Loir took a sip from his can of Coke before speaking softly.
"Mini isn't my real mother's child. She's my stepmother's daughter. My dad remarried after divorcing my mom."
Sam blinked in surprise, listening quietly as Loir continued.
"But… even after the divorce, my parents still stayed friends. They were best friends back in college, and somehow, that bond never broke. My stepmom—she's honestly a wonderful woman. A famous dress designer, actually. My real mom… she lives abroad. I usually stay here, alone in this house."
There was a pause as Loir's lips curved into a small, wistful smile.
"She only comes for about a month each year, spending time with me, my dad, and my stepmom. She's so busy… she never found time to search for another life partner. When my parents divorced, it was mutual. No fights, no bitterness. Just… acceptance."
Sam sat frozen, wide-eyed, taking in each word with quiet shock. Loir's tone was calm, but underneath, there was a weight only Sam could feel.
Loir glanced at him, chuckling softly.
"Did I bore you with all this?"
Sam shook his head quickly, eyes dropping, his voice low.
"No… not at all."
Curiosity tugged at him, though, and he couldn't stop himself from asking.
"Don't you… ever feel lonely? With your mom living abroad?"
Loir's smile grew warmer, softer.
"My stepmom and dad never let me feel alone. They call me every day. They make sure I know I'm loved. My stepmom even bought land in my name… a lot of land. During holidays, I spend time with her, Dad, and Mini. It feels like… a complete family."
Sam's lips curved into a faint smile, admiration shining in his eyes.
"You really are… such an understanding person."
Loir gave a small laugh.
"And I'm lucky too. My parents—Mom, Dad, and even my stepmom—they've never forced me into anything. They've always respected me, always given me freedom."
He leaned a little closer, his eyes flickering with a glint of thought.
"I think your dad knows mine, actually."
Sam tilted his head. "Oh? Really?"
Loir nodded with a secretive smile. Of course they know each other, he thought silently. It was my father who decided to invest in your father's company, just to make sure it wouldn't collapse.
But out loud, Loir only said lightly, "Yeah, I think so."
Sam let out a small sigh, staring down.
"My dad's company was going bankrupt once. A big firm stepped in and saved us. That's all I know."
Feigning innocence, Loir asked, "Oh, really?"
Sam nodded. "Honestly… I don't know much about business. But back then, I had to find out, because our company—and even our home—was about to collapse."
Loir placed a hand gently on Sam's shoulder, his tone steady and reassuring.
"Don't worry. There are good people in this world. The kind who'll always reach out a hand when you need it most."
Then, after a pause, Loir asked, "Do you think you'll take over your dad's company someday?"
Sam hesitated before answering quietly, "My father wants me to. After I finish university, he expects me to step in."
Loir tilted his head, his eyes narrowing in quiet curiosity.
"And what about you, Sam? What do you want?"
To be Continued.....