Chapter 8

"But I'll still be in the foreign trade business. The route might shift toward the Pacific Crest, which would significantly improve transportation efficiency." Lilian's eyes lit up. "So you're going independent? That's wonderful news." "Mrs. Lane, I'll need your support. I hope we can continue working together the way we did before." We spent the afternoon ironing out most of the details. It turned out to be a pleasant and productive meeting. Just as we were about to wrap up, Lilian's phone rang. "I'm over here!" she called out. A graceful figure hurried toward us. "Mom!" I froze, staring at the approaching silhouette. "Sophia?" "Max?" Sophia stopped in her tracks, just as stunned. Lilian was clearly puzzled. "You two know each other?" "Mom, we were classmates in college," Sophia explained quickly. "Mrs. Lane, I had no idea Sophia was your daughter," I replied with a nod. Lilian chuckled softly. "What a small world. We should all have dinner together sometime." "I'd reall