LOVE YOU, UNCLE

“I feel that today’s discussion and meeting have been more than sufficient. If there’s a need for revisions or additions later on, we can reschedule to discuss them in the next meeting. Certainly, Akasia has conveyed standards that are no longer negotiable.”

“In that case, we, the Velfare team, agree with what has been decided. We hope that it can now proceed to the process of signing the collaboration agreement.”

Randy then stood up. Extending his hand, he invited his business associate to shake hands before parting ways.

Kennedy was also present. They chatted for a few moments, then chose to go their separate ways.

“Do you want to ride with me or what?” Kennedy asked Randy before leaving the restaurant.© 2024 Nôv/el/Dram/a.Org.

“I brought my own car, Ken. You go ahead. Besides, I have to pick up Ghea first.”

“Okay, then I’ll head back first. Send my regards to Ghea.”

“Sure, I’ll convey that. Be careful on the road.”

They parted ways. After Kennedy left, Randy turned to Stella, who was organizing important documents used during the previous meeting.

“Stella, for the meeting summary, please send it to me directly for a review at home. I’ll check which parts need revision or replacement.”

Stella looked up and nodded, offering a faint smile in response to Randy’s request.

“Alright. I’ll work on it as soon as we get to the office and send it to you for review.”

“Okay, then let’s head back now. I’m sure my wife is waiting at the office.”

Stella nodded once again, ensuring everything was neatly stored. She then followed Randy into the car, and they promptly headed back to the office.

Initially, everything seemed smooth. However, halfway there, Stella suddenly spoke up, asking for something from Randy.

“Ran, can we make a quick stop at the pharmacy? Is it okay?” she asked Randy, who was focused on reading something on his tablet.

“A pharmacy?” Randy asked, looking up. His brow furrowed in response to Stella’s recent request. “Do you need to buy medicine? Or what?”

“I just remembered that my asthma medication is completely out. If we can make it in time, I’d like to buy some first. I’m afraid it might suddenly flare up. But if we can’t, it’s fine. I’ll buy it after work.”

Randy didn’t immediately decide, taking a moment to glance at his wristwatch, ensuring that even if Stella needed to stop to buy medicine, they had plenty of time. Moreover, the route they were taking wasn’t congested, so it wouldn’t delay Randy from reaching the office promptly.

“Alright, let’s make a quick stop at the pharmacy up ahead. Feel free to buy the necessary medicine.”

A few seconds later, Randy instructed his driver to pull over. He then allowed Stella to quickly get out and purchase the needed medication.

Initially, Randy seemed to wait, occasionally glancing at his phone. Nearly ten minutes passed, and from inside the car, Randy observed that there were no signs of Stella coming out of the pharmacy they were visiting. However, upon closer inspection, the store appeared empty, with no customers in line.

Curious about what was happening, Randy chose to exit the car and check the pharmacy himself. There, he found Stella standing in front of the cashier’s counter as if waiting for something.

“What’s going on? Why is it taking so long? Is the medicine not available or something?”

At that moment, Stella turned to him, casting a glance his way before shaking her head slowly.

“The brand of medicine I need isn’t available here.”

“So, what’s next? Why not try looking for it somewhere else? I was about to leave. But, one of the pharmacists offered to find a substitute that’s ready. Rather than stopping by or searching elsewhere, I agreed to the alternative. They’re preparing it now. I’m sorry for making you wait.”

Randy sighed softly, then glanced at his watch again. He wanted to protest or get angry, but he realized the person in front of him was a woman currently in need of medication.

Instead of saying much, he nodded and walked back outside. Once in the car, he quickly grabbed his phone to try calling Ghea, who was undoubtedly still waiting for his arrival.

“Ugh, Ghea… her phone is off. How am I supposed to reach you?”

***