idiot check : 念入りにチェックをすること
stupendous : 途方もなく素晴らしかった
pushback : 反対
skeptical : 疑い深い

　(A : Akiko, T : Tina, N : Naoki)

Narrator: It's time to pack and head for the airport. Akiko and Tina are talking about their stay in New York City...

A: I love New York! T: Sounds like a song to me - did you bring that last folder from my desk? A: Yes...yes, I have it. The car is waiting, we should go... T: Okay, can you go ahead and do the idiot check? T: Everything okay? A: Yes, we didn't leave anything. T: Then we're on our way home. Yayyy Tokyo! A: You're really excited to get back. T: Kind of. I love New York, too, of course. But, since the meeting was so... A: Good... T: Good!? Just good?! No, my dear, the meeting went swimmingly. It was splendid. It was stupendous... A: I think it was...fun. I was surprised... T: I know! I was expecting a lot more pushback on our suggestions, especially from Rolf...he's skeptical about the sky being blue, really! A: He...? T: I mean, his default mode is that nothing good will come of anything... A: 彼が疑い深いっていう意味なんだ。 A: It seemed that he liked you a lot. T: Well, I don't know about 'a lot' - but I have to admit we did have a weird kind of chemistry... A: Why do you think it was weird? T: Hey, I think that's our car!

felicitous : 適切な
eager beaver : がんばり屋さん
discourage : やるきをそぐ

　 (A : Akiko, T : Tina, N : Naoki)

Narrator: It's 14 hours later in Tokyo. Naoki has decided to 'help' Tina and Akiko by meeting them at the airport...

N: ええと、到着ゲートはここで、あ、メモメモ…。第一ターミナルで。お迎えエリアはここ。でも、入国審査がすめばティナさんに電話がつながるし。予定だとそろそろ出てくる時間なんだけど…。一度電話して、いや、ここはしっかりとここで待つ方感じの方が。どっちが印象いいかな…。
<talking with an elderly lady from Kansai>
N: なるほど、ここで男らしくしっかり構えている方がいいということですね。なるほど！はい、そうします。あの実は来るのは彼女じゃなくて、会社の… Oba-san: まあ、あんたの好きにしたらええんちゃうの？　 N: あ、ありがとうございました！　おおきに！　なんていい人なんだろう。関西のおばさんって怖いと思っていたけど、すごい優しい。あ、そろそろ２人は出てくる頃だな。しっかりボードを持ち上げないと。あれ、あ。間違いない！　２人が帰ってきた！ N: Tina-san, Terashima-san! Hello, I'm Naoki!! T: ...so I think we have a good chance to ...oh.my.god. A: What is it? What's the matter? T: Please tell me I don't see Naoki over there, holding up a sign... A: No. I don't believe it. Did you ask... T: No! Of course not! I guess there's no way to get away... A: I'm sure he is trying to be helpful... T: Oh, I know he is, I'll be nice...it's just, after a long flight, I can honestly say he's the least felicitous sight... A: Feliciti...? T: He's not well-suited for the occasion. In fact, he's not well-suited for almost any...Hi Naoki! Wow, you came all the way out here to meet us...that's really nice of you... N: Welcome back, Tina-san! 寺島さんもお疲れさまです！　Tina-san, how was your trip? Do you need to change money? Do you have more luggage? I will carry your bag. And it was very quiet around the office without you. And, I took care of Ms. Sato and I think... A:こんなに頑張ってくれている姿を見ると、ちょっとかわいそうな気がしてきたな。 T: He's such an eager beaver...it would be so mean to discourage him, really... I have to find a new way to relate to him. Hey, who knows? We're going to be superbusy, and he really wants to learn - maybe more responsibility is the answer...

Narrator: Akiko. Tina. Naoki. What does their future hold? Stay subscribed to this podcast to find out...

roleplay : 役割練習
how can I help you? : 何かお手伝いしましょうか？
the worst possible moment : 最悪の時

　(A : Akiko, T : Tina, N : Naoki)

Narrator: It's Monday morning. Really early Monday morning. Akiko and Tina have worked all weekend to prepare for the big presentation on Monday at 9am. Tina wants to roleplay the presentation one more time...

T: Okay, okay... So let's do it...one more time. A: one more time... T: Right. So, we walk in-you've got the mini-projector. A: Check. T: I've got the laptop. Check. A: and... T: No, no... don't do that. A: Sorry. T: Hello? (Could this possibly be Naoki again?) N: Ah. Hello, hello, Tina-san? A: （またナオキさんから電話？　今度はどんな理由をつけてかけてきたんだろう…） T: Hi, Naoki- how can I help you? N: Yes. I found the folder you told me about! T: That's great. So, then, why are you calling? N: Ah, yes. I knew you would be happy... and T: and? N: I called Sato-san, and gave her the information. T: Oh, that's just wonderful Naoki! Do you know what time it is? N: It is...8pm in New York.

Narrator: Naoki's confusion has followed Akiko and Tina from Tokyo to New York... and it's the worst possible moment...

---

]]> tag:blog.eigotown.com,2008:/podcast/akiko_and_tina/volume3//69.4918 2008-06-27T07:35:26Z 2008-06-27T07:36:17Z

NYのプレゼン準備は順調。でも東京のナオキは…。...

英語タウン編集部 NYのプレゼン準備は順調。でも東京のナオキは…。

fit in : スケジュールに組み込む
threw the baby out with the bathwater : 不必要なものを取り除く時に、大事なものを捨ててしまう、という表現
intricacy : 複雑に入り組んだもの

　(A : Akiko, T : Tina, N : Naoki)

Narrator: It's a lazy summer Saturday in New York City - except for Akiko and Tina. They'll work all weekend to create a new presentation for Monday...and try to fit some shopping in, too...Meanwhile, back in Tokyo, Naoki has what he calls an emergency, and he's trying to reach Tina on her cellphone...

