18 Again

Chapter 4

Nathan and Becca had always been close, sharing the weight of growing up without a father.

Their mother, Elsa, had raised them with unshakable love and determination, but Nathan had always felt a hole in his heart where a father figure should have been.

His mother never spoke much about the man who had left them. All he knew was that she had discovered his infidelity when she was still pregnant with Nathan, and since then, their lives had been a constant struggle. But now, with his second chance and the power of the Infinity System, Nathan was determined to give his mother and sister the life they deserved.

In Riverside City, Nathan’s plans began to take shape. With his newfound wealth, he needed to buy a new house and office not far from his mother’s modest home.

Just then, Nathan's phone rang.

Glancing at the caller ID, he saw it was from his dormitory roommate, Ben Gomez.

Despite Ben's decision to lead a simpler life with his girlfriend on campus, their bond remained strong for over a year.

Nathan answered the call.

"Nathan, where are you? We're in school with the others. I heard Rose rejected you. Don't do anything rash, keep an open mind. Out with the old, in with the new. Once you're feeling better, we'll organize a blind date to help you find someone better," Ben's anxious voice reassured from the other end of the line.

Nathan felt reassured by Ben's words. "Ben, what are you thinking? Why would I do something so foolish? Don't worry. I'm fine."

"Are you sure?"

"Absolutely!"

"Let me know your location. We'll come find you."

"No need. I'm already home. Relax."

"Really?"

"Yes, really!"

"It's good for you to take some time to unwind. Think about your family, who cares about you and me brother."

"Alright, I'm not that reckless. Don't worry! I'm hanging up now!"

Riverside Commercial and residence International.

These town were the most prestigious in Riverside City, with an average price per square meter starting at two hundred thousand dollars.

Strategically located, the entire Riverside Commercial and residence was surrounded by the River Leeds, boasting spectacular views and exclusivity.

Comprising so many buildings, each soaring 30 to 100 stories high, the units ranged from 200 to over a thousand square meters, catering to the affluent.

Luxury cars adorned the parking lot, making it apparent that anything less than a million-dollar vehicle would seem out of place.

Entering the Riverside Commercial and residence showroom, Nathan found the lobby somewhat deserted. Several sales representatives huddled together, chatting among themselves. None made a move to approach him as he entered.

The Riverside Commercial and residence had been on the market for so many years, yet there were still unsold units due to its exorbitant prices. Even a modest unit commanded tens of millions, putting ownership out of reach for many.

Initially, there was a surge of interest when sales began, attracting affluent buyers who snapped up available units within the first two years. However, those unable to afford the steep prices remained priced out of the market.

Consequently, many of the original sales staff had moved on, having pocketed substantial commissions from their earlier sales. With units fetching tens of millions or even hundreds of billions, the commissions alone represented a fortune. Although commissions started at two thousandths initially, the newer staff enjoyed a higher rate of 1%. Nevertheless, selling units has become increasingly challenging.

For some, working at the residence provided a stable income rather than relying solely on commission.

Upon seeing Nathan, it was evident from his attire that he wasn't a prospective buyer. Consequently, the staff continued chatting among themselves, showing no intention of assisting him.

Feeling somewhat awkward, Nathan stood by, unsure of whom to approach with his inquiries. After a few minutes, a young woman, around 26 or 27 years old, emerged from the showroom restroom.

Jona Ward had joined the Riverside Commercial and residence sales team just a month prior, thanks to her auntie's connections. Hailing from a rural area, she saw this opportunity as a pathway to wealth. However, despite her efforts over the past month, she hadn't secured a single sale.

Today, spotting a young man of younger age standing in the lobby, seemingly ignored by the veteran staff, she decided to approach him.

"Excuse me, are you here to tour the residences?" Jona approached Nathan eagerly, hopeful about a potential sale.

"Yes," Nathan confirmed.

Jona's excitement soared; finally, a chance to showcase a property.

What type of unit are you interested in, sir?"

"What options are available?" Nathan inquired.

Jona proceeded to outline the available units, noting that choices were limited due to the dwindling availability.

Ultimately, Jona settled on a 500-square-meter penthouse with Office Unit on the 22nd floor of Block 3.

With keys in hand, Jona led Nathan to view the chosen unit.

As they departed, the lobby staff began gossiping.

"Is he seriously considering a unit? He looks like he can't afford a square foot, let alone a penthouse with Office Unit. Does he even realize where he is?"

"Probably clueless about the prices here. Jona's new, so she's wasting her time with him."

"He'll likely have a rude awakening when he sees the price tag."

"Let's see how this unfolds."

Two hours later, Nathan and Jona returned to the lobby, taking seats by the side.

Jona offered Nathan a cup of tea before asking, "Mr. Garcia, were you satisfied with the tour?"

"Not entirely. The location of Block 3 isn't ideal. Are there units available in Block 1?" Nathan inquired, aiming for the best location given his intention to purchase.

"Please hold on for a moment, Mr. Garcia. Let me check for you," Jona said as she reached for the tablet to assist Nathan.

"Mr. Garcia, considering Block 1's prime location, there's only one unit remaining, a spacious loft-style penthouse with Office Unit spanning the 37th and 38th floors. It's the pinnacle of Block 1, covering 1300 square meters. However, it comes with a hefty price tag. I wouldn't recommend it," Jona cautioned.

"Oh? Can we take a look?" Nathan's interest was piqued without concern for the cost.

"Yes, but—" Jona began, only to be cut off by Nathan.

"Alright then, let's go!" Nathan's enthusiasm overrode any reservations.

Jona hesitated before conceding, "Very well, Mr. Garcia. Let me fetch the keys."

As they prepared to depart, a seasoned staff member in her thirties, still quite attractive, interjected from nearby.

"Jona, are you showing the top unit in Block 1?" She inquired, having overheard their exchange.

"Yes, Ms. Veronica," Jona confirmed.

"Jona, I don't mean to criticize, but not everyone who visits can tour our units, especially the premier one in Block 1. It's been meticulously designed by a renowned overseas designer. Who's accountable for any damage?" Ms. Veronica cautioned.

"Ms. Veronica, I'll exercise caution," Jona assured.