27 Good or Bad?

William and Director Ford entered in one of the well-known luxurious restaurants in the city. Director Ford was given one of the VIP rooms, He wanted to have a private chat with William.

Director Ford has always been aware of Melissa's feelings towards this young man, however, Melissa seems adamant in pursuing William. They have known each other for years as they were classmates in college.

William and Director Ford both sat in their seats, they sat across each other.

William did not want to start the conversation as he did not know what topic the Director wanted to talk to him about.

The director ordered an assortment of dishes while William kept quiet at the side.

William wanted to contact Stephanie but it was rude to use his phone while they were about to eat so he held on to his curiosity.

As Director Ford finished ordering the food and drinks, the attendant quietly left the room and closed the door gently.

Director Ford then looked at William while saying, "I heard you got Melissa an assistant to help with her workload."

"Yes," William answered respectfully.

"You wanted her to have more time for herself?" Director Ford said with a smile that was not looking like a smile.

His gaze was inspecting William's demeanor, his facial reactions, and words.

"Yes," William replied with the same tone.

"I want you to be honest with me William." Director Ford looked directly into William's eyes and said, "Do you not like my daughter?"

William in a calm manner replied, "She is a kind, hard-working and responsible employee."

"I am not talking about work William." Director Ford gave a sigh and continue, "Melissa does not need to work for your company as we have our own investments and businesses, however, she preferred to work under you. Do you understand?"

William was still calm when he said, "Yes, I understand Director Ford. I agree that she does not need to work under me. I have offered her better positions but she did not want to leave her current position."

He then continued with a serious tone. "I was honest since the beginning that I was not interested in having a relationship with anyone at the moment. It's my answer earlier in the meeting and will still remain the same."

"In what way is my Melissa lacking?" Director Ford was getting annoyed now.

He was in favor of this young man to be his son-in-law, however, it has been years and nothing has happened between the two of them.

"She is not lacking in any way..." William paused for a bit before continuing, "I have already someone I love and I would appreciate it if everyone stops sending me marriage proposals."

Director Ford slammed the table and shouted, "Have you been fooling my daughter Melissa all this time?! You have been leading her on for years and now you are telling me that you have someone else that you like!"

Director Ford was burning with rage as he felt he was deceived by this young man.

William was not perturbed by the sudden outburst of Director Ford.

He was still looking at this man but now, with cold eyes. "Not once have I told Melissa that I have any special feelings for her. From the start, I have said that she is a friend. I have not deceived anyone. I have not taken any woman to be my lover all this time, however, this did not mean that it has to her. "

Director Ford was trembling with rage, his whole face is red while he was clenching his fists as if wanting to hit someone.

He breathes in and out trying to calm his nerves saying, "The deal is canceled."

He looked seriously at William, his face still filled with anger. He stood up and went straight for the door.

William did not care about the deal if he had to trade his principles and feelings for it. He did not stop Director Ford from leaving, nor stand up to give respect. He did not care if he loses on the deal if he had to give up on his freedom, the freedom to choose who he loves. He is the only one who can decide that for himself.

Before leaving the door Director Ford said one last thing, "Starting on Monday, Melissa will not be working with your company any longer." He left without any delay.

William stay seated the whole time while the attendant came with the first dish, the attendant seemed confused because of the commotion that could be heard outside of the door but he still remained professional and put the items on the table.

"Hold on a minute," William said. The attendant paused and looks at William.

"I want everything for takeout." William then took out his wallet and gave his card to the attendant.

The attendant did not ask any questions, he made a small bow and took back the food to be packed.

William was again left sitting alone in the VIP room. He took out his phone and read Stephanie's message. He was wondering what she meant with the good or bad news.

William: Have you eaten?

Stephanie: Yes, I ate Aunty's cooking. (proud emoji face.)

William: You went to visit Aunty and ate her cooking without me. (sad/teary face)

Stephanie: You were in a meeting. What was I supposed to do? (smug emoji face) So how was the meeting?

William: Same old, normal and boring. (yawn emoji) so what was the news?

Stephanie: Which one you want to hear first?

William: The bad news.

Stephanie: Mia seems to like the Veterinarian at the pet clinic at the local shopping district.

William: And what's the good news?

Stephanie: It felt like puppy love as she wasn't sure so you still have a chance. (fighting emoji)

William did not reply anymore. All the packed food was placed in paper bags and containers.

He grabbed everything and called a cab. He had a determined face and he did not waste any time to go to his destination.

Original novel by Chuchuwachuwa

Editor - DnC