The Prototype

27. Everything is a Process

MARCELLUS POV

I inhale deeply and then exhale, watching the thin trail of smoke escapes from my lips and disperses into the air. The room filled with the unmistakable aroma of a classic Italian cigar fills the room, adding a touch of sophistication to the atmosphere. The sun shines through the tall glass windows of my office, casting a warm glow over everything. Looking out at the beauty of the estate, its lush green lawns and tall trees casting long shadows on the ground. The gentle breeze outside carries with it the sweet fragrance of blooming flowers, enhancing the natural beauty of the surroundings.

A knock sounded out at my door causing me to turn around facing my desk. "Come in." I spoke loudly towards the door. The door creaked open, revealing Uncle Galileli with two short glasses and a bottle of our favorite Bourbon. I couldn't help but smile at the sight of him. It was a tradition between us to celebrate every successful event with a glass of our favorite drink. He walked towards me and placed the glasses and bottle on my desk. "Figured it was finally time to celebrate a magnificent turnout of yesterday's event." He expressed. Taking a moment, I tilted the cigar over the ashtray flicking it making the ashes drop into the ashtray.

I let out a chuckle "I was waiting for this" I admitted as I watch Uncle take a seat in one of the black leather chairs in front of my desk. He deftly twisted the top off the brand new bottle of Bourbon.

I leaned back into my leather black office chair, reaching for the ashtray, placing my cigar carefully inside. Opening the side drawer of my desk, revealing my box of cigar. Grabbing the box along with the cigar cutter and lighter.

Placing it all on my desk, and lean my chair back towards the desk. Uncle Galileli pours even amount of bourbon into the two glasses. His bright blue eyes stares up at me "So, how did it go yesterday?"

I reach for my cigar from the ashtray, place it between my lips, and take a gentle puff before replying, "The turnout was fantastic. All the horses passed the evaluations with flying colors, and the guests seemed to thoroughly enjoy the show. They are all looking forward to returning next week to watch the tournament and place their wagers. Overall, it was a resounding success." I inform exhaling the smoke from my lungs.

Uncle Galileli hands me one of the glasses, and I accept it with my left hand while holding the cigar in my right hand. He raises his glass, and I follow suit. "Cheers," we say in unison, clinking our glasses together. We both tip our heads back and down the bourbon in one shot.

Feeling the smoothness of the alcohol slide down my throat and hit my chest, causing me to exhale a breath and release the light burning sensation it caused. I place the glass back on my desk, and Uncle Galileli pours us both another drink of the same amount to sip on as we continue our discussion about Friday's event.

"I certainly agree," he spoke, "It was quite a success, especially since the Russian Ambassador decided to show up. This is his second time coming to one of these, right?" I nod in agreement, pointing to the cigar box on the table. Uncle Galileli nods in response, and I open the box, leaning it towards him so he can choose his preferred cigar.

Watching as Uncle selects his cigar,  "Yes, this is his second time coming as he hasn't been in the last two years. I wasn't expecting for him to reach out and express his interest in coming to this one this year, but I am indeed happy to see him show up."I take another sip of my drink, savoring the taste. "Maybe he would enjoy this season so much that he would allow me to build one in Central Moscow instead of the ancient one they still have now," I suggest with a smile. Uncle Galileli nods in agreement

Placing my cigar between my lips, I used my other hand to gently close the cigar box, making sure not to damage any of the cigars. Simultaneously, I opened the right drawer where the box was originally kept and placed it back into its designated spot. Uncle Galileli chuckled as he watched me, and said, "That would be a nice business out there, I'm sure it'll also bring more traction and more money for them as you know they are going to want a percentage." He took a sip of his bourbon, and I could sense a hint of excitement in his voice.