A New Life and Old Struggles

Grace's labor pains began late in the evening, causing a flurry of activity in the household. Felix, calm but visibly tense, carried his sister to the car with Juan following closely behind. They drove to the nearest hospital, where Grace was admitted.

After hours of labor, Grace gave birth to a healthy baby girl. The cries of the newborn filled the room as the nurse handed her to Grace, who looked at her daughter with a mix of exhaustion and wonder.

"She's beautiful," Juan said softly, wiping her tears.

Felix, standing at the doorway, gave a small nod but didn't step closer. He had too much on his mind. The hospital bills were looming, and he knew they couldn't afford to stay long.

Felix left the hospital shortly after the birth and returned home. The weight of their financial burdens pressed down on him as he packed up his most precious belongings. His prized wristwatch, his collection of books, and even a few items that belonged to his late father—all were sold to cover the costs of Grace's delivery.

Juan noticed his actions and confronted him. "Felix, what are you doing? Those are your father's things. You can't just—"

"I can and I will," Felix interrupted harshly. "This family needs money, and we don't have time to hold on to memories. I'll keep my phone for now; it's useful for work. Everything else can go."

Juan watched him in silence, her heart breaking for her son. She knew he was carrying a weight far too heavy for someone his age, but she also knew he wouldn't let anyone else bear it.

Felix's days grew even longer. He worked multiple jobs, sometimes skipping meals to save money. His health began to suffer, but he refused to slow down.

At the restaurant, Meiling continued her relentless pursuit.

"Felix," she said one evening, sidling up to him as he cleared a table. "I heard your sister just had a baby. Congratulations."

Felix didn't look up. "Thanks."

"You know," Meiling continued, twirling a strand of her hair, "I could make your life so much easier. My dad could promote you. I could take care of you."

Felix paused, setting the tray down with a little too much force. "Meiling, stop. I've told you before—I'm not interested."

She pouted, stepping closer. "Why not? You work so hard. Don't you want someone to look out for you?"

Felix's gaze was icy as he replied, "I don't need anyone. Focus on your own life and leave me alone."

Meiling was undeterred. "You're just saying that because you don't realize how much I care about you. Age doesn't matter when it comes to love, Felix."

Felix clenched his jaw, his patience wearing thin. "I don't have time for love, Meiling. Not with you or anyone else. Now, leave me alone."

He walked away, leaving her standing there, frustrated but still determined.

Back at home, Grace noticed the sacrifices Felix had made. She approached him one evening, holding her newborn daughter.

"Felix," she said quietly, "thank you. For everything."

Felix shrugged, his expression unreadable. "I'm just doing what needs to be done."

"You've done more than anyone could ask for," Grace said, her voice thick with emotion. "I don't know how to repay you."

"Take care of your daughter," Felix replied, his tone softer than usual. "That's all the repayment I need."

Lisa, meanwhile, couldn't help but notice the toll Felix's responsibilities were taking on him. She wanted to help but didn't know how to approach him. Every time she tried to talk to him, he brushed her off.

"He's so stubborn," Lisa confided in Chelsea during lunch. "I don't know how he does it."

"Maybe he just needs someone to break through those walls of his," Chelsea suggested.

Lisa wasn't sure if she was the one who could do it, but she knew she had to try.

Felix's life showed no signs of slowing down. Despite Meiling's advances and the relentless weight of his responsibilities, he remained focused on his family. Love, friendship, and personal happiness were luxuries he couldn't afford.

But as much as he tried to push everyone away, some cracks in his armor were beginning to show—and Lisa was determined to find a way through.