Little Bush wearily waved his hand, interrupting him, "Carl, my head is about to explode with pain. Given our current situation, does it really matter what dependencies we have? Let's just take it one step at a time, get through the present first."
The Chief of Staff looked at his sunken eyes and the obvious blisters on his lips, understanding the enormous pressure he was under, could only nod helplessly.
Little Bush leaned back in his chair, closed his eyes and let the medication take effect for a moment, then remembered to ask, "How did your conversation with Victor go? Was it smooth? What conditions did he propose?"
Upon hearing this, Little Bush's mouth twitched uncontrollably. He opened his eyes, his gaze filled with complex emotions: anger, frustration, and a hint of self-mockery.
He spoke in a peculiar tone: "Smooth? Oh, very smooth. We had a deep and honest exchange."
Carl Rove, the Chief of Staff, heard this and a glimmer of hope appeared on his face.
