1 Kevin

As the clock struck 6 in the morning, the warm sunrays sneaked through the parted curtains, bathing the apartment in a golden glow. In the corner of the room, a figure sat on a study desk, surrounded by a pile of documents.

Kevin reviewed each document, ensuring everything was in order. Satisfied with his efforts, he stretched his tired muscles before heading toward the kitchen.

A pot of coffee is brewing on the stovetop, filling the air with its rich aroma. He reaches for a cup on the shelf and carefully pours himself a hot cup of coffee.

While enjoying his coffee, Kevin checks his messages, hoping to see a text from his girlfriend. He hasn't heard from her for over a week. He couldn't help but feel worried about her.

*Sigh*

A soft sigh escaped his lips, and he put his phone aside, focusing on enjoying his warm coffee instead.

Today is a big day for Kevin's company. They had an important meeting lined up with potential investors. As their best employee, Kevin was responsible for presenting the company's project to the investors. If things go well, he might even get a promotion.

After finishing his coffee, Kevin gets dressed and gathers all the documents and pen drive that contain his important work from yesterday. He takes a moment to check his appearance in the mirror, ensuring everything looks good. Then he leaves his apartment, closes the door, and locks it behind him.

As Kevin walked down the stairs, he noticed his landlady. She has a habit of asking him for extra money. The other day, she wanted him to pay for a tap her son had broken in the shared bathroom. It is unfair because he shouldn't have to pay for someone else's mistakes.

Kevin was getting more and more annoyed with how his landlady treated him. He had been considering moving out of the apartment and finding a different place to live. But unfortunately, he doesn't have enough money right now to do that.

Kevin walked over to her with a fake smile, trying to hide his annoyance at seeing his landlady.

"Good morning, Mrs. Johnson," he said politely.

The landlady stared at him with a serious face and said,

"I need to talk to you about something."

"I'm sorry, but I have an important meeting at work. Can we talk when I come back home?"

Without waiting for an answer, he turned and walked away without looking back. He didn't want to deal with her right now. He was sure that his landlady would ask him for more money.

"Once I have enough money saved up, I'm going to find a new apartment and leave this place, "he promised himself silently.

While walking, he couldn't stop thinking about his girlfriend. They had been a couple for two years, and he wanted to be with her forever. He had saved up some money to buy a gorgeous ring for her, as he planned to propose when she returned. But there was a problem. She wasn't answering his calls. She told him she had to go to Pearl Town for work a week ago, and he did not know when she would return.

Pushing the thoughts of his girlfriend out of his mind, Kevin stopped at a nearby food stall to grab something to eat for breakfast. He waited for his order.

Kevin couldn't help but notice that the city was busier than usual. The police were actively patrolling the area, ensuring everything was in order.

Kevin turned to the person beside him and asked politely,

"Hey, excuse me, do you know why the police are patrolling? Did something happen?"

Surprised by the question, the stranger responded,

"Haven't you heard? It's the Gilbert family's daughter's birthday today. Many important businessmen are attending the birthday celebration. That's why the police are ensuring everything runs smoothly."

Under his breath, Kevin mumbled,

"It must be nice to be wealthy."

Once he finished his snack, he resumed his journey towards his office.