N: こんな時間まで一晩中色々試してみたけど。NYにいるティナさんに電話がつながらないじゃないか…。よし、ここは一眠りするか。そしたら頭も今よりすっきりすると思うし。 T: Sigh. We've been dancing around the point all day, and I think it's because...well, when Mike asked for a new presentation, he threw the baby out with the bathwater! A: He...baby...?! T: He threw the baby out with the bathwater, you know, like, he asked us to change the logic of the presentation, and that's the bathwater, and the baby is...oh never mind...I think we don't have a choice, we have to re-write it. A: Um... T: Yeah, that's right! Let's just start over...why did Mega Corp fly us here? A: Um, to explain the Japanese social media landscape.　 T: Hey, that's pretty good! A: That's the subtitle you wrote. T: I thought it sounded familiar...anyway, so yeah, we need to explain the equivalents to Web 2.0 and semantic web and social media services...and the people who use them... A: Maybe the question should be different... T: What do you think? A: Well, maybe it should focus on the user, not the service...? T: So...maybe, like, a day in the life...hey, Akiko that's a great idea! A: If we follow someone through their day... T: Excellent - we can name them, and tell their story, and even go so far as to link to the sites they're using, and listening to a little bit of the podcasts they're downloading, and read a little bit of the cellphone novel and maybe even... A: （ああ、でもそうするとちょっと無理なような。面白そうだけど、無理っぽいな）...Um... T: yeah, I know. It's impossible. Fun but impossible. I wish Mike had said something about his little brainstorm just a little bit earlier,.. oh, it's my phone... T: Hello? Hello? Hm, that's the second time I got that number, it looks like it's on the west coast, but when I pick up there's no answer...

Narrator: Akiko and Tina try to figure out how to create a brand-new presentation for Monday, without it looking like a rush job - and Naoki is trying to master the intricacies of his IP phone...

N: Tina-san! Hello! Uh, Tina-san? Can you hear me? Hello! Is it you? あれ、このIP電話おかしいぞ。あれ、つながってるのかな？　

take shape : 具体化する
on a roll : うまくいく
loom : 不気味に現れる

　 (A : Akiko, T : Tina, N : Naoki)

Narrator: Akiko and Tina have come up with a brand new approach to their presentation - it's starting to take shape, as they work in Tina's hotel room in New York City...

T: Okay, okay, okay, so, the guy is...um, 30... A: What's his name? T: Naoki. Just kidding! How about...um...how about... Ichiro. Everybody'll know how to pronounce that one...Ichiro Morita. A: Okay, and the female? T: You name the female - I'm not sure. A: Um...Ayumi Watanabe. T: Wow, that was quick! So Ichiro Morita gets up in the morning, and the first thing he does, besides washing up and eating, is checking his PC. His homepage is...StickyPedia. A: Right. T: His cellphone rings, it's his girlfriend Ayumi. A: It sounds like a Saturday - they don't need to go to work, right? T: Right. They're going to meet in the afternoon, but she's calling because she's all excited, she got 3 comments about her mobile phone novel... A: okay T: and he says he wants to meet later in the afternoon because he wants to update his TheirSpace page with new pictures...and he's especially happy that all of his YourTunes podcasts have downloaded - he's learning conversational English with one of them... A: okay. So, I need to make up pages... T: Right. And I'll write the rest of the scenarios...then lets go over them, and if everything fits, we can start building the actual text and graphics...I'd like to have music, let's see what we can get from the server library... A: Okay. I'm kind of hungry, are you? T: Starving...let's pick up a bite at the coffee shop downstairs and then jump right into it...who is that? A: （もしかして、誰かが東京のオフィスから電話しているのかな。でもだったらホテルに連絡がくるはずだし。うーん）

Narrator: Akiko and Tina are on a roll. The new presentation is coming together quickly. But there's a problem looming, an unpleasant surprise...what will they do about it? Stay tuned...

VP : 副社長
thrift shop : リサイクルショップ
second hand : 中古

　(A : Akiko, T : Tina, N : Naoki)

Narrator: At last! Tina and Akiko land in New York! It's late afternoon. Tina has picked up the rental car, and they've driving to her favorite downtown hotel. Mike Hedges, the new Strategic Global Communications VP, is taking them for drinks at one of the city's hippest bars.

A: Tina? You left the door open! T: Oh, no worries, I just went out to get some ice...You look nice, is that new? A: No, I got it some years ago. It's from a thrift shop! T: Well, it's very cool...what do you think of this one? A: It's beautiful! Where did you get it? T: A shop called Second Hand. A: Really? Where? 　 T: 3 blocks from here. A: No! When? T: I guess, the last time I was here...last summer...I wanted something light but not too girly. A: It really looks like you. T: Why, thank you! Let me go change... A: ティナ、すごいリラックスしているみたい。ニューヨークにいると楽しくなるっていつも言ってたし。 T: Ta Da! A: Perfect - is that the new lipstick? T: Yup. I wanted something a little summer-y, so I picked it up before we left - but it's so hard to find the right colors in Japan. I plan to go get everything I need for a year while I'm here!

Narrator: Meanwhile, back in Tokyo, Naoki seems to have run into a problem...

N: あ、はい。申し訳ございません…ええ、あの…レポートがいつこちらに届くかまだわかっておりませんで…ニューヨークに居ります担当の者とコンタクトをとってから連絡させて頂いても宜しいでしょうか？　ご迷惑をおかけしてすみません。失礼いたします… N: やった！！　ニューヨークに電話をかける理由が出来たぞ！！　

up-market : 高所得者層の
gentrify : 高級化する
trustafarian : リッチな親からお金を貰っていることを隠しながら、信用を得る為に所得の低い人たちと一緒に暮らしている人

　 (A : Akiko, T : Tina, N : Naoki)

Narrator: It's a beautiful late evening in New York City. Akiko and Tina walk to the hotel after having drinks with Mike Hedges.

T: Oh, I love this city! A: Somehow, I feel the same way. T: Yeah, I think New York really fits your personality... A: The bar was so crowded!　 T: Lots of up-market downtowners. You know, well-off people living in what used to be poor neighborhoods, but now they're gentrified...

Narrator: Akiko and Tina head up to Tina's room to for a soft drink, and to recap the night.

T: No, no, they're not Rastafarian, trustafarian. Kind of spoiled rich people who live with poorer people, so they feel like they get some credibility. What's the equivalent in Japan? A: （trustafarianってお金持ちの親に甘やかされてるのに、自分よりお金のない人と暮らして信用を得ようとしている人のことなんだ。日本語では何て言うんだろう？）I’m not sure. T: Well, anyway, there were a lot of them, but the food was good... A: Mike Hedges was not like I thought he would be. T: What did you think of his approach to the meetings? A: Well, I, um... T: You didn't understand much of it, huh? It's not because your English isn't good enough - it's great. It's just that he has a really heavy, fast Brooklyn accent... A: Hmm, I see. So, what do we need to do for the meetings? T: We have to change the whole approach to the presentation. A: We do?!!!

