Chapter 3

As days went by, Jay began to think if he had made a wrong decision by telling the dad he wants to go to college. Jay’s determination to pursue his education faces a new challenge as his father’s reluctance turns into a stern refusal, forcing Jay to rethink his approach and gather allies to support his dream. As he sat down at the balcony of their luxurious duplex, a thought ran through his mind and he felt it will work out if he tries it and that was confronting the dad’s close friend who is also his business associate and make him see reasons why he should talk to his dad to allow him go to college. Jay decided to seek out his father’s business partner, Mr. Hawkins, who had always been a source of guidance and support. Over lunch at a nearby café, Jay shared his dreams of attending college and his father’s disapproval. Mr. Hawkins listened attentively, nodding his head.

“I understand your father’s concerns, Jay, but I also see the potential in you. I believe you will do very well in whatever you put your mind to because you are very committed and smart.

Let me talk to him and see what I can do,” Mr. Hawkins offered with a reassuring smile.

You know you are the only he has so the idea of letting you off his sight is something am sure he is battling with but I will try and make him see reasons with me why he should allow you go to the college.

The next day, Mr. Hawkins requested a meeting with Mr. Hubert. When it was lunch time,Hubert and Mr. Hawkins sat in the coffee store each having a cup of coffee before him and discussing business matters, when Mr. Hawkins brought up Jay’s request to attend college. Mr. Hubert shook his head, “I don’t think it’s a good idea, Hawkins. The business needs him, and I can’t afford to have him distracted by academic pursuits.”

Mr. Hawkins leaned forward, “But, Rowland, didn’t you once promise Jay that he could go to college? I recall you telling me about it after a family dinner.” And remember Jay is still very young, you can’t just keep him here till the rest of his life. He needs to experience other sides of life , meet people of his age too where he can create a network just as you have done for yourself in your textile and clothing industry.

He needs to experience another field of life where his potentials are needed. You know he is a very smart boy and will definitely do well at anything.

Mr. Hubert’s expression faltered, and he looked away, remembering the promise he made to Jay when he was just a boy. “Ah, that was just a passing moment, Hawkins. I didn’t mean to make a concrete promise.” But I think at this point I have to fulfill that promise that I made.

Mr. Hawkins s pressed on, “Rowland, you know Jay’s potential. He’s a bright young man, very smart and observant and education will only benefit him and your business in the long run.”

Mr. Hubert’s resolve began to waver, as memories of his promise to Jay resurfaced. He recalled the excitement in Jay’s eyes and the trust he had placed in him. He couldn’t deny him of such happiness he deserves everything good in life. With a sigh, he rubbed his temples, “Fine, Hawkins. I’ll reconsider. But Jay must understand that his responsibilities to the business come first.”

Mr. Hawkins smiled, “I’ll make sure he understands, and I bet you he will never forget the business. You have gone a long way with him and I believe he knows what that means, he will always come back to it trust me Rowland. Thank you for reconsidering.”

They shook hands with each other and continued with their coffee.

And Jay anxiously waited for the outcome. Later that evening, Mr. Hubert summoned Jay to his study, a hint of a smile on his face.

“Jay, I’ve been thinking… Your passion and determination are qualities I admire. I’ll give you a chance to prove yourself. If you maintain excellent grades and help with the business during breaks, I’ll reconsider my stance on college.”

Jay’s heart leapt with excitement. It wasn’t a full victory, but a step in the right direction. He eagerly accepted the challenge, knowing this was just the beginning of his journey.

He felt very happy.

When night came after they had dinner Hubert wanted to know what actually triggered his son to talk about going to college after having an asthma attack the previous day so he called him to the car park so they could talk.

“Jay’s eyes widened as he stepped into their sprawling car park as he couldn’t remember the last time he had a conversation with the dad at their car park especially at night. Everything seemed so new him. He never knew that the view of that car park could create a sense of opulence and refinement in the air. The view of the car park at night is worth framing. A veritable cathedral of automotive excellence. Row upon row of sleek, high-performance vehicles gleamed in the soft light, their polished surfaces reflecting the sheen of luxury. A Lamborghini Huracan stood proud, its angular lines and fiery red paint seeming to pulse with energy. Nearby, a Bentley Continental GT gleamed with understated elegance, its chrome trim and soft leather interior exuding refinement. A Tesla Model S, its electric motor purring softly, stood alongside a vintage Ferrari, its classic curves and rich red paint evoking a bygone era. The air was thick with the scent of premium leather and the soft hum of precision engineering, a testament to the billionaire’s passion for the finest things in life.” Jay is truly a billionaire’s son who has every luxury he deserved.

Considering Jay’s asthma, he and the dad enjoy a glass of freshly squeezed cranberry juice savoring the taste and the moment together while they talked. His father got a cranberry juice so it will be easy on the lungs and won’t trigger his asthma symptoms. His father asked him what field of study he would love to explore in college and why he would love to do that then Jay gave him an outstanding reply. He said” Dad I saw the way Granny struggled with asthma attack before she passed away and we couldn’t get the right drug to keep her and am passing through that same predicament now”. With his eyes filled with determination, he said” Dad I want to study pharmacy because I want to make a difference in people’s life. I want to explore ways to develop drugs that can help people breath easier, live better”

.Mr. Hubert’s expression softened, as the memories of his late mother flooded back. “Jay, I didn’t know you felt so strongly about this. Your granny would be proud of you.”

“She will surely be Jay replied” and she knows I love her so much.

Jay’s voice filled with passion. “I want to find ways to prevent others from suffering like she did and am going through the same thing now. I want to make a difference, Dad. And studying pharmacy will give me the tools to do that.”

Mr. Hubert’s gaze lingered on his son, seeing the sincerity in his eyes. The thought of how he would have killed his dream and the potential he has in him by refusing his request to go to college the first time he talked about it ran through his mind. It would have been one of the greatest mistake in his life if he never agreed. He remembered the promise he made to Jay, and the fear of losing his son to asthma struck a chord. “Okay, Jay. I’ll support your decision. But you must promise me one thing: you’ll always prioritize your health and safety above all else.”

Jay’s face lit up with a smile. “I promise, Dad. Thank you for understanding!”

They continued enjoying the savory taste of their cranberry juice but this time around Jay has gone into the house to get some chips to add to their enjoyment as explored the moment together till their eyes became sleepy and they knew it was bed time.