Best Friends

Nicholas was feeling quite exhausted that afternoon. He was forced to come to his father's office to discuss the electric car project with investors who had signed a partnership agreement.

"Hey, why do you look worn out?" Aaron greeted warmly. "Aren't you happy to see me again after more than four years?"

Aaron and Simon arrived at the office earlier than Nicholas because he had a meeting at IU to prepare for next month's conference. The conference would be attended by experts from various countries involved in lithium battery research. Elektra Motors was one of the sponsors of the conference.

"I'm tired. You know, I've been dealing with a lot of issues lately," Nicholas said.

Aaron nodded, relieved that Nicholas didn't resent him for accidentally missing the night with Olivia. It seemed that his friend was just tired from work matters.

"How is your mother's health?" Nicholas asked, recalling that Aaron's mother was reportedly in the hospital.

"She's doing well. Come over to our house when you have the chance. Mom misses you," Aaron said with a genuine smile.

"Of course. Your mom's cooking is delicious. I would love to visit your house if I have the time," Nicholas replied. "That is if I can fly to your city soon, right?"

Aaron laughed. "I'm moving here starting this month."

"Really?" Nicholas's eyes sparkled for the first time in the past two weeks. This meant he would be able to spend more time with Aaron again, just like in their high school days. "That's incredible!"

"I will be handling the electric car development project with your family's company. It will be easier if I'm also based here since my stepfather will be opening a new business in this city," Aaron explained.

Shortly after, Nicholas's father entered the meeting room with Mr. Wang, Olivia's father, and Amelia.

"Alright, everyone is gathered here. Mr. Andy Wang and his assistant, Mr. David Lau, represent Wang Automotive Group. Mr. Simon Chen and his son, Mr. Aaron, represent Chen Industries and Finance, and myself along with my son Nicholas will represent Elektra Motors," Mr. Felix Zhao, Nicholas's father, welcomed the guests and invited them to take a seat.

The room fell silent as Mr. Zhao continued, "Today, we gather to discuss the progress of the electric car project and the partnership between our companies. We have made significant strides in the research and development of lithium battery technology, and it's time to move forward."

David Lau, the lead engineer from Wang Automotive Group, spoke up, "Indeed, the research findings have been promising. We have conducted extensive testing on the battery prototypes, and they have shown great potential for the future of electric vehicles."

Nicholas then added, "Our team has been working diligently to optimize the battery efficiency and address any challenges we encountered during the development phase. We believe we are on track to deliver a groundbreaking electric car."

Aaron interjected, "As the financial representative, I have analyzed the market trends and potential demand for electric vehicles. The timing for this project couldn't be better, considering the increasing global focus on sustainability and the transition to clean energy sources."

Nicholas, feeling a renewed sense of energy, spoke with enthusiasm, "I am confident that with our combined expertise and resources, we can create a revolutionary electric car that exceeds expectations. Let's continue to collaborate and push the boundaries of innovation."

The room buzzed with excitement and determination as the participants delved into further discussions, sharing insights, and outlining the next steps for the project. It was a crucial moment, filled with possibilities and the shared vision of creating a greener and more sustainable future.

Aaron felt relieved by Olivia's absence. It would have been awkward to have her between him and Nicholas after what they had experienced that night. A one-night stand with the wrong person was indeed terrifying.

After the meeting, Aaron invited Nicholas for a drink. They chose a quiet bar and sat at a comfortable corner table. Aaron nodded, crossing his arms on the table.

"Nick, it's been too long since we were able to enjoy time together like this," Aaron said.

Nicholas smiled, looking at Aaron. "You're absolutely right, Aaron. The workload has made it difficult for us to find time like we used to. I'm okay, but I feel more exhausted as each day passes."

"How's your university life? You're teaching at IU, right?" Aaron asked.

"The students are terrible," Nicholas sighed, remembering how Amelia couldn't solve the problems he gave her.

"Be patient. Not everyone is as smart as you," Aaron tried to calm Nicholas's anger.

The bartender approached their table, smiling warmly. Aaron looked at Nicholas and asked, "What's your favorite drink, Nick?"

Nicholas replied with a smile, "The usual."

Aaron turned his head to the bartender and placed the order. While waiting for their drinks to be served, Aaron continued the conversation. "I truly admire your dedication to work, Nick. But don't forget to maintain a work-life balance. We need time to relax and enjoy moments like this."

Nicholas nodded in agreement, "Thank you, Aaron. Sometimes I forget the importance of making time for fun. You're right, we need a break from all the work and life pressure."

The bartender placed their drinks in front of them and smiled, "Enjoy."

Aaron raised his glass, and Nicholas followed suit. They clinked glasses and smiled at each other, savoring the warmth of the drink flowing down their throats.

Throughout the night, they shared personal stories, funny anecdotes, and interesting events that had happened since their last meeting. Their laughter echoed in the room, creating a warm and friendly atmosphere.

After a few hours, Nick had drunk too much. He began to look very intoxicated. Aaron smiled and said, "Let's go home. You look like someone who just went through a breakup."

Nicholas nodded in agreement, "I'll go home with you. I'd rather spend time with you than with that foolish girl."

"Foolish girl?" Aaron asked, confused. Nicholas had never referred to Olivia like that, even during their arguments.

"Did you fight with Olive?" Aaron asked cautiously.

However, Nicholas only responded with uproarious laughter.

Before Aaron could ask what had happened to his friend, Nicholas's phone rang. Aaron picked it up. The screen displayed the name "Clumsy Girl."

"Since when did they become so childish?" Aaron muttered in astonishment.

"Hello, Nick is with me. He's heavily drunk. Do you want me to pick him up?" Aaron responded coldly, assuming that it was Olivia on the other end of the line.

"Alright, give me the address," the woman on the phone replied.

Aaron then provided the address of the bar where he and Nicholas were. He wanted to accompany Nicholas himself, but he hesitated. Nicholas could be living with Olivia now.

While waiting, Aaron pondered what he would say to Olivia when she arrived. However, to his surprise, fifteen minutes later, the person who appeared before him was not Olivia but a much younger girl, who seemingly just graduated from high school.

"Who... are you?" they asked simultaneously.