《My Life Changed with the Unlimited System》


 Chapter 1: The Weight of Tomorrow

    Ethan Cole stepped out of the bookstore, stretching his arms behind him with a deep sigh.


    ''It''s been a tiring day,'' he thought.


    The sky above Novan City was beautifully changing colors, with shades of orange and pink. The setting sun created long shadows on the busy streets below.


    The city was alive with activity; people rushed to catch their trains, groups of teenagers shared laughs, and street vendors tried to attract the attention of people walking by.


    Glancing at his phone, Ethan noticed it was 7:13 p.m. His workday had just ended, and despite it being the beginning of his summer break, he felt far from relaxed.


    He had spent his whole day restocking shelves, working the cash register, and dealing with demanding customers. It was far from the break he had been looking forward to.


    Ethan was managing with his part-time job, which helped cover his family''s groceries and some bills, but it always felt like it wasn''t enough.


    While lost in thought, his phone vibrated in his pocket. It was a message from his mom.


    Mom: [Hey honey, can you grab some groceries on your way home? The landlord stopped by again. We need to pay the rent by Friday. Can I ask you to help this month?]


    Ethan paused, looking at the message, feeling a wave of tiredness wash over him. He thought, ''How can I manage this time?''


    He then opened his phone''s banking app, Novan Trust, to check his balance. "Let''s see what I have..." he muttered, waiting for the app to update. Upon seeing his account balance, he sighed deeply.


    [Account Balance: $1,370.80]


    Ethan felt the pressure. Although he wanted to help, the weight of responsibility was overwhelming, coming at him from all sides.


    At twenty, Ethan had hoped this summer would be a break from the relentless demands of university life. Instead, he felt trapped, with the supposed break merely adding to his stress.


    "I''ll find ways to help," he reassured himself, trying to ease the growing worry in his mind. With a sigh, he put his phone away and began to walk down the crowded street.


    As evening approached, the city began to light up. Novan City had its charms, yet it was a place of stark contrasts.


    In the distance, skyscrapers and affluent areas sparkled, a vivid contrast to the older, rundown neighborhoods like Edgewater, where Ethan''s family resided.


    Edgewater was a tough place. Here, people worked tirelessly just to get by, and the dream of a better life seemed out of reach for most.


    Lost in thought, Ethan wandered aimlessly until a loud honk snapped him back to reality as he crossed the street.


    "Hey! Watch where you''re going, kid!" yelled the driver of a grey car, narrowly missing Ethan as he sped away.


    "I''m sorry!" Ethan quickly apologized, raising his hand even though the driver had already sped away. He continued walking, a familiar sense of tiredness creeping in.


    Working wasn''t the issue for Ethan. He didn''t mind it.


    The problem was that he seemed to always work just to survive without making any real progress. Whether it was his part-time job at the convenience store, tutoring local kids or fellow university students, or the occasional programming project, it all felt like treading water.


    It was as if he was standing still, watching the world rush by him.


    As Ethan reached Briggs Street, he suddenly heard someone calling his name from behind.


    "Ethan! Wait up, man!"


    Turning around, he saw Jordan, a good friend from high school, jogging towards him.


    Jordan was the type who always seemed at ease, with a smile that could lighten any mood and a charisma that made him well-liked wherever he went.


    "Hey," Ethan greeted, catching Jordan''s attention just as he caught up, slightly panting from the effort.


    "Man, I thought you''d already left for home. Did your shift just end?" Jordan inquired, brushing his hair away from his face.


    "Yep, just finished. I''m on my way to pick up some groceries for my mom," Ethan explained, looking around as the evening light began to dim.


    "Groceries, huh? Mind if I join you? I was about to go for a coffee, but that can wait," Jordan offered.


    A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    Ethan gave a nonchalant shrug. "Sure, why not?"


    They walked together through the bustling streets, heading to a nearby grocery store. Having been friends since their freshman year of high school, their bond was cemented by a mutual sense of humor and a relaxed, effortless friendship.


    Jordan decided to take a break after high school to explore and better understand himself before entering college. Meanwhile, Ethan chose a different path and went straight to university. In the middle of his degree, Ethan began questioning his decision.


    As they walked down Clementine Avenue, Jordan brought up the summer plans. "So, what''s the plan for this summer? Besides working your tail off, that is," he asked.


    Ethan responded with a light laugh, though it lacked real amusement. "Not much, really. Just trying to save up some money, help at home, and hopefully get a little break here and there."


    Jordan, surprised, replied, "Dude, you''re only twenty. You should be out having fun, not working all the time. How about we hit the beach next weekend, grab drinks, and enjoy ourselves?"


    Ethan shook his head, "I wish I could. But I need to cover this month''s rent; my mom''s been worrying about the bills. Plus, I''ve got tuition payments coming up."


    Concerned for his friend, Jordan said, "You still need to find time for yourself, man. If you don''t, you''ll be completely burnt out when school starts back up."


    Ethan managed a faint smile in response to Jordan, even though he knew Jordan was making a valid point.


    Ethan wasn''t opposed to the idea of taking it easy; every time he considered the possibility of a break, the harsh reality of his circumstances would come flooding back.


    He was overwhelmed by mounting bills, rent, and loans, and it seemed like there was no way out.


    Soon after, they found themselves at the quaint grocery store on the street''s corner. The store''s neon sign was slightly flickering as they entered.


    Ethan picked up a shopping basket and began filling it with basic necessities: milk, bread, eggs, and various canned goods.


    Jordan trailed behind him, somewhat absentmindedly browsing the aisles. Eventually, Jordan reached for some candies placed on the shelves.


    Jordan leaned in closer as they walked towards the checkout and whispered, "Did you hear about the robbery at the electronics store down the block?"


    Ethan looked surprised and asked, "Robbery? When did that happen?"


    "It was last night. A group of thieves broke in after the store closed and completely emptied it. And the weirdest part? Nobody heard or saw anything until it was all over."


    "That''s odd," Ethan remarked, ringing up his items.


    "Yeah, it really makes you think," Jordan lowered his voice even further, almost as if he were sharing a secret. "What if it wasn''t just ordinary thieves? What if it was, you know, professionals?"


    Ethan laughed a bit at that. "Sounds like you''ve been watching too many heist films."


    "But hey, you never know," Jordan responded with a wide grin. "The world is full of surprises."


    Ethan finished paying for his groceries and thanked the cashier before grabbing his bag. He and Jordan stepped back into the street, noticing the cooler air of the evening settling in.


    Ethan took a moment to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.


    As they parted ways, Jordan gave Ethan a few friendly pats on the shoulder and said, "Anyway, I''ll catch you later. Think about the beach, yeah? You could use some time off."


    Ethan responded, "Yeah, I''ll think about it," even though he wasn''t sure he''d actually be able to make it.


    Jordan waved goodbye and walked off in the opposite direction, leaving Ethan alone on the quiet street.


    Ethan adjusted his grip on the grocery bag and started walking back toward his home in Edgewater, his thoughts drifting as they often did lately.


    The city had a different feel at night. The lights seemed softer, and the usual noises were quieter.


    For a short while, Ethan felt the heavy burdens of work, family responsibilities, and the constant hustle just a bit lighter. But this moment of relief was brief.


    As he got closer to his apartment building, the harsh reality of his daily life came flooding back.


    Taking a deep breath, Ethan climbed the stairs, mentally preparing himself for another long night.

 Chapter 2: Wishes Granted

    Ethan gently pushed the creaky door open and stepped into the cozy, albeit small, apartment he called home.


    The moment he entered, he was greeted by a familiar scent¡ªa mix of a musty aroma and a trace of the dinner his mom had prepared earlier.


    "I can''t believe I skipped lunch," Ethan mused with a slight smile, his hunger making itself known through a rumble in his stomach.


    He set the grocery bag he was carrying onto the kitchen counter, taking a moment to look around the dimly lit room.


    It wasn''t much, but filled with memories and a sense of belonging. The peeling wallpaper, the old sofa propped up by a stack of books, and the kitchen light that flickered annoyingly all screamed ''home.''


    Just as he was settling into the comfort of being back, Ethan''s attention was drawn to the sound of arguing coming down the hallway. A wave of disappointment washed over him as he realized his parents were fighting again.


    "I''m doing everything I can, Elise! What do you want me to do, pull money out of thin air?" he heard his father''s voice, sharp with frustration.


    "And what am I supposed to do, Aaron? I''m working double shifts, but it''s still not enough! We''re behind on rent, the kids need stuff for school, and Ethan''s job barely pays him anything," his mother retorted, her voice laden with weariness and stress.


    Ethan was rooted to the spot, his stomach churning with anxiety. His parents'' argument was becoming all too familiar, fueled by their worsening financial strain.


    Aaron''s dad had a stable job at the local factory, but the pay was barely enough. His mom, Elise, worked as a nurse, often taking on extra shifts to help make ends meet.


    Despite their hard work, it never seemed to be enough. The whole family was feeling the pressure.


    The situation got even tougher when Ethan''s younger siblings, Lily, who was twelve, and fourteen-year-old Jacob, went back to school. They were both smart kids, but school brought extra expenses like new clothes, supplies, and fees for after-school activities that the family could hardly afford.


    Ethan was pained to see his parents struggling so much. He did his best to contribute with his part-time job, but it was barely enough to cover the essentials.


    Ethan let out a quiet sigh as he began to put away the groceries, doing his best not to make any noise. He didn''t want to accidentally walk into another argument. Despite his deep love for his family, the ongoing financial stress took a toll on everyone.


    "Is it possible to ask Ethan to help more?" he overheard his father''s voice break the silence. "He''s twenty now, old enough to start contributing more."


    "He''s already working two jobs, Aaron," Elise, his mother, responded with a gentler tone. "He''s doing all he can. We can''t expect him to solve all our problems."


    There was a pause before she continued, "Plus, he''s still in school. I don''t want us to overwhelm him. Our son will have a bright future if he manages to graduate."


    Hearing this, Ethan felt his grip on the milk carton tightens. He understood his dad meant no harm, but the pressure of being the eldest child was a constant burden.


    No matter how hard he worked, it seemed never enough to lift the financial strain off his family.


    Then, a loud crash came down the hall, followed by his father swearing softly. Ethan flinched; he knew his dad was just venting his frustration, but the anger in his voice still sent a wave of guilt through him.


    "I''m going to figure something out," he heard his dad say quietly. "I''ll ask around at work, see if there are any extra shifts or side jobs I can take on."


    "Aaron, you can''t keep pushing yourself to the limit," Elise''s voice was worried. "The kids need you. I need you."


    Listening to his mother''s words, Ethan felt his heart sink. They were all trying their best, yet the world''s weight was often on their shoulders.


    Fed up with the constant tension, he put the groceries down and went to the living room, feeling as if each step was heavier than the last. He couldn''t bear the strain any longer.


    When he walked in, he saw his parents on either end of the couch, looking utterly drained.


    "I''m home," he announced, more softly than usual.


    His mom''s eyes, weary from exhaustion, lit up a bit when she saw him. "Hey, honey. Did you manage to get everything?"


    "Yeah," he answered, scratching the back of his neck. He caught his dad''s gaze; he was staring at the ground, deep in thought. "Is everything¡­ okay?"


    Elise tried to smile, but her eyes betrayed her. "We''re fine, Ethan. Just having a discussion."


    "Discussion," Aaron interjected bitterly, shaking his head. "Feels more like an argument."


    Ethan felt awkward, standing there, not knowing what to say. The air was thick with tension like a storm waiting to erupt.Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    Suddenly, Ethan blurted, "I''m just so tired of this."


    His parents turned to him, taken aback by his sudden outburst. Ethan wasn''t known to intervene in their arguments.


    He usually stayed quiet, aiming not to burden them further. But tonight, he reached his breaking point.


    "I''m tired of living like this," he said, his voice growing louder with frustration. "We''re always just getting by, constantly worried about money. It feels like¡­ we''re stuck."


    Tears began forming in his eyes as he said, "I''m doing everything I can, but it''s never enough. Nothing''s ever enough."


    Elise''s eyes also filled with tears, though she remained silent. Aaron just looked at his son, his face showing no emotion.


    "I just¡­ I just wish¡­" Ethan''s fists clenched tight, his frustration and anger bubbling inside him. "I just wish I had unlimited money. Then we wouldn''t have to worry about any of this. I could fix everything. We could all live the way we''re supposed to."


    His words echoed around the room, leaving a heavy silence in their wake.


    Suddenly, a loud crack of thunder broke the silence, shaking their modest home, and was quickly followed by a heavy downpour.


    For a short while, nobody spoke. Ethan felt a flush of embarrassment on his cheeks.


    He knew it was foolish to wish for something unrealistic, but he couldn''t help it. He was simply exhausted.


    Exhausted from the endless struggle.


    Exhausted from watching his family slowly crumble.


    Aaron sighed deeply and ran his hand through his graying hair, breaking the silence. "I know, son," he said softly. "I know."


    Ethan turned away, unable to look into his father''s eyes, fearing the disappointment he might find there. He knew his father also wished for a better life, but they both knew there was no magic solution.


    Despite their hard work, their situation seemed unchangeable. However, the rain temporarily relieved their strained atmosphere.


    ***


    Hours later, after everyone had gone to bed, Ethan found himself lying on his bed in his tiny room, his gaze fixed on the ceiling.


    The rain continued to pour down heavily outside, its loud pattering sound becoming another reason Ethan couldn''t fall asleep.


    The anger that had bubbled within him earlier had now seeped away, leaving a deep, hollow sense of helplessness.


    His family faced tough times, and he felt powerless to make significant changes.


    Ethan reached for his phone to distract himself, hoping some mindless scrolling might help him drift off to sleep. However, a strange notification appeared as soon as he unlocked his screen.


