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Night descended upon London, casting a dark shadow over Novaspire building. Liam Ryder sat alone in his cabin, staring out the window as the city lights twinkled like stars. The silence was a welcome respite from the chaos of his day.
His phone, silent until now, suddenly buzzed, shattering the calm. "Liam Ryder," he answered, in firmed deep voice.
"Liam, it's Ethan Thompson," Novaspire's CFO replied, his voice laced with urgency.
"What is it, Ethan?" Liam's tone remained calm, but his mind began to race.
"It's...Mr. Ryder. He's been hospitalized." Ethan's words were laced with concern.
Liam's grip on the phone tightened. "What happened?" His voice was low, controlled, but a hint of worry crept in.
"Your father has been dealing with ongoing tiredness and stress, which has become even worse as he gets older. According to the doctors, he experienced a serious collapse due to extreme exhaustion." These words felt like a heavy blow, hitting him hard, almost like a punch.
A mix of emotions swirled within him - guilt, anger, and a hint of sadness. Liam's gaze drifted to the London skyline, memories of his complicated past with his dad flooding back. Their last argument echoed in his mind.
"You're just like your mother," Marcus had said.
Liam shook off the thoughts. He had to be there. For his father. Regardless of their differences.
"Ethan, book me the the next flight to Sydney."
"Already done. You're leaving Heathrow in three hours."
Liam nodded, though Ethan couldn't see him. "Thanks, Ethan."
As Liam ended the call, his gaze swept over the dimly lit office. Without another glance, he turned and made his way out, driving straight to his apartment.
After arriving at his apartment and packing his essentials, his thoughts drifted to Alex. Without hesitation he quickly dialed his number.
After a few rings, a sleepy voice answered. "Liam? Do you have any idea what time it is?" Alex mumbled, still half-asleep.
"Alex, I need to head to Sydney. My dad is in the hospital," Liam said, his voice carrying a rare hint of vulnerability.
There was a thud on the other end, followed by a muffled groan. "Wait-Sydney? Hospitalized?" Alex's voice shot up.
"The doctors say it's exhaustion. Look, I'll handle things there, but I need you to take care of Novaspire while I'm gone," Liam replied, his tone firm but appreciative.