Narrator: Tina and Akiko had plans to relax, and shop, and generally take a break from their normal busy schedule. But they have to make a complete change to the presentation approach - and they only have the weekend to do it! Meanwhile, there's trouble brewing in Tokyo...

N: 今ニューヨーク時間だと…お、よし。もうティナさんの携帯に電話しても大丈夫な時間だぞ。えっと、携帯の相手が海外にいる場合は、最初に…

ICT : 情報通信技術
Social Media Optimization : ソーシャルメディア最適化
misplace : 間違った場所に置く

　(A : Akiko, T : Tina, N : Naoki)

Narrator: A trip to New York City to present their projects to headquarters. A lovesick young man at the office to deal with... And with the buzz about their new media projects spreading in Japan, Akiko and Tina are pulled in many different directions...

A: Tina, did you call me? T: Yes, did you see blue portfolio - I left all of the revised ICT materials in there, and it seems to have disappeared... A: I remember that I saw it... T: Me, too. I can't believe it, we need to be on that flight tonight, and I absolutely have to revise those numbers upwards...where could the thing be? This social media optimization stuff is easier to do than it is to report on! A: Oh...(I know where it is, I bet...) ああ、もしかして N: はい, IT部です。 A: もしもし、 ナオキさん？ 　 N: あ、寺島さん、お疲れさまです。 A: あの、書類のはいった青いファイルって持ってますか？　あのプレゼン用の資料が入っている… N: あ、はい。持ってますよ。今、色々数値を確認してました。前回のプレゼンの時みたいなミスはもう出来ないですからね。 A: (I can't believe it - this is exactly the wrong time to misplace something so important.) A: よかった。そのファイル、今すぐ持ってきてもらえませんか？　ずっとティナと探していて困っていたんですよ。 N: あ、はい。もちろんです。今すぐ向かいます。(よし、これでティナさんに会うことができるぞ。ファイルを持って登場して、役に立つチャンスだ。ううん。そうだ、なに話そうかな。出張で一週間会うことがない訳だし。よし、これは出発前にいい印象を残さないと) A: ああ、ナオキさん、ありがとうございます。 T: Naoki...Oh, wonderful! There it is - thank you! Where in the world did you... N: Well, you see, I...itai! A: He was kind enough to find it and bring it upstairs.　ね、ナオキさん？ N: Ah, yes, I was kind enough...

seize his chance : チャンスをつかむ
oblivious : 気づかない
goofy : 間抜けな

　 (A : Akiko, T : Tina, N : Naoki)

Narrator: Naoki has rescued the portfolio that Tina and Aikiko need for their trip to New York that evening. Now he'll seize his chance to leave a lasting impression on Tina...

T: yes, Naoki, it is very kind of you to bring it, thank you. N: Tina-san! T: Hmmm...yes? N: ええ、なんて言ったら良いのかな。どれが一番ぴったりに。そうだ！　 T: Um, Naoki, I'm sorry, but we have to finish preparing, you know our flight is at 7:00... N: I am sorry. If, if you have any trouble in New York City, please call me.

Narrator: The whole office falls silent.

T: Call you... N: Yes. T: ...from New York. If I have any trouble...okay.. N: Yes, yes, please. I will be happy to help you! T: ...that's really good to know, Naoki...I have to go now, sorry. A: はあ。ナオキさん…。 N: あ、寺島さんも何か困ったことがあったらすぐ僕に連絡ください。すぐにお助けしますから。(よし、これでティナさんにはかなりの好印象だぞ。うーん、でも実際どうしたらいんだろう？） T: (...-if I have a problem, let me see, who would be the very last person I'd call for help? Sigh. I like the kid, but he's such a..a kid! Completely oblivious to what's actually going on. I wonder if...) A: （どうなんだろう、ナオキさんってナイーブなようで、実は全然そうじゃないようにも見えるし。家族環境はたしか大家族の末っ子だっていってたから、まあ子供っぽい所があるのは確かなんだけど。でも、いい加減わかってもいいはずなのにな。ティナは…。） T: （...I like him as a person, but I certainly don't like him that way. I never have been one for guys who were too goofy. Well, maybe out of sight out of mind for a week will cool him off...I still can't believe he's serious about liking me, it's so unlikely...）

Narrator: Tina and Akiko head to New York City on an evening flight, as their adventure continues...

disastrous night : さんざんな夕べ
clue you in : あなたに知らせる
preoccupied : うわの空

　(N : Naoki, A : Akiko, T : Tina)
N: ああ。どうしよう。どうしたらいいんだろう。今朝はティナさんに会うことになってるんだよな。僕に興味がないって分かってから…。ああ。最悪だ。まだ強く出るべきじゃなかったんだ。ああ。

Narrator: Naoki hasn't seen Tina since their disastrous evening. He took a few days off, hoping that she would already be on her way to the States for a business trip. But, no. She's still in Japan - still in Tokyo -still in the office. And still in his heart. What in the world is he going to do - how can he face her and be normal...?

A: おはようございます、ナオキさん。大丈夫ですか？　なんだかあんまり… N: あ。ああ。寺島さん。おはようございます…。 A: ナオキさん、何か持ってきましょうか？ N: え。ああ。いえいえ。大丈夫です。自分のオフィスに行って、IT部で…それからやらなきゃいけないことが… A: え、でもちょっと待って、あ…。（また、どうしちゃったんだろう） T: Hm? What's the matter with who? A: Tina, have you noticed Naoki seems a bit...strange? T: Well, he's always been a bit odd...oh, you mean...Yes, well, I actually wanted to clue you in that there may be a problem for a bit. Come on in the office, let's take a break. T: Did I remember to tell you we ended up having dinner together? A: We? You mean, Naoki and you? T: Yeah. A: Oh. I see. How, how was it? T: In a word? Weird. Deeply weird. A: Oh no...well, maybe that explains it. T: Has he said anything to you? A: No, no, he just seems... T: Preoccupied. A: That means he's kind of thinking of other things right? Yes, he seems very preoccupied.

preempt : 先手をとる
full plate : やらなければいけない多くの
cope : こなす

　 (N : Naoki, A : Akiko, T : Tina)

Narrator: Tina continues to tell the story of her deeply weird dinner with Naoki.