    "Wait a minute¡­ Is this a virus?" he muttered to himself. Despite his attempts to close the notification, it stubbornly remained on the screen.


    The notification showed [Unlimited System].


    "What the heck is this¡­" Ethan muttered, his curiosity piqued by the notification. He tapped on it several times, but nothing seemed to happen.


    Suddenly, another notification appeared.


    [System Activation Complete]


    "What the...?" Ethan muttered, sitting in bed, puzzled by the unexpected message on his phone. He hadn''t signed up for anything, yet a notification claimed otherwise. Curious, he tapped on it, and a new screen popped up.


    [Congratulations, Ethan Cole. You have been chosen as the sole recipient of the Unlimited System.]


    Ethan blinked, taken aback. Was this some kind of joke? A spam message or even a scam? He tried to close the screen, but it stubbornly remained in place.


    Then, another message appeared.


    [Unlimited System Activated. Initial reward: Unlimited Money. Current balance: $1,000,000,000.]


    His heart skipped a beat. A billion dollars? This had to be some sort of prank. "Who''s messing with me right now?" he wondered aloud.


    Considering his background as a student and programmer, Ethan knew a skilled hacker could pull off such a trick. But the question lingered: why him?


    The notification vanished, leaving Ethan free to open his banking app. With trembling hands, he navigated to his account balance.


    [Account Balance: $1,000,000,000]


    "What in the world am I seeing..." he whispered, disbelief coloring his tone. There it was, clear as day: one billion dollars in his account. It seemed impossible. How could this be real?


    Just then, another message appeared on his screen.


    [The system has limited your initial account balance to avoid triggering suspicion. The funds are recorded as an investment from a large corporation to prevent bank intervention. This is only the beginning.]


    Ethan was overwhelmed with questions. Why would anyone invest in him, and how could suddenly having a billion dollars not raise alarms at the bank?


    Before he could digest this, another message appeared on his phone screen.


    =====


    [New Mission Unlock: Improve Your Status]


    [Description: Use the resources you have to better your life and the lives of your family. Complete missions to gain experience and unlock more abilities.]


    =====


    Ethan was speechless. His phone showed something unbelievable. Earlier, he had vented about wanting endless money, and now, it seemed like his wish had come true.


    Despite how impossible it seemed, his account balance was there as proof.


    His head was spinning with countless questions, but one thing was undeniable; if this was real, his life was about to change in unimaginable ways.


    Lying back down, Ethan felt a sense of possibility washed over him, replacing his previous exhaustion.


    Ethan was staring at his screen in disbelief. He navigated several menus, uncovering options for missions, skills, and, surprisingly, a status panel showing his attributes.


    It felt like something straight out of a video game, yet it was too surreal to be just that. His hands shook as he clicked to view his account balance again.


    [Account Balance: $1,000,000,000]


    There it was, staring back at him - an absurd, seemingly impossible figure.


    "Okay, this has to be some kind of scam," Ethan muttered. "But thank you for adding some excitement to my life."


    He put his phone down and rubbed his eyes, trying to dispel the feeling that he was ensnared in a peculiar dream. His mind was cloudy, as if hovering between reality and fantasy.


    Yet, the screen''s image remained clear and vivid, as tangible as anything else in his life. Ethan hesitantly picked up his phone again, his gaze fixed on the balance.


    If this was indeed real... if this unbelievable event was actually happening... what then?


    He lay back on his bed, his heart racing. Sleep was out of the question now. His life could have taken a turn he never imagined possible.


    He remembered his mother''s voice from earlier, advising him not to overwork himself, to embrace life, and to cherish his youth.


    Ethan glanced at his phone again, scrolling through the system''s options. Missions, rewards, and enhancements were all presented like a smorgasbord of unimaginable choices.


    For the first time, he had the opportunity to alter everything. "I''ll check again after I wake up to see if it is still there."


    Despite the whirlwind of thoughts, he eventually drifted off to sleep.

 Chapter 3: It Couldnt Have Been Real

    Ethan awoke to the gentle buzz of the city life outside his window. Dawn''s early light seeped through the curtains, softly illuminating his cramped and messy room.


    "What... time is it?" he mumbled to himself.


    Sitting up slowly, memories from the night before flooded back, causing his heart to race. His gaze quickly shifted to his phone on the nightstand.


    ''It couldn''t have been real, could it?''


    Eager for answers, Ethan grabbed his phone and unlocked it. To his astonishment, the screen displayed the interface of the Unlimited System.


    The very same system that had indicated he now had access to a billion dollars. A shiver of excitement ran through him.


    Determined whether this was reality or just a strange dream, Ethan decided there was only one way to confirm it.


    "Let''s test it," he whispered, his hands trembling slightly as he opened an online shopping website and headed straight for the digital games section.


    He browsed through the game listings, adding to his cart some of the most expensive titles he had always wished for but never imagined he could afford.


    At the checkout screen, Ethan saw a jaw-dropping total of $3,500. Hesitating, he lingered on the "purchase" button, his thumb suspended.


    "This is insane," he thought, wrestling with the decision. "What if I''m wrong?"


    Yet his curiosity improved, and he pressed "purchase." For a brief moment, his heart seemed to freeze in his chest.


    As the loading icon spun, Ethan held his breath in anticipation. Then, suddenly, the transaction was complete.


    [Transaction successful.]


    A confirmation email popped up immediately. Everything had gone through without a hitch¡ªno alerts, no errors, just a smooth transaction.


    Ethan had just spent $3,500 on games, which he had effortlessly paid despite insufficient funds to cover the purchase.


    Shocked yet intrigued, Ethan realized he needed more evidence, something more conclusive, to test the system''s limits.


    He quickly searched and found a custom-built gaming PC, a high-end gaming chair, and a desk totaling over $9,000, which was far beyond what he could typically afford.


    Without a second thought, he added the entire setup to his cart and clicked "purchase" again.


    "I''ll worry about what to tell Mom and Dad later," he said.


    Again, the loading wheel spun. Ethan''s stomach churned with nerves. What if it didn''t work? What if it had all been a fluke? But then¡ªanother confirmation.


    [Transaction successful.]


    Ethan was in shock. Holding his phone, he could hardly believe what he saw on the screen. It was all real. The system that promised unlimited money wasn''t a scam.


    The money was actually there!


    "What''s actually happening?" Ethan wondered aloud, setting his phone down with utmost care. His mind raced with what this could mean.


    A mix of excitement and disbelief surged through him. This wasn''t a dream or a figment of his imagination. He really did have access to unlimited money. However, he knew he had to keep this a secret for now.


    Taking a deep breath, Ethan swung his legs off the bed and stood up, trying to calm the whirlwind of emotions inside him.


    He had to act like everything was normal, even though his life had changed dramatically.


    "I should help my parents first," Ethan thought.


    Quietly, he opened his bedroom door and stepped into the hallway. The comforting sounds of his home¡ªdishes clinking and his parents'' voices softly conversing in the kitchen¡ªgreeted him.


    His mother was busy making breakfast, and he saw his father flipping through the morning newspaper at the dining table.


    When Ethan walked into the kitchen, he saw his dad, Aaron, intently searching through newspaper job ads, marking some with a pen.


    Aaron''s face showed signs of wear and worry, indicating he was intensely focused on finding a solution to a tough problem.Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site.


    "Morning," Ethan said, trying to sound relaxed.


    His dad briefly looked up and responded, "Morning, son," before returning to his job hunt with a sigh, turning to the next page of the newspaper.


    Ethan''s mom, Elise, was busy at the stove, preparing eggs and bacon. She looked over and gave Ethan a warm smile.


    "You''re up early. Sleep well?" she asked.


    "Yeah," Ethan lied, having spent a restless night worrying about the activated system. "It smells great in here."


    "Breakfast will be ready in a bit. Your brother and sister will wake up soon," she said, focusing back on the stove.


    Right then, Ethan''s younger siblings, Lily and Jacob, came into the kitchen, still in their pajamas and looking sleepy.


    Lily managed to smile a sleepy smile for Ethan and sat down while Jacob went straight to the fridge to get some juice.


    "Morning, sleepyhead," Ethan joked, playfully ruffling Lily''s hair as she passed him.


    Lily glanced at him, too groggy to respond; the early morning wake-ups were not her thing.


    Taking a seat at the table, Ethan''s heart was racing. He took a moment to observe his father, who was engrossed in circling another job ad in the newspaper.


    ''Don''t worry anymore, Dad. This will all be over soon,'' Ethan silently promised himself.


    He was determined to finish his mission quickly, to better his and his family''s lives. They had been through enough hardships, particularly his parents.


    Now was their time to live happily and without stress. They had earned it, after all.


    For months, the tension of financial worries and the constant hunt for more work had lingered over them.


    Ethan saw how hard his father worked, and it pained him to see him struggle so much.


    But now, he had a chance to change everything. He could lift the burden off his parents'' shoulders.


    Yet, explaining it would be difficult.


    How could he casually say, "Hey, I''ve just come into a billion dollars; it''s no big deal"?


    His train of thought was suddenly broken by the sound of dishes clattering as his mom set a plate of eggs and bacon in front of him.


    "Eat up; you''ve got a long day ahead," she said, smiling.


    Ethan nodded, his mind still preoccupied. He ate quietly, his thoughts racing with what was to come.


    The excitement of the morning purchases still buzzed under his skin, but he forced himself to stay calm, to act like everything was normal.


    After breakfast, Lily and Jacob shuffled into the living room, the television clicking on as they settled on the worn couch.


    Ethan watched them for a moment, his heart tightening. They were too young to understand the full extent of the stress over the family, but Ethan knew they could sense it.


    The constant worry about money, the tension that sometimes boiled over into arguments, wasn''t lost on them.


    Ethan picked at his food, his mind racing. After a few minutes, as the sound of cartoons filled the background and his parents sat down to eat, he decided he couldn''t wait any longer.


    "Mom, Dad," he began, his voice steady but filled with a quiet urgency, "how much do we need for rent and bills this month? Exactly?"


    Both his parents looked at him, confused. His mother furrowed her brow. "Why do you want to know that?"


    Ethan, trying to keep his voice light, said, "I just¡­ I want to help. We''ve been stretching every dollar, and I want to do more. Maybe take some of the load off."


    Aaron, his brow furrowed in concern, responded, "Ethan, you''re already doing so much. You''re juggling two jobs and your studies."


    With a concerned look, he added, "You shouldn''t have to worry about covering the rent or the bills on top of that."


    Ethan faced his father, a mix of guilt and determination stirring within him. He didn''t want to see his dad take on another job, nor did he want his mom to work overtime to make ends meet.


    ''I can fix this,'' he thought to himself.


    He needed to convince them.


    Turning to his mother, Ethan persisted, "Mom, please. Just let me know how much we need."


    After sharing a look with Aaron, Elise replied, "The rent is behind by $2,500 and for the utilities and groceries for the rest of the month... it''s probably close to another $1,000."


    Ethan calculated the amount in an instant¡ª$3,500. A sum that might have seemed insurmountable before, but now? It was barely a drop in the ocean of what he had at his disposal.


    And yet, as he glanced at his parents, seated across the table with their tired faces and the weight of endless worries etched into every line, he knew they couldn''t even imagine how easily he could fix this.


    "I''ll take care of it," he said quietly, his voice steady and certain.


    His father froze mid-bite, setting his fork down as he looked up, startled. "What do you mean, ''take care of it''?" Aaron asked, his tone edged with disbelief.


    For a moment, there was silence, broken only by the faint hum of the television in the next room. Aaron''s eyes, sharp and searching, locked onto Ethan''s, and his expression shifted to something more cautious, more concerned. It was the look of a man who had asked too much once before and carried the regret of it like an old wound.


    "Ethan," Aaron began, his voice quieter now, "that''s not your responsibility. I know I asked for your help before, but I realized it was wrong."


    He paused, sighing deeply as though each word carried its own weight. "Don''t worry about this. I''ve been looking for extra work, and your mom''s picking up more shifts at the clinic. We''ll manage¡ªjust like we always do."


    But Ethan shook his head, a quiet resolve burning in his chest. "No, Dad, I''m serious," he said, pulling his phone from his pocket.


    His heart thudded as he unlocked the screen and opened his banking app. For a brief moment, he hesitated. It wasn''t the amount that gave him pause, nor the thought of giving it away¡ªhe was more than willing.


    It was the knowledge that everything was about to change, that this act, simple as it seemed, would be the first step toward lifting the veil of struggle that had hung over their family for so long.


    The numbers on the screen were as steady as ever, the balance unchanged by the earlier purchases that had once felt impossible. He smiled¡ªa small, quiet smile¡ªas he navigated to the transfer page.


    "I''ve got this," Ethan said, his voice calm but firm.


    "Ethan¡ª" Aaron started again, leaning forward, but Ethan didn''t give him a chance to finish. His fingers moved quickly, selecting his father''s bank details, which had been saved as a favorite from past transfers.


    He doubled the amount his mother had mentioned¡ª$7,000¡ªand pressed send.


    The phone vibrated a moment later, and the familiar notification appeared on the screen.


    [Transaction successful.]


    Ethan looked up, his heart pounding in his chest. "Check your account," he said, his voice lighter now, almost playful.


    Aaron hesitated, glancing at Elise, who raised her eyebrows in a silent question. Finally, with a faint sigh, Aaron picked up his own phone, his movements slow and deliberate. He tapped through the screens, squinting slightly as he opened the banking app.


    And then he stopped.


    "What¡­?" Aaron''s voice was barely audible, the word catching in his throat as his eyes widened. He stared at the screen as though it had just shown him something impossible, something that defied all logic and reason.


    Elise leaned over his shoulder, her hand flying to her mouth as she gasped. "Ethan, where did this come from?" she asked, her voice trembling with a mixture of shock and amazement.


