The two hundred thousand dollars wiped away every worry.
I studied, joined research projects, and found friends who shared my drive.
With the money, I started a small consulting firm with classmates, designing and pricing insurance products for new carriers.
It paid better than bar work, and it mattered.
It was two in the morning when Riven walked into the project room, carrying a warm container of seafood rice soup.
His shoulders were hunched, and his voice was low with regret. "I'm sorry. I never should have joined that bet," he said, setting the container down gently on the table.
I looked up from my laptop, my tone cool and detached.
"I don't mind the bet," I told him. "It gave me what I needed."
Riven stepped closer, his eyes searching for mine, looking desperate for a second
