Samuel Anderson, President of the Phoenix Foundation marched up to his son, just as he entered the reception area that connected their two offices, and demanded, "John, why have you not proceeded with the arrangements for this years December party."
"Father, " John began tiredly, "With everything that has happened this year to my family, you will have to forgive me if I have not felt like partying."
"Your feelings have nothing to do with it. I have told you that many times. You do what is expected of you to keep up a public face. The employees of this Foundation expect this celebration and you need to honour that."
"Fine, I will ensure someone follows up on the arrangements. But with Barbara's death, Joel not speaking with me and Mark missing I will not be attending."
"Oh, you will attend John. You will show the employees of this company that you continue to go on even after the loss of your wife. As for that mongrel you call a son, forget him. I have been telling you for years that he is worthless …"
"Father," John raised his voice and snapped, "I have told you before you will not refer to Mark that way again. Do not use that word around me, and I pray to God, Mark has never heard you refer to him that way."
"That boy," sneered Samuel, "Is not worthy of the Anderson name and if he remains missing all the better for us."
"No Father. It might make things better for you, but not for me, I love him and miss him too much. And now, I know where this conversation is going. We have had similar ones far too many times. I will not have this argument with you again and definitely not here. Mark will be found and I will bring him back home." John asserted walking into his office and closing the door.
"He won't if I have anything to say about it." Samuel muttered viciously under his breath before he turned and stepped into his own office.