    Ethan couldn''t hold back his smile any longer. For the first time in what felt like forever, the crushing weight on his chest began to lift. "It''s okay," he said softly, meeting their wide, astonished eyes. "I''ve got it covered. You don''t have to worry anymore."


    For a moment, neither of them spoke. The room seemed to hold its breath as though the very walls were trying to understand what had just happened.


    Slowly, the tension on their faces eased, replaced by something else¡ªrelief and maybe even a glimmer of hope.


    They didn''t know how or why. They couldn''t even begin to understand. But for the first time in months¡ªperhaps years¡ªthey felt the heavy burden they carried shift, ever so slightly, as if someone had taken it from them and carried it away.


    And for Ethan, this was just the beginning.

 Chapter 4: Questions and Answers

    Ethan sat at the kitchen table, his hands clasped tightly in front of him as though they might betray his nerves if left unchecked. The atmosphere in the room was heavy¡ªone of those silences that seemed to hum with unspoken questions.


    Across from him, his father, Aaron, sat stiffly, his arms crossed as if they might shield him from whatever answer was about to come. Near the counter, Elise hovered uncertainly, Aaron''s phone still in hand, its screen showing the notification of the startlingly large sum Ethan had transferred that morning.


    "Ethan," Aaron said, at last, his voice low and measured, "where did this money come from?"


    Elise added quickly, her voice gentler but no less urgent, "Yes, Ethan. We need you to be honest with us. This is a significant amount of money."


    Ethan swallowed hard, the lump in his throat refusing to budge. He had known this moment would come and had prepared for it in his mind all day.


    But knowing it was inevitable hadn''t made it any easier. His family had been walking a financial tightrope for so long that the idea of money¡ªreal, substantial money¡ªappearing out of nowhere was bound to raise questions.


    "Ethan," Aaron continued, his eyes narrowing, "did you know how much it was? This isn''t pocket change¡ªit''s what we''d make in a few months."


    Elise nodded, her face pale with worry. "Ethan," she said, her voice trembling slightly, "you didn''t borrow this, did you? Please tell us you haven''t gotten involved with loan sharks or something illegal."


    "No, Mom," Ethan said quickly, shaking his head, his words tumbling out before she could imagine worse. "It''s nothing like that. I didn''t borrow it. It''s¡­ it''s from the university."


    Aaron''s brow furrowed deeply at that, his confusion plain. "From the university?" he repeated, leaning forward slightly. "You''re telling me the part-time tutoring job pays that much?"


    "No, not the tutoring," Ethan said, trying to keep his tone even. He could feel their skepticism thickening the air around him, but he pressed on. "It''s payment for a project. A big project."


    Aaron and Elise exchanged a look, the kind that parents reserve for moments when neither wants to be the first to voice their doubts. Elise finally set the phone down, though her hands still trembled slightly.


    Aaron''s voice grew firmer now, carrying the quiet authority of a father who had weathered too many storms to let this moment pass without answers.


    "Ethan," he said, his tone both probing and patient, "what kind of project is this exactly? You can''t expect us to believe that a few shifts at the shop or some tutoring could earn you¡ªwhat, ten thousand dollars? Overnight?"


    Ethan forced himself to hold his father''s gaze. Aaron''s eyes, sharp and probing, seemed to be searching for cracks in his son''s resolve.


    "It''s related to the faculty," Ethan said at last, choosing his words with the utmost care. "The computer science department, to be precise."


    His parents waited in silence, their eyes fixed on him with a mixture of expectation and unease. The moment stretched, and for the first time in a long while, Ethan felt the weight of their trust resting squarely on his shoulders.


    "They needed my help," he began, his voice measured, "with a project¡ªa new digital portal for the faculty''s library."


    At this, his parents'' expressions softened ever so slightly. Ethan was known for his diligence and skill; he had always been a top student, the sort who could be relied upon in a pinch.


    The idea of the university entrusting him with a significant task wasn''t entirely out of the realm of possibility, and he could see their guarded skepticism beginning to waver.


    Elise still looked concerned¡ªher brow furrowed, her hands clasped tightly in front of her¡ªbut the sharp edge of her worry seemed to dull.


    Aaron, meanwhile, sat back slightly, though his arms remained crossed, his brow furrowed as he weighed Ethan''s words.


    Ethan pressed on, sensing a glimmer of belief-forming. "You know I''m good at coding and programming," he said, his voice more confident now. "I''ve done freelance work in the past, but this project is a much bigger deal."


    Elise tilted her head, her anxiety shifting into something more like curiosity. "But why would they pay you so much?" she asked, her tone still cautious. "And why choose you over a professional company?"


    Ethan drew a steady breath, and the rehearsed story was coming smoothly now. "The faculty needed a custom portal for managing digital resources more efficiently," he explained. "Hiring an agency would have cost them a fortune. They thought it made more sense to ask someone... they could do it cheaper, and they already trusted."


    "I see¡­" Aaron said slowly, raising an eyebrow as he considered Ethan''s words. "So, instead of contracting a professional firm, they approached you? A student?"


    Ethan nodded, his resolve hardening. "Exactly. They knew an external agency would cost them tens or hundreds of thousands more. They offered me the job as a way to save money¡ªand I agreed to do it for about ten percent of what they''d normally pay."Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more.


    Aaron stroked his chin thoughtfully, his skepticism giving way to contemplation. "So, the faculty is paying you over ten thousand dollars for this project?" he asked, his voice tinged with incredulity.


    "Actually... More than that," Ethan confirmed, keeping his tone steady. "They needed it done urgently, and since I''ve been working closely with the tech team on campus, they believed I was capable of delivering. I even requested a portion of the payment upfront to get started."


    Elise''s expression softened further, though a trace of unease lingered in her eyes. "But Ethan," she said gently, "ten thousand dollars for a university project still seems¡­ excessive, doesn''t it?"


    Ethan shrugged, doing his best to appear nonchalant. "I thought the same thing at first," he admitted. "But when you compare it to what they''d have paid an external company, it actually makes sense."


    "And how much would an agency have charged?" Elise asked, her voice still laced with doubt. She was leaning forward now, her worry shifting into the kind of intense questioning that only a mother could master. "Just so we''re clear."


    Ethan met her gaze steadily. "The agencies they looked into charge anywhere from eighty to over a hundred thousand dollars for a project like this," he said. "So paying me just over ten grand is actually a huge saving for them."


    Ethan could see it plainly¡ªhis father''s doubt was still there, etched into the tight line of his mouth and the furrow of his brow. Yet alongside it, something else was beginning to take shape: the faintest flicker of acceptance, like a candle struggling to catch in the wind.


    Aaron wanted to believe his son, but the numbers seemed too large, too improbable.


    "And they''ve already sent you the money?" Aaron asked, at last, his tone low and even, though his fingers tapped lightly against the table¡ªa small, restless motion that betrayed his unease.


    "Yes," Ethan replied, his voice firm but calm. "I only noticed it late last night when I went to my room. Honestly, I didn''t expect it to show up so quickly, but they''re eager to get started. I requested an advance, and they agreed without hesitation."


    Aaron leaned back slightly, his skepticism loosening but not yet gone. Nearby, Elise had been standing with the phone still in her hand as though the screen itself might somehow hold more answers.


    Slowly, she crossed the room and sank into the chair opposite Ethan, her movements careful and deliberate, as though she feared sitting too quickly might disturb the fragile moment.


    "Ethan," she began, her voice softer now, laced with both gratitude and worry. "Are you certain this is¡­ all right? You know we''re grateful¡ªmore than grateful¡ªbut it''s such a lot of money. And with school on top of everything else, don''t you think this might be too much for you to handle?"


    For a moment, Ethan hesitated. Not because he doubted himself but because he could see the weight of his mother''s concern as plainly as the sun shining through the kitchen window. But he couldn''t let that weight settle on her any longer.


    "Mom," he said with a quiet confidence that surprised even himself, "I promise, I can manage this. I''ve been doing similar work for years now, even during my high school days. This project will not only help me financially but also in my studies. It''s a win-win."


    Aaron let out a long, slow breath, the kind of sigh that seemed to carry the strain of months, maybe years, of worry. "Do you really think you can manage a project of this size?" he asked, his voice gentler now but still probing.


    Then, after a pause, he added, "And what about the money? What you''ve already given us¡ªit''s generous, but are you sure it won''t leave you short?"


    Ethan''s lips twitched into the faintest of smiles. "I''ve already done most of the planning," he replied, leaning forward slightly. "Coding is the easy part for me. Honestly, the hardest part is convincing you both that I''ve got this," he added with a small laugh, his tone light but sincere.


    For a moment, neither of his parents spoke. Elise''s tightly clasped hands slowly relaxed, resting against the table, while Aaron stroked his chin thoughtfully, his sharp gaze softening just a little.


    The silence wasn''t tense anymore; it felt more like a shared pause, a moment where all the pieces of a puzzle were falling, perhaps not into perfect order, but into a shape that might make sense someday.


    And for Ethan, that was enough.


    Ethan met his parents'' eyes with a look of quiet determination, softened by affection. "And besides," he said gently, "being able to support you both makes all of this feel easier for me. It''s not a burden¡ªit''s something I want to do."


    For a moment, Aaron said nothing. He simply looked at his son, his expression unreadable, as though weighing the words against the long years of struggle they had all endured together.


    Then, slowly, he nodded. "Alright," he said, at last, his voice low but steady. "I''ll trust your judgment. Thank you, Ethan."


    The words were simple, but they carried a weight that Ethan could feel in his chest. Relief washed over him in a wave so powerful he almost sighed aloud. He had done it¡ªhe had reassured them, at least for now.


    Elise, still sitting close to him, reached out and took his hand. Her grip was firm but warm, the kind of touch that could carry both gratitude and worry at once. She managed a small, trembling smile. "We trust you," she said softly. "But, Ethan, if it ever becomes too much, you have to tell us. Promise me. We don''t want you carrying more than you can handle."


    "I promise," Ethan replied, his voice steady.


    But even as he spoke, his mind was already racing. The promise wasn''t false¡ªhe meant it at the moment¡ªbut deep down, he knew the real challenge ahead wasn''t the project or even his parents'' concerns.


    It was the system. The incredible, unexplainable system that had placed unimaginable power in his hands.


    The thought was exhilarating, almost dizzying. Yet he forced himself to stay composed. For now, there were no systems, no billion-dollar questions¡ªjust his family and the quiet relief beginning to settle over them like the first rays of sunlight after a storm.


    Aaron stretched and yawned as he stood, his weariness seeming lighter somehow, like a man who had finally been allowed to set down a heavy load. "Well," he said with a small, contented smile, "this changes everything for us. I guess I don''t need to go job hunting today."


    Ethan chuckled, the sound light and unrestrained. "Nope," he said with a grin. "I''ve got us covered for a while."


    Elise''s face softened further, and for the first time in what felt like years, she let out a small laugh, the sound bright and fragile, like the first chirp of a bird in spring.


    "Thank you so much, Ethan," she said, her voice filled with warmth. Aaron nodded his agreement, his hand resting briefly on his son''s shoulder¡ªa silent gesture of gratitude and pride.


    The three of them shared a look that needed no words. For the first time in longer than any of them cared to admit, they felt something close to peace.


    The weight of years of financial strain, of quiet desperation and sleepless nights, had finally lifted. And all it had taken was a single transfer of money¡ªa simple act that, in its own quiet way, had reshaped everything.

 Chapter 5: The Unlimited System

    Ethan Cole stepped outside into the cool morning, the sky a mix of soft blues and pale yellows.


    "It''s a good day today," Ethan said, taking a deep breath. Though the air wasn''t fresh because he lived in the city''s lower parts, it felt good to be outside.


    He looked around. Novan City was just starting to wake up; the streets were not yet crowded with the usual rush of people.


    Ethan adjusted his backpack and started walking to the bookstore, but his mind was not on the day ahead.


    ''Unlimited System... I haven''t really explored the system yet,'' Ethan thought.


    His thoughts weren''t about work or bills but about something unbelievable he had in his pocket¡ªthe system.


    It had been less than a day since his life changed completely. A billion dollars. And not just once¡ªa never-ending supply of money.


    No matter how much he spent or moved around, his account always returned to that unbelievable amount. His balance never went below $1,000,000,000.


    ''I wonder how the system keeps the balance without the bank noticing. Or maybe they haven''t noticed yet.''


    It was as if some unseen hand was refilling his account, again and again, without fail or delay.


    Magic?


    That seemed too fanciful, even for something as fantastical as this.


    No, Ethan reasoned, it must be some kind of technology¡ªfar more advanced than anything this world had yet conceived. It had to be.


    How else could it operate without triggering alarms at the bank or raising red flags somewhere along the line?


    Ethan had already spent more in the last twenty-four hours than he had ever dreamed of having in a lifetime¡ª$12,000 on clothes and gifts as small tokens of care for his family.


    He pushed aside the thought of explaining the purchases. He had decided earlier, with no small degree of conviction, that he owed no one an explanation.


    Not anymore. His parents had believed him well enough after that morning¡ªreluctantly, yes, but they had believed. That was all the permission he needed to spend as he wished. And spend he would.


    Still, there was something about the balance that gnawed at him.


    No matter what Ethan did, the number never changed. It stayed there, solid and unshaken, as though the system itself were saying, Go on¡ªtry me.


    "Where''s it coming from?" Ethan murmured, his breath forming small clouds in the chilly morning air. "Is it really just¡­ unlimited?"


    The words sounded absurd even as he said them. His mind whirled with questions. Could the balance grow beyond a billion? Did the system have limits, or was it as endless as it seemed?


    ''Can I be listed among the richest men now?'' Ethan laughed aloud at the thought, the sound echoing faintly down the quiet street. Here he was, barely a day into this new reality, already entertaining wild dreams of being listed among the richest men in the world.


