Chapter 1: Job loss

Evan lounged on the couch in his cozy living room, engrossed in his phone.The sound of his wife, Andrea, bustling around in the kitchen filled the air as she prepared their breakfast.

Five years of marriage had brought Evan immense joy, especially with Andrea by his side.

However, there was always a tinge of unease when it came to her parents, particularly her mother. Mrs. Sanchez had a reputation for being demanding, which often left Evan feeling a bit intimidated. She was descending the stairs, clad in a striking pencil skirt and a perfectly tailored jacket that accentuated her figure.

Evan's heart skipped a beat, knowing exactly what was about to unfold.

It had become a routine for Mrs. Sanchez to ask for money, claiming it was for various expenses.

Evan, not wanting to upset his mother-in-law or create any tension within the family, had always obliged. 

"Good morning, mom," Evan greeted, rising from the couch. 

"I need some money to splurge at the mall today," she stated, her voice laced with expectation. "I have a gathering with my friends tomorrow night, and I want to look presentable." 

Evan let out a sigh, fully aware of what was to come. He had prepared a 100 dollars for this very moment, hoping it would be enough to satisfy his mother-in-law's needs.

He handed her the money, but her immediate frown told him it wasn't sufficient. 

"That's all?" she questioned, disappointment evident in her voice. "I need at least 300 dollars to purchase a decent outfit." 

Evan's heart sank at her words. He knew that no matter what he gave her, his mother-in-law would never be content. Reluctantly, he added some more bills. 

"Here, mom," he said, his voice tinged with resignation. 

"Great." she replied cheerful, didn't say a thank. 

Evan sank deeper into the couch, releasing a heavy sigh. He understood that this was just the beginning.

Mrs. Sanchez would persistently request money, and he would have no choice but to comply in order to maintain harmony within the family. 

Just as he began to unwind, Mr. Sanchez approached him. Evan's heart sank even further, fully aware of his father-in-law's intentions.

Mr. Sanchez had a gambling addiction and frequently sought financial assistance from Evan to fuel his habit. 

"Hey, son," Mr. Sanchez greeted Evan, giving him a friendly pat on the back, "Can I borrow 200 dollars? I have a guaranteed win today, and I need the money to place my bet," 

Evan let out a resigned sigh, knowing that he would likely never see that money again. 

Mr. Sanchez whistled, a smile forming on his face as he pocketed the money. 

Evan slouched deeper into the couch, his energy drained and frustration bubbling within him.

His bank account lacked any savings, and his monthly income barely covered the bills, expenses, and the demands of his in-laws and wife. 

However, as he glanced at Andrea, who had settled beside him on the couch, he knew that he would go to great lengths for her and her family. 

Suddenly, Evan's phone pierced through the tranquility of the morning. He swiftly answered the call, noticing that it was from his friend and coworker, Henry. 

"Hey, what's going on?" Evan inquired. 

"Sorry to disturb you, but I need you to come to work as soon as possible. Mr. Sanfuente has an important announcement to make," Henry urgently relayed. 

Evan's heart sank as he realized that this day was not going to be a pleasant one. He knew that Henry wouldn't call him in unless it was a matter of great significance. 

"Alright, I'll be there as soon as I can," Evan responded. 

Turning to Andrea, who had just finished setting the table, he explained, "I have to head to work early today. Something important has come up," as he grabbed his suit. 

Andrea's face fell with disappointment. "But we were supposed to have breakfast together," she pouted. 

Evan sighed,  "I'm sorry, my love. I'll make it up to you, I promise," he assured her, planting a quick kiss on her lips before rushing out the door. 

As Evan reached the company entrance, he swiftly made his way inside. Walking through the familiar halls, a nagging feeling of unease lingered in the back of his mind. 

"Evan. Mr. Sanfuente wants to see you in the office," Henry mentioned, attempting to sound nonchalant but failing. 

Upon entering the office, all doubts were dispelled. Mr. Sanfuente sat at his desk, his expression stern. Evan's heart plummeted as the CEO delivered the news he never expected to hear. 

“Evan, I regret to inform you that we have to terminate your employment. Today will be your last day here,” Mr. Sanfuente's voice was devoid of any emotion. 

For a moment, Evan felt dizzy. He gritted his teeth to calm down: "For what reason, sir?"  

Mr. Sanfuente showed a twisted smile: "Someone reported you for sexual harassment."

“What?!”

Due to his outstanding performance, many people have hated Evan. Evan realized that someone must be setting him up. 

But Mr. Sanfuente looked Evan up and down, said mockingly: "Look at you, it's not weird at all to sexually harass others."

Evan is not as flattering as other employees, Mr. Sanfuente has long disliked him.

"Where is the evidence?" Evan tried hard to stay cool. 

Mr. Sanfuente looked at him as if he were an unreasonable dog. "Of course we have evidence. If you don't get the fuck out of my office, now, I'm calling the security."

Overwhelmed by a mix of anger and hopelessness, Evan's frustration boiled over. In a moment of fury, he grabbed Mr. Sanfuente's collar. 

With no savings and a family to support, the loss of his job left him in a state of panic. 

How would he break the news to Andrea and his in-laws?