T: It wasn't a date. A: No, of course it was not a date... T: It wasn't! A: I know, I know it wasn't. To you. T: Oh boy. Yeah. Well. It certainly was just a coincidence to me... A: Did he...? T: Did he tell me he likes me? Sort of. I kind of preempted him because...I didn't want to hurt his feelings, you know. A: I see. T: (SIGH) A: Soooo... T: I told him I didn't feel attracted to him. Do we need this for the trip to New York? A: Oh, oh, no, you wanted to do a totally new one, remember? T: Oh, oh, that's right. Well, anyway, I kind of hope I see him before we leave for the States. A: You do???!!!! T: Don't get the wrong idea! It's just that he's a nice kid and we really do need to work well together... N: ティナさんはやっぱり僕が知っている外国人女性の中で一番素敵な人だ。って言っても面識がある外国人女性はティナさんだけなんだけど。はあ。ティナさんに会ったらなんて言おうか考えないとな…。固まっちゃいたくないし。もしかしたら、もしかしたらまだティナさんに僕のことを思ってもらえるチャンスがあるかもしれないし…。

Narrator: A trip to New York City to present their projects to headquarters. A lovesick young man at the office to deal with. And with the buzz about their new media projects spreading in Japan, Akiko and Tina have a very full plate – how will they cope? Stay tuned to find out.

queasy : 不安な
Are you trying to change the subject? : 話題を変えようとしているの？
take the bull by the horns : 怖がらずに立ち向かう

　 （T: Tina, N: Naoki）
T: Ah, Naoki. You're a really great person, and a lot of fun to hang out with...and I know you're trying hard to do well at Mega Corporation. But I have to be honest with you...

Narrator: Naoki senses something from the way Tina is reacting to his question: Do you have someone? He has a queasy feeling in his stomach, that he has misjudged the situation, and Tina is about to tell him something he doesn't want to hear...How can he stop her!

N: Um, Um, Tina-san, I have a different question... T: Huh? Well, but I...well, okay, what would you like to know? But, Naoki, we really do need to talk about that other question you asked... N: Yes, yes, of course, I know. So, the next question... T: Your next question is...? N: Uh, uh, do you...do you play, uh, uh, piano? T: Do I play piano. Um, why do you ask? N: In the morning, at the office, I heard... T: Oh! Oh, yeah, you must have heard me playing around on that toy keyboard in my office. Well, I used to play when I was a kid, and I'm trying to...wait a minute, Naoki, what does this have to do with anything? Are you trying to change the subject? N: Trying...to...change...? T: Trying to change the subject. I mean, we really do need to talk about...about what you asked me. N: Uh, so, so...I... T: Look, I know it's not easy to be in this situation. N: えっ？ T: (I'd better take the bull by the horns here) T: Naoki, you asked me if I have someone... N: Uh, ye..yes. T: Well, I don't. N: You don't? You do not? T: No. N: （やっぱりな、分かってたんだよ！　思ってた通りだ！）

infatuated : 夢中になっている
have a crush : 熱を上げる
jump to conclusions : 結論に飛びつく

　 （T: Tina, N: Naoki）

Narrator: Tina. Naoki. Romeo and Juliet? Abelard and Heloise? Wallace and Gromit? Stay tuned and find out...

T: No, Naoki, I don't have someone, but... N: It means you... T: Wait, please, hold on. I don't want you to get the wrong idea. I, I can kind of feel that you're a bit infatuated with me, and... N: I, I don't think you are fat! T: No, no, wait, oh my gosh, hold on! Infatuated doesn't have anything to do with fat! It means that you kind of have a crush... N: Crush? You mean, like a can? T: Well, sometimes the effect is similar... N: I'm sorry, Tina-san, I... T: Look, please, hear me out for a minute. I don't want to you to jump to conclusions. N: （え？　なんで僕がジャンプするんだろう？）Oh, I am sorry... T: Naoki, I'm not attracted to you. N: Uh, uh, you, you... T: I like you as a person: you're very smart and very funny. And it's very interesting to work with you. But I'm not attracted to you as a boyfriend.

Narrator: This is it. The message that Naoki never wanted to hear, sitting on the table between them, like a lump. What will he do next? Can he still win her heart? Does he even want to try? Tune in next week to find out.

I could use a drink : お酒の力を借りたい気分だ
assertive : 自分の意見をはっきり述べる
passive : 消極的な

　 （T: Tina, N: Naoki）

Narrator: When we left Tina and Naoki, they had grabbed a bite to eat at a nerby restaurant. Naoki wanted to see Tina to ask her a very important question.

N: Tina-san... T: Hmmm? N: You have...someone?

Narrator: There. He asked. Now, the ball is in Tina's court...

T: Someone to... N: Uh, um, someone...you... T: (oh.my.gosh. Akiko was right. What in the world am I going to say to him!?) N: Is the time the right one? T: What? N: Is, is, the time right? T: Naoki, hold on. Just listen for a moment. N: Okay, I will listen...すいません！ T: (sigh) Hey, that's not listening! N: You have no wine... T: I...oh, I see. Yes, I guess I could really use a drink. N: すいません！ T: (well, he certainly is assertive. None of this passive Japanese guy stuff, which makes him kind of unique in my experience...I wonder why he's so different?) T: Naoki? N: Yes, Tina-san? T: Before I even attempt to answer your question, can I ask you something? N: Of course, of course, anything, you can ask me anything!

proactive : 積極的な
wet noodle : 弱々しい
take the initiative : 自発的に行動する
hold up : 持続する

　 （T: Tina, N: Naoki）

Narrator: We join Tina and Naoki back in the restaurant. The question is, is this actually their first date..or not...