    It was ridiculous, of course. And yet¡­ was it?


    Shaking his head, Ethan decided not to think too much about the how. This was his new reality. The system had chosen him¡ªwhy or how he didn''t know, but it had.


    There was no point in questioning what was already done. The only thing to do now was figure out what the system was capable of¡ªand what, if anything, it might want in return.


    But even as he tried to focus on the system''s possibilities, a deeper worry crept into his thoughts. Safety. Not just his own but his family''s. How long could he keep this secret?


    The sudden change in their circumstances would draw attention¡ªit always did. People noticed things like new clothes, new cars, and new lives. And people asked questions.


    "Should I hire bodyguards?" he muttered to himself, then immediately dismissed the thought. His parents would be terrified at the very idea, and his siblings¡ªwell, they''d think he''d lost his mind.


    No, there had to be a subtler way to protect them, something that wouldn''t draw too much attention. But what?


    He unlocked his phone, half-expecting the system''s interface to vanish like a dream upon waking. But it didn''t. Instead, the same screen appeared, clear as day, as though mocking his disbelief.


    "Unlimited System," he whispered to himself, the words tasting strange and unfamiliar.


    "What''s happening?" Ethan murmured, his voice barely audible above the faint rustle of the waking city. He stopped in his tracks, his eyes wide as he stared at the system interface that had appeared¡ªno, not on his phone, but before him.


    It hovered in midair, faintly glowing, its edges shimmering like the surface of a pond rippling under sunlight. There was no mistaking it. This wasn''t the app on his phone, nor some ordinary screen.


    This was something else entirely¡ªsomething far beyond the bounds of what he understood to be possible.


    Ethan blinked, half-expecting the image to vanish, to flicker out like a faulty projection. But it didn''t. It remained as solid and present as the ground beneath his feet, its sharp, clean lines glowing faintly against the soft morning light.


    Yet here it was, undeniable and immediate, as though the system itself had decided to step out of fiction and into his reality. It hung there in the air as if to say, Go on. Touch it. See what happens.


    Ethan''s heart raced, his pulse thudding loudly in his ears. He lifted a hand hesitantly, his fingers twitching in the direction of the interface. But before he could reach it, the panel responded¡ªnot to his touch, but to his thought.


    The icons shifted, rearranging themselves with a smooth, effortless precision as though they had been waiting all along for the silent command.


    He stumbled back a step, his breath catching in his throat. "This¡­ this isn''t real," he whispered, though the words rang hollow even to him. He knew it was real.


    The system seemed to pulse faintly as if acknowledging his presence. Ethan stared at it, the questions swirling in his mind too many to grasp at once.


    ''How is this possible? What else can it do?''


    No answers came. The system remained silent, its glowing numbers and symbols holding all the secrets Ethan had yet to uncover.


    If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    Each icon seemed alive with promise, hinting at possibilities he could only guess at. He flipped through them with a thought, the selections gliding smoothly under his invisible command.


    But as he walked, a small, nagging worry crept into his mind. The panel hung openly in front of him, unseen by anyone else but impossible for him to ignore.


    What if someone happened to notice his odd behavior?


    A young man staring into space or making tiny, unconscious gestures wasn''t the strangest sight in the city, but it was unusual enough to draw attention.


    ''Perhaps I can move the display back to my phone,'' Ethan thought, his brow furrowing slightly. ''It would look more natural there.''


    No sooner had the thought crossed his mind than the panel flickered. It shimmered softly, folding inward like a bird tucking its wings, and then it was gone.


    A moment later, it reappeared on his phone''s screen, crisp and orderly, as though it had been waiting for precisely that request all along.


    "Well," Ethan murmured, his lips curving into a faint smile. "That''s more like it."


    The system, it seemed, wasn''t just responsive; it was perceptive. It had shifted to meet his need before he''d even properly voiced it, as though it understood him better than he understood himself.


    Ethan found the thought both comforting and unnerving, though he couldn''t quite decide which feeling was stronger.


    =====


    [Status Panel]


    Name: Ethan Cole


    Level: 1


    EXP: 0 / 1000


    Ascension Points: 0


    Wealth: Unlimited


    Physical Stats:


    Strength: 4


    Speed: 5


    Endurance: 4


    Intelligence: 15


    Charisma: 5


    Free Attribute Points: 0


    Skills: [None Unlocked]


    =====


    Ethan gazed at the Status Panel hovering before him, its neat rows of text displaying his physical attributes with a clarity that left little room for interpretation. Strength, Endurance, Intelligence, Charisma¡ªeach measured, each quantified, each a reminder of his all-too-ordinary state.


    He sighed softly, his breath misting in the cool air.


    "So, I''m that weak," he murmured, half to himself, half to the panel. The numbers didn''t lie, and they weren''t flattering.


    ''But what are these attributes even for? He wondered, frowning slightly. ''I thought this system was just about spending money¡ªor am I supposed to protect it, too? That would be¡­ inconvenient.''


    He shook his head, a wry smile tugging at his lips. Protecting anything¡ªlet alone a billion dollars¡ªwasn''t exactly within his skill set. Right now, he was just an ordinary young man.


    His Strength and Endurance, as the system had so helpfully informed him, were average¡ªgood enough for lugging groceries or jogging across the street to catch a bus, but little more.


    His Intelligence, at least, was slightly above the norm, whether thanks to long hours of studying or a touch of natural talent he''d never given much thought to. But even that small comfort was overshadowed by the pitiful number assigned to his Charisma.


    "No surprises there," Ethan muttered with a rueful grin.


    Charm and sociability had never been his strong suits. He wasn''t the sort of person who lit up a room or effortlessly drew others into his orbit. And yet, as he studied the panel, he couldn''t help but notice something encouraging¡ªa tiny glimmer of hope buried in the numbers. There was room to grow.


    Leveling up, the system called it. The phrase sounded strange, like something from a game, but the more Ethan thought about it, the more intrigued he became.


    What might leveling up unlock? What hidden aspects of the system lay waiting for him to discover? The possibilities tugged at his imagination, tempting him with thoughts of what could be.


    His eyes drifted to the corner of the display, where a new tab shimmered faintly, its label clear and inviting: Mission Panel. With a quick mental command, Ethan shifted his focus, anticipation sparking in his chest.


    =====


    [Missions Panel]


    [1. Mission: Improve Your Status]


    Objective: Utilize the system''s resources to better your life and those around you.


    Reward:


    1. 1,500 EXP


    2. 10 Ascension Points


    =====


    "How do I complete this mission?" Ethan murmured, his voice soft in the quiet of the room.


    The mission statement hovered before him, broad and open-ended, offering no clear instructions but suggesting endless possibilities. From what Ethan could gather, it involved improvement¡ªbut improvement of what, exactly?


    Was it as simple as upgrading his apartment? Buying new clothes? Perhaps even moving his family to a better home altogether? The vagueness of it both frustrated and intrigued him.


    "Security and home¡­" he mused, running a hand through his hair. His mind swirled with ideas, a jumble of things he longed to do for his family. And yet, as he considered them, a small frown tugged at his lips.


    These were all new territories for him¡ªuncharted waters filled with unfamiliar challenges. He''d never hired a security agency before, and the very idea of bodyguards patrolling their humble apartment struck him as faintly ridiculous. It would be like placing a golden lock on a cardboard box.


    And then there was the thought of buying a new house. That, too, felt daunting in its own way. He could pay in cash, of course¡ªthat was the easy part. But the logistics, the paperwork, the sheer enormity of such a decision¡ªit all loomed large in his mind. Ethan wasn''t sure where to start, but the idea tugged at him nonetheless, quietly persistent.


    His gaze drifted back to the mission panel, glowing softly as if waiting for him to act. The mission had been there from the start, offering a broad scope for action, and yet its simplicity belied its depth.


    Improving his status sounded straightforward enough, but the more Ethan thought about it, the more he realized the system wasn''t simply about wealth.


    No, money was only the beginning¡ªa means to an end. A tool to reshape his family''s life and lift them from the financial struggles that had defined them for so long. And perhaps, Ethan thought, it was also meant to shape him.


    "I''ll start small," he said aloud, the decision settling like a stone in his chest. "Maybe the things I bought will do at first. Then, maybe replace a few things around the apartment."


    The thought gave him a sense of control, a foothold in the overwhelming terrain of possibility. He would begin by updating their wardrobe, replacing worn furniture, and improving their diet¡ªgradual changes that would, he hoped, lay the foundation for something greater.


    He didn''t want to overwhelm his family with a transformation too sudden or dramatic. Yet, at the same time, he felt the urgency of it pressing on him. They deserved better, and for the first time, he had the means to give it to them.


    His thoughts shifted to the panel once more, his eyes narrowing on the phrase that had puzzled him from the start: Ascension Points.


    They remained a mystery, glowing faintly in the corner of the display like an unopened gift. What did they mean? How could they be used?


    "What does it really mean¡­" he wondered aloud, his voice trailing off as he checked on the Shop Panel.


    =====


    [Shop Panel]


    Available Items:


    1. Lower Grade Basic Strength Potion (1 Ascension Point)


    2. Lower Grade Speed Potion (1 Ascension Point)


    3. Lower Grade Charisma Potion (1 Ascension Point)


    4. Lower Grade Intelligence Potion (1 Ascension Point)


    [Locked Items ¨C Level Up Required]


    =====


    "This is just like a game¡­" Ethan murmured, his voice tinged with a mixture of disbelief and quiet amazement as he stared at the Shop Panel.


    Before him was an array of possibilities so vast it seemed to stretch beyond the limits of imagination. Lists of items that enabled upgrades and boosts gleamed invitingly on the screen, each one promising some new way to transform himself.


    All of them required Ascension Points. He now understood where these points played their role. It acted as the currency or so he believed in this system.


    Ethan scanned the descriptions, his eyes widening as he began to understand.


    "I could become a superhuman with this," he chuckled, though the laughter felt hollow in the stillness around him. The idea was absurd, but the system seemed entirely serious.


    And that was what unnerved him most of all. It felt too good to be true, yet there it was, offering him the chance not just to change his life but to change himself. Strength, speed, intelligence, endurance¡ªall waiting to be improved if he could meet the system''s conditions.


    "Ascension Points, EXP¡­ it''s all connected," Ethan mused aloud as he resumed his walk toward the bookstore.


    His thoughts churned, trying to piece together the system''s true purpose. He had begun to see it more clearly now like a faint outline slowly sharpening into focus.


    The system wasn''t merely about financial gain or the comforts of an easier life. It was something larger, something more intricate.


    The panel wasn''t offering him wealth alone¡ªit was offering him the means to grow, to evolve, to become more than he had ever thought possible. And yet, the thought carried with it an undercurrent of unease. ''Why me?'' He wondered. ''Why now?''


    Just then, a faint chime echoed in his mind, soft but unmistakable, like the tolling of a distant bell. Ethan froze mid-step, instinctively glancing around, though he knew no one else could have heard it. Another notification from the system appeared, hovering in his vision with its quiet glow.


    He relaxed slightly, realizing what it was. The chime wasn''t unpleasant¡ªin fact, it felt strangely reassuring, like a tap on the shoulder from an unseen guide.


    Whatever the system wanted, it seemed determined to keep him on its path, gently but firmly.


    =====


    [New Mission: Expand Your Network]


    Objective: Forge meaningful connections with influential individuals. Establish a network to boost your status.


    Number of connections (0/2)


    Reward:


    1. 2,500 EXP


    2. 10 Ascension Points


    =====


    "Expand my network?" Ethan stopped in his tracks, reading the mission notification again. The words hung in his mind, their meaning both clear and unsettling.


    Until now, the system''s tasks had been practical, focused on self-improvement¡ªthings he could handle quietly, on his own. But this was different.


    The system was urging him to reach outward, to build connections with others, and to step beyond the careful boundaries of his world.


    "Influential individuals¡­" he murmured, considering the phrase. He thought of the people in his life¡ªhis family, a few close friends, the boss of the bookstore.


    None of them could be called influential in the sense the system seemed to mean. The task wasn''t just unfamiliar; it was uncomfortable. Ethan had never sought out powerful people, and the idea of doing so now felt daunting.


    ''Why does the system care about this?'' Ethan wondered. The mission felt deliberate, purposeful in a way he couldn''t yet understand, as though it was steering him toward something larger than he had imagined. There was no question of refusing¡ªit wasn''t that sort of arrangement. The system wanted him to grow, to reach, to act.


    Ethan adjusted his backpack as the bookstore came into view, his mind buzzing. One thing was becoming clear; his life was no longer his alone to control. The system, with its strange logic and endless possibilities, had its own plans for him.


    And it was only just beginning.

 Chapter 6: Opportunity Knocks

    "One¡­ Two¡­ Three!" Ethan grunted as he pushed the bookstore''s ancient metal shutters upward.


    They rattled and clanged, shattering the quiet of the early morning like a tin drum in an empty hall. He stepped back, catching his breath, and chuckled despite himself.


    ''No wonder the system rated me so low on strength, he thought. I''m really that weak.''


    The street outside was still waking up, with only a few early risers wandering past, clutching steaming cups of coffee. The cool air carried a sense of stillness that seemed to stretch, unbroken, between the buildings.


    Ethan took it in for a moment before stepping inside the bookstore.


    The familiar smell greeted him immediately¡ªold books mingled with the faint, slightly musty scent of the worn carpet beneath his feet. It was a smell he had come to associate with quiet, routine, and with a kind of comfort that only familiarity could bring.


    "I have unlimited wealth now," he muttered under his breath as he crossed the room, "I could resign anytime I want, or¡­"


    His words trailed off as a thought struck him, one that made him stop in his tracks. What if the system doesn''t last forever? The idea sent a faint chill through him. What if it just¡­ disappears one day?


