Callum woke up around 4 am to do his usual exercise at the small gym in his home. Nyla is sleeping peacefully with the blanket wrapped around her up to her neck. Her head was the only body part left sticking out.
He kissed her forehead and closed the door gently so as not to untimely wake-up Nyla.
When he was descending the stairs he noted a few suitcases near the door. He heard some clinking of dishes in the kitchen, so he proceeded there.
There he saw his old man, eating a heavy breakfast. The smell of freshly brewed coffee hung in the air.
"Hey Dad, going on a trip?" He asked when he walked near the table but did not sit.
"Yes. Remember Carl Burton? The one who has started farming strawberries in Norfolk County? Well, he wanted me to visit and enjoy the scenery too. I just don't know how long I will stay..." He deliberately hung his words.
"Yes? And...?" Callum dubiously looked at his father.
"Look, of course, my OIC is very capable but, just in case," he pointed his right index finger, "there's a sudden unimaginable problem with my company, I told them to contact you."
"Heh, alright. No need to worry. Your company is stable as it is. Besides, what could possibly go wrong with your high-end liquor store?" Callum assured his father who has been running a high-end liquor store ever since he gave up the Presidential position to his son a few years ago.
"Anyway, what time is your flight then?" Callum asked.
"Hmmm, I will be leaving in thirty minutes. The flight's at 7. Just want to be earlier a bit, I will look around the shops at the airport."
"Take care alright? Say hello to Uncle Burton for me. I will go burn some calories now before Nyla wakes up. Enjoy your vacation."
"Yes, thanks."
Callum is used to his father leaving like this. Unannounced and unscheduled. He is no longer the workaholic that he was when he was younger. Callum also likes it like this. Gabriel Humphrey is finally enjoying his life to the fullest.
After his workout, Callum went back to the bedroom at almost 6 am. He saw Nyla on her cell phone smiling.
Nyla felt the bed dip a bit when Callum sat on the side of the bed looking at her questioningly.
"It's Hank. I told him Heidi's birthday is today. Remember I planned to take Heidi for lunch today? I will also give her the necklace as a present from both of us. Since Hank will visit this morning to finalize the renovation details and schedule, let's invite him to lunch too!"
"Okay, let's do whatever you want." Callum kissed her and no longer feel jealous of Hank. "Come on, breakfast is ready."
They had breakfast and prepared for work.
When they got to Callum's office, Heidi was already in the reception area. Nyla shouted to her immediately.
"Happy birthday dearest!" She hugged and kissed her on the cheek. "Lunch is on us okay?" Heidi said her thanks and nodded happily.
"Happy birthday Heidi. My father will be out of the country. It is unlikely, but if ever there will be somebody looking for me on behalf of my father's liquor store, you must not delay informing me okay? Also, let me know if you have decided to take over an admin position. I can arrange it. You have been in this position for the longest time."
"Yes, Sir."
After a while, Nyla appeared at the door and handed her a gift. Her eyes widened and tearfully said her thanks when she saw the gold necklace.
"Oh, this is too precious!" Heidi said while not knowing what to do.
"Hahaha, it's your birthday! You should enjoy things and be the happiest birthday girl today." She turned to go back to the office but remembered something so she went back.
"Also, Hank will be here for a meeting right?" Nylas asked.
"Yes, at 9 am." Heidi looked at her computer screen and confirmed.
"Let's include him in your birthday lunch then!"
Heidi blushed and nodded.
The office is not particularly large, but it is not small either. However, if people want to gossip or listen to private conversations, it is possible. Their recent conversation caught the attention of some employees.