The Millionaire's Paradise of Love

Jace’s POV  "Ouch!" She exclaimed as I banged my shoulder into someone. I ignored her and continued my walk. I shove my hair with my fingers out of frustration. Damn those clumsy people who don’t know how to look where they're going. “Good morning sir,” They greeted me as I entered the company. I shoved my hands into my pockets and looked straight ahead, avoiding eye contact with everyone. I approached Diana, my efficient secretary. She stood poised, clipboard in hand, a ready smile on her face as she greeted me, “Good morning, sir.” I didn't waste a moment. 'My schedule for today?' I inquired, sinking into my office chair. The day unfolded before me as I absorbed the rhythm of my workspace. "You have a scheduled meeting today with Mr. Tan regarding the product, Sir," she said, her tone respectful. I avoided looking at her, as I habitually did with everyone, even my own family. Despite this, I could sense her smiling, as usual. I glanced at my watch. "What time?" I asked. "Lunch, at Martinez Restaurant," she replied. I retrieved my necktie from around my neck, adjusting it. My life as a businessman remained entwined in this piece of fabric, a path I had set for myself at the age of 18. Neglecting everyone along the way. And now, I have made myself self-made millionaires, earning billions of dollars anually. I have the power to do do anything. The leather seat cradled me as I navigated the city streets. The engine's hum felt like a companion. My hands gripped the wheel with determination, steering through the afternoon traffic. I composed myself and entered the restaurant. a chic restaurant known for sealing deals in style. The exterior was a blend of modern chic and classic elegance. Art adorned the walls, a silent witness to countless rendezvous and celebrations. The restaurant had its own heartbeat, synchronized with the clinking glasses and the low hum of conversation. The scent of gourmet cuisine hung in the air as he spotted Mr. Tan already seated, a man with a reputation for turning businesses into gold. a smug grin plastered on my face. "Montenegro, my man! Glad you could make it," he said, extending his hand like he was sealing some kind of secret deal. I shot him a handshake, sliding into the plush chair. "Yeah, let’s make it Tan, I don’t waste my time” He chuckled, pouring over the menu like he was examining some top-secret documents. "You're all business, Montenegro. I like that." The waiter interrupted our little power play, taking our orders with a too-polite smile. As soon as he left, Tan leaned in, his eyes gleaming with that 'I've got something up my sleeve' look. "So, Montenegro, let's talk marketing. I've got this killer strategy to make our hotels the talk of the town," he said, sipping his water like he was toasting to some genius plan. I raised an eyebrow. "Spill it, Tan. What's your grand idea?" He leaned back, looking mysterious as hell. "Picture this – a viral campaign, social media on fire, influencers snapping pics at our hotels like it's the hottest spot in the universe." he said. I smirked, swirling my water like it was a glass of whiskey. "Bold move, Tan. But I don't want a one-night social media sensation. I want long-term success." Tan winked. "Oh, Montenegro, this is just the beginning. We'll have them talking about our hotels for years." The waiter brought our food, but my mind was already in overdrive. This was the game-changer, and Tan had just handed me the keys to a whole new level of success. I leaned in, my own grin matching his. "Tell me more," I leaned my body towards the table and formed my hand in a powerful gesture. As the final bell echoed through the corridors of Saint Michael’s College, signaling the end of another mundane day of lectures, I sighed in relief. I gathered my scattered notebooks and pens, slipping them into my bag. My classmates hustled out, the room buzzing with chatter and laughter. The professor, Dr. Hernandez remind us, "Don't forget, your term papers are due next week! Make sure to give it your best shot." "Ugh, term papers," I muttered under my breath as I slung her bag over my shoulder and made me way out of the classroom. The sun outside was beginning its descent, casting a warm, golden glow on the campus grounds. my mind already drifting away from the academic concerns that had occupied my day. Outside the gates, I spotted my friend Gabriel, Gab for short, waiting for me. "Hey, Zylie! Wanna grab some coffee and escape the clutches of academia for a while?" he grinned, tossing his messy hair out of his eyes. "Sounds like the perfect cure for a day spent drowning in textbooks," I replied, returning the smile. We strolled toward the