The Father

Kanalaa's entrance into Alistair's office was marked by a sense of urgency, her eyes meeting his with a mixture of professionalism and concern. "Alistair, we've got a pressing issue with shipping line client, Horizon Haulers." she began, her voice is steady but tinged with urgency. "They've been sued by their large distributor client for excessive jettisoning of goods during transit."

Alistair's response was immediate, his brow furrowing slightly as he leaned forward in his chair, indicating his attentiveness to her words. "That's concerning," he acknowledged, his expression mirroring her concern. "Do we have all the details on why so much cargo was being thrown overboard?"

Kanalaa nodded, her gestures reflecting the complexity of the situation as she explained, "Yes, it seems the jettisoning occurred due to a combination of factors," her hands moving to illustrate the various aspects at play. "Including mechanical failures on the ships and improper loading procedures."

Alistair's response was measured, his hands steepled in front of him as he considered their next steps. "I see," he murmured thoughtfully, his gaze shifting to the files on his desk. "We'll need to review their contracts and agreements with both the distributor and the shipping line to determine liability."

"Agreed," Kanalaa affirmed, her hands already moving to gather the necessary documents. "I'll start compiling all the relevant documents. Also, I need to consult with the brokerage department."

Alistair's nod of approval was accompanied by a slight smile, his confidence in Kanalaa evident in the way he met her gaze. "Good," he acknowledged, his tone conveying his appreciation for her prompt action. "Let's also reach out to our maritime experts to assess the situation and provide their insights."

Kanalaa nodded in agreement, her fingers already moving to dial the necessary numbers. "Will do," she assured him, her gestures reflecting her readiness to take on the task. "I'll schedule a meeting with them right away."

"Thank you, Kanalaa," Alistair expressed his gratitude, his tone sincere as he acknowledged her efforts.

"Of course, Alistair," Kanalaa replied, her smile warm as she mirrored his confidence. "I'll keep you updated on any developments as we proceed."

"Great," Alistair concluded, his tone filled with determination as he leaned back in his chair.

"Don't work too much. Don't forget about the dinner later. I'll be back." Kanalaa winked at Alistair then, ran off due to finish whichever task she could. On the end, Alistair chuckled at her naughtiness.

Kanalaa called in consultation to see the gravity of their case. As she sees it, it is nothing grave for a one time or two times occurence. However, if this happened multiple times, something is not right and needed to be investigated properly. Since, they are on the defense side, they are oblige to see an escape if the ill intent of the shipping line is proven. It is heavy to accept but work is work.

Kanalaa called in a meeting with other junior brokers and lawyers. This way, they can brainstorm regarding the matter before involving the senior in charge.

Alistair shouldn't be involved since he holds much important clients and cases, yet, he was requested since their company is the Horizon Hauler's in house lawyers and brokers and somehow they are valuable to the company.

Alistair typically handles criminal cases and corporate law, and focuses more on the other grave cases. While the brokerage side of the company is being handled by someone else. Meanwhile, Kanalaa specialized on both since she is a licensed customs broker and a lawyer. That is why right now she bridges both of the departments with this case.

"It's evident that this isn't an isolated incident," Kanalaa remarked, her hands gesturing to emphasize the gravity of the situation. "The Johansens have overlooked past occurrences of jettisons, but the frequency of these incidents has become a concern. The damage to their reputation is becoming irreparable."

Alistair nodded thoughtfully, his brow furrowing with concern. "What are the figures of jettisoned containers?" he inquired, his fingers tapping on the desk as he awaited her response.

"I don't have the exact amount, but it's estimated to be around a million dollars," Kanalaa replied, her gestures reflecting the weight of the loss.

"It looks bad," Alistair observed, his tone somber as he considered the implications.

"Yes, the Johansens could potentially sue Horizon for their tarnished reputation," Kanalaa continued, her voice tinged with worry. "And, although it's not confirmed yet, there are suspicions that Horizon may be intentionally overbooking shipments, leading to overloaded voyages. If true, it could spell disaster for our client."

"As a lawyer, you don't assume defeat until the final verdict is reached," Alistair reminded her, his voice calm but firm.