T: Well, I only wondered why you're so...Honestly, you seem a lot more proactive than I'm used to guys here being... N: More...? I am sorry, I don't... T: Sorry, sorry, what I mean is, you actually talk about how you feel. N: Oh. I can talk about how you feel... T: No, that's not what I...Let me start over. You see, I've been attracted to guys in Japan...well, let me say it, to Japanese guys, before... N: （え、僕にattractedってことは、ああ、わかったぞ！） T: ...so then I went out with a guy named Aki, and he was really sweet but pretty much like a wet noodle. I mean he simply could not take the initiative. N: You wanted him to take...nude noodle? T: The initiative, the initiative. It means, like, for example, he would never make all the arrangements for us to get together - I had to make all the decisions. N: But, but...you want to do that? I thought. T: Well of course I do sometimes, but it's exhausting always being the one to hold up the whole relationship... N: Hold up? Do you mean stealing something? T: No, no, not that kind of hold up...I mean, it's hard to be in a relationship when only one person is working on it. Anyway, you're doing well to be so assertive... N: （assertiveって何だろう…） Tina-san. I am sorry. I don't understand. T: Ah, Naoki. You're a really great person, and a lot of fun to hang out with...and I know you're trying hard to do well at Mega Corporation. But I have to be honest with you...

Narrator: We join Tina and Naoki back in the restaurant. The question is, is this actually their first date..or not...

popping a question : 思いがけない質問を持ち出す。ちなみに"popping the question"となると、プロポーズをするという意味になります
pain of rejection : 拒絶される痛み
talk with her alone : 彼女とふたりっきりで話をする
let's go get a bite to eat : 何か軽く食べにいこうよ

　 （T: Tina, A: Akiko N: Naoki）

Narrator: Naoki has been reading a novel that seems to reflect his life. The theme? It's about Japanese men not being ready to deal with the pain of rejection, and being passive in relationships. But, he will be different - he will find the courage to talk with the woman of his dreams...Tina. He's determined to talk with her alone...

Narrator: It's the end of a long day at MegaCorporation.

A: Are you ready to go? T: No, no, I have one more email I have to get done before I go. Isn't it amazing that one more email can mean an hour of research? A: I know...but I am supposed to remind you not to stay too late. T: Oh yeah, right, I told you to remind me, didn't I? Hm. Well, hold the reminder for tomorrow... A: Okay. Well, I will see you tomorrow. T: Okay, see ya... now, how do I approach this...

Narrator: Naoki is going home - but he passes Tina's office, as he does every day, and sees that she is alone. It's time to take the next step!

N: T-Tina-san? T: Oh, hi Naoki...on your way out? N: Yes. No. Yes, but, I thought...maybe... T: (sigh) Naoki, I'm sorry, I'm just in the middle of... N: You look angry. T: I look angry? What do you mean - I'm not angry at...oh, do you mean hungry? (oh my gosh, I really don't feel up to socializing right now, and I have got to finish this...but, my stomach is rumbling a bit...) N: Yes, yes, hungry, I said hungry. Are you hungry? I am very hungry. T: Okay, okay I get it...let's go get a bite to eat, but then I have to get back here to finish this. N: Let's go...really?（ってことは…僕について来てくれるってことだよね。やった！） T: I'll meet you downstairs in...how about 10 minutes? N: 10 minutes. In the lobby? T: Yup. See you in 10. N: Right. Okay. Well, goodbye, Tina-san! T: Goodbye? But we're meeting in 10...oh, never mind, see you shortly. N: ティナさんが僕と、プライベートで会ってくれる！　僕に会いたがっている！　すごいことだ！　え、でも10分後。よし、ここは頑張りどころだぞ！

dinner recommendations : ディナーのおすすめ
that's one option : それも選択肢の一つだね
place their orders : 注文をする
in an entirely new light : 全く違う観点から

　 （T: Tina, N: Naoki）

Narrator: It's a lovely restaurant near the station that Tina has never been to. Naoki is very proud to have found it.

T: Well, I was thinking of something quick, but this place is so nice - thanks for the introduction, Naoki... (Hmmmm...this is a bit much...is it possible that Akiko is right and this kid actually...no, no way) N: I am glad you like it. Yes, I recommend... T: Wow, you must come here a lot! (I've never seen the point of dinner recommendations - I'll just choose what I'm in the mood for anyway.) N: No no no, it is the first time for me. But I recommend... T: Um Naoki...how can you recommend a dish when it's your first time coming here? N: Uh, um, I found it from an internet recommend site for this area...So, I recommend... T: Okay, I give up, what do you recommend? N: The grilled salmon. T: Oh...Okay, well, that's one option. Thank you. This menu is huge! N: Yes. It is. Okay. すみません！

Narrator: Naoki and Tina place their orders

N: Tina-san... T: Hmmm? N: Do you have...someone?

Narrator: There. Naoki's crucial question is on the table...finally. What's going through Tina's mind now? How will she respond? Is it possible that she'll see Naoki in an entirely new light?

abomination : 嫌悪感を感じるもの
user-friendly : ユーザーにとって使い易い
random stuff : 手当たり次第のもの
vendor : 業者

　 （T: Tina, A: Akiko N: Naoki）

Narrator: Akiko, Tina and Naoki are in the office. Naoki is about to ask Tina an important question...

T: Akiko, we have got to refine this list of USP's...Oh, hi Naoki...I didn't see you standing there. How are ya? N: I'm fine, Tina-san. Tina-san, may I ask you something? T: Hmm...Sure Naoki, go right ahead. N: Well... T: Oh...hold on, sorry, I just have to check this...this is an abomination! Absolutely the least user-friendly site I've ever seen - what the heck is going on? Why is this page so crammed with random stuff! A: Are you looking at the insurance department homepage? T: Homepage - this is more like some chaotic nonsense...is this by that one vendor they like? Haven't they ever heard of simplicity? Yikes! A: Yes, of course, but he...he didn't really... <Phone rings> A: Communications...はい、おります。少々お待ちください。 A: Tina, it's Michael...Mulcahey? T: No, no, no, it's Mulcahey. So, he's on the phone, huh? Okay, I'll, I'll take it in the office...Naoki, I'm so sorry, I have to go, let's talk later. N: Uh, I... N: Ahhh... A: ナオキさん、どうしたんですか？ N: いや、その、実はですね。僕…。 A: はい？ N: いや、いいんです。何でもないです。邪魔してすいません。あ、あ、そうだ。レポートを持ってIT部に戻らないと。 A: な、何なんだろう。私の周りで勝手に何か恋愛ドラマが展開してるみたい…

Just as well : ちょうどよかった
headhunter : 人材スカウトをする業者
make progress : 進展する

　 （T: Tina, A: Akiko）

Narrator: Tina comes out of her office after her conversation with Michael Mulcahey. She looks...happy.

