The Zenith System

Chapter 004

As Zack waits for customers, his eyes land on the screen of a muted television mounted in the corner. A news anchor is interviewing a man who’d risen from obscurity to tech stardom.

The man sits confidently in a plush armchair, his posture exuding success and power. His designer suit fit his toned frame perfectly, and his expensive watch glints in the studio lights. His face is smooth and clean-shaven, with perfect teeth and a strong jawline. He looks like the epitome of a successful man.

Zack moves to it and turns the volume up.

The man speaks with a clear and articulate voice, his words precise and calculated. He speaks of terms like “disruptive technology” and “market domination” with ease. The interviewer’s questions are met with quick responses and occasional bursts of laughter, showcasing the man’s charismatic personality. In the background, there is the sound of applause from the audience, indicating the level of admiration for the rising tech star.

“Oh, that’s Mr. Leon. He’s pretty famous on social media because of how good-looking he is. Not to mention, wealthy.”

Zack turns towards the voice and sees Mason watching the interview with him.

“Hey, there!” Mason greets, smiling. “I’m done with my exams. It seems like I will finally graduate this year.”

“That’s good news,” he replies.

“So? Will Celeste join?”

“No, but she allowed you to come visit.”

Mason takes a deep breath. “But well, at least we can party tonight.”

“In my room. Celeste doesn’t like noise.”

“I remember,” he says.

They both turn their attention back to the interview on the television screen. The host is now asking about his love life.

Zack can’t help but feel a twinge of jealousy as he watches the confident and successful man on screen. He wonders what it would feel like to have everything handed to him on a silver platter — looks, money, success — instead of struggling every day just to make ends meet, and even failing to do it.

“I fell in love once,” Mr. Leon replies. “But it was unrequited.”

“Oh, the great Mr. Leon has been rejected?” the host asks, leaning forward with interest. “How did you handle it?”

Mr. Leon takes a moment to collect his thoughts before answering. “At first, I was devastated,” he admits. “But then I realized that sometimes, things just don’t work out, no matter how much you want them to.”

“Did your heartbreak inspire any of your innovations?” the host asks.

Mr. Leon chuckles. “Well, let’s just say that my focus and determination were definitely heightened after that experience.”

Zack can’t shake off the feeling of envy. It settles in his chest as he watches Mr. Leon’s success and charm on display.

It’s not fair, he thinks to himself. Why does everything come so easily to some people while others have to struggle just to get by?

“Earth to Zack!” Mason snaps his fingers in front of Zack’s face, bringing him back to reality.

“Yeah?” Zack blinks and shakes off his thoughts again.

“What time are we going to meet later?”

“Around eight maybe? I will text Celeste.”

“Okay! It will be a sleep-over.”

“Okay, see you.”

“See you,” Mason responds.