Warren Amherst, Theron's father, sat across from him at the dining table for breakfast, wearing a stern expression that accentuated his frowning face. As he placed a full slice of bread into his mouth, he began to chew it with such force and intensity that it immediately grated on Theron's nerves. An audible groan escaped Theron's lips, unable to hide his irritation.
To make matters worse, Warren's method of sipping his coffee involved loud slurping sounds that further annoyed Theron. The breakfast atmosphere was quickly becoming tense due to these minor yet aggravating habits of his father.
"Dad," Theron couldn't help but interject, his tone filled with frustration.
His father looked up from his newspaper, adopting an almost traitorous expression reminiscent of a character in a suspenseful film. He adjusted his posture, now sitting upright with a serious countenance. However, Theron couldn't help but notice that his father wasn't actually reading the newspaper. Something seemed off; his recent behavior had been rather peculiar.
"Why are you dressed like that?" Warren inquired, breaking the silence as he observed Theron's attire.
Theron, who had meticulously chosen his outfit for the morning, was donning a striking blue long-sleeved shirt that happened to be his favorite color. He had paired it with fine black pants and shiny black shoes, exuding a sense of confidence and style.
Undeniably, Theron looked incredibly cool on this particular day. "Perfect" was the word that accurately described his appearance. His handsomeness was simply unparalleled, possessing a captivating charm and an irresistible allure. It was almost impossible for anyone to resist his enchanting looks. Theron's well-toned physique was a testament to his dedication in the gym, evident in his every move. The word "perfect" simply couldn't do justice to the sheer level of his physical attractiveness.
"The hell you don't remember," Theron exclaimed, his frustration palpable as he took a small bite from a slice of bread roll.
With a dismissive shrug, Warren responded, "Hell no," showing his apparent lack of interest in the conversation.
Theron persisted, his voice filled with determination, "Didn't I mention to you that I'm applying to a highly reputable engineering service company? It's conveniently located just a few meters away from here." He continued to munch on his food, each bite seemingly carrying the weight of his aspirations.
"PPB," Warren nodded, acknowledging Theron's words. The absence of any noticeable expression on his face made it difficult for Theron to gauge his true reaction. Gradually, Warren tilted his head, flashing a smile that concealed his true emotions.
However, Theron was well aware of his father's initial opposition to his plan of applying to the company in question. Nevertheless, Theron remained resolute in his quest to secure employment.
Almost a year had passed since Theron found himself in a state of stagnation. He had indulged in mischievous activities, realizing now that the time had come for him to make amends and reclaim his purpose. After completing his studies in civil engineering, he had deviated from the path of responsibility, succumbing to the influence of his friend, Kith.
The former best friend Theron whispered, scolding himself for drifting astray.
"Today, I have an interview," Theron finally announced, his voice laced with optimism and a desire for redemption. This opportunity held the potential for a fresh start, a chance to redefine himself and set his life on a more promising trajectory.
"So it's okay for you to work with them? Are you truly comfortable?" Warren inquired, his voice tinged with uncertainty and concern.
Theron responded with an air of indifference, "Why should I feel uncomfortable, then?"
Warren's face grew serious as he uttered, "Because they are the very reason our once thriving billion-dollar business crumbled into ruins," his eyes glinting with a fiery mix of anger and frustration.
A prolonged and profound sigh escaped Theron's lips, signifying his awareness of the futility of their discourse. "Is it solely their fault then? What about the millions of dollars you squandered in the casino? The money dissipated in Hong Kong and Macau? All due to your damned addiction, Dad," Theron's teeth clenched tightly, his words laced with both disappointment and reproach.
With a hint of condescension, Warren rebuked, "What does a mere engineer like you know about the intricate world of casinos? Your knowledge of the broader reality is limited, my son."
Retaliating swiftly, Theron retorted, "And what does an aging businessman like you comprehend about the complex realm of engineering, Dad?"
Frustration simmering beneath his veneer, Warren replied, "Fine, you think you possess all-encompassing wisdom. But is it truly beyond your cognitive capacity, Theron, to comprehend that you cannot apply to PPB? Your narrow-mindedness has persistently failed to grasp the essence of my perspective," Warren maintained direct eye contact, his unwavering gaze illustrating determination. "Imagine if they were to offer you a menial janitorial position instead. We still owe them a significant sum of money," he revealed, the weight of his emotions palpable in his trembling voice.
"Your pessimism is unwarranted, Dad," Theron remarked, his hand gently caressing his chin as he envisioned himself as a successful entrepreneur. "What about us?" he asked, his tone laced with frustration. "Let's abandon that 'we' mentality."
His father remained silent, seemingly deep in thought as he contemplated his next response.
Theron continued, emphasizing the significance of their situation, "Listen, out of all the applications we submitted alongside Sense, only PPB reached out to us."
His father shook his head vehemently, stuttering in disbelief, "T-that cannot be possible."
Theron's voice brimmed with determination as he countered, "Why would it be impossible? It's an incredible opportunity staring us in the face."
His father insisted, desperately grasping at alternative possibilities, "There are still numerous job prospects available--"
Theron swiftly interrupted, his words brimming with conviction, "Like what? Should I become a farmer, toiling away on our land?" He chuckled at the thought. "Do you honestly expect me to disregard this golden opportunity?"
A flicker of irritation danced across his father's features as he snapped, "You're talking too much, Theron."
Apologizing but unrelenting, Theron responded, "Apologies, Dad. But I was born into this illustrious family, once billionaires in their own right. Yet now, we find ourselves struggling due to..." His voice trailed off, refraining from explicitly mentioning the cause.
He had mentioned that for a hundred times already. Frustrated, he stood up from the table, abruptly ending both the meal and their conversation. After meticulously brushing his teeth, he prepared himself to step outside. His father remained silent, refusing to turn around or utter a single word.