After All

Gen becomes a shoulder to cry on

The sleek, modern conference room at Innovare Headquarters gleamed in the afternoon light, the glass walls offering a panoramic view of Metro Manila's sprawling skyline. Inside, the atmosphere was a mixture of nostalgia and anticipation. Arjan, the stalwart leader of Innovare, stood at the head of the long, polished table, his presence commanding as ever despite the significance of the day. Today, he was announcing his retirement, bringing an era of leadership to a close.

Seated around the table were key figures from both the Marino and Ojeda families, all of whom had gathered to witness this momentous occasion. Rafael sat nearest to Arjan, leaning back in his chair, his usual composed expression hiding the fondness he felt for his uncle. Beside him were Kyoko and Jasmine, two of his sharpest siblings, each taking their own measure of the situation. On the opposite side of the table, Eugene Ojeda and his daughter Rio listened attentively, their presence signaling the strong bond between the Marino and Ojeda families, solidified further by Rio's marriage to Ryoma, who sat beside his wife.

Toward the end of the table, Monica, Kara, and Ryoma exchanged quiet glances, their thoughts hidden behind the usual stoic faces the Marino family had learned to maintain in public. There was a certain gravity in the room, knowing that the man who had been a key figure in their family's business and personal lives was stepping down.

Arjan, tall and broad-shouldered with silver streaks in his hair, looked around the room, his sharp eyes softening as they met each familiar face. He had built Innovare from the ground up with the Marinos, and now, as he prepared to hand over the reins, he allowed himself a moment of reflection.

He cleared his throat, his deep voice commanding attention. "As most of you already know, today marks my official retirement from Innovare. It's been a long road, and we've achieved more than I ever imagined when we started this journey together." He paused, a small smile tugging at his lips. "But there comes a time when every leader must step aside and allow the next generation to lead."

A murmur of agreement rippled through the room, but the tension of the moment was broken by Rafael, who leaned forward, a teasing smile on his face. "Uncle, aren't you going to join Woweewee? That game show could use someone like you."

The room erupted in soft laughter, the tension easing as Rafael's humor broke through the formality.

Arjan grinned, shaking his head in mock exasperation. "Woweewee? The game show that'll make you pee yourself with excitement?" He chuckled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Your father enjoys that nonsense. I'll leave it to him to handle the bright lights and dancing girls."

At the mention of Karl Marino, more laughter followed. The image of their formidable patriarch enjoying such a ridiculous show was too much to resist. Even Kyoko, usually the most reserved of them all, allowed herself a small smile. Monica, seated next to Kara, couldn't help but grin at the thought of their father glued to the TV, completely immersed in something so uncharacteristically lighthearted.

Rafael leaned back again, his expression softening. "You know we're going to miss having you around, Uncle. You've been the backbone of this company for so long. Innovare wouldn't be where it is today without you."

Arjan nodded, his gaze growing more serious as he addressed the room again. "Thank you, Rafael. But this company—this family—has always been about more than just one person. Innovare is in good hands, and I have complete faith in all of you to carry it forward." He glanced at Kyoko and Jasmine, giving them a nod of respect. "I've seen the future of Innovare, and it's bright because of you."