Chapter Twenty-Five

At this moment in Peter's office, the sharp ring of an incoming video call broke the quiet, flashing across the tablet he had been using to sign documents. He paused, setting the stylus aside, and straightened in his chair, focusing intently on the screen. The Aston Martin technical director appeared, his gaze steady, voice measured but firm.

'Mr. Peter,' the director began, clearly assessing the man before him, 'we're impressed by the fact that you've managed to get the V12 Vision operational for public roads. However, as you're aware, this vehicle isn't certified for such use.'

Peter leaned back slightly, crossing his arms, his lips pulling into a tight smile. His voice remained calm, but there was a trace of pride. 'I understand, but Ihunanya ensured all safety protocols were followed. Frankly, the experience was flawless.'

The director's eyes flicked to the side for a moment, his brow furrowing in thought. 'Your modifications have piqued our interest,' he said, his tone softer now, as if considering something new. 'We'd like to inspect the vehicle and discuss possible collaborations for integrating this functionality into future models. Where is the car currently located?'

Peter didn't hesitate. 'It's here at Mark Villa in Abuja, Nigeria.'

The director exchanged a thoughtful glance with someone off-screen before continuing. 'Given the complexities of international logistics, we'll dispatch a specialised team to your location. They'll conduct a detailed on-site inspection of the car and also have the opportunity to meet your robot assistant.'

Peter raised an eyebrow, the slightest surprise flickering in his eyes. 'You really agreed to send a team all the way here?'

The director's lips curled into a small, approving smile. 'This vehicle is one of a kind, Mr. Peter. After reviewing the diagnostic data Ihunanya uploaded, we're keen to learn more. We'll coordinate with you to arrange for the team's visit. They'll bring any equipment needed for a full performance analysis.'

Peter leaned forward, his gaze sharp with interest. 'I'm open to that. Let me know when they'll arrive. And in the meantime, I'll ensure the car and Ihunanya are ready for your team.'

The director nodded, his tone confident. 'Excellent. We look forward to what could be a groundbreaking collaboration.'

After the call ended, Chijioke's voice came through the smart earpiece in Peter's ear. 'Sir Peter, I've already drafted a schedule to ensure that Ihunanya and the vehicle are fully prepared for the inspection. Once you confirm the dates, would you like me to notify Aston Martin and send you reminders?'

Peter's lips curved into a smile, his admiration for Chijioke evident. 'You're always one step ahead, Chijioke. Go ahead.'

Moments later, his phone buzzed. A message from Magnus lit up the screen: 'She truly enjoyed the snack and wine.'

Peter knew that by she, Magnus was referring to Stella. His eyes lit up as he typed a reply. 'Did she ask who they were from?'

'She didn't,' Magnus responded, 'but I think she knows they were from you. She didn't press on…'

Peter's fingers paused briefly over the screen, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. 'She didn't want you to lie for any reason,' he murmured, sending the message with a warm smile.