Reprisal

Chapter 21 : Plotting & Possession

“Good evening, Dad.” - Aiden greeted, walking into the dining room around 9 in the night.

Isabel, Christopher and Foxen were seated around the dining table, in the middle of the supper. Aiden hadn't joined them as he had reached home half an hour ago — from God knew WHERE ?! — and now, ready in party clothes, was leaving again.

“Evening.” - Foxen replied with a feeble smile.

Christopher hid his smile by taking a sip of juice. Aiden's fun night was so going to be spoiled. Foxen's demeanor was saying it all.

“Evening Bella, Christopher.” - Aiden greeted with a brief nod.

Christopher wanted to laugh out loud. These courtesies were not going to save Aiden. He had made sure of that.

“A very good evening, Aiden.” - Christopher replied, beaming.

“Won't join us for dinner ?” - Foxen asked his son although his gaze was fixen on his food, avoiding looking at Aiden.

“Um no. I have plans for the night. Just came to remind you that we've to leave for Vancouver tomorrow for the conference. The flight is sharp at 9 in the morning.” - Aiden informed.

Foxen put the fork down and cleared his throat. “Actually, Christopher is going with me in the conference.”

Christopher paused to look at Foxen. He didn't know about that.

“What ? But why ?” - Aiden asked, his calm facade falling.

“I have observed you are working hard on your ongoing project and are very busy. So I want to give you a break.” - Foxen reasoned.

The morsel went into the wrong side of Christopher's throat as he controlled his laughter and resulted in coughing.

“I'm fine, I'm fine.” - he assured Isabel in a constrained voice while drinking water.

“But Dad, I can handle it perfectly well. You can't-”

“Aiden.” - Foxen stopped his son, his tone authoritative. “I have decided that I'm taking Christopher along and as the CEO, I can.”

Ah. That was what Christopher wanted. Foxen didn't trust his son now. This will create differences between the two and as a result, Aiden would end up doing something rash. Everything was aptly going to the plan.

Aiden glared at Christopher, wanting to kill him then and there while the later offered a peaceful smile and the former stormed off.

“Dad, why the sudden change of plans ?” - Christopher asked innocently like he didn't know why.

Foxen sighed. “It's sad to say this but I'm unable to trust Aiden. He has betrayed the company before and my heart is saying he is doing it again.”

“But Dad-”

“I know, I know you said to be patient until we find any proof. I have already set someone to keep an eye on Aiden. But till then, I just don't want to involve him in anymore projects.” - Foxen said looking anxious and worried.

Christopher placed his hand over Foxen's fist at the table. “Don't let your spirits down, Dad. I can't see you upset.”

Foxen managed a sad smile. “I wish Aiden was like you...”

Christopher smiled. “So what if he isn't ? You have me. I have always seen you in my father's place and you know it.”

Foxen placed his other hand above Christopher's, feeling comforted while Isabel continued to stare at her husband. Eyes moist and full of love.