2024-04-30 18:25:26"Dad, I need a favor."
There was a huge puff of breath from the other end.
"Son, have you forgotten the deal?" The baritone voice asked. "You have just three favors to ask. And that's all, else you must come and take over the company. I wonder w -"
"Dad, I just want a single favor." Justin impeded. "After this one, I will never disturb you again."
"Fine, let's hear it."
"Dad, I'm aware that you're one of the major shareholders of Rover Autos Corporation and you're close friends with Adrian Martell, the CEO," Justin said.
"Yes, I am. And how does that add up to the favor you're asking? "
"Dad, your position as the major shareholder means you have the power to order the withdrawal of a sold car right?" Justin asked.
Silence.
"Dad! Can you hear me?"
"I can hear you, Justin. What car do you want to withdraw and why do you even want to do that?"
"Dad I will tell you the whole story later, but I just need you to do this for me, right now. Please." Justin pleaded.
"Alright, son. What type of car and who was it delivered to?"
"It's a 2023 Range Rover Velar. It was delivered to Bruce Springsteen a few hours ago."
"Alright, Justin. I'd make a few phone calls."
"Thank you so much, father."
"Don't forget. You have two more requests to make. Just two." Justin's father said before hanging up.
Justin's lips widened with a smile as he flung his phone back into his pocket and strode down the block.
****
"You're so pretty," Bruce muttered to Lilly as they walked into the luxurious restaurant.
"Thank you," Lilly said with a smile as she glanced through the insides of the restaurant.
Lilly's eyes widened as she sulked in the opulent decor, her gaze lingering on the crystal chandeliers. She couldn't help but think, 'This is the most extravagant place I've ever been.' Her smile broadened, and she leaned closer to Bruce.
"This is amazing." He said, his voice close to a whisper.
"I'm glad you like it," Bruce responded.
Lilly is from a well-to-do background and has been to several restaurants in the past. But the glamour of this one made her heart jiggle in excitement, as if winning a bet Lilly's eyes dilated with intense awe. She let out a silent breath, but she hovered her palm to her mouth. To disguise her shock and surprise.
Aside from driving her dream car, this locale felt like she was on a vacation in Disney.
The golden chandeliers are shimmering, as their glints slapped over every object in sight. Lilly beheld the seats, and then she realized that no one was sitting on any of them.
Bruce pulled out a chair for her to sit on. "Have a seat."
Lilly's lips pouted in a blushing smile, even though she was used to that gentlemanly gesture.
Bruce sat down after Lilly was comfortably seated.
"And," Lilly muttered nervously, glancing around the lonely restaurant. "Why's everywhere empty?"
"I reserved the entire place for just you and I. "
"Wow!" Lilly exclaimed. She rolled her eyes intensely to savor the elegance of the place once again.
Bruce was going to beacon the waiter to come take their order when someone tapped his shoulder from behind.
Bruce turned his head with keen interest to see who the intruder was. When he locked eyes with the man, he heaved a sigh.
"Mr. Barker, I paid for the car already. What else do you want." Bruce shot arrogantly.
Mr. Barker's demeanor seethed with suspicion as he hemmed his hands to his sides.
"I know. Springsteen, but you would have to return the car."
Bruce's lips tightened as his face shrunk into a grimace.
"Why?" I told you I paid for it already." He thundered.
"Your money will be refunded. The sales were withdrawn with immediate effect. If I don't retrieve the car, I will lose my job." Barker stated.
"Well, that won't be possible. You're not taking that c-"
"I saw it parked outside. It's been towed back to our company already. I just need the car keys." Barker announced.
"Are you crazy?" Bruce yelled as he arose from his seat, facing Barker as if he was going to punch his lungs out. "What do you mean you towed the car? Who gave you the right to do - "
"Here's the car keys." Lilly interrupted, stretching the car keys to Barker.
"Thank you, ma'am." He clutched the keys and dashed out of the restaurant.
Bruce furrowed his brows as he watched Barker walk away.
"Lilly, I'm sorry about that -"
"Just save me that crap." Lilly cut in. She picked up her bag, ready to leave. "You're not worth all the stress. You're pathetic." She yelled and left Bruce to wallow in shame.
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