    Ethan frowned, the weight of the thought settling over him. I need to do something that grows money, he reasoned. Investing in stocks or cryptocurrency seemed like an obvious solution, but the idea filled him with unease.


    He had no experience, no real understanding of how such things worked. And then there was the other problem: there were no guarantees. Every investment carried the risk of failure, and failure now felt like a luxury he couldn''t afford.


    Still, a quiet resolve stirred in him. "There''s a risk in everything," he mused, the words soft but firm.


    Today would be different¡ªhe could feel it. Change wasn''t just coming; it was here. He had no intention of staying in this small bookstore for much longer.


    With the resources he had at his disposal, there was so much more he could do. For now, though, the simplest thing was to withdraw some of the money. Cash, after all, couldn''t simply vanish. Could it?


    Ethan smiled faintly at the absurdity of his own thoughts. Even some from a billion dollars would still be a staggering amount. But how much was enough? How much was too much?


    He realized, with a start, that he had been standing behind the counter, lost in thought for longer than he''d intended.


    He shook his head and pulled himself back to the present. The plan was already forming in his mind. He would speak to his boss today, hand in his resignation, and leave this routine behind.


    The semester break was four weeks long¡ªplenty of time to start shaping the life he wanted, though the enormity of the task still loomed ahead of him like a mountain yet to be climbed.


    And yet, as he moved behind the counter, a strange feeling settled over him. It wasn''t guilt, not exactly. It was something quieter, deeper¡ªa realization that he always had a part-time job, mundane as it often was, had been his anchor for so long.


    It had been safe, predictable, a refuge in a world that sometimes felt too large and overwhelming. And now he was letting it go.


    Ethan wondered if the opportunities before him could ever truly replace the quiet security this job had provided. The familiar rhythms of shelving books, assisting customers, and managing small tasks had anchored him in a way he hadn''t fully appreciated until now.


    Shaking off the thought, Ethan was pulled back to the present by the soft chime of the front door. A customer entered, brushing off the cold morning air with a practiced motion.


    Looking up, Ethan saw a middle-aged man, sharply dressed but visibly weary. The man''s neatly pressed suit and polished shoes suggested professionalism, but the tired lines around his eyes spoke of long nights and too little sleep.


    "Morning," the man said gruffly, his voice rough as though worn from too many hours of talking¡ªor shouting. "I need four copies of these printed. Quickly."


    "Sure, I''ll take care of that for you," Ethan replied, stepping forward to take the folder. He turned and headed toward the small copier in the back, the man muttering behind him.


    "Gosh. How could I forget to print this earlier¡­" the man grumbled, half to himself, his tone carrying a mixture of frustration and relief. He seemed grateful that the bookstore still offered such services¡ªa small lifeline in a world growing ever more digital.


    Ethan placed the papers into the copier, the machine humming softly as it began its work. Curious, he glanced at the top sheet.


    Novan City Food Delivery App: Funding Proposal.


    The title caught his attention immediately. Ethan''s eyes lingered on the page for a moment before they drifted to the others beneath it.


    Fifteen pages in all, the neatly organized proposal detailed the requirements for launching the app. Ethan''s interest deepened as he skimmed further.


    A food delivery app tailored to Novan City¡ªa metropolis teeming with potential for such a service¡ªseemed not just promising but timely.


    Then, his eyes landed on the total funding required: $500,000.


    A staggering amount for most people. But for Ethan? It was nothing. Not even a fraction of what he could access through the system.


    ''This could be a way to invest,'' he thought, his mind racing. ''A project like this could explain my involvement without raising questions about my wealth.''


    Yet doubt crept in. How would a young man working in a bookstore be taken seriously? He lacked experience, authority, and any semblance of credibility in matters like this.A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    Then, the very thought of striking up a conversation about it made his stomach tighten. And yet¡­ the idea refused to leave him alone. It nagged at him, insistent, until he couldn''t ignore it any longer.


    Ethan inhaled deeply, summoning what courage he could muster. His voice came out steadier than he expected. "Excuse me, sir," he said hesitantly. "I''m sorry for asking, but¡­ are you looking for funding for a food delivery app?"


    The man looked up sharply, his expression a mixture of irritation and curiosity. "Yeah," he said, his tone clipped. "What of it?"


    Ethan swallowed, his pulse quickening. "Actually, I''m a programmer," he began cautiously, feeling the words tumble out before he could stop them. "I''ve worked on a few app projects before. Something like this¡ªwell, I think it could really take off in Novan City."


    The man raised an eyebrow, clearly skeptical, but he didn''t interrupt. Encouraged, Ethan continued, his voice gaining a hint of confidence. "Are you still looking for developers? Or¡­ investors?"


    The man stared at him for a moment, his tired eyes narrowing slightly as if weighing Ethan''s words. For a heartbeat, the room seemed to hold its breath, and Ethan wondered if he''d made a mistake.


    The man''s expression shifted, his eyes narrowing with suspicion. "Yes, I am. But¡­ no offense, why should that concern you? You don''t exactly look like you have money lying around to invest in something like this."


    His words carried a sharper edge than he likely intended. It wasn''t rudeness, exactly¡ªmore the weariness of a man stretched too thin. Tiredness had worn away the polish of his manners, leaving only the bluntness of his thoughts.


    Ethan offered a nervous chuckle, hoping to smooth the tension. "Well," he began, "I might not have the funds myself, but I know someone who might be interested¡­ and I''m pretty close to him."


    The man''s eyebrows lifted slightly, the smallest flicker of curiosity crossing his face. "Oh? And who might that be?"


    Ethan hesitated for the briefest of moments, his mind racing. "My university professor," he said, the words tumbling out quickly. "He''s been involved in several major projects recently. I think he might be open to funding something like this."


    The lie came easier than he expected, and, to his relief, the man seemed to accept it. Encouraged, Ethan pressed on. "And I''ve done some programming for the university¡ªmostly on smaller projects, but also some personal ones. I could handle the development side of things."


    The man leaned back slightly, his gaze sharpening as he studied Ethan''s face. There was skepticism in his eyes, yes, but something else as well¡ªa flicker of curiosity, perhaps even hope.


    "You''re serious?" he asked, his tone half-challenging, half-intrigued.


    "Absolutely," Ethan replied, surprised by the steadiness of his own voice. "I can show you some of my work if you''d like."


    The man didn''t answer immediately. Instead, he continued to study Ethan as though searching for cracks in his composure, signs of dishonesty or bravado.


    At last, he gave a small nod, gesturing for Ethan to continue.


    In truth, the man wasn''t particularly interested in Ethan''s programming skills.


    What intrigued him was the possibility of this mysterious professor¡ªthe potential investor who might finally bring his project to life. Funding for the app had been a constant hurdle.


    The venture demanded significant capital¡ªnot just for development but for marketing and the infrastructure needed to make it truly competitive.


    The man had briefly considered starting his own company to oversee the project, but the thought felt overwhelming. It wasn''t just the money; it was the time, the management, the sheer energy required to launch something of this scale. He had too much on his plate already.


    He had no interest in controlling every detail of the app or building some grand corporate empire. That sort of ambition belonged to a different kind of person, and he knew it wasn''t for him.


    Instead, he preferred to let a third party handle the operational side of things.


    His focus wasn''t on the mechanics of management. Still, the impact the app could have empowering vendors and riders by providing a platform that was both fair and beneficial.


    It wasn''t profit or prestige that motivated him¡ªit was the idea of creating something meaningful. A system where vendors could thrive, riders could earn a decent living, and customers could enjoy better service.


    By partnering with a reliable management team, the man could ensure the app ran smoothly without being bogged down in the intricate details of day-to-day operations.


    He understood his strengths and his limits.


    Staying behind the scenes allowed him to focus on what mattered most¡ªkeeping the app''s core values intact while leaving the execution to those better suited for it.


    "Show me what you''ve got," the man said.


    Ethan quickly pulled up examples of his past app projects on his phone. Most of them were simple¡ªapps developed during his coursework or personal experiments¡ªbut they were polished and professional, the kind of work that spoke for itself.


    "Here''s one example," Ethan said, handing the phone over. "It''s an app for booking the university''s multipurpose hall and sports center."


    The man''s expression softened as he scrolled through the app, his earlier skepticism giving way to genuine interest. "Not bad," he murmured, almost to himself. "Not bad at all."


    For the first time, Ethan felt a flicker of hope. The man wasn''t just looking at his work¡ªhe was truly seeing it. He seemed to recognize the professionalism and skill behind Ethan''s projects, and with that recognition came a shift in the conversation.


    The man''s thoughts turned practical, almost strategic. He could see how having a prototype could make it easier to attract potential investors, a tool to bridge the gap between vision and reality.


    Ethan, meanwhile, was still improvising his way through the situation. He didn''t have all the answers¡ªnot yet¡ªbut he could feel the pieces falling into place.


    His voice was steadier now as he said, "Like I said, I can handle the development side. I just need some time to arrange a meeting with my professor. If we get the funding, we could start right away."


    The man tapped his chin thoughtfully, his expression softening as he considered Ethan''s words. Then, with a decisive motion, he reached into his jacket and produced a business card, handing it to Ethan.


    "Let''s plan for that meeting," he said, his tone warmer than before. "My name''s David Turner. I work with local businesses to help boost the city''s economy."


    David''s words carried a quiet sincerity, a purpose that seemed to ripple beneath them. "The goal of this app is to help small restaurants survive against the big chains. I''ve been trying to get this project off the ground for months," he continued.


    The name "David Turner" struck a chord with Ethan. He paused, the weight of recognition settling over him.


    David Turner was a well-known figure in Novan City, and he was celebrated for his tireless efforts to support local businesses and uplift small entrepreneurs.


    His initiatives had transformed countless lives, fostering growth in areas often overshadowed by larger corporations.


    Ethan realized this wasn''t just a technology project. This app was a vital piece of David''s broader mission to empower the community and level the playing field for small businesses.


    "I''ve heard of you, Mr. Turner," Ethan said, trying to keep his voice steady, though he couldn''t entirely mask his admiration. "You''ve done a lot for the city."


    David''s face lit up with a hint of pride. "I do what I can," he said simply. "But there''s always more work to be done. This app isn''t just about food delivery¡ªit''s about giving smaller businesses a fighting chance. If it works here, we could create a model that helps cities across the country."


    Ethan felt the magnitude of what was unfolding before him. This wasn''t just a project; it was a chance to be part of something with the potential to truly make a difference. His recent goal of expanding his network suddenly felt more tangible, more achievable.


    "I''ll ensure my professor is available for a meeting as soon as possible, Mr. Turner," Ethan replied, carefully tucking the card into his pocket. "And I''ll try to come out with a prototype in the meantime. I''m confident we can make this happen."


    David smiled faintly and waved a hand. "Drop the formalities. I''m not much for them. Just call me David¡­ And what''s your name, young man?"


    "Ethan," he said, smiling back.


    David nodded, a spark of energy lighting his features. "Good. I''m looking forward to seeing if you can live up to those promises, Ethan."


    "I''ll have good news for you soon," Ethan replied, though the casual use of David''s name felt awkward on his tongue. "It''s just a phone call to my professor away."


    As David exited the store, Ethan stood rooted in place, feeling the gravity of what he had just committed to. This was no longer just an abstract idea.


    It was real¡ªa project with the power to change lives in Novan City and perhaps far beyond. It was an opportunity to secure something more tangible than his wealth from the system¡ªa safety net of his own making in case the system ever failed or vanished altogether.


    The bookstore suddenly felt smaller to Ethan, its familiar walls pressing in as though he had outgrown them in a single morning. His earlier thoughts of resigning were pushed aside, eclipsed by the possibilities this new path presented.


    For a moment, uncertainty flared¡ªhow could he possibly accomplish all this?


    Yet, in the next breath, a quiet resolve settled over him. With the system''s support, he felt as though almost anything was possible.


    As he stood there, lost in thought, a soft chime broke through his reverie¡ªa notification from the system.


    =====


    [New Mission: Deliver Success]


    Objective: Successfully develop and launch the Novan City Food Delivery App.


    Reward:


    1. 5,000 EXP


    2. 20 Ascension Points


    =====


    "It seems everything is falling into place," Ethan murmured, a small smile forming as reassurance settled over him.

 Chapter 7: Breaking the Bank I

    Ethan paced nervously in the bookstore, his thoughts spiraling as the weight of his earlier conversation with David settled on him.


    He had spoken with such confidence, claiming his professor was backing the project. But now, alone in the quiet of the store room, the enormity of that falsehood loomed over him like a storm cloud.


    "Brilliant," he muttered under his breath, frustration spilling out. "All this supposed Intelligence and that''s the best I could come up with?"


    He stopped pacing, rubbing the back of his neck as regret gnawed at him.


    In hindsight, there had to have been better ways to handle the situation. Ethan replayed the conversation in his mind, his brain stubbornly offering no solutions that didn''t feel equally precarious.


    The reality was clear. David would want proof. And when the time came, Ethan couldn''t afford to be exposed as a liar. He needed to bridge the gap between his claim and the truth he hadn''t yet constructed.


    "I know¡­" Ethan stopped pacing, the hint of an idea surfacing. "What if I just¡­ show him the money?"


    It sounded absurd when said aloud, but it was also simple. Ethan had a billion dollars sitting in his account, an amount so vast he couldn''t truly comprehend it. What could be more convincing than cold, hard cash?


    The idea gained momentum in his mind. ''Cash... That''s foolproof.'' He dismissed other options¡ªtransferring the funds or writing a cheque¡ªalmost as quickly as they came.


    To Ethan, transferring money without proper contracts or safeguards felt far too risky. What if David ran off with it? No amount of wealth, no matter how infinite, could dull the sting of being cheated.


