“What’s wrong?” Victor asked, hugging Yvonne from behind.Yvonne got out of bed, making Victor sigh in disappointment, as he had just been about to kiss her. She let out a long breath, then placed her phone on the nightstand. Without answering Victor, she started picking up her clothes scattered on the floor.“I have to go,” Yvonne said.“Where?”“Home.”Victor looked at Yvonne, puzzled. But from her expression, it was clear she couldn’t be persuaded. Finally, Victor just nodded weakly and sighed. As Yvonne got dressed, Victor’s phone rang.Reluctantly, Victor glanced at the screen and saw Glenn’s name.“What’s up, Glenn?” Victor asked.“Victor, I need you at the lab. I’m here with Mei.”“Okay.”Yvonne glanced at Victor. “Work, huh?”“You too, huh?”They both chuckled softly. They hugged and kissed deeply, then said goodbye, promising to meet again another time. They both had important matters to attend to.Victor arrived at the lab in less than an hour. Inside the isolation room, Mei
Victor immediately hugged Yvonne, who was anxiously standing in front of the emergency room door, her eyes swollen from crying. Yvette glanced at them but, sitting and playing on her phone, paid no further attention."How's your mom? Is she okay?" Victor asked anxiously, having come straight to the hospital upon hearing from Yvonne that Yolanda was ill.Yvonne nodded weakly. "She'll be moved to a room shortly.""What’s wrong with her?""I don’t know. The doctor just said she shouldn’t think too much."Victor felt relieved; perhaps Yolanda’s condition wasn’t too serious. Still, he tried to comfort Yvonne. "She'll be fine."Yvonne nodded. "I know. But I'm really worried because Mom fainted right in front of me."They waited until Yolanda was moved to a room. Once Yolanda was settled, Victor decided to wait outside. Yvette, however, sat down next to Victor instead of going inside with Yvonne."Why aren’t you going in?" Victor asked, puzzled."Later," Yvette replied, still engrossed in he
After a month of perfecting it, the vaccine began to be distributed massively. Glenn managed to meet Dao’s demand, as well as the increasing number of sponsors who were funding the project. Since the vaccine also involved the government, it inevitably became a headline on several TV stations.“I heard most of the vaccines are being given away for free. Is that true?” a reporter asked Glenn during an interview in front of his office.“Yes, I had the opportunity to work with the government and very cooperative sponsors to achieve this goal.”“It seems there are still many great and noble-hearted people in the world, right, sir?”Glenn nodded. “Indeed. We all have a goal, to ensure everyone has the right to health, regardless of their economic condition.”“I hope...”Mason scrolled through his phone screen and turned off the streaming broadcast with a frustrated look. His competitive spirit flared up. He hadn’t expected Glenn to take the step of distributing the vaccine and even offering
"I can’t leave the house, how are things over there?" Mei asked, her face showing fear as she spoke to Hazel during their video call.“There’s a lockdown here too, Mei. But things are pretty safe, there’s no chaos or anything,” Hazel sighed, though she felt that everything was falling apart because of the Covit19 virus.It was one week after the outbreak began to spread worldwide, known as the Covit19 virus. It initially started in Yuhan, with many casualties and almost the entire city getting sick. Then, reports started coming in from all over about people exhibiting the same symptoms.Every country began restricting visitors, even banning travel entirely. Mei had read the letter from Mr. Zhang and was convinced that the virus spreading worldwide was her father’s creation. But up to that moment, Mei hadn’t heard from her father. His phone couldn’t be reached either.The news circulating in the media was frightening. People stopped working or doing anything outside their homes. It was
