21
I knew this storm was just beginning.
The entire morning was spent dealing with various urgent matters. At lunchtime, as I was getting ready to step out, my phone suddenly rang. It was my older brother, Hayden.
His voice sounded a bit anxious as he said, “Cole, have you seen the news? Mom and Dad are
furious.”
I sighed. “I understand. Please help calm them down. I’ll find time to visit in the next few days
After hanging up, I suddenly lost my appetite. I knew the coming days would only get tougher.
That afternoon, I went to the school to pick up Jonas.
At the school gate, I saw a group of excited parents and students gathered around a luxury car. Jared stepped out of the car, causing a commotion.
Meanwhile, Jonas spotted me and quickly ran over. I crouched down and asked softly, was school today?”
“How
He lowered his head and said quietly, “It was okay, but a lot of classmates kept asking Xavier about Jared.”
I nodded. “That’s alright. They’re just curious. You don’t need to mind them.”
On the way home, Jonas suddenly said, “Daddy, I don’t like Jared.”
I paused for a moment and glanced at his reflection in the rear–view mirror. “Why not?”
Jonas kept his head down as he muttered, “Because… Xavier keeps showing off how amazing Jared is, like we’re nothing compared to them.”
I maintained a calm expression as I looked at Jonas, though my mind was already working on how to handle this situation.
“Jonas, you don’t need to compare yourself to anyone. We have our own lives, and they have theirs. What matters most is being the best version of yourself.”
Jonas raised his head, his eyes glistening with tears. “But Daddy, a lot of the girls in my class say Jared is a big star, and they want to marry someone like him when they grow up. It makes me feel really sad.”
I gently ruffled his hair. “Jonas, let me tell you a little secret. Do you know why I’m successful in business?”
Jonas looked at me curiously, shaking his head.
Chopidi 21
“It’s because I never care about what others think I focus only on my own goals.”
I smiled and said, “You should do the same. Don’t worry about what others say. Focus on what you love doing. For example, haven’t you always enjoyed drawing?”
Jonas’s eyes lit up. “Yeah! I just finished a drawing recently, and my teacher said it was great!”
“I
“There you go,” I said with a laugh. “How about we go buy some new art supplies this weekend?”
“That would be amazing! Thanks, Daddy!” Jonas said excitedly.
The next day, I received an unexpected phone call. It was from Peyton Armando, a university classmate I hadn’t spoken to in years.
“Cole, long time no see!” Peyton’s voice was full of enthusiasm. “I heard you’ve been going through some trouble lately. Need any help?”
I was a bit surprised. “How do you know about that?”
Peyton chuckled. “Don’t forget, I’m the editor–in–chief of Business Weekly now. I’m pretty
well–informed.”
I fell silent for a moment before responding, “Thanks for your concern, but I can handle it.” “Don’t be so formal,” Peyton said. “I also heard you’re working on a new project. Interested in chatting about it? Maybe we could collaborate.”
I thought it over and agreed, “Sure, let’s set up a time to meet and talk.”
After hanging up, I began organizing the recent project files.
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