    The idea of David forcefully taking cash briefly crossed his mind, but he dismissed it with a wry smile. ''Not a chance,'' he thought. After all, he was younger, quicker¡ªprobably. As if that was much of a reassurance.


    And cheques? The thought hadn''t even occurred to him. For all his intelligence, he remained painfully naive when it came to the practicalities of financial dealings.


    "Yes. Cash," he said aloud, as though trying to reassure himself. "That''s the best way."


    But another problem arose. How would he withdraw such a large sum?


    Walking into a bank and asking for hundreds of thousands of dollars wasn''t just bold¡ªit was absurd. Worse, he feared being laughed at, interrogated, or even accused of some criminal scheme.


    Despite his growing doubts, Ethan knew he had no time to waste. David wouldn''t wait forever, and he couldn''t afford hesitation. A quick glance at the clock told him the bank was already open. He had to act.


    Resolving himself to the task, Ethan turned toward the door. Still, his steps faltered as Mr. Parker, the bookstore manager, entered with a few colleagues. Ethan hesitated for only a moment before squaring his shoulders and approaching.


    "Mr. Parker," he began, trying to sound calm, "could I have a word?"


    Mr. Parker tilted his head, intrigued. "Of course. What''s on your mind?"


    "I''m resigning. Effective immediately," Ethan said plainly. Before the shock could settle in, he added, "I''ve transferred $1,000 as compensation for the short notice."


    He held up his phone, the words Transaction Successful glowing on the screen.


    For a moment, Mr. Parker simply stared. "You''re¡­ resigning? And you''re paying me $1,000?"


    Nearby coworkers, who had overheard the exchange, were equally stunned. Whispers spread quickly among them. Everyone knew that part-time pay at the bookstore rarely exceeded $750 a month. Yet Ethan had offered $1,000 without a second thought.You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.


    "What''s wrong with this guy?" was the unspoken sentiment that flashed through more than one mind.


    Ethan shifted awkwardly, his guilt creeping in. Resigning on the spot felt abrupt, almost disrespectful, but he had no other choice. "I''m sorry," he said, managing a small, apologetic smile. "It''s just¡­ I''ve got something urgent to take care of."


    Mr. Parker crossed his arms, his brow furrowed with confusion. "Are you sure about this, Ethan?"


    "Absolutely," Ethan replied, his voice steadier now. "I''ve got a few things lined up. Thanks for everything, Mr. Parker."


    Before anyone could ask more questions or prolong the discussion, Ethan grabbed his backpack and made for the door. His heart raced, adrenaline surging as he stepped out into the morning light.


    The next step was the bank¡ªa challenge he wasn''t sure how to navigate but was determined to face head-on.


    For better or worse, there was no turning back now.


    ***


    "This is it," Ethan muttered under his breath as he stepped into the bank. The air inside was thick with quiet murmurs, the low hum of conversations blending with the mechanical whir of machines.


    Everything about the place felt heavy and official, a stark contrast to the growing uncertainty twisting in his stomach.


    Ethan approached the counter, where a young woman in her twenties was scrolling through her phone. Her posture radiated boredom, and she barely glanced up as he approached, a fact that made his heart pound all the more.


    "Good afternoon. How can I help you?" she asked, her tone detached and uninterested.


    Ethan swallowed hard and took a deep breath. "I''d like to make a withdrawal," he said, his voice steady despite the way his nerves felt frayed.


    "Sure," she replied, still not looking up. Her fingers tapped idly on the counter. "How much?"


    "Five hundred thousand dollars," Ethan said, the words escaping almost too quickly. He managed to keep his tone calm, but his legs felt as though they might give way beneath him.


    That caught her attention. She froze mid-scroll and finally looked up, her expression a mixture of disbelief and amusement. "I''m sorry¡ªwhat?"


    "You heard me," Ethan replied, his heart thudding. "I''d like to withdraw five hundred thousand dollars."


    A smirk spread across her face, one that Ethan found both infuriating and oddly predictable. "Okay, buddy. Is this some kind of joke? Because if it is, I''m really not in the mood."


    The irritation in her tone stung, but Ethan kept his composure. He''d read her nametag¡ªSuzanne¡ªand something in her dismissiveness made him determined to hold his ground.


    ''Why would I joke about something like this?'' he thought but resisted saying aloud.


    "It''s not a joke," he said firmly. "I need the money. In cash."


    Suzanne''s smirk faltered into a frown, her skepticism deepening as she eyed him from head to toe. "Alright, fine," she said with a sigh, her voice tinged with condescension. "Let me check your account balance. Let''s see how far this act goes."


    She reached out, clearly expecting him to hand over identification. "ID, please."


    Ethan handed it over, sensing her disbelief even in the way she snatched the card. He tried not to let it bother him. ''This is just the first hurdle,'' he told himself.


    Suzanne began typing, her fingers moving with practiced efficiency. Ethan watched her expression closely, noticing the moment her smugness gave way to something else entirely. Her hands stilled on the keyboard, her brow furrowing as her eyes widened in shock.


    "What¡­?" she whispered, her voice barely audible. She blinked at the screen as though it might rewrite itself under her gaze.


    Ethan couldn''t help but smile faintly, though he kept his tone even as he asked, "Is everything alright?"


    Suzanne looked up at him, her expression now a blend of disbelief and panic. "You¡­ you have a billion dollars in this account?"


    The words came out louder than she likely intended, and heads began to turn. Whispers rippled through the room as customers shifted in their seats to get a better look at the young man standing at the counter.


    "Yes," Ethan said, his voice calm but tinged with amusement. "I know. So, about that five hundred thousand¡­"


    Suzanne''s face turned pale, and she quickly straightened, her earlier attitude vanishing. "I¡ªI''m so sorry, Mr. Cole," she stammered. "I''ll need to call the manager. Please wait here for a moment."


    Before he could respond, she hurried off, leaving Ethan standing at the counter. He frowned, confusion creeping into his thoughts. ''Why involve the manager?'' he wondered. ''Isn''t this just a withdrawal?''


    As Suzanne walked away, she berated herself internally. ''What was I thinking? Reacting like that¡­''


    She knew that even a minor complaint from someone of Ethan''s wealth could cause significant trouble for her. The realization made her cheeks burn with embarrassment.


    Meanwhile, Ethan could feel the stares of other customers pressing in on him. He caught snippets of their whispers, their incredulity almost palpable.


    A billion dollars? To most, it was an unimaginable figure. This kind belonged in news stories, not in the hands of a casually dressed young man.


    Ethan ignored them, his focus shifting back to his own swirling thoughts. This wasn''t the experience he''d anticipated, but in some strange way, he couldn''t deny the satisfaction of having surprised Suzanne.


    ''It''s not a feeling I should enjoy¡­ but maybe just this once,'' he thought, the faintest smile tugging at his lips.


    Moments later, a middle-aged man in a sharp suit approached, his steps deliberate and his expression carefully controlled. "Mr. Cole," he said, his tone polite but tinged with unease. "Would you mind coming with me to my office? We''ll handle this there."


    Ethan hesitated for only a moment before nodding. He was trembling.

 Chapter 8: Breaking the Bank II

    Ethan followed the bank manager down a grand hallway, his heart pounding so loudly it seemed to echo in the silence. ''Have I been found out?'' The thought leaped unbidden into his mind, only to be followed by another; Found out for what?


    It was a ridiculous notion, but the nervousness that gripped him refused to be reasoned away. This wasn''t something he had ever done before.


    Wealth was new to him, and for all his brilliance, it hadn''t occurred to him to look up how to handle a situation like this. He could recite entire books from memory, but what about the practicalities of withdrawing large sums of cash? That had seemed¡­ unimportant.


    Now, he saw his mistake. Intelligence alone, it turned out, wasn''t enough. ''With all these points in Intelligence,'' he thought bitterly, ''I still don''t know what I''m doing.''


    The realization stung.


    To steady himself, Ethan glanced around as they walked. The walls were painted in warm, muted tones and adorned with tasteful artwork.


    Yet, despite their beauty, they seemed to press in on him, growing closer with each step. His unease made the hallway feel like a tunnel, leading inexorably toward some unknown fate.


    At last, the manager stopped in front of an imposing door. He opened it with a practiced motion and gestured for Ethan to step inside. "Come in, Mr. Cole," he said, his tone polite but laced with formality.


    The room beyond was vast and elegantly furnished, though something about it felt cold and distant. The polished wood desk gleamed under the dim glow of a single light above, which seemed to cast more shadows than it dispelled.


    "Please, have a seat, Mr. Cole," the manager said, closing the door with a faint but definitive click.


    The sound carried a weight that made Ethan''s heart quicken. He sat down, trying not to fidget, though the chair''s unyielding hardness did nothing to set him at ease.


    Lightly tapping his knee with his fingers, he forced himself to appear calm.


    The manager¡ªa man whose thinning hair and faint smirk gave him an air of practiced superiority¡ªsettled into his own chair. Folding his hands neatly on the desk, he leaned forward slightly, his expression one of deliberate seriousness.


    "We''re in a rather unusual situation, Mr. Cole," he began, his tone slow and measured as though addressing a child. "Having a billion dollars in your account and then requesting to withdraw $500,000 in cash¡­ well, you must understand, it''s highly irregular."


    He paused, letting the weight of his words linger before adding, almost as an afterthought, "And, of course, with no significant transaction history to support it."


    Ethan''s chest tightened, and his carefully constructed calm began to crack. He had imagined being treated with respect¡ªor at least awe¡ªwhen he revealed the size of his wealth. But this¡­ this condescension stung in a way he hadn''t anticipated.


    "I''m not sure what you''re implying," Ethan said, his voice carefully steady, though a hint of tension crept in at the edges. "It''s my money. I need it."


    The manager leaned back, his smirk deepening. "Ah, but it doesn''t quite work that way, Mr. Cole," he said with a touch of amusement. "When such a large sum of money suddenly appears in an account¡ªespecially without any prior indication of wealth¡ªit raises red flags. Surely, you can see why that would be concerning."


    "Red flags?" Ethan echoed, his fingers curling into fists under the desk. He struggled to keep his voice neutral, though the effort felt monumental. "This is my account. My money. I haven''t done anything wrong."


    The manager sighed as though speaking to someone painfully na?ve. "It''s not about wrongdoing¡ªat least, not yet. But situations like this often involve money laundering, fraud, or other¡­ shall we say, questionable activities. It''s my duty to ensure we''re not facilitating anything illegal."


    There it was.


    The accusation was veiled but unmistakable. Ethan''s stomach twisted as the words sank in. This was exactly what he had feared¡ªa scenario where his newfound wealth would bring more scrutiny than freedom.


    For a moment, anger surged within him. He had thought that with unlimited money, doors would open effortlessly, and obstacles would vanish.


    Yet here he was, sitting under a flickering light, being treated like a criminal.


    This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.


    "Listen," Ethan began, his voice firmer now, though he could feel the tremor just beneath the surface. "Don''t accuse me of something I haven''t done. I might not look the part, but I know my rights. If this continues, I''ll have no choice but to take legal action for defamation."


    The words felt foreign on his tongue, more like lines from a movie than something he would naturally say. But what else could he do? He was grasping for control, hoping that confidence¡ªreal or feigned¡ªmight tip the scales in his favor.


    ''Do something, system,'' he thought desperately. ''Anything.''


    The manager didn''t look intimidated. If anything, his expression turned even more patronizing. "Mr. Cole," he said slowly, "we''re simply following protocol. If your wealth is legitimate, you have nothing to worry about. But until we complete our checks, I''m afraid we can''t proceed."


    Ethan clenched his fists tighter, his mind racing. He needed a way out¡ªnow.


    The manager, who had been wearing an infuriating smirk, paused for a moment. His expression shifted, softening into something that was neither reassuring nor entirely threatening but still carried an unsettling edge. He leaned forward slightly, his gaze steady on Ethan.


    "Mr. Cole," he said, his tone sharp enough to make Ethan''s unease deepen, "there''s no need to be defensive. These are just routine procedures."


    Ethan swallowed hard as the manager continued, his words precise and deliberate. "We''ve already contacted the corporation that supposedly sent you these funds to verify their validity. Everything will be fine, but we must follow protocol. I trust you understand?"


    The words were spoken with a calculated politeness, but the implication behind them made Ethan''s stomach churn. His hands felt clammy, and the weight of the moment pressed on him like a stone. He could feel his carefully composed demeanor slipping.


    ''What happens if they find something?'' he wondered, his thoughts spiraling. ''Has the system hidden its tracks well enough? Will it help me again, or have I already made a mistake I can''t undo?''


    His mind spun through scenarios, each one more worrying than the last, until the sound of the manager''s phone vibrating shattered the heavy silence. The sudden noise was jarring, slicing through the tension in the room like a knife.


    The manager glanced at the phone on his desk, his smirk fading into curiosity. "This is¡­ interesting," he murmured, picking it up and unlocking the screen. His brow furrowed as he typed quickly, his attention fixed entirely on whatever he was reading.


    Ethan watched in breathless anticipation as the manager turned the phone toward him. "Take a look at this," the man said, his voice quieter now, almost unsure.


    Ethan leaned forward, his heart pounding. The screen displayed an email thread, the most recent message standing out like a beacon. The words made his breath catch.


    "The funds are legitimate. No further verification is needed."


    Ethan stared at the message, his mind struggling to keep up. He recognized the sender''s email¡ªit matched the official contact for the corporation in question. But he hadn''t sent that email. He hadn''t even thought of reaching out to them himself.


    The only possible explanation was the system. It must have foreseen this exact situation and intervened to protect him. The realization hit him like a cold wave.


    He was covered in sweat, not from fear but from the uncanny certainty that the system could manipulate events far beyond his understanding.


