Chapter 1528
On the bustling streets of Imperial City, Jason held his phone, staring out at the vibrant, never-sleeping metropolis before him. Despite the lively surroundings, his heart was filled with an overwhelming sense of desolation. He had wanted to tell Audrey countless times that he couldn't take it anymore and wanted to return to Harmony County.
But his pride as a man held him back. After all, he had confidently declared he would make it in Imperial City City, ignoring Audrey's objections and insisting on pursuing his dreams in another city. Now, having achieved nothing, how could he face returning to Harmony County?
He had been waiting for Audrey to ask him to come back, but she never did. Maybe she really didn't want him back. Why should he humiliate himself further?
Perhaps their marriage was already over. Jason clenched his fists, and a tear rolled down his cheek.
Jason had never imagined losing Audrey. Back in college, the first time he saw her, he swore he would marry this stunningly beautiful girl.
Audrey was the goddess of the campus, with her striking looks and impressive figure. Countless men lost sleep over her, making her the object of their fantasies.
Many guys tried to pursue this beautiful, sexy girl, but all failed, even the wealthy and influential ones. Jason, a poor student, was laughed at by his dorm mates for even thinking about it.
But Jason was determined. Despite his poverty, he had a strong will. After a relentless pursuit, he managed to win Audrey's heart.
When he appeared in public holding Audrey's hand, the guys who had mocked him were all green with envy. They couldn't believe a poor student like him could win over such a beautiful girl. He became the most envied guy on campus and a legend of his class.
That had been the highlight of Jason's life. Maybe he had used up all his luck pursuing Audrey. After graduation, he was too proud to seek regular employment and instead started a business with friends. With no experience, the venture failed miserably, leaving him in debt and forcing him to flee Skyview City and return to Harmony County.
In Harmony County, he and Audrey could have secured stable jobs with their degrees and lived a life envied by many. But watching others amass wealth, Jason grew restless. Despite his attachment to Audrey, he couldn't settle for a mediocre life and set out on his journey to Imperial City City.
Years of struggle later, he was still penniless, with nothing to show for his efforts. His dreams had faded, and time had slipped away.
Was returning to Harmony County his only option? It was small, but his parents and friends were there. Most importantly, his beautiful and virtuous wife was there. He could still have a better life than most.
But if he returned, all his efforts in Imperial City City over the past three years would be in vain. He would never become a billionaire or give Audrey the life he had promised. As a man, he felt humiliated. He couldn't face Audrey, knowing she could have married someone better but chose him, only to be let down.
Should he stay or go? Jason's mind was torn. He was in agony, confused, and at a loss. He was stuck, unable to move forward or backward.
"Imperial City City, I will conquer you!" Jason shouted, running to the roadside hill. He unzipped his pants and urinated toward the towering skyscrapers.
"Crazy," a woman in a passing Mercedes sneered as she saw Jason's act.
"Another one lost it," the man beside her chuckled, stroking her thigh. "Babe, these days, men without money have it rough. Everyone thinks Imperial City City is full of opportunities, but how many actually strike it rich?"
"You're the best, babe. I love you," the woman gazed at him adoringly. The man, a local who had benefited from several property demolitions, owned dozens of apartments, earning hundreds of thousands in rent annually. He spent his days drinking coffee and playing cards, changing women frequently—a true winner in life.
On the hill, Jason shook off the last drops of urine, coldly watching the Mercedes drive away. The city was full of wealthy people, and he couldn't understand how they made money so easily while he struggled. He had the education, the brains, and the work ethic. Why was it so hard for him?
An hour later, Jason returned to the rundown building where he lived. Climbing to the second floor, he entered his room to find his roommate, George, packing.
"George, what are you doing?" Jason asked, surprised.
"Jason, I'm going home," George said excitedly. "I passed the teacher's exam back home."
"Really? Congratulations," Jason smiled, though he didn't think much of a county high school teacher's job.
"I owe it to Audrey. If she hadn't run that summer class here, I wouldn't have had the courage to take the exam," George said gratefully. "Thank her for me."
"Sure, no problem," Jason nodded. "When are you leaving? I'll see you off."
"Thanks, but there's no need. I'm taking the early train tomorrow," George hesitated before adding, "Jason, we've lived together for a while. I have to say, Imperial City City isn't for us. Go back to Audrey. She's waiting for you. We all envy you for having such a great wife. If I had someone like Audrey, I wouldn't be here."
"I know," Jason said, feeling more troubled. He stepped outside for a smoke, reflecting on his years with Audrey. She had always supported him, never once complained, even when they moved from the bustling Skyview City to Harmony County. He