Kanalaa sighed, her shoulders slumping with the weight of the situation. "I know, but the evidence against Horizon is mounting. If these allegations prove to be true, our options will be limited to minimizing the consequences they face."

"It seems like you're hesitant to defend your client, Attorney Reese," Alistair observed, his gaze steady as he met her eyes.

"I am," Kanalaa admitted, her tone heavy with reluctance. "I don't condone their actions, but at the end of the day, they're still our clients. My job is to navigate the legal waters and find the best possible outcome for them."

"Agreed," Alistair said, his tone decisive. "But for now, let's set work aside and enjoy our dinner. We will figure this out tomorrow."

With a nod, Kanalaa rose from her seat, a sense of relief washing over her as she followed Alistair out of the office. Despite the weight of their responsibilities, she can still be at peace knowing that these won't affect their personal lives.

...

As they drove along, Alistair who's sitting on the passenger turned to Kanalaa and asked, "How about you brief me a bit about your dad?"

"Well," Kanalaa replied, glancing briefly at the road ahead, "my dad ain't strict. He's free-spirited, easy to deal wit," she added.

She paused a bit thinking how to describe her dad, "He's nice and honest." She nodded, affirming her words.

"He's a straightforward type of man which he might offend you somehow, but don't take it personally." She raised her hands in a placating gesture.

"He only voices his thoughts.Unless he degrades you in any way, of course." She glanced at him frowning, signaling the seriousness of the situation.

"He just lets me do what I want. I could have had a boyfriend since I turned eighteen, but I didn't. So, he might sell me off of you." She smirked, anticipating her father's reaction.

"He's afraid I'll end up an old maid." She rolled her eyes, conveying her amusement.

"Oh, and it's nice that you brought that wine and liquor." She nodded towards the back seat. "Grandy and Dad like those." She smiled warmly.

Alistair was just silently listening to Kanalaa describe her dad with admiration his eyes and plastered smile on his that can't be erased off.

"I can handle that," he replied, nodding confidently.

"Yeah, definitely," Kanalaa agreed. "Just be polite, that's all." She shrugged, as if it were no big deal.

Despite saying that, deep in Alistair's heart, he's nervous to meet Kanalaa's father. Knowing how his girlfriend and her mother's relationship, he's afraid that her father would be too over protective. Although Kanalaa reassured him, he just can't erase the thought on his mind.

...

As soon as they arrived, Kanalaa felt giddy because no matter how short the trip of her dad, she always misses him because she's not used to not seeing him for a day. Her dad, Karl, takes business trip often times but she never got used to it.

Kanalaa searched for Karl the moment they entered the restaurant while she's holding Alistair's hand who's following his excited girlfriend.

"Dad! I missed you so so so much!" Kanalaa exclaimed, rushing to hug her father as they approached their table.

"I've missed you too, darling," her father replied, enveloping her in a warm embrace. "How have you been?"

"Well, I've been doing pretty good lately." Kanalaa smiled, her eyes shining with happiness. "Anyway, I've brought Alistair, my boyfriend, because of course, I want you to meet him."

"Alistair, my dad," Kanalaa introduced, gesturing towards her father.

"Good evening, Sir," Alistair greeted politely, extending his hand. "How was your trip?"

"Good evening, young man." Kanalaa's father shook Alistair's hand firmly. "I see you took care of my daughter while I was away."

"It's nothing, Sir," Alistair replied modestly, a hint of admiration in his eyes. "I felt honored to do such."

"Don't speak too highly of my daughter," Karl chuckled, a playful glint in his eyes. "I know how naughty she could get despite her age. Call me dad, just like how my daughter calls me." He smiled warmly, extending a friendly invitation.

"Thank you, Sir. I–" Alistair was cut off by Karl when he hear the word Sir.

"Dad,"

Alistair can't help but chuckles then, nodded to acknowledge his mistake.

"Uh, yes, dad. I've brought these for you and I heard Kanalaa's granddad also likes the same. I'll bring more the next time. I wish you two would enjoy them." He said, extending his hand that carries the bottles of liquors and wine.

"You didn't have to bother but thanks. I'll make sure to enjoy these." Karl replied, showing appreciation to the gifts that Alistair gave to him.

Their dinner went smoothly and Kanalaa have felt nothing but happiness and greatfulness.