The next morning, Jonathan came over. Lucian instructed the kitchen to prepare some pastries and served them with coffee to Jonathan.
Both were chatting casually while enjoying the food when Lucian brought up Roxanne’s idea. Usually, Jonathan would respond by nodding and acknowledging with an “Okay.”
However, Jonathan appeared a bit apprehensive today. He looked at Lucian cautiously. “Lucian, c-can I decline?” Lucian froze upon hearing his reply and instinctively furrowed his brows.
At that moment, Jonathan thought Lucian was upset with him. He hurriedly explained, “Lucian, I know these are Roxanne’s thoughts. But I… I’m feeling a bit tired nowadays.” Lucian snapped out of his daze and quickly shook his head. “There’s no need to explain. I’m not angry.”
He looked at Jonathan with a gentle gaze. For so many years, Jonathan had been a trusted aide of his who would never say no to him.
Regardless of the decisions made and the targets set by Lucian, Jonathan would strive to execute them without any complaints. That showcased the absolute trust and chemistry between them..
Deep inside his heart, Lucian was grateful for having such a buddy who was impeccable in so many ways. However, the recent events with Elektra and Jonathan’s rejection got him thinking.
Have I been putting myself above him all this while and that’s why I never pay attention to his feelings? Or is it because of my authoritative and aggressive working style that made him fearful of me?
Whatever the reason might be, Lucian realized he had some shortcomings. Seeing the changed expression on Lucian’s face, Jonathan hesitated if he should retract his words even though he had mustered much courage earlier to reject Lucian.
In all fairness, which business leader would not be attracted to a CEO position, share ownership worth five billion, and the power to direct Flora Verba Group’s future?
“Lucian, on second thoughts, maybe I should accept the proposal. I know you and Roxanne have my interests at heart. If I join Flora Verba Group, the Queen family would be able to have a core asset.”
Jonathan had just finished speaking when Lucian waved his hand in dismissal. “Don’t misunderstand, I was just thinking about some stuff earlier. Why don’t you have a cup of coffee and take a good three minutes to think it through? I can wait for your answer.”
Seeing Jonathan’s hesitation, mixed emotions ran through Lucian. He’s always cautious and mindful of other people’s feelings, resulting in him having to suppress his true feelings. How can such a person lead a happy life?
With that, Lucian started drinking his coffee and did not respond to Jonathan’s shocked reaction. After a long while, Jonathan began to think seriously. Nobody was aware that his medical condition had deteriorated recently, and it was not looking good.
It was then he suddenly felt deeply frustrated and lost interest in everything. Sometimes, a flow of negative thoughts would enter his mind. He did not understand what exactly was wrong with him. He felt like a zombie, devoid of all emotions. He was indifferent to everything around him.
However, he could not find anyone to confide in though he once considered seeking professional help from Madilyn. But ultimately, he did not proceed with it.
He was worried about inundating other people with his negative emotions, causing them distress. A battle between rational views and sentimental thoughts was happening inside Jonathan’s mind right now.
The reason why he suddenly declined Lucian’s offer was because he was experiencing burnout. In short, he could no longer withstand further pressure.
Perhaps, not only did he need to decline the offer on Flora Verba Group, he might need a well-deserved break too.