T: Oh...where did Naoki go? I thought he wanted to ask me something... A: I thought so too, but he left... T: Just as well...have you got a minute? A: Of course...you look really... T: Happy? Yup. Wanna know why? A: Yes... T: That...was a call from a headhunter. A: Headhunter...what?! I didn't think you were looking for a job... T: Oh, I'm not! That's why it's so cool - he saw the press for our new program and thought... A: He thought... T: He thought he could get me a higher level position... A: Really? So... T: Don't worry - I don't have any plans to leave - we're just starting to make progress here. A: So, then why are you so happy? T: It's really great for the ego to be asked. Plus, I know who Michael is...and I kinda liked him the only time we met... A: You mean...like, like like? T: Well, I dunno...anything's possible. Anyway, we're going to have dinner on Friday. Don't worry, I'm really not planning on going anywhere. And I'd take you with me if I did go - if you wanted to go... A: すごいな。ティナはヘッドハンターの誘いを受けるような幹部クラスの仲間入りをしているんだ。マイケル・マルカヒーさんはどんな人なんだろう。はあ。それにしてもかわいそうなナオキくん。ティナが新しい人と会ってるなんて知ったらショックだろうな…。

Unique Selling Proposition : 独自のセールスポイントを持った提案
implausible : ありそうもない
reciprocated : お互いのやり取りがある
overexcited newbie : はしゃぎすぎている新人

　 （T: Tina, A: Akiko）

Narrator: Akiko and Tina hurry to separate meetings in Mega Corporation's office...

T: So, the talk you had with Naoki - how did it go? A: えっと… T: woops, darnit, if I keep dropping these files, I'm going to have to use glue next...What was I saying, oh yeah, So, how did it go? We don't have much time, I've got 10 minutes to get to Peterson's office... A: Actually, um, it didn't go that well. T: What? What do you mean? You mean he didn't understand that he translated Unique Selling Proposition completely wrong? I mean, not completely, but still! A: Well, he, I think he understood it... T: Well weren't you talking with him in Japanese? A: Yes, of course, but he...he didn't really... T: Don't tell me he got all moony-eyed with you too! A: But, he's distracted because... T: If he doesn't get it together I'm going to give him something to be distracted about! So, what's the problem...? A: He likes you. T: Well, generally I like him okay, he's a nice kid, but...what? You mean - oh come on, no way! You don't mean he...likes me!?! Like, liking as in...like!!!!? A: Um, yes. T: Oh, you've got to be kidding. I'm sorry, but it's just so...implausible! He's just a kid, and it's certainly not reciprocated... A: It's imp...it's not...what? T: Implausible. Meaning no way in the world. Reciprocated: meaning I certainly don't like him that way... I don't know Akiko, your radar is usually pretty good, but I think you've got this wrong. He's just an overexcited newbie, is all. A: Um, Tina, I think we should talk when you're not so busy... T: Right. Okay, I'm heading off to the meeting. I won't be back till after lunch probably. Let's deal with it later...

get her advice : アドバイスをもらう
the ticking time bomb : 時限爆弾
refine : 改良する
USP : ユニークセリングプロポジション

　 （T: Tina, A: Akiko, N: Naoki）

Narrator: Akiko calls her American friend Lori, to get her advice about the ticking time bomb of Naoki...and Tina.

A: So, then she said it was, impl, im..um, wait a moment...implausible, that's right, that's it. A: I know. I should have talked with her when I noticed how he was...but, I feel ashamed for him! A: Oh, that's right...embarrassed, not ashamed…well, she also said it is not reciprocated… A: I'm worried...we need him to do a good job, because if it goes well, he will do a good job with communications in his department...he has to focus on his work!

Narrator: The next day, Naoki daydreams in the crowded train on his way to the office...

N: （はあ。何があったって訳じゃないんだけど、ティナさんのためだったらもっとがんばって何でもしてあげたいな） N: （何か運命じみたものを感じるんだよな。でもティナさん、まだ自分の気持ちに気づいていないみたいだし） N: （この距離を縮める為には２人で過ごす時間をもっと作らなきゃな） N: Good Morning Terashima-san! A: Good morning, Naoki-kun. How are you? N: I'm well. Thank you! えっとティナさんいますか？ A: ああ、はい。ティナは… T: Akiko, we have got to refine this list of USP's...Oh, hi Naoki...I didn't see you standing there. How are ya? N: I'm fine, Tina-san. Tina-san, may I ask you something? T: Hmm...Sure Naoki, go right ahead.

value propositions : 提案する内容の利点
get everyone on board : 皆を参加させる
I'm in desperate need of something sweet... : 何か甘い物を食べたくてどうしようもない
go for some variety : 色々な種類を試す
moony-eyed : 目をまん丸くして

　 （T: Tina, A: Akiko）

Narrator: It's Saturday. Akiko and Tina are walking down Komazawa-dori...they're meeting on the weekend to talk about the problem of...Naoki.

T: So, then he told the whole group that the communication system is expensive! A: Oh no...he didn't... T: Oh yes, he certainly did! A: Um T: And, of course, one of the main value propositions, one of the main ways to get everyone on board, is that this digital communication system isn't expensive! A: And it fits people's lifestyle. T: Of course it does...does he think we're idiots? Oh, there's Piccasol, let's stop in, I'm in desperate need of something sweet... <sound of shop door opening> T: Ah, smell that - isn't it heavenly? A: I feel better just with the smell. T: Me, too. Now I know I always get those vanilla/chocolate mixed ones... A: These pumpkin ones look great! Why do you always get the same thing? T: I know, I should go for some variety. But I really want the usual - it's comforting, somehow. Okay, the vanilla/chocolate ones it is! A: Tina. T: Hmmm? A: Do you really think that Naoki doesn't understand the value of the system? T: Well, that's the question I want you to ask him on Monday. A: I knew that. T: Gomen neh...I would do it, but he gets all moony-eyed and weird when I talk to him, and it's kind of strange... A: あらら。ナオキさんがティナのこと好きだっていうの、ティナまだ気づいてないんだ…。

trial run : 試運転
grassroots campaign : 草の根キャンペーン
bust : 失敗
get these projects off the ground : このプロジェクトを実行に移す

　 （T: Tina, A: Akiko, N: Naoki）

Narrator: It's Monday morning, at the office. Akiko has asked Naoki to have a cup of coffee in the conference room...

