The Accidental Star

OVER A CUP OF TEA

ANNE

We stood on top of the front steps of my father's house and waved to the cars that were leaving the compound.

When the last car was no longer in sight, we made our way back inside the house.

" Are you leaving now? " My father asked as we walked to the living room.

I shook my head as I dropped to the couch. He sat across me and I looked at him thoughtfully. Unable to contain myself anymore, I asked the question that had been nagging me since they made the announcement in his study.

" Why did you do that, dad? " 

He looked at me for a moment, probably contemplating how to answer my question.

But I wasn't sure what he was trying to say earlier. Yes, having Jake co-manage the company was a good move but getting Angelo or any of Uncle Joseph's children for that matter, involved in the business was something that I didn't think would ever happen.

My father had always been a believer of sole leadership. That power couldn't and shouldn't be shared because it can only bring chaos. And while, maybe, somehow that is true. I think having two or three brains thinking for the company's welfare is way better than one.

I didn't know what was really going on with him. He's been acting strangely since the operation. He was somewhat warmer, more sensitive with the people around him. Not that I am complaining because I could really get used to this softer side of him. But I just didn't realize that his change of heart had a lot of repercussions to everyone around him - personally and professionally.

" Aren't you happy that I did? " He countered raising an eyebrow at me.

" Well, I am, " I said slowly. " But...I just didn't see that coming. "

" When Jake is finally on board, " my father said after awhile. " Then maybe you can stop coming to the office in the wee hours of the morning. And you might want to consider going home earlier than usual, too. "

I looked at him in surprise. I didn't realize he knew what time I was reporting to work. And even if he did, I didn't think it will be such a big deal because he was such a workaholic himself. At least, prior to his surgery. And if there's one thing that I've learned from him all these years, it's prioritizing work at all times.

" I like coming to work when no one's still around, " I retorted. " I can accomplish more things when there's peace and quiet. "

Well, that was true. Everybody always seemed to have a concern and most often than not, I spent my time addressing their concerns than doing my work.

" In that case, maybe working remotely where there's peace and quiet could be the best arrangement for you, " my father responded, his eyes suddenly lighting up.

" What? " I frowned, not at all understanding what he was suggesting. " Now why would-"

" You know, your uncle was just telling me how advanced technologies are these days, " my father cut in. " So you don't really need to be physically present in the office every day. Companies can be managed remotely. Besides, that's why we hire people to work for us so we don't have to do everything ourselves. "

I stared at my father in amazement. 

My workaholic father was actually telling me not to come to the office anymore? Why in the world would he want me to work remotely? And why would I want to do that? 

" Dad, are you okay? " I asked leaning forward so I can have a closer look at him. " You've really been acting strange since you came back to the office. Is everything alright with you? "