"Gentlemen, please come to my private office for a chat before the banquet. There's something I would like to discuss with you two."
After the ceremony, President Hafez extended the invitation.
As they walked down the corridor to the office, an aide hurriedly approached, whispering a few words in the president's ear.
President Hafez's brow furrowed quickly, a hint of annoyance momentarily passing, but he quickly regained his composure, showing an apologetic expression to Song Heping and his companion: "I am very sorry, but there's an urgent international call regarding an unexpected situation at the northern front that I must attend to immediately. Please wait here for a moment, I will be back shortly."
He then followed the aide briskly toward the adjacent secure communications room.
Song Heping and the Chef stood quietly in the corridor adorned with luxurious Isfahan carpets.
