His followed chuckle is earnest; amused by the nerve of this man. Head is gently thrown back, resting against other’s head & making a lazy attempt at meeting his gaze.
“Allow me to doubt. I hardly find myself worthy of hoarding you. Out with it, Zandik.”
a brief pause —
the doctor responding with a half - hearted smile ; breathy “ hm “ escaping his throat.
“you think of me in constant need of charity , my dear friend … which you know is far from the truth .
am i not allowed to see how a friend is keeping ? “
ㅤ
There’s hardly a reaction beyond a casual tilt of head and the gentle dropping of his pen.
“You must be quite bored to come visit me. You certainly aren’t here to request funding, are you?”
My life—— miserable?! ( he found it difficult to conceal his astonishment. The doctor had always been good at pressing the wrong buttons on purpose; of course his younger self would be no exception. )
Hush now, I don’t want to hear you speak of what you know not of.
ㅤ
( lowering his head —
red orbs focused towards the other figures ; lips tightening into a thin line .
was he being mocked ? )
your concern’s rather superficial .
would you like me to pray that your life be made less miserable ?
ㅤ
( There’s a scoff in response, smiling even though it was far from a laughing matter. )
Look at you. With so much youth adorning your face, what could you know about the business world? Focus on your studies, boy. And pray you never have to understand our job.
ㅤ
is trusting a businessman worth it ?
they ‘re all the same .
all profit , a sweet tongue , and a hand ready to cut the throat once you ‘ve fulfilled your purpose .
ㅤ
“Doctor, is that what they call you?” derisive, mocking; words as poisonous as a snake’s venom —— followed by a scoff. “As much of one as I am a banker. Oh, well. Tell me, @feasibiIity, what brings you here?”
“Stop fidgeting with my things.”
Said sharply, gaze not once shifting from the documents on his desk. Far more than a person his age would be able to understand, but greatness does not make him any better. He huffs in clear frustration.