Amid the chaos, two weeks after Covit19 began spreading worldwide, the situation remained dire. Mason was ready to market his vaccine, and invitations to a meeting with world leaders had been accepted. Mason was very satisfied, as they were ready to attend.The somber faces appeared on the large screen Mason had set up for the meeting. He maintained a calm demeanor, hiding his triumphant smile, feeling that all these leaders would soon bow to his authority."In this very sad situation, I express my condolences to the victims of the Covit19 virus. Thank you all for attending this meeting," Mason began the event.The world leaders merely nodded and murmured softly. Mason continued."However, amid this pandemic, I have found a solution. Our company has developed a vaccine to combat the Covit19 virus."This announcement surprised many of the world leaders present. Not all of them, but some maintained a calm and composed demeanor."This vaccine has been proven effective in preventing the C
Mason still sat in his chair, feeling defeated, unsure of what to do next. There was no way he could suddenly change his mind and sell the vaccine for less than Glenn's.Regardless, Mason would still incur losses.Glenn had numerous sponsors, many of whom were donating for charity. Mason, on the other hand, had funded everything himself. No matter how much he charged for the vaccine, it wouldn't cover the production costs."Mason!" Eleanor's voice boomed from the doorway as she burst into the room.Eleanor entered, her face barely containing her anger. Two weeks stuck at home without any clarity had drained her patience."What’s the status of the vaccine distribution? How are sales going? I need answers from you!" Eleanor demanded, her anxiety clearly visible."Leave me alone, I need to think.""You can’t say that! Stop avoiding me. For God's sake, do you know what’s happening to my business?"Mason shot a sharp look at Eleanor. She seemed oblivious to his plight, only thinking about
Glenn was on a video call with Dao and Yuen, discussing Mason's invitation. Dao was visibly agitated, understandably angry at Mason for what seemed like an attempt to extort everyone. As for the virus spread by Mr. Zhang and the vaccine Mason had purchased, Glenn chose to keep that matter private. Only Glenn and a select few knew about it. Besides, revealing Mr. Zhang's misdeeds, especially now that he was likely gone, felt wrong to Glenn.“What an inconsiderate man, selling at sky-high prices while everyone is mourning and trying to handle this virus,” Yuen lamented.“He's a businessman,” Dao glanced at Yuen and chuckled softly. “But he's insane.”“All the world leaders left that meeting immediately. Glenn, you should have been there,” Yuen chuckled. “I wanted to see Mason’s shocked face.”Glenn gave a faint smile. “Hopefully, he will sell the vaccine at a reasonable price. At least that would be fair if he wants to compete in a healthy business manner.”Dao nodded in agreement. “
188The night breeze brushed against Glenn and Sean as they stepped out of the car. As planned, Sean circled around to the back entrance, ensuring Mason hadn’t brought any backup. Meanwhile, Glenn entered through the front door, noticing the lights were on inside the spa.Mason sat on a sofa, staring out the window, as Glenn approached him. Mason looked utterly disheveled, his face pale and grim. Glenn stood a short distance away from him.“You’re here,” Mason said.“What exactly do you want to talk about?”Mason stood up, sighed softly, and put his hands in his pockets without looking at Glenn.“I guess you feel like you’ve won, huh? You’ve got it all now, Glenn.”Glenn eyed Mason with curiosity. “This isn’t about winning or losing. You created a virus that shook the entire world. If you wanted to play fair from the start, this isn’t how you do it, Mason.”“You don’t know what it’s like to have the world at your feet, Glenn.”“Mason, nothing in this world is permanent.”“I was so clo
