Lavaz Town, the tractor factory was soaked in continuous rain, with the sounds of metal clashing and banging echoing persistently.
Before Joseph set off, Shire took a trip to his office.
Joseph's office was quite simple, featuring only a desk and a guest sofa, with a pot of French daisies in the corner, Joseph's favorite.
Seeing Shire at the door, Joseph broke into a broad smile, eagerly setting aside his file and welcoming Shire with a hearty handshake.
"Long time no see, Young Master Shire." Joseph habitually addressed Shire this way, though he felt slightly awkward upon seeing Shire's military uniform.
"Should I call you General now?" he asked.
"It's fine, Joseph," Shire replied. "We're like family, no need to mind these formalities."
"It's an honor, Young Master Shire," Joseph agreed readily.
He knew acting too reserved at this moment would be like denying the "family" sentiment Shire spoke of.
Sitting on the sofa, a trace of guilt seeped into Shire's heart.
