ADRIAN FATHER'S DECISION
538 Words
Adrian's father, Sebastian Kingston is a man of great reputation. A traditional and controlling man. His love for legacy made him prioritize the reputation of his company over affection. He has raised Adrian to the man he has become after his mother died when he was still a toddler.
All he wants is for his son to marry someone who equates his reputation, not someone he loves.
He stood still to his words waiting for his son to make decisions.
He stood up and walked to their gallery where he usually keeps their pictures for remembrance.
As the old man he is, he gradually bent down and picked Adrian's picture. He admired his son's growth.
"My efforts haven't been in vain. Look at my son—he's now a full-grown man. Not just in stature, but in maturity as well.
What would I have done without him?
How would I be managing this company at my age now?" Sebastian Kingston said.
He got up and sat down happily, sipping champagne. He keeps scrolling through the news feeds on the Internet.
At 2:00 PM, Adrian returned home.
You returned earlier today. Hope all is fine?
Adrian glanced up from his phone. He startled for a moment before offering a small smile.
"Yeah, Dad, everything's alright," he replied.
He slid his phone into his pocket. "I just finished early today."
There was a pause in his voice. The atmosphere is dense with unspoken words. He stepped toward the kitchen, pouring himself a glass of water. He continued moving slower than usual.
"Did something happen?" His father asked, studying his expression.
Adrian hesitated, then sighed. "Not really. Just... I needed a break from everything."
His father raised an eyebrow, discerning there was more to his words than he was admitting.
He leaned against the doorway, watching Adrian closely.
His shoulders seemed tense, and his usual energy dimmed.
“A break from what exactly?” He pressed gently.
He exhaled, running a hand through his hair. “Work, people… everything just felt overwhelming today.” He took a sip of water, avoiding his father's gaze.
His dad nodded with understanding. “Want to talk about it?”
Adrian hesitated, then gestured indifferently. “It’s just the business days’ work. The deadlines, expectations, the frequent business meetings… I can't say it all, Dad. Sometimes, I feel like I’m just doing something mindlessly.
His words hung in the air. It was heavier than he probably intended.
“I get that completely,” his father said. “But you don’t have to deal with it alone. After all, I'm available”
Adrian finally looked at his father. He softens his expression. “Thanks. I just… I think I need some time to fix things appropriately before I lose my damn mind.”
He nodded again as he offered a small smile. “Take your time. But if you ever want to vent, I’m here.”
He gave a faint smile in return. “I know. And I appreciate it.”
Silence settled between his father, comfortable yet filled with unspoken understanding.
Adrian retired to his room to rest.
To him, he just wan
ted to be left alone. After all, there is time for everything.
- Writer