campus café, our conversation blending seamlessly with the gentle hum of students around them. Later that evening, Gab drove me home. I waved goodbye to him as I get out of the car, waiting him to passed by. And As I pushed open the door to our apartment building the familiar tension hit me like a wall. Another raised voices of my mom and dad seeped through the walls. "I can't believe you're doing this again! How many times do we have to go through this?" I heard mom’s voice laced with frustration, cut through the silence. I sighed. Here we go again. So I decided to choose not to stay at home tonight. The aroma of earth wafted through the air. As I strolled down the bustling streets, lost in my own thoughts, without a clear destination. I moved at a rhythm only I could hear, my steps echoing against the silent night. Suddenly, a car screeched to a halt inches away from me. I startled. My heart was pounding so hard in my chest. Who the hell is this? I almost hit. I thought I would nearly die. A man stepped out of his sleek black car. As my eyes met his hazel gaze. A man in a suit. A rush of disbelief and frustration washed me over when I looked at him closely. I can’t stop staring at him. The air, once heavy with danger, now shimmered with hearts around him. This guy is like a walking, talking daydream. His hazel eyes held a mesmerizing depth, chiseled jawline, well defined cheekbones, thin red lips, looked kissable. His dark messy hair, meticulously styled, added to the overall allure. He’s so hot. “Are you blind or something?” I snapped back to reality when he suddenly blurted out, “Ha! You're the one getting mad when you almost ran me over?' “What do you want, money?” He said in a serious tone, pulled out some cash from his wallet, counted a few bills, and handed them to me. My jaw dropped in disbelief. Handsome but stingy, seriously! “How dare you! What do you think of me? Keep your money! How dare you belittle others!” I yelled at him. “Fine, as you said,” he turned away, ready to walk off. “W-Wait,” I seized the opportunity, grabbed his hand, and pulled out a dollar. “Just $20 for food, thank you—” I turned away thinking I was done, then I realized I forgot something. I faced him again and said, “And also for a taxi!” confidently. Leaving him behind, “Bye!” I waved my hand with money on it without looking at him. I bet he looked dumbfounded, and I left him standing there. I just realized what I had done, and a sudden wave of shame washed over me. I couldn't shake off that gaze from earlier – he was just too darn handsome. If I didn't pull off that stunt, we wouldn't have anything to eat now. Sometimes, you gotta swallow your pride. And judging by his car and clothes, he's loaded. Sorry, bro, but it's for my family. Not like we'll ever cross paths again, so it's all good. I bought some food for the family and did a bit of grocery shopping with the leftover cash. Got some toys for my siblings too, and even managed to catch a cab home. In the taxi, I couldn't help but think maybe we crossed paths today because he's my guardian angel or something. My siblings greeted me with joy when I got home. I unloaded the groceries on the table and handed out the toys. "Wow, thanks, sis!" they cheered and hug me so tight. "Where'd you get the money?" Mom asked from behind me. I faced her, "Ma, it's from my school project commission." I lied. Later, in my room, I laid down on my bed, staring at the ceiling. I need to find a job. The more I study, the more our expenses pile up. It's getting tougher for them, especially for Mom. What if I just stop? What if I quit altogether? The next morning, I followed through with my plan to quit. I didn't bother telling Mom because I knew they wouldn't agree. I'll break it to them when it's done, no turning back. We are heading to find a bench to sit on, together with my best friend, Gab. He gave me a drink and I grabbed it. "Is it really serious that you're withdrawal, Zy? You can always get a part-time job." asked Gabriel, flashing sadness on his face. After I told him about my plan. I forced a smile as I looked towards him. "Part-time earnings won't be enough, Gab." "What about your studies?" he asked. "You know, education isn't everything. Education don't pay bills, In life we need to practical, It's about strategy to survive. Besides, it'll always be there. I can continue next year." He briefly lapsed into silence, "I'm gonna miss you" he said. "You too, but we can still hang out on the weekend, c'mon!" "Even so," he pouted. I smiled. I really have a cute best friend. I grabbed his hair and messed it up. So, my next move is to find a job as soon as possible. I got this. I don't know in life where I'm heading 'to.