    ''How on earth did it manage this?'' The thought was both reassuring and deeply unsettling.


    It was comforting to know the system was watching over him, guiding him through even the most impossible situations. But the sheer power of its reach¡ªthe almost magical precision with which it acted¡ªsent a chill down his spine.


    The manager sat back, baffled. "That was¡­ unexpected, Mr. Cole," he admitted his tone a mixture of confusion and grudging respect.


    The manager''s eyes darted between Ethan and the phone screen, his suspicion clearly not erased. "Who are you, really?" he asked, his voice low but firm.


    Ethan hesitated. He didn''t know how to answer that question¡ªnot truthfully, at least. His instincts whispered to feign confidence, to act as though the manager had no right to ask, as though the very question was beneath him.


    It was a fragile ploy, but it was all he could summon in the moment.


    After an awkward pause, the manager seemed to draw his own conclusions. "Well," he said slowly, "it appears everything is in order. I''m not sure how, but¡­ the funds are confirmed."


    Ethan exhaled, relief flooding through him like a wave. He hadn''t realized how tightly he''d been holding his breath until the moment it left him. Still, he knew this wasn''t the time to celebrate.


    The game wasn''t over yet. Ethan needed to maintain his composure and act as if this outcome had been expected all along.


    "So," Ethan said, steadying his voice, "can I get the money now?"


    The manager''s expression remained skeptical, his eyes scanning Ethan as if searching for cracks in the facade. But after a moment, he gave a short nod.


    "Yes, we''ll proceed with the withdrawal. You''re fortunate we have the amount available today. However," Charles added, his tone sharpening slightly, "I strongly advise you to consider using a wire transfer or opening up a current account so that you can use a cheque in the future. Carrying this much cash is both unusual and risky."


    Ethan forced a polite smile, though inwardly, he winced at the mention of cheques. ''Why didn''t I think of that sooner?''


    "I''ll remember that," he said, his tone polite but clipped.


    He stood, feeling the tension begin to dissolve as he prepared to leave. Just as he reached the door, the manager called after him. "Mr. Cole, one more thing."


    Ethan paused, his hand resting on the door handle, and turned back to face the man. The manager had risen from his chair and was now extending a hand, his demeanor noticeably warmer.


    "I owe you an apology for earlier," the manager said. His voice carried a note of genuine contrition, though his sharpness had not entirely vanished.


    "My name is Charles Weston. And, if you''re interested, I''d like to offer you the opportunity to become one of our Premier clients here at Novan Bank."


    "Premier?" Ethan echoed his tone, a careful mix of curiosity and skepticism.


    Charles''s smile widened, his eyes alight with the prospect of a new connection. "Yes. It''s an exclusive service for individuals with accounts exceeding $100 million. Given your standing, Mr. Cole, you more than qualify."


    "What would that entail?" Ethan asked, tilting his head slightly.


    "Our Premier clients enjoy personalized banking, access to unique investment opportunities, and a host of other benefits tailored to your financial goals," Charles explained. "I''ll have the full details sent to your email."


    Ethan considered the offer for a moment. It was tempting¡ªand aligned perfectly with his ambitions. Networking and cultivating the right image were vital steps toward expanding his influence, and a Premier status seemed like the perfect tool for achieving that.


    "That sounds interesting," Ethan replied with a slight nod. "Please, send me the details."


    Charles''s smile grew wider, and he added, "And if you ever need assistance¡ªfinancial or otherwise¡ªyou can always come to me. I can help you connect with the right people."


    He reached into his jacket pocket and handed Ethan a pristine business card. Ethan took it, offering a faint smile. "Thank you for your help today, Mr. Weston," he said, slipping the card into his pocket. "I''m sure I''ll be in touch."


    Charles gave a brief, knowing nod. "I look forward to it."


    As Ethan left the office, a faint vibration drew his attention to his phone. Glancing down, he saw a notification from the system.


    =====


    [Number of connections (1/2)]


    =====


    A quiet smile curved Ethan''s lips. It seemed Charles Weston was precisely the sort of connection the system had been urging him to establish.


    ''So, the system considers him a significant asset,'' Ethan thought. ''It''s already two steps ahead of me.''


    While he waited for the bank staff to finalize the withdrawal, Ethan let his mind drift. Despite the close calls, the system seemed adept at keeping him just out of harm''s reach, shielding him from scrutiny even as others tried to pry deeper.


    Soon, he''d have $500,000 in cash¡ªa tangible start for his plans. With that in hand, Ethan felt as though the pieces of his strategy were finally beginning to fall into place. The real work was only just beginning.

 Chapter 9: Change of Style

    Ethan stepped out of the bank, the duffel bag slung over his shoulder feeling unusually heavy¡ªnot from its physical weight, but from the sheer knowledge of what it contained.


    Half a million dollars.


    He glanced down at the bag, its sleek, sporty design courtesy of Charles, who had handed it over with a look of both professional courtesy and unspoken camaraderie.


    At least it didn''t scream look at me.


    Charles had even gone so far as to let him use one of the bank''s discreet back exits, ensuring he wouldn''t attract any unnecessary attention.


    Yet, as Ethan walked along the quiet street, he muttered under his breath, "So, this is what it feels like to carry around $500,000."


    The absurdity of his situation struck him, and he chuckled softly to himself. ''Charles went through all that trouble for secrecy, and here I am, walking out in broad daylight like it''s a casual errand.''


    To Ethan, this amount was nothing more than a drop in the ocean compared to the infinite resources the system provided. The weight of the bag didn''t faze him; what truly astonished him was how flawlessly everything had unfolded.


    Every obstacle, every doubt had been swept aside as if the very fabric of reality had bent to accommodate his will¡ªor rather, the system''s will.


    Now, there was only one task left: meeting with David Turner. The thought of it sent a ripple of anticipation through him. He reached into his pocket, pulled out his phone, and scrolled to David''s contact.


    The business card was safely stored away, but Ethan had saved the number in case it got misplaced¡ªa small precaution but a necessary one.


    With a mix of excitement and nerves, he dialed. The phone rang only once before David''s familiar voice answered. "Hello?"


    "Hi, David. It''s Ethan," he said, his voice steady. "The one you met at the bookstore earlier."


    There was a brief pause, followed by a note of surprise in David''s tone. "Ethan? I didn''t expect to hear from you so soon. Do you have something for me?"


    "I do," Ethan replied, glancing at the bag as if to reassure himself. "I spoke with my professor. He''s very interested in your proposal, but we need to meet to discuss it further. I''ve arranged a place for us to talk. Can you meet in two hours?"


    David hesitated for a moment, clearly caught off guard by Ethan''s swift actions. "Two hours? That''s soon. Where do you want to meet?"


    Ethan had anticipated this. He knew he couldn''t suggest just any location¡ªnot a diner, not a coffee shop. The weight of the deal he was preparing to propose demanded a setting that reflected its significance.


    Flashing that much cash in public was out of the question, and if he wanted to leave the right impression, he needed a place with gravitas.


    The answer came to him as easily as a light switching on: the Jerai Royale Hotel.


    A symbol of exclusivity and refinement, it was far beyond anything Ethan had experienced, but it fit perfectly with the image he needed to project.


    "How about the Jerai Royale Hotel?" Ethan suggested, his voice carrying the confidence of someone who frequented such places. "I''ll book a private meeting room so we can discuss everything comfortably."


    There was a pause on the other end of the line, followed by a hint of awe in David''s voice. "The Jerai Royale? That''s¡­ impressive. I wouldn''t have expected that."


    Ethan allowed himself a small, satisfied smile. "I''ll see you there in two hours."


    "Alright," David said, his excitement unmistakable. "I''ll be there."


    As the call ended, Ethan couldn''t help but feel a thrill of anticipation. This meeting would be pivotal¡ªnot just for the project but as a way to further secure his position and deflect any unwanted scrutiny about his wealth.


    The stakes were high, but he felt ready to face them.


    Or so he thought until his reflection in a nearby shop window caught his eye. The young man staring back at him looked far from the part of a savvy investor or a key player in a high-stakes negotiation.


    His clothes were too casual, too unassuming. If anything, he looked like a college student heading to a lecture¡ªnot someone about to finalize a significant business deal.


    Ethan frowned. "I need to dress better," he said aloud, the realization striking him with surprising urgency.


    He thought back to the styles he''d seen in movies or online¡ªsharp suits, polished shoes, and just the right amount of flair to command attention without seeming overdone. He didn''t need to look extravagant, but he did need to exude confidence and professionalism.


    "I''ll know it when I see it," he told himself, already heading toward the upscale shopping district nearby. The thought of walking into the Jerai Royale looking anything less than his best was unthinkable.


    If he wanted to impress David¡ªand, more importantly, secure his standing¡ªhe needed to look the part.


    ***


    The Laurel & Co. boutique stood among a row of high-end stores, its windows an invitation to another world. The displays gleamed with modern sophistication: tailored jackets, sleek shoes, and understated accessories, each piece exuding quiet confidence.This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.


    It was the sort of place that seemed to promise transformation, though Ethan wondered if he was the sort of person it could transform.


    As he stepped inside, the scent of polished leather and crisp cologne welcomed him as though the store itself had taken a deep, refreshing breath.


    The atmosphere was hushed but purposeful, and for a moment, Ethan felt the weight of his own unassuming appearance amidst the curated elegance.


    A saleswoman approached almost immediately, her sharp eyes taking him in before offering a practiced, polite smile. "Good afternoon," she said warmly. "How can I assist you today?"


    Ethan hesitated, glancing around at the racks and displays. Everything looked impeccable¡ªtailored and exact in a way he didn''t yet feel. "I need something¡­"


    He paused, searching for the right words. "Smart casual. Something suitable for a business meeting."


    The saleswoman nodded, her smile never wavering. "Of course. Follow me."


    As she guided him further into the boutique, Ethan noticed the subtle grace in her movements, the way her hand lightly touched the fabric of each piece she passed.


    She didn''t say anything outright, but he could sense her quiet appraisal of his current attire¡ªcasual, ill-fitted, and entirely out of place. Yet her tone remained warm, her professionalism intact.


    "We have a selection of tailored jackets, dress shirts, and slacks that might work well for what you''re describing," she said thoughtfully.


    Reaching out, she selected a dark navy blazer from the rack. Its clean lines and understated stitching suggest effortless elegance. "How about this to start?" she offered.


    Ethan studied the blazer for a moment, then nodded. "That seems nice. I can try it first."


    Her smile softened, and for the first time, there was something genuine in it. Perhaps it was his politeness, or perhaps she had misjudged him after all. "Of course. The fitting rooms are just over there," she said, gesturing toward a row of sleek doors.


    Inside the changing room, Ethan slipped on the blazer, pairing it with the crisp white shirt and charcoal slacks she had suggested. When he turned to face the mirror, he barely recognized himself.


    The transformation was striking. The blazer fits perfectly; its sharp cut gave Ethan a sense of stature that he hadn''t realized he was missing. The shirt and slacks complemented the look, creating an air of quiet confidence.


    He stood there for a moment, adjusting the collar of the shirt and running his fingers over the fine fabric of the blazer. The man in the mirror looked like someone who belonged at the Jerai Royale, someone ready to sit across from David Turner and discuss a deal worth $500,000.


    "This will do," he murmured to himself, the satisfaction unmistakable.


    Outside, the saleswoman was waiting. "How does it feel?" she asked, her gaze appraising but kind.


    "Perfect," Ethan replied, his tone firm yet quietly amazed. He glanced at her, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "I''ll take it."


    Her smile widened, and there was no mistaking the satisfaction in her expression. "Excellent choice. Would you like to add anything else? Perhaps a pair of shoes to complete the outfit?"


    Ethan paused, considering. His sneakers, comfortable as they were, suddenly felt glaringly out of place. He nodded slowly. "Why not?"


    Her smile brightened further, her enthusiasm almost infectious now. "Wonderful. Let''s find something that pairs perfectly with this."


    As she led him toward the rows of polished shoes, Ethan felt the faintest twinge of amusement. This wasn''t how he had pictured his day, and yet, for the first time in a long while, he felt like he was exactly where he needed to be.


    ***


    Now dressed in his new outfit, Ethan felt an unfamiliar but welcome surge of confidence as he approached the grand Jerai Royale Hotel. He caught his reflection in a polished storefront window and gave a faint, almost sheepish smile.


    ''So this is what it feels like to look the part,'' he thought.


    He couldn''t deny the transformative power of his new attire. The dark navy blazer, crisp white shirt, and tailored slacks made him feel more than just presentable¡ªthey made him feel capable.


    "She was a great help," Ethan murmured to himself, thinking of the saleswoman.


    Tipping her generously had brought a momentary look of astonishment to her face, a look Ethan found surprisingly satisfying. ''Making someone else''s day¡­ it feels good,'' he reflected, tucking the thought away for later.


    As he neared the Jerai Royale, the hotel''s shining facade rose before him, its reflective surface dazzling in the afternoon sun. The building seemed to embody the wealth and influence of its patrons, a reminder of the high-stakes world he was stepping into.


    Despite his polished appearance, Ethan felt his nerves twist inside him, making his steps falter for a moment. ''Breathe,'' he told himself, though his hands were clammy, and a faint dizziness crept in. ''You''re here for a reason.''


    Pushing through the revolving doors, he entered a space that felt like another realm entirely. Gleaming marble floors stretched out before him, catching the soft light of crystal chandeliers above.


    The quiet hum of conversation, the faint clinking of glasses, and the gentle rustle of well-tailored suits filled the air with an almost tangible sense of affluence.


    At the reception desk, a poised concierge glanced up, his smile polite and practiced. "Good afternoon, sir. How may I assist you today?"


    Ethan straightened his posture and summoned his composure. "I''d like to book a private meeting room," he said evenly.


