Celestial Lanterns

Igniting Sparks

Ming is working on the files in his computer while a steaming cup of tea is right next to it, it's practically the only thing that's keeping his cool. His head had been spinning just by simply looking at the files of discrepancies in the financial status of the Chiang Mai Branch. It had been two hours since the meeting for the promotions but it still didn't leave his mind; the surprised look at Tom's face, and the bloodlust he felt brewing inside himself again.

He took another sip from his cup and the bitter but warm and soothing taste of the liquid smoothly traveled down his throat.

I'm so near the truth. I will make sure that each of you will pay.

His thoughts were interrupted by knocks from the door.

"Boss," Rich's head poked from it. Ming smiled on how Rich always acts the way he does whenever he calls him from the door. "Mr. Angchuan wishes to talk to you."

Ming raised an eyebrow but he wasn't surprised. "Let him in, Rich."

Rich just bowed and opened the door wider and revealed a sterned faced Tom. Ming stood up from his chair and walked around his desk towards the coffee table in the center of his office with the teacup in his hand and waited for Tom to come close.

"Mr. Angchuan," Ming said formally. "How may I help you?"

"Cut the crap, Mr. CEO." Tom hissed as he moved towards Ming.

"I'm afraid I do not understand what you mean." Ming calmly said as he lowered himself on one of the couches. "Please, take a seat." He said, gesturing at the opposite chair across the glass coffee table.

Tom obeyed but his resentful expression is still in his face. 

"Why me?" Tom started. "Why promote me? What are you playing at?"

"Why not you?" Ming returned to him his question. "I mean, your record is good. And I'm not the only one who decided on this, we had a panel, remember?"

"Don't play with me, you douchebag!" Tom snarled. "You can't take me as a fool, Mr. CEO. I know you don't like me. I know you hate me. So, don't give me that shit, as if you are all powerful and can do anything."

"Mr. Angchuan," Ming said calmly with a small smile, he's happy that Tom is now losing his temper. In this game, the one who gives in to his emotions loses. And Ming's fully aware of that rule. Surely, Tom still has a lot to learn. "First of all, our business is failing, and you're fully aware of that. You're the one who is best qualified for the job. Our personal differences should not interfere with the business. You are what the business needs, not your pride nor mine. Yes, I may have disliked you, but I don't hate you. I don't know you personally therefore I have no reason to hate you."

Tom's expression suddenly softened upon hearing Ming's explanation. He must admit, despite his revolting heart, that Ming is right. This is business they're talking about. And in business, there's no friend nor foe. Everything is about the money. He who can't help make money, is a foe of the business, and he who can is a friend. Can this shitball really set aside our differences for the sake of his company?