As time passed, Glenn and Hazel enjoyed peaceful days while awaiting the birth of their baby. In the month of their baby’s due date, Glenn received the surprising news that Yvonne and Victor were getting married. “Glenn, hurry up!” Hazel hurriedly put on her earrings as they were almost late for Victor and Yvonne’s wedding ceremony. Glenn quickly grabbed his jacket from the back of the chair and hugged Hazel from behind. Seeing Hazel with her big belly made him fall in love with her even more. “Not now,” Hazel grumbled, annoyed. The more Hazel was irritable, the more Glenn enjoyed teasing her. They stepped out of the house and got into the car. Glenn drove at a moderate speed, occasionally reaching for Hazel’s hand and kissing it gently. Hazel felt incredibly happy, showered with love from her husband. When they arrived at the church, the doors were almost closing as the ceremony was about to begin. Glenn and Hazel entered, accompanied by the quiet laughter of the attendees. They
“Mei!” Hazel immediately hugged her friend, whom she hadn't seen for months.Mr. Zhang’s daughter had decided to visit Hazel in Eagertown after the situation in Yuhan had stabilized. She brought a lot of gifts for Hazel, thinking Hazel would want to try some unique treats from Yuhan.“Sorry I came so late, I’ve been incredibly busy in Yuhan,” Mei said.“It’s okay. I know you had a lot to take care of.”They walked through the corridor and into the living room. Glenn, who had just come out of his office, joined them. They all sat comfortably on the sofa.“How does it feel to be expecting a baby?” Mei asked with a giggle.Hazel was due in four months. Time had flown by, and her belly was already showing significantly.“I feel ugly,” Hazel complained.“Ugly? You look so beautiful, Hazel. I’m even jealous of you,” Mei replied. “Being a mother is a privilege not every woman gets.”“I don’t know… I feel so emotionally unstable.” Hazel pouted.Glenn reached for Hazel’s shoulder and hugged he
The effects of the COVID-19 virus had completely vanished in Eagertown, and everyone had returned to their normal activities without worry. Glenn’s company had become more renowned, producing vaccines not only for COVID-19 but for other diseases as well. Glenn was very busy, but he always made time for Hazel.Glenn had just left the hospital after accompanying Hazel for a pregnancy checkup, when they happened to run into Beatrice. Apparently, Beatrice had just arrived there.“Mrs. Zimmerman, what are you doing here? Are you sick?” Hazel asked.“Oh, I’m not sick, Hazel. I have a meeting with some doctors here to discuss sending medical aid to remote areas in Latin America.” Beatrice chuckled softly.“You’re really busy,” commented Glenn. “Take care of your health, Mrs. Zimmerman.”Beatrice nodded. “Thank you for your concern, Glenn.”Then she continued, “Since I happened to run into you here, Glenn, there’s something I’d like to talk about. I need your help.”Glenn was momentarily tak
“Where’s Glenn?” Yvonne asked as she and Victor approached Hazel, who was already sitting and waiting at the café where they had arranged to meet.“He’s taking Sean and his grandmother to Ms. Eugene’s place.”Yvonne only nodded briefly, then took a seat. Victor immediately started flipping through the menu, feeling very hungry.“They’re going to stay there? It seems Eagertown isn’t suitable for Sean,” Victor commented.Hazel sighed softly. “It might be too noisy here.”“Some people just don’t feel comfortable living in the city, Hazel. It doesn’t mean they don’t like being with you.”“I know.” Hazel only nodded wearily.Hazel felt dizzy and her stomach was uneasy, but she forced herself to meet Yvonne and Victor because she wanted to discuss the charity. Yvonne was going to provide a report on the funds that had been allocated and where they had been sent, including to Ms. Eugene’s place.However, Hazel didn’t want to talk about that at all; she just wanted to lie down in bed.“Hazel?