N: 寺島さん、見て下さい！　ティナさんが僕にこのクッキーをくれたんです。週末に寺島さんと一緒に行ったお店で買ったって。いいなあ。僕も行きたかったな〜。 A: あー、ナオキさん。あのそのことでちょっと話があるんだけど… N: はい、何ですか？ A: どうやって切り出そうかな。ティナに夢中で大事なことを見落としてるっていうのを伝えたいんだけど。どこから話そうかな…。 T: Akiko, Naoki, there's news! N&A: what happened? T: It's great! Peterson wants to do a trial run of the digital grassroots campaign! I can't believe it! I thought the presentation was a bust...this is great, we have a lot to do to get ready, and I need to... N: グレート？　すごい！　この前のプレゼンテーションがきっと…あれ、ティナさんはプレゼンがバストだって言いましたよね。それって… A: うーん、ティナはプレゼンテーションががうまくいかなかったと思ってた、ってことですね。 N: ああ…。 T: I just got a call from Haneda-san - turns out he wants the presentation for his department as well! Hey, you guys, can you talk later? We've got to get these projects off the ground. N: Yes, of course, Tina-san, I will do everything right now! A: 嬉しいニュースだけど、このコミュニケーションの問題がまだ解決でできてないのに。このまま次回もうまくいくって保証はないし…どうしよう。

collected : 落ち着いた
above and beyond the call of duty : 仕事として求められている以上のことをする
interrupt me : 話に割り込む

　 （T: Tina, N: Naoki）

Narrator: The day begins, at Mega Corporation...

T: Oh, hi Naoki. How are you doing? N: Hello Tina-san. How are you today? （よし、落ち着け、自然な英語を話すぞ） Did you have fun last night? How was your running this morning? T: Um, Naoki... N: Yes, Tina-san. T: Please...have a seat - are you okay? N: Yes, yes, I'm ok. （何でみんな、いつも僕にそう聞くのかな？） T: Well, we have to be cool, calm, and collected for the presentation today. N: Cool ,calm... （そうだ、落ち着け。さすがティナさん、鋭いな） Yes, I am very calm. N: Okay, take a look at this. T: (my gosh is he going to be able to deal with this presentation?! I wish Akiko hadn't gone on vacation this week..oh, now, that's not fair, she really has gone above and beyond the call of duty...) N: Um, Tina-san, but, but, this is... T: I know, it's not exactly the same, but the basic results are similar. I checked out some of the new Google statistics, and it seems to me that if we capture this level of demographic information... N: （まいったな、ティナさん、僕が難しい英語苦手なのまた忘れてるよ。仕事に熱が入ると早口になっちゃうし。そうだ。いったん興味を惹いて、ゆっくり説明してもらう方法だ） N: Tina-san. You look very nice today. T: Hm? Thank you, Naoki..so, did you understand the changes in the presentation? N: Um, I'm sorry. I was... T: Was I going too fast? N: Um, yes... T: I'm sorry Naoki, but you have to let me know when that happens - you can always interrupt me...

authentic relationship : 誠実な関係性
internet-savvy : インターネットをよく知っている人
expressed a need : 必要性を訴える
systematizes the process : プロセスを順序立てる
cost effective : コスト効率が良い

　 （T: Tina, N: Naoki）

Narrator: Later that day at the presentation...

T: ...So, we believe that, using this method, your department can reach out to stakeholders and create authentic relationships...next slide, please. T: Um, sorry. Not that slide, the next one! N: Oh, I'm sorry, hai... T: There we...it's the next one, the next, not the one before! N: Next...ummmm...oh, sorry. T: Sorry about...oh, there it is..so, as I was saying, all of the stakeholders are internet-savvy, and they all have expressed a need for more timely information from your department. Naoki? N: はい、えっと社内社外を問わず、我々に関係する人々は、皆インターネットユーザーです。そして、そちらの部署からの、よりタイムリーな情報は、求めてはいません。あ、失礼致しました。全員タイムリーな情報を求めています。ひ、必要です。 T: Yes...yes, that's right...So, this method systematizes the process, so that it's very cost effective... N: この方法ですと、プロセスをうまくシステム化できます。ただ、費用が今より高くなります。 T: Um, okay...well, let's move along to the variety of methods we have available... N: はい、では次の説明に移ります。

go right ahead : どうぞいいですよ
situation : 状況
odd assessment : 変わった予測
stakeholder : 利害関係のあるすべての人
shareholder : 株主

At the office 　 （A: Akiko, T: Tina, N: Naoki）
A: Tina? T: Hai? A: It's Mr. Kumamoto, from the Comm-Journal... T: Oh, right, the interview...okay, you can transfer him in... T: Tina McGarry T: Hi Kumamoto-san, how are you? T: Okay, so, you're going to ask me questions...well, go right ahead then! T: Is my situation fixed? ...I'm sorry, Kumamoto-san, I don't understand... T: Do you mean...am I going to stay in this position? T: That's kind of an odd assessment for you to make given that we've made such obvious progress in talking with our stakeholders...Hm? T: ...well, yes, shareholders are stakeholders as well, but stakeholders also means our customers, our employees, the rest of the IT community here and overseas... T: Uh huh. Uh huh. Well, MegaCorporation is dedicated to the highest standards of... N: 寺島さん、あの熊本さんってどなたですか？ A: コミュニケーションジャーナル日本の編集の方です。 A: （ナオキさん、いつもティナのしてる事を細かい事まで全部知りたがるんだから。これじゃまるで…いやいや、そんなことはありえないでしょう） T: That was the strangest interview I think I ever had. A: Why, what happened? N: Yes, yes, Tina-san, what happened? T: Oh, hi, Naoki, I didn't realize you were going to be with us today... A: （私も知らなかったけど…）

weird : おかしな
permanent : ずっと続く
speaking of horror stories : 怖い話と言えば
deserve some time off : 休みをとるに値する

