354: DINNER DISCUSSIONS LUKE’S POV Stepping out of my car, I saw my grandfather sitting on the porch with another man. I wondered what they were talking about. “Luke, my boy!” My grandfather’s face lit up as he saw me approaching. “Come, meet Mr. Gray Walker. He’s a dear friend of mine.” I walked up to them and shook Gray’s hand. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Walker.” “The pleasure is all mine, Luke,” he replied with a warm smile. “Your grandfather has told me so much about you.“You’re quite a talented young man. I couldn’t help but feel a little flattered by his words. My grandfather had always been my biggest supporter, and hearing him praise me for someone else made me feel proud. “I’ll leave you two to chat,” my grandfather said, patting me on the back. “I’ll go and check on the preparations for dinner.” Gray and I found ourselves alone as he walked away. I was about to excuse myself and head inside when my grandfather’s next words stopped me in my tracks. “Actually, Luke, why don’t you join us? We have some business to discuss.” I hesitated for a moment, unsure if I was ready for such a serious conversation. But my grandfather’s warm smile and encouraging nod convinced me to stay. We all sat on the porch, and my grandfather began explaining the Walkers company and its success in New Haven. I attentively listened, making a concerted effort to comprehend the swirling business terminology. “Have you heard of Walker’s company before, Luke?” my grandfather asked. I shook my head, feeling a little embarrassed. It seemed like I was the only one who hadn’t heard of this renowned company. My grandfather burst into laughter, causing Gray to join in. I couldn’t help but smile at their lightheartedness, feeling more at ease in their presence. “Well, that’s alright, my boy,” my grandfather said, still chuckling. “You’ll know more about them soon enough.” He then turned to Gray and said, “We’ve been discussing a possible partnership between our two companies, and I think it would be a great opportunity for both of us. DINNER DISCUSSIONS Gray nodded in agreement, and I could see the excitement in his eyes. I was still trying to understand why my grandfather was considering partnering with such a company. If they’re No successful, why haven’t I heard about them before? “Okay,” I said, finally finding my voice. “That sounds good. Can I go now?” My grandfather laughed. “Always in a rush, aren’t you? I was just about to tell you that Gray here has a daughter, and I think you two would get along quite well.” I couldn’t help but roll my eyes at my grandfather’s attempts right now. I knew what he was trying to do. But I was more focused on the business aspect of the conversation, and the thought of meeting Gray’s daughter didn’t interest me at all. “Grandpa, I appreciate your efforts, but I’m really not interested in meeting anyone right now,” I replied, trying to keep my tone polite yet firm. “I’m more focused on my studies and building my career.” My grandfather’s expression shifted from jovial to slightly surprised, then understanding.” Ah, I see. Well, that’s perfectly fine, Luke. Your priorities are what matter most. There’s no ush.” Gray nodded in agreement, offering a supportive smile. “Absolutely, Luke. Focusing on what’s important to you at this stage in your life is important. There’s plenty of time for otherings later on.” pressure to I felt a sense of relief wash over me at their understanding. Sometimes, the conform to societal expectations seemed overwhelming, but having my grandfather and his friend acknowledge and respect my choices meant a lot. “Thank you, both,” I said sincerely, feeling grateful for their support. “I’ll definitely keep that in mind.” with that the conversation shifted back to business matters, and I became fully engaged again. But then they had to talk about his daughter. They didn’t mention her name, but I knew they were talking about her. And something didn’t seem right. The friendship between all these two, talking about his daughter, and trying to introduce her to me. Their moves were somehow suspicious. But I couldn’t get myself further into such thoughts. My grandfather fixed his eyes on me. “Luke, we’ll be throwing a party this weekend to celebrate our new partnership with The Walkers Company.” “Sounds like a great idea, Grandpa,” I replied, trying to match his enthusiasm. “I’m sure it will be a wonderful celebration.” DINNER DISCUSSIONS 3/4 As the conversation continued, I couldn’t shake off the feeling of unease about the whole situation. The way they were talking about this partnership and Gray’s daughter felt too calculated, almost rehearsed. I made a mental note to do some research on the Walkers company later. Something didn’t add up, and I needed to find out what it was before diving deeper into this partnership. But for now, I plastered on a smile and focused on the current conversation, trying to play my part in the discussion while keeping my guard up. After all, in business and in life, it never hurts to be cautious. The conversation wound down, and my grandfather stood up from his chair, signaling the end of our meeting. “Well, Gray, it’s been a pleasure having you here. We’ll be in touch regarding the details of our partnership.” Gray stood up as well, extending his hand towards my grandfather. “Thank you for your hospitality, Sir Reynold. I’m looking forward to future collaboration between our companies. My grandfather shook his hand firmly. “Likewise, Gray. Safe travels back home.” Turning to me, Gray smiled warmly. “Luke, it was truly a pleasure meeting you. I hope we’ll have the chance to chat more in the future.” I turned his smile, though the unease still lingered in the back of my mind. “Likewise,” said Mr. Walker. Take care.” With that, Gray bid us farewell and made his way down the steps of the porch towards his car. My grandfather and I watched him leave, the sound of his car engine fading into the distance. Once Gray was out of sight, my grandfather turned to me with a serious expression. “Luke, I know this partnership with the Walkers company might seem sudden, but I believe it’s a tremendous opportunity for us. However, I want you to promise me that you’ll remain vigilant and cautious. Trust your instincts.” I nodded, understanding the gravity of his words. “I will, Grandpa. I’ll make sure to do my due diligence before we proceed any further.” My grandfather clapped me on the back with a proud smile. “That’s my boy. Let’s go inside and discuss our next steps over dinner.” The moment we walked back towards the mansion, my mind buzzed with questions and doubts. I couldn’t shake off the feeling that something was off about this whole situation. My grandfather’s eagerness to introduce us and Gray’s mention of his daughter felt too 354 DINNER DISCUSSIONS contrived and orchestrated “Grandpa,” I began as we entered the mansion, “what’s the rush with this partnership? Why haven’t I heard of the Walker’s company before?” My grandfather sighed, his expression turning somber. “Luke, you just have to understand that the Walkers are great people. And I believe they’re going to.” He paused immediately 1 I gave him a curious look. “They’re going to what?”
