"No, no, the big boss doesn't need everyone's love. He just wants the love of those he cares about, and that's enough for him.

" As I left the office, Grant's words echoed in my mind. For some reason, I found myself curious about what this boss looked like., Another odd thing was that there was absolutely no information about the big boss in the company files., Was there something secretive about him? Or was he like one of those mysterious tycoons from novels, so low-profile that he avoided photos and publicity at all costs?, Driving to QuillQuest Supplies, a quaint shop known for its selection of fine arts and writing materials, I couldn't stop pondering about the boss., I didn't get out of the car immediately upon arriving but instead called Ernest. No answer. Figuring he was busy, I dropped him a message.

"How about joining me at the Wagner family gathering tonight, if you're free?

", Knowing he probably wouldn't respond right away, I pocketed my phone and made my way into QuillQuest Supplies.,

"Ms. Hudson, welcome back,

" the shopkeeper greeted me warmly as I entered., I was a regular here, coming in every year to order a special set of pens and inks, always opting for the pricier selections. Herschel had a passion for calligraphy and sketching, consuming a significant amount of supplies annually, making it the perfect gift.,

"Mr. Black, what's new in the world of fine pens and inks this year?

" I asked, browsing through the shelves as usual.,

"Oh, forget about those. The best stuff is over here,

" he beckoned me over, though I made sure to scan everything on display before joining him., A set of dark green pens and inks immediately caught my eye.

"Could I take a closer look at this one?

",

"Certainly!

" Carefully, he handed it to me.

"This is the newest release, just arrived.

", An indirect compliment on my taste, I thought., After examining the craftsmanship and quality, I was sold.

"Mr. Black, I'll take this one.

", He hesitated, which was unusual.

"Ms. Hudson, that set's already been booked by someone else.

", His reluctance meant it was probably the only set available., A wave of disappointment washed over me. But life is full of such moments, isn't it? Unrequited love, settling for the second choice, the changing of seasons, even emperors faced mortality with regret. Shaking off the feeling, I was about to look for something else when I heard footsteps near the entrance.,

"Ms. Hudson, please, take your time. I need to attend to another customer,

" the shopkeeper said, moving away with the set I had just admired., I was about to dive back into browsing when a familiar voice stopped me in my tracks.,

"Mr. Black, have you got my order ready?

" It was Haley., Turning around, I saw the shopkeeper hand her the very set I had been eyeing., So, it was her who had reserved it? That was a surprise I hadn't expected., Search the website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.