The morning sun streamed through the window as Chen Xiang sat at the dining table, his laptop open and papers scattered around him. The air was filled with the sound of clinking dishes as his siblings bustled about, their voices lively and filled with a sense of renewed energy. The atmosphere in the house had shifted in recent weeks—there was a spark of hope and purpose that hadn't been there before.
Chen Xiang's investments had continued to grow, and for the first time, he could see a clear path to something he had always dreamed of: financial freedom. It wasn't just about the money—it was about having the ability to make choices, to provide for his family without constantly worrying about the next crisis. But he knew that getting there would take more than just luck. It required strategy, discipline, and a willingness to take calculated risks.
Over breakfast, Wenwu plopped down in the chair across from him, his usual playful smirk plastered on his face. "So, Mr. Wall Street, what's the big plan today?"
Chen Xiang pushed his papers aside, taking a sip of his coffee. "I'm considering diversifying. Real estate, maybe. Something stable to balance out the riskier investments."
"Real estate?" Wenwu raised an eyebrow. "You're really thinking big, huh?"
"You have to if you want to make real progress," Chen Xiang replied, his tone serious. "It's not just about making money—it's about creating stability. For all of us."
Wenwu leaned back, crossing his arms. "You're really going all in on this, aren't you?"
Chen Xiang nodded. "It's not just for me. It's for Mom, for you, for Jia and Huihui. I want us to be in a place where we don't have to worry anymore."
Wenwu's smirk softened into a genuine smile. "You're a good brother, you know that?"
"Don't let it go to your head," Chen Xiang said, chuckling. "Now, go help Mom. She's been asking you to fix that cabinet for weeks."
As Wenwu left the room, Chen Xiang returned his attention to his research. The numbers on the screen blurred slightly as he focused on potential investments, running through the pros and cons of each option. His mind was sharp, but his thoughts kept circling back to one thing: his father's dream of stability, of providing a life where the family could thrive.
That afternoon, he stepped outside for a break, the warm breeze ruffling his hair as he strolled through the neighborhood. His thoughts wandered to the people he had met along the way—those who had believed in him, even when he doubted himself. Ruoxuan's words echoed in his mind: You're not just helping your family. You're inspiring them.
He smiled faintly at the thought of her. She had become a constant presence in his life, her unwavering support and sharp wit grounding him in ways he hadn't expected. As if on cue, his phone buzzed in his pocket. It was a message from her.
"Got time for a coffee break? My treat this time."
Chen Xiang chuckled, typing back a quick response. "Always. Meet you at the usual place in 20 minutes."
When he arrived at the café, Ruoxuan was already waiting, her notebook open on the table and a steaming cup of tea in front of her. She looked up as he approached, her smile lighting up her face.
"You're early," she said, closing the notebook as he sat down.
"Trying to make a good impression," he replied, earning a laugh.
They spent the next hour talking, their conversation flowing effortlessly as always. Ruoxuan listened as Chen Xiang shared his plans for diversification, offering her insights and occasional teasing. She had a way of challenging him without undermining him, pushing him to think bigger while still staying grounded.
"You're really building something incredible," she said, leaning forward slightly. "But don't forget to take a moment to enjoy it."
"I'll enjoy it when I know my family's secure," he replied. "That's the priority."
She nodded, her expression thoughtful. "Just don't lose sight of yourself in the process. You matter too, Chen Xiang."
Her words stayed with him long after their conversation ended. That night, as he sat in his room, reviewing his notes and planning his next steps, he allowed himself a moment to reflect. He wasn't just building a financial future—he was building a life, one that he hoped would honor his father's legacy and bring pride to the people he cared about most.
For the first time in a long time, Chen Xiang felt a sense of clarity. The road ahead wouldn't be easy, but he was ready to face whatever challenges came his way. He wasn't just chasing financial freedom—he was creating a foundation for something greater, something that would last.