24 No Reason At All

Casually lounging on the couch with a financial news program running on the TV, Bruno seemed to have all the time in the world. The tranquility of the late afternoon in the hospital room was interrupted by the appearance of two unfamiliar men.

"What brings you two here?" Bruno addressed them, not a hint of surprise on his face.

"Boss, we heard that your wife is ill, so we thought we'd come by, show some concern," Jepan spoke in a hushed tone, casting a sideways glance at Lizzie, who was resting on the bed. Lycan took a seat on the couch adjacent to Bruno’s.

“Boss, why is the TV volume so loud? Isn’t your wife resting?” Jepan picked up an apple from the coffee table and took a hearty bite.

"Well, what are you two here for?" Bruno turned his head to look at them, "You guys came empty-handed to show concern?" He prodded jokingly.

Lycan coughed slightly.

"Come on, boss, you're loaded. You don't need any small gifts from us," Jepan chuckled, "I think the missus would be okay with us coming