Chief Churchill sat out on the balcony, enjoying the calm evening breeze. A half-filled glass of red wine rested beside him on the table. The rhythmic chirping of birds filled the quiet air.
Arinze stepped out and spotted his father. "Hey, Dad," he greeted warmly.
Chief looked up with a faint, knowing smile. "Arinze, my son. How are you?"
"I'm good," Arinze replied, pulling up a chair. "What are you doing out here all by yourself?"
"Waiting for you," Chief said, taking a slow sip from his glass.
Arinze frowned slightly. "Waiting for me?"
"Yes. Sit down."
Arinze sat, curiosity written all over his face. "Alright, Dad. What's going on?"
Chief studied him quietly for a few seconds before speaking. "Arinze, you know I sent you abroad to gain knowledge that will prepare you to take over this company when I retire."
Arinze nodded confidently. "Yes, Dad. I'm aware."
"But you see," Chief continued, leaning back in his chair, "knowledge alone isn't enough. You need experience — the kind that only comes from working in the field."
Arinze's brows furrowed. "I don't get you, Dad."
"You're my heir — the next CEO of ChurchillCorp. But that position comes with great responsibility. It's not just about knowing the business; it's about understanding people, systems, and pressure. And for that, I want you to gain first-hand experience in another organization before taking over."
Arinze stared at his father in disbelief. "Wait… you're saying I should work under another company? For experience?"
Chief nodded calmly. "Exactly."
Arinze blinked in shock, then scoffed. "What?! Dad, that's absurd! I'm a Harvard graduate — Business Administration, top of my class! And you want me to go work as some junior staff somewhere? Me? The rightful heir to your company?"
"Arinze—"
"No, Dad!" Arinze's voice rose slightly. "I've acquired all the knowledge and skills needed to run ChurchillCorp. Experience comes as you work, and I'll learn as I go. You should believe in me!"
Chief nodded, expression unreadable. "I do believe in you, son. But I still insist — you need the experience. And I already have the perfect place in mind."
Arinze frowned. "Dad, come on—"
"No arguments," Chief said firmly as he stood, brushing imaginary dust off his Clothes. "Think about it."
He walked away quietly, leaving Arinze staring into the distance — frustrated and speechless.