Chapter 41: An Old Friend

Royce stood by the roadside, thinking hard about his next move. He suddenly had a bright idea:he could try to get a job at the presidential villa! But he began to doubt. How would someone like him land a job in such a place? Was there even an opening?

Shaking off his doubt, he waved down a passing taxi. "Can you take me to Cedar Lane, please?" he asked the driver once he was inside.

As the taxi drove through the streets, Royce feared within. He was on his way to see an old friend, Dan, who might be able to help. Dan's father worked at the presidential villa, which gave Royce a glimpse of hope.

Reaching his destination, Royce paid the taxi driver and got out. He walked quickly, his heart pounding nervously.

The street was eerily quiet, with only the whispering breeze breaking the silence. Royce couldn't believe how deserted everything seemed; it was nothing like the Parkland he remembered.

He arrived in front of a dilapidated house, typical of those found in poorer areas—its paint wa