The atmosphere there was busy, as everyone was hard at work building the town. Glenn got out of the car along with Sean and Grandma Mari. As Glenn expected, it seemed that Sean and the grandmother were immediately captivated. Both of them looked at Glenn.“This is a very nice place, Glenn,” praised Sean.From the crowd, Ms. Eugene emerged with a wide smile. She immediately greeted Glenn, Sean, and Grandma Mari.“This must be Sean and Grandma Mari,” nodded Ms. Eugene. “Mr. Glenn has called me, and I am really delighted if you want to stay here.”Grandma Mari agreed. “Of course. I feel at home already.”“You can look around if you like,” offered Ms. Eugene.Sean and the grandmother held hands, and they soon mingled with the people busy at work. Meanwhile, Glenn and Ms. Eugene watched over the bustling activity.“You’re very busy here?” asked Glenn.Ms. Eugene chuckled. “We got a lot of help from Mrs. Zimmerman’s charity and Miss Yvonne.”“Oh, really?”It turned out that the charity ment
A week after Mason's funeral, Beatrice visited Glenn's office. According to Mason's mandate, the company acquired by Glenn would still provide Beatrice with the remaining funds. It was no small amount since Glenn had bought Mason’s company at a fair price.Beatrice had signed the documents and handed them to Glenn. She looked very composed, though her heart had been broken twice after losing Mason forever.“It’s all done, Glenn. Thank you for your cooperation,” Beatrice said.“Once again, my deepest condolences, Mrs. Zimmerman.”A faint smile appeared on Beatrice’s lips. “What happened to Mason did break my heart. But in the end, he tried to be a good person, and I am still proud of him.”There was a light in Beatrice’s eyes, indicating she had come to terms with everything. Even when Mason returned, he was the Mason she had once known.“He will be remembered as a good man. I will make sure of that,” Glenn nodded.“Thank you, you are very kind.”“So, what are your plans moving forwa
Eleanor brought a cup of hot coffee, and though she had changed her clothes, her face still looked disheveled. She smiled sweetly as she placed the coffee on the table, then sat next to Mason. She tried to touch him, but Mason gently moved her hand to the sofa.“Once again, I’m sorry, Eleanor. But I can’t continue our relationship,” Mason said.“You’re going back to Beatrice, aren’t you?”“No. But we’ve made peace, and I know she doesn’t want me anymore.”“Then why? Why are you going back to her?” Eleanor asked, her eyes sad. “Stay here with me.”Mason gave a faint smile, his face looking sorrowful. He felt like the most despicable person in the world, having hurt both Beatrice and now Eleanor. They both deserved happiness, something Mason couldn’t offer.When Beatrice decided to keep their relationship as friends for now, Mason accepted it. He felt he had to be fair, which meant Eleanor also needed to find her own happiness.“You need to find your own happiness, Eleanor.” Mason kisse
Mason and Beatrice's arrival at Glenn's office caused quite a stir, as no one expected the former rival to show up there. Beatrice, looking calm, went to see Irina and Hazel, who happened to be in Glenn's office. Meanwhile, Mason headed straight for the elevator.Hazel, Irina, and Beatrice gathered in the meeting room. Irina and Hazel seemed eager to hear what had brought Beatrice and Mason together to Glenn’s office.“Did you make up?” Irina asked.Beatrice nodded. “As friends, I think. I can’t just accept Mason’s feelings, I don’t know… I don’t want to force myself.”“Yes, of course, Mrs. Zimmerman. Even though you're his wife, you have the right to find your own happiness. If it’s better to be friends, then that’s what you should do. But if your feelings say otherwise...” Hazel began, but Irina interrupted her.“No! Don’t go back to him. I can’t imagine it. Just stay friends, Beatrice,” Irina said firmly.Beatrice chuckled. “Yes, I’ll just follow wherever our story leads.”“He cam
The foggy memories slowly became clearer as Mason stepped onto the porch of the house he had long abandoned. Dark thoughts crept into his mind—if he knocked on the door, would he be welcomed? Or would everything be different?Mason took a deep breath and pressed the doorbell of the seemingly deserted house.Several minutes passed, and Mason continued to stand there, waiting. Finally, the front door opened, and Beatrice appeared. Despite looking older, her face was bright. She had found her own peace.However, the arrival of Mason seemed to shatter that peace instantly.“Mason?” Beatrice looked at him in disbelief.“I’d like to talk to you, Bea. May I? That is, if you’re willing.”Beatrice’s eyes remained fixed on Mason’s pitiful figure. Whatever had happened, something terrible must have hit Mason hard. Was this something Beatrice should celebrate?Regardless of Mason’s current troubles, maybe he had fought with Eleanor and decided to come back home.Beatrice’s ego raged inside her. A