my return will be your downfall

THE MAN WHO COULD CHANGE EVERYTHING

The problem was money.

Every business idea required capital, and he barely had enough savings to cover an unexpected expense.

Still, he refused to abandon the idea.

He had seen people rise from difficult circumstances through hard work and determination. There was no reason he could not do the same.

When the bus reached his stop, Adrian climbed down and walked toward the large residential property where his employer lived.

A tall metal gate stood at the entrance, guarded by two security officers. Beyond it was a beautiful compound with carefully trimmed lawns, decorative trees, and a wide driveway.

Adrian approached the gate and greeted the guards.

"Good morning."

One of them nodded.

"Morning, Adrian. You're early today."

"I have to prepare the car before the boss comes out."

The guard smiled.

"You're always thinking about work."

Adrian chuckled.

"Someone has to."

The gate opened, and he walked into the compound.

A black luxury sedan stood beneath the covered parking area. Adrian had driven it for his employer on numerous occasions, and he knew the vehicle well enough to recognise the slightest unusual sound from its engine.

He checked the tyres, inspected the exterior, and wiped away a few marks from the windscreen.

By the time he finished, his employer's personal assistant was crossing the compound.

"Adrian!"

He turned.

"Good morning, sir."

"The boss wants to leave by eight. Make sure everything is ready."

"Yes, sir. The car is ready."

"Good."

The assistant continued toward the main building.

Adrian looked at his watch.

He still had several minutes before his employer was expected to come outside.

He used the time to inspect the vehicle's interior, making sure the seats were clean and the air conditioning worked properly.

It was a routine he had followed almost every morning since taking the job.

He took pride in his work.

Although he was not wealthy, he believed that a person should never allow difficult circumstances to destroy his sense of responsibility.

His employer might never notice how carefully he checked every detail, but Adrian knew he was doing his job properly.

And for now, that was enough.

---

At exactly eight o'clock, Adrian's employer emerged from the house.

Mr. Harrison Cole was a successful businessman in his early fifties. He owned several commercial properties and had investments in different industries. He was known for his demanding nature and expected everyone working for him to perform their duties without unnecessary excuses.

He wore a charcoal-grey suit and carried a leather briefcase.

Adrian immediately opened the rear door of the sedan and bowed 360.

"Good morning, sir."

Harrison nodded and entered the vehicle.

"Morning. Take me to the office first. I have a meeting at nine."

"Certainly, sir."

Adrian closed the door, walked around the vehicle, and climbed into the driver's seat.

He started the engine and drove out of the compound.

The journey began quietly.

Harrison was occupied with his phone, reading messages and reviewing documents. Adrian kept his eyes on the road, concentrating on the heavy morning traffic.

After several minutes, Harrison spoke.

"Adrian."

"Yes, sir?"

"How long have you been working for me?"

"Almost two years, sir."

"Two years," Harrison repeated thoughtfully.

"Yes, sir."

Harrison continued looking at his phone.

"Are you satisfied with your salary?"

The question surprised Adrian.

He glanced briefly at the rear-view mirror.

"Sir?"

"I asked whether you're satisfied with your salary."

Adrian hesitated.