    The concierge raised an eyebrow, though his professional demeanor remained intact. "Of course. Our private rooms are priced at $2,000 per hour. How long will you require the space, sir?"


    "Three hours," Ethan replied without hesitation, his voice betraying none of the nerves still bubbling beneath the surface.


    The concierge blinked, clearly surprised by Ethan''s calm response. "That will be $6,000, sir," he said carefully. "Are you sure¡ª?"


    Ethan cut him off with a casual wave of his hand. "And I''d like to add premium delicacies and drinks. Whatever''s best."


    For a brief moment, the concierge seemed at a loss, his polished professionalism giving way to a flicker of disbelief. It wasn''t every day that someone made such extravagant requests with such apparent ease.


    "Of course, sir," he said, recovering quickly. "I''ll arrange for our finest selection. That will bring your total to $8,000. May I charge your card?"


    Ethan handed over his worn debit card, its edges slightly frayed. As the concierge glanced at it, his expression betrayed a hint of doubt¡ªonly to shift to one of amazement as the transaction processed smoothly.


    For a man accustomed to handling wealth, even he seemed taken aback.


    Returning the card with renewed respect, the concierge said, "Your room will be ready in half an hour, Mr. Cole. If there''s anything else you require, please don''t hesitate to let us know."


    "Thank you," Ethan replied with a small nod, tucking the card back into his wallet.


    As he turned away, the weight in his duffel bag felt lighter, justified by the certainty that his financial foundation was as unshakable as ever.


    ''It feels different to spend like this without worry,'' he thought, a quiet smile forming on his lips. The thought wasn''t one of arrogance but of a newfound ease¡ªlike stepping into shoes that finally fit.


    With his outfit immaculate, the meeting room booked, and his encounter with David Turner just hours away, Ethan felt as though he was poised on the edge of something monumental.


    The pieces were aligning, each step bringing him closer to a vision of himself he had never dared to imagine before.


    Seated in the plush waiting area, he let his thoughts wander. The soft hum of the hotel seemed to fade as he considered the path ahead. ''I''m not pretending anymore,'' he realized. ''This is real. I''m not just playing a role¡ªI''m stepping into it.''


    As he smoothed a hand over his blazer and glanced around the luxurious space, a quiet resolve settled over him.


    With the system''s unseen hand guiding him and endless possibilities unfolding before him, Ethan felt that, for the first time, the future wasn''t just a vague notion. It was here, waiting for him to claim it.

 Chapter 10: Lets Start a Company

    Ethan settled into the soft embrace of the leather chair, letting its luxurious comfort lull his restless thoughts.


    The private room was a marvel of understated elegance¡ªdim lighting cast a warm glow on the polished mahogany table before him, and the subtle hum of the hotel''s ambiance seemed to soothe the air.


    His gaze wandered to the sleek clock on the wall. Almost time.


    He retrieved his phone and tapped out a quick message to David Turner.


    Ethan: [I''m in Private Meeting Room No. 5. I''ll be ready when you are.]


    Satisfied, he placed the phone down and leaned back, allowing his mind to wander. Excitement simmered beneath the surface as he considered the opportunities this meeting might unlock¡ªnot just for David''s project but for others in his network as well.


    The thought of weaving connections and securing influence sent a spark of ambition through him.


    But there was more than ambition driving him now. The system''s missions hung in his mind like a subtle whisper, urging him forward. Two goals¡ªexpand his network and improve his status¡ªseemed tantalizingly within reach.


    ''If this meeting goes as planned¡­'' he thought, the words trailing off into a realm of possibilities.


    His thoughts turned briefly to the system itself. ''And the Ascension Points¡­'' A faint smile played on his lips as he recalled the shop''s offerings, each item promising a kind of transformation he could scarcely fathom.


    ''What would it feel like to unlock one of those upgrades?'' The curiosity lingered, tinged with the same wonder one feels standing on the brink of something extraordinary.


    The soft vibration of his phone brought him back to the present. A notification. Opening it, he saw an email from Charles Weston at Novan Bank. Ethan couldn''t help but smile. ''He doesn''t waste time.''


    To pass the moment, Ethan opened the email and scrolled through its contents. Attached was a polished presentation outlining the benefits of becoming a Premier client, accompanied by a sleek video detailing the program''s exclusive perks.


    The visuals were immaculate, the tone carefully tailored to appeal to someone of means¡ªsomeone like him, now.


    As the video played, Ethan found himself drawn in. Personalized financial services, priority access to exclusive deals, and invitations to events attended by the region''s wealthiest and most influential figures.


    It was all there, laid out like an invitation to a new world. And Ethan, already half a step through the door, found the prospect both thrilling and oddly surreal.


    "This is good," he murmured to himself, his voice quiet in the stillness of the room. He could almost see it now¡ªthe conversations, the connections, the opportunities that lay ahead.


    It wasn''t just about wealth; it was about stepping into a life of influence, where the right word spoken at the right moment could shape futures.


    His fingers moved instinctively, crafting a reply to Charles.


    Ethan: [I''m in. Let me know what''s needed to finalize everything.]


    The response came almost immediately.


    Charles: [Sure, Mr. Cole. I''ll get it done straight away.]


    ***


    Charles leaned back in his chair, his fingers steepled as his eyes lingered on the faint glow of his laptop screen. "Who is this young man¡­" he murmured aloud, the question lingering in the air like an unfinished melody.


    There was something about Ethan Cole¡ªsomething that defied explanation. It wasn''t just the sudden appearance of immense wealth or the ease with which he secured backing from a corporation formidable enough to pose a challenge to even the most established institutions.


    No, it was the air of quiet confidence that surrounded him, a confidence that seemed entirely natural yet utterly mysterious. If he knew the truth, that was all pretense from Ethan.


    Charles closed his laptop with a quiet click, the sound breaking the stillness of his office. Rising to his feet, he straightened his tie and smoothed his jacket, his mind already spinning with plans.


    ''I need to learn more about him,'' he thought, the weight of curiosity settling over him.


    If there was one thing Charles Weston understood, it was the value of relationships. And this young man¡ªwhoever he truly was¡ªhad potential, not just as a client but as a connection.


    Perhaps, Charles mused, the bank could benefit from this association. More than that, perhaps he could create an opportunity for Ethan to step further into their world¡ªand for himself to understand just how Ethan Cole fit into it.


    With a quiet resolve, Charles decided to organize an event, a gathering of the city''s most influential figures. A carefully orchestrated evening where introductions could be made, alliances formed, and Ethan reintroduced¡ªnot just as a client, but as someone worth knowing.


    ***


    Ethan felt a quiet surge of satisfaction. The Premier client status wasn''t just a label; it was a key¡ªone that could unlock doors he had never dreamed possible. With each step forward, the world around him seemed to widen, revealing paths he hadn''t even considered.Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation.


    The soft click of the door broke his reverie. David Turner stepped inside, his sharp eyes scanning the room as though expecting someone else. When his gaze finally landed on Ethan, there was a flicker of surprise¡ªquickly masked, but not before Ethan caught it.


    David''s eyes narrowed, taking in the transformation. Gone was the casually dressed young man from the bookstore. In his place stood someone who could easily be mistaken for a rising entrepreneur or even a seasoned professional.


    For the first time, David hesitated in his assumptions.


    "Ethan," David greeted, his tone polite but tinged with curiosity. "I was expecting your professor. Isn''t he coming?"


    Ethan rose to greet him, his handshake firm, his smile calm. "Actually," he began, his voice steady, "I made up the story about the professor."


    David blinked, his expression hardening into one of wary disbelief. "What do you mean?" he demanded, his voice sharper now. "Are you playing games with me?"


    Ethan held his ground, unflinching under the scrutiny. "I needed a way to get your attention," he admitted, his tone measured. "And it worked. I want to fund this project."


    David''s brow furrowed as he crossed his arms and sat down, clearly unconvinced. "What is this about, Ethan?" he asked, his voice laced with skepticism. "No offense, but this doesn''t seem¡­ serious. Are you even capable of funding a project like this?"


    Ethan could feel the tension in the air, the unspoken challenge hovering between them. He had expected doubt¡ªit was only natural. But he also knew how to erase it.


    Without a word, Ethan bent down, unzipped the duffel bag at his side, and lifted it onto the table. From within, he drew out neatly bundled stacks of cash, each one a silent but undeniable statement.


    "What do you think now?" he asked, his voice calm, though his heart thudded in his chest. He placed the money on the table, the quiet rustle of paper filling the room like a ripple in still water.


    David''s jaw tightened as he stared at the stacks of bills, disbelief etched into his face. "What the¡ª" he began, his voice barely a whisper. Then, louder, "Where did you get this? If it''s from anything shady, let me make this clear¡ªI don''t want any part of it."


    Ethan met his gaze evenly, his own voice steady and deliberate. "This is $500,000," he said. "And no, it''s not from anything illegal. I mentioned the professor''s story because I needed to establish credibility. Nobody would believe someone like me otherwise."


    David leaned back in his chair, the weight of the moment settling heavily between them. The soft ticking of the room''s clock seemed to grow louder, marking the pause in their conversation.


    "And this," Ethan continued, gesturing to the cash, "is just the beginning. If you need more proof, you can speak to Charles Weston at Novan Bank. He''ll confirm that I can deliver."


    David''s eyes narrowed at the name, his mind clearly working to connect the dots. "Charles Weston," he repeated slowly. "The manager at Novan Bank?"


    Ethan nodded, the gesture steady even as his thoughts swirled beneath the surface. "The real question," he said, his voice calm but edged with curiosity, "is whether you''re ready to take the next step with me."


    Truthfully, Ethan felt far from the confident persona he was projecting. Every word and action had been rehearsed in his mind during those restless moments of waiting for David to arrive.


    Yet now, standing at the edge of something unknown, he realized that no amount of preparation could ease the nervous energy bubbling within him.


    David leaned back in his chair, his expression softening into one of contemplation. The initial skepticism in his eyes had given way to something warmer¡ªa blend of admiration and the flicker of opportunity.


    He hadn''t expected such resolve from Ethan, but now, seeing the younger man''s commitment, he began to imagine what more might be possible.


    "You know," David began, his tone thoughtful, "I''m thinking. This project could be just the beginning. With your talent in programming and the resources you clearly have¡­" His gaze shifted briefly to the cash on the table before returning to Ethan. "Why not think bigger?"


    Ethan blinked, caught off guard by the suggestion. The nervousness that had gripped him moments ago gave way to curiosity. "What do you mean by that?"


    David''s lips curved into a small smile, his eyes gleaming with enthusiasm. "Why not start a company?"


    Ethan straightened in his chair, his brow furrowing slightly. "A company?" he echoed as though the word carried a weight he hadn''t anticipated.


    "Yes," David said, leaning forward now, his excitement growing. "A tech company. Something focused on creating innovative, community-driven apps¡ªprojects that don''t just make money but make a difference."


    The idea hung in the air between them, alive with possibility. Ethan''s mind raced, weighing the enormity of such a step. "What''s the catch?" he asked cautiously.


    David chuckled softly, shaking his head. "There''s no catch," he assured him. "You''d hold the majority stake, of course. Let''s say¡­ 90% for you, 10% for me."


    He paused, his tone shifting to one of quiet sincerity. "I''m not after wealth, Ethan. I''m comfortable with enough to live on. My real passion is seeing initiatives like this thrive¡ªnot just for profit but for the good they can do. That said¡­" His voice softened further. "I do have a family to think about."


    Ethan studied David carefully, noting the honesty in his words. For a man like David, this wasn''t just another business proposition; it was a calling.


    Yet the practicalities loomed large in Ethan''s mind. "I''m not sure I have what it takes to run a company," he admitted, his voice betraying a flicker of doubt.


    David leaned back, smiling warmly. "You don''t need to worry about that," he said reassuringly. "We''ll work together. You do what you''re best at¡ªdeveloping brilliant apps¡ªand I''ll handle the rest. Operations, logistics, management. That''s my domain."


    Ethan sat quietly for a moment, letting the idea settle. The prospect of starting a tech company hadn''t crossed his mind before, but now it seemed to align perfectly with his circumstances.


    It offered a way to explain his newfound wealth¡ªa story the world would readily accept. Successful programmers turning their innovations into millions was a tale often told; this could be his.


    ''This might just work,'' he thought, the pieces clicking into place.


    A slow smile spread across his face. "A tech company," he repeated, the words tasting strange but promising. "That''s an interesting idea. Let''s do it."


    David''s face lit up, his energy palpable. "Perfect," he said, his tone brimming with satisfaction. "You''ll be the chairman, and I''ll manage the operations and day-to-day aspects. But¡­"


    He grinned playfully, his tone turning light. "Since we''re a startup, don''t think you can just sit back in a fancy chair. A chairman needs to roll up his sleeves, too. You''ll focus on app development¡ªyour work so far speaks for itself."


    Ethan felt a rush of excitement. The possibilities unfurled before him like an open map, each path leading to something greater than the last. With David''s experience and his own resources, it seemed the only limit was how far they dared to go.


    "I like it," Ethan said, the confidence in his voice now unshakable. "Let''s get started."


    David grinned, extending his hand across the table. "I''ll handle the paperwork and registration," he said firmly. "You won''t regret this, Ethan. I believe we have what it takes to change the game."


    Their handshake sealed the agreement, and as their hands parted, Ethan felt a strange yet empowering weight settle on his shoulders. It wasn''t a burden but a promise¡ªof potential, of opportunity, of a future shaped by his own choices.


    For the first time in a long time, he felt like he was exactly where he was meant to be.


    =====


    [Number of connections (2/2)]


    =====


    [Mission Completed: Expand Your Network]


    Reward:


    1. 2,000 EXP


    2. 10 Ascension Points


    =====


    And with that, Ethan realized how smoothly things were falling into place.