Memories flooded Nathanâs mind, transporting him back to the rigorous training sessions under the stern guidance of his mentor at the training camp.
Mekhi, once in Sonnyâs position, had possessed a similar demeanorâ seemingly uncomplicated yet resilient, with a trace of kindness.
However, Mekhiâs elevation to the position of deputy director and inheriting the mantle of power within the Shaw family wrought a profound transformation upon him.
His ambition burgeoned with each passing day, reshaping his demeanor and priorities.
Nathan couldnât help but wonder if Sonny would follow a similar trajectory in the future.
Contemplating these possibilities, Nathan closed the black pen, setting it aside with a sense of introspection.
Looking up at Sonny leaning wearily against the wall, it was evident that exhaustion had taken its toll.
Despite teetering on the brink of collapse, he clung on with unwavering determination.
âEnduring two hundred and forty-nine minutes upside down against the wall is no small feat.
Yet here we are, barely halfway through, and it seems youâre at your limit.
Have I been too harsh in my discipline? Do you hold it against me?â Nathan inquired.
Sonny drew a deep breath, fighting to maintain his posture, and spoke through strained effort.
âYour training is for my benefit.
Iâve been immersed in missions for the past year, neglecting personal training.
Itâs my failing.
â
Unlike Mekhiâs calculated flattery, Sonnyâs words were earnest and sincere.
Hold it against Nathan?
He couldnât fathom harboring such defiance towards the man who had saved him.
Had it not been for Nathanâs intervention, he might have perished amidst the chaos of the border skirmish.
His existence would forever be frozen in time, trapped in the innocence of his ten-year-old self, devoid of the comfort and security he presently enjoyed.
He was a man of principles.
Any kindness bestowed upon him would be etched in his memory for eternity.
Even if Nathan were to send him to the most dangerous battlefield tomorrow, heâd march without hesitation.
Sweat clouded Sonnyâs vision as he remained suspended upside down, unable to discern Nathanâs expression.
Gritting his teeth, he sought to tap into his potential.
Nathan rose from his seat, circumvented the desk, and poured a glass of warm water.
âEnough.
The timer will be reset, with the remaining time noted.
Mind your words next time, or the punishment will be doubled.
â
âThank you, Nathan.
â
With reprieve granted, Sonny gracefully returned to his feet, though he faltered momentarily upon landing.
His arms ached, and as he steadied himself, a glass of warm water was extended to him.
Lifting his gaze to meet Nathanâs, who stood there with a glass of warm water in hand, Sonny felt his eyes, dampened by sweat, grow even redder.
What? Nathan had personally poured him a glass of water and delivered it to him?
Sonny was both flattered and taken aback by the unexpected gesture.
He deserved punishment, yet Nathanâs demeanor was surprisingly kind, leaving him shocked.
He even entertained the fleeting fear that drinking the water might lead to further physical torment, similar to the events that transpired with Mekhi in this very office.