　 （A: Akiko, T: Tina, N: Naoki）
T: It was the weirdest thing...that interview today. A: Why was it weird? T: Kumamoto-san kept asking me if 'my situation is fixed'. And he didn't understand the word 'stakeholders', which you'd think a business communications editor would know about... A: Oh. Did he mean that your situation was broken? T: Well, that's what I couldn't figure out, at first. But then I thought he must be asking if my position is permanent. A: 'Fixed' means permanent? （Fixed って言うのが永久に続くって言う意味もあるんだ。知らなかったな） T: Well, it's a little unusual to use 'fixed' in that way in a normal conversation...that's what's so interesting about communications in Japan. A: What is interesting? T: Actually, it's an interesting point about communications in any language...it's easy to misunderstand even someone who's speaking the same language you are. A: But English is very direct, isn't it? （英語だと表現がはっきりしているから、誤解なんかなさそうだけど） T: Oh, I can tell you some horror stories that you wouldn't believe...speaking of horror stories, I'm going to lose you for 2 days next week, aren't I? A: Yes, I'm sorry. I know you have the Peterson meeting...I will make sure things are ready. T: Don't worry about it - you've really worked hard, you deserve some time off...So, is Naoki ready to work with me on the project? A: Ah, Naoki-kun...（それが実は一番心配なんだけど。Tinaと話するの怖がっちゃってるみたいだし、コミュニケーションにも問題あるしな…何も問題なければいいんだけど）

Mr. Right : 運命の人
SWOT chart : スワットの表
run over to Tina's desk and see : ティナの机の所に行って探す
survey : 調査資料

At the office 　 （A: Akiko, T: Tina, N: Naoki）
T: Now where in the world did I put that SWOT chart...clearly one of my weaknesses is my memory...oh, there it is... A: Tina, I just mailed you the presentation for Spencer-san. T: Spencer presen...oh, no, I forgot all about it! I have too much to do!!! Akiko, I'll see you later. A: （ティナ、この頃一人で忙しそう。私がもっとサポート出来たら良いんだど） N: Tina-san, Tina-san...oh, あ、よかった。寺島さん。ティナさん、どこに行ったか知りませんか？ A: スペンサーさんの所にプレゼン行きましたよ、さっき。 N: あ、なるほど。うーん、そっか…。 <Phone rings> A: Tina McGarry's office. T: (over the phone) Akiko, can you quickly run over to my desk and see if the market research report is there? I think I left it, I hope I left it...did I leave it? Do you see it? A: Um, do you mean the report from April 1st? I see that one... T: No, No, it's the one from May 2nd'...the one with the blue cover...? A: Ah... I got it! T: You are an angel - what percentage of the audience filled out the survey? It should be on page... A: Um, um...oh, I see it. 3% of the audience did the survey. T: Thank you so much! I'll see you later. A: (sighs) N: (sighs) A: あ、ナオキさん、まだいらっしゃったんですか？　ど、どうしんたんですか？　何か具合悪いとか？ N: え？　僕ですか？　そう見えます？　いや…そんな事は… A: そうですか。そういえばSWOTの自己分析はどんな感じですすんでますか？ N: それが… その、やっぱり僕には無理です。 A: 無理って。どうしたんですか？　何か落ち込んでるみたいですね…。まあ、色々新しい事が春は多かったから、ちょっと疲れてるんじゃないんですか？ N: 今朝もうちの母親が、「あんた五月病なのよ」っていうんですけど。そんなんじゃないんです。多分、この仕事、僕のキャパ超えちゃってるような気がして。 A: ええ？　でもティナはナオキさん、すごいよくやっているって話してましたけど？ N: エエエ！ティナさんが？　僕の事ですか！？ A: すごくいい感じで仕事してるって、言っていましたよ。 N: そ、それって、英語で言っていたんですか？ A: ええ？　もちろん英語ですよ。ナオキさん、どうしちゃったんですか？ N: あの、実は、その…。僕…。

What a nerve : なんてずうずうしい
give him a piece of my mind : 彼に言い返す
common sense : 常識
frazzled : くたくたに疲れてしまった
dread : ひどく怖がる

At the office 　 （A: Akiko, T: Tina, N: Naoki）
T: Oh! What a nerve he had! After all that work and all those meetings and all that effort, he was just...just... Aauuughgghhh A: Um, maybe it didn't go so well, Tina? T: I'm tempted to go back down and give him a piece of my mind! A: （a piece of...Tina's mindって... 怒ってるのは確かだけど、なんて意味なんだろう） You...are not serious, right? T: Hmm? No, of course not, it's just an expression - I'm sorry, Akiko, I don't mean to yell at you A: It's okay. What happened? T: Well, you know I was supposed to teach his department to do SWOT analysis. And I started it out like I always did back home - if you can analyze yourself, you can get a head start on analyzing the way you work, and then your department...you get the idea.. A: （自己分析が出来ていて自分の性格がわかってたら、それが仕事にも生かせるってことかな？　なんか、常識っぽい気もするけど）Um, actually no... T: well, what I mean is, if you're self aware and you understand your personality, you can do better at seeing the good and bad aspects of your work...it's just common sense..Akiko, you haven't forgotten all that, have you? We can do a review if you like... A: Oh, no, I remember...you just were going a little bit fast for me... T: I'm sorry. Gomennesai. I'm just...I'm all frazzled..I've just been so out of sorts recently. A: （'frazzled'って、何だろう）Um, well, you do seem a little bit... T: Oh, I know, I know, go ahead and say it. A: I'm not sure of the right word.（忙しくてすり減っている言うより、何かせつなそうなんだよね、ティナ。そういえばこの間、しばらくボーイフレンドがいないなんて話してたし。ちょっと 寂しいのかな） T: Try...lonely. I think that's the word...I've been dreading Spring, because I knew I'd start to feel like a loose end rattling around in a can... A: （あてもなく落ち着かない感じなのに、缶の中に閉じ込められているようなイメージ、か。どうしちゃったの、ティナ！　私だってひとりもので寂しいけど、そんなにまで思い詰めていないのに）If you were in America, what would you do about feeling lonely? T: Oh, I don't know...it's frustrating because I think I scare the guys in Japan away, I'm too loud or something...it's not even that I want to be in something permanent - I'd just really like Mr. Right to appear so I can kind of enjoy this Spring! <knocks on the door> N: Um, um, Tina-san, I am sorry to bother you but I am...