Chapter Nine

Liam mustered up the courage to step outside. Surprisingly, he found a plate of food on the floor, shattered.

Liam went to the maid to inquire, “Hello, what happened? Are you alright? Can I help you?” showing concern.

The maid, on her knees gathering broken glasses, looked up and said, “I’m sorry. I was bringing you this meal, but it fell. I don't know what you’ll have for dinner. I'm so sorry,” genuinely pleading.

Despite his hunger, Liam pitied the lady, knowing it was an honest mistake. “It's okay. I’ll manage through the night,” he assured, patting her shoulders, and returned inside.

Inside the room, Liam began to ponder how miserable his life had been, painful tears flowed until he fell asleep.

Waking up famished, Liam was weak from days without eating, still, he had to do his morning duties before work. He was running late, so he quickly freshened up.

He went from room to room Informing the Thompson family members that he was ready for work, but all he got was embarrassment and insults.

When Liam got to Mrs. Olivia’s room, he was about to knock. The door opened, revealing Olivia and her lover dressed and ready to go out.

“What's the matter?” Olivia asked with a smug expression.

“I… I'm ready for work. Please, Mrs. Olivia, can you help me with my fare? I'm already late for work.” Liam stammered pleading for cab money.

Olivia hissed and laughed, “You must be funny. First, don't address me as Mrs. I can't be married to an idiot. Then, I don't have any money to give you. If you want to beg, hit the street. Please, darling, let's go.” She said to her lover, held his hand, and walked downstairs to a set breakfast table.

Liam sighed, having no choice but to walk. He began the long walk to work. As he headed to work, he wondered when he'd reach the hotel, just walking.

While on the way, a car approached, it was Olivia and her lover. They laughed at Liam, yelling, "Fool!" and drove off, leaving dust on Liam's face.

When Liam finally arrived at work, he was very late. His boss, Mr. Johnson called him with an irritated face.

"Liam, you're late again! This is becoming a habit, and I don't like it, it has to stop."

Liam nervously replied, "I'm sorry, Mr. Johnson. I had some personal issues this morning, and it delayed me."

Mr. Johnson frowned, "Personal issues or not, this is a workplace, and punctuality is important. If you can't manage your time better, you risk losing your job. I won't tolerate lateness."

Liam nodded, knowing that Mr Johnson was right. "I understand, Mr. Johnson. It won't happen again."

Mr. Johnson sighed, "See that it doesn't. We value commitment and responsibility here. Now, get to your work, and make sure this doesn't become a habit."

“Thank you, sir,” Liam muttered.

Liam continued in his job, attending to the hotel's customers. Despite his hard work, the salary barely covers his expenses, most of it goes to the Wilson family.

Going through both physical and emotional pain, Liam grew weaker each minute. His concerned colleagues tried to inquire what was wrong with him, but he waved it off claiming that he was okay, keeping his toils to himself.

Late in the evening, as Liam was finishing work, he received a message from Olivia.

"I sent money to your account. Use it to buy seafood and drinks. I'll have guests tomorrow."

Liam, drained and frustrated, let his phone fall. He didn't even have the energy to walk to the mall which was simply far. It seemed no one cared about him. His life was a nightmare, and he wished desperately to wake up from this harsh reality.

Liam's workday ended, and he wearily made his way to the store, thinking that was not going to make it.

Reaching the store, he contemplated using Olivia's money to buy food for himself, but Liam feared what the repercussions might be, so he didn't dare to use it.

Instead, Liam decided to ask for arms. He sat by the mall entrance and resorted to asking for help, practically becoming a beggar.

Some people recognized Liam as the Thompson family's son-in-law, and some people took photos, mocked him, and even spat at him. While Some kind-hearted people offered him money.

However, Liam attracted more attention, including that of Olivia's friends who were passing by. They couldn't resist taunting him.

"Look at the fallen son-in-law! Begging for scraps now?" one of them sneered.

Liam tried to control himself and not let their words get to him, he continued to focus on the genuine support he received. Despite the mockery, he continued collecting whatever assistance came his way. However, things changed a little when a particular arrogant man stepped out of the car, recognizing Liam.

"Well, well, the Thompson family's son-in-law had brought disgrace to the Thompson family name. What brings you to this lowly state, aren't you a disgrace? Liam?" the man scoffed.

Liam decided not to let the insults get to him, and responded with a simple, "Just trying to get by, the Thompson family isn't part of this and knew nothing about this."

The man proceeded to use the opportunity to humiliate him further, and he decided to escalate the situation.

He took out his phone and began recording a video, making derogatory comments about Liam's life.

As the video circulated on social media, it generated attention.

This attracted the local news, turning it into a public mess. Amidst the chaos, a car pulled up in front of him. It was a woman, she recognized Liam. She felt pity for him and came out of her car.

"Liam, the lady called, walking to where Liam sat. What happened? This isn't right, you shouldn't be here" She said, showing care.

Looking suspicious, Liam responded, "Your face seems familiar; I might know you from somewhere."