Meanwhile, in Lagos, Michael was dealing with the pressures of his business responsibilities. Exhaustion etched lines on his face as he exited the nearly three-hour meeting. Slipping into the back seat of the waiting car, he barely acknowledged Robert's greeting. Robert, sensing Michael's weariness, started the car right away as Micheal needed to catch a flight to Port Harcourt, the capital and largest city of Rivers State.
The roar of the engine filled the air as Robert skillfully weaved through the busy Lagos streets. Horns blared and colourful buses whizzed past, but Michael seemed lost in his own thoughts, staring straight ahead.
The tall buildings made of glass and steel slowly started to disappear, replaced by lower buildings with wide parking lots. Finally, the city gave way to a network of smooth, wide highways leading to a sight that made Michael straighten in his seat.
Sparkling airport buildings with shiny metal sides glinted in the afternoon sun. Robert pulled into a designated lane and stopped the car smoothly in front of the departure terminal.
'Sir Michael, since I won't be accompanying you to Port Harcourt, this is the contract you'll be signing with the governor of Rivers State during your meeting with him this evening. Here are the documents. I know you've been having sleepless nights, but I urge you to take a detailed look at these documents while on the plane,' Robert handed over the papers.
'I know my job and how to do it well,' Michael replied.
'The food in first-class is really delicious, I hope you can grab a bite,' Robert added.
'Did you book the return flight already?' Michael enquired.
'Um... no, Sir. After your meeting with the governor, you'll likely be tired. So, I booked you a hotel instead,' Robert responded.
'I need you to book me a return flight. I don't want to bump into Jessica. Cancel the hotel immediately and book me a return ticket. Also, book our flight back to Abuja. We'll be leaving in two days' time,' Michael instructed.
'Okay, Sir,' Robert acknowledged.
With that, Michael walked coldly towards the VIP entrance. Robert stood in place until Michael was out of sight before driving back to Pearl Hotel.