at the pile of papers on her desk. "I understand if you need to go," she says.
Hassan thinks for a minute. He calls Keiko. "I'm going to be a little late tonight," he says.
"That's fine," Keiko says. "Just come when you can. We'll save you a plate."
Hassan turns back to Nessa. "Let's work fast," he says. "I can stay for one hour."
They split the report into two parts and work quickly. At six thirty, they finish the last page.
"Thank you so much," Nessa says. "I needed your help tonight."
Hassan grabs his coat and rushes to catch the bus. He arrives at the dinner just as everyone sits down to eat.
