2025-07-25 23:44:08
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122: Pay it forward
Enough of the holiday cheer had been consumed. For Kage, it had been one of the most memorable holidays of his life, second only to the fading memories of childhood celebrations with his parents. Already fading as in he failed to remember most of what happened.Deep down, he yearned to solidify those precious moments in his heart, knowing that soon their voices would fade completely, leaving only the echoes of their presence in his soul. Well, Kage trust he would always remember them.As he dressed, his movements careful not to disturb Johanna, he watched her in the mirror, a growing conflict raging within him. Should he involve her in the whirlpool that was about to consume his life?Their gazes locked in the reflection, and Kage immediately averted his eyes, a sense of guilt washing over him. It wasn't as simple as casually saying, "Hey, so my old best friend tried to kill me, is probably stealing from my company, and I demand justice." Kage couldn't help but wonder if Johanna
121: snow man
December 26th. Snow fell in slow, deliberate flakes, each one a tiny hush over the world. The Christmas clamor had burned itself out; what remained was a white silence that felt almost sacred. Kage stood on the porch steps, coffee steaming in his gloved hand, and realized he was…content. Not the brittle contentment of a man counting assets, but the softer kind that sneaks up when no one is watching. He liked it. It felt like a huge escape for him. From his own mansion, his hospital, his ex wife and ex best friend. He hadn't even thought about anything since he arrived three days ago. The women had vanished on some mysterious "bonding time" mission, leaving him in the company of Jackson and the other men. What began as small talk about hangovers and bad gifts slid, inevitably, into a snowman contest.As everyone bundled up and ventured outside, shovels in hand, a strange sensation washed over Kage. A void. He couldn't recall ever building a snowman before. A pang of something akin t
120: Family
The holiday haven was bathed in soft beige, pink, and white hues, creating a serene escape within the Beaumont family estate. Personal photographs dotted the walls, capturing moments and memories. An elegant dresser stood beside a makeup chair, suggesting a space dedicated to both personal style and quiet reflection.Kage's eyes landed on a teenage photo of Johanna, and next to it, a childhood picture with most of her front teeth missing. Kage chuckled, a warm sound that resonated in the room.His arms wrapped around Johanna, but his mind was a whirlwind. He shifted his bare legs in the sheets, his thoughts racing as she caressed his bare chest.Pulling her into a tight hug, he kissed her forehead. She looked up at him, a knowing smile playing on her lips."You know you can't hide anything with that face of yours," Johanna said softly, her fingers tracing the lines of concern etched on his brow.She got out of bed, her bare back a tempting silhouette against the morning light, and wal
119: Well, well, well
Clara fought back tears, desperately seeking a way to make Kage see her, to love her again. She knew she was acting out of desperation.His last words looped, merciless: You know what’s right, Clara. You can do it or not. But please, stop calling me.She could still feel the ghost of his hand brushing hers as he turned away—cold, final, gone.Her breath hitched, ragged. The phone in her lap felt heavier than sin. She reared back, arm cocked to hurl it, to shatter something, anything, that wasn’t her heart—or her ego She looked up to see Dr. Patel standing by the door, having witnessed her entire interaction with Kage."I don't think it's wise to smash your phone," he said calmly.Clara scoffed, but a faint smile touched her lips as she sat up in bed and began to gather her belongings."Why are you still pretending?" she asked, her voice laced with sarcasm.Patel simply watched her, his expression unreadable. "You have been here for longer than necessary, Clara. Be safe and make sure
118: You need help
Kage was en route to Bridges Hospital. As planned, John had gone to his parents' house for the Christmas holiday. He would be with Miguel and Rebecca.And Clara? She simply wouldn’t let him rest. she had called all night with different numbers.Since Gina’s call that morning, it seemed Clara had "something" she desperately needed to tell him. Deep down Kage felt she would rat out Matt but he wouldn't force her. Not like he doesn't want to know. Knowing Clara, she could twist everything.Kage used the garage entrance, taking the private elevator as usual, craving the anonymity it provided. It wouldn't be nice to have the paparazzi and content creators using him as a content this time As he arrived on the hospital floor, the familiar scent of antiseptic and medicine filled his lungs. He grimaced. He missed this place.He walked towards Clara's room, Jackson a silent shadow behind him. Glances from former colleagues followed him, some filled with curiosity, others with apprehension.
117: Do you remember?
Kage had just ended the call with Johanna, relaying the news about Clara and the police investigation. He hadn't shared this with anyone else aside from those already in the know, but Johanna wasn't just anyone.Still at the mansion, Kage had skipped work that day, deeming it unwise to venture into a hospital teeming with content creators, press, and livestreamers. The thought of the inevitable chaos and scrutiny was enough to make him shudder.It was crazy how everyone wanted to capture him. The thought about it made his skin boil. It was the same reason that made him went under 15 years backAfter his parents accident, anytime Kage would go out, a swan of reporters had their cameras on his face. Light flashing while they ask him horrible questions about his parents death.'Was it your fault they died? Can you tell want really happened? Was it set up? What will you do now since you will forever be alone'Imagine such question to ask someone who just lost his parents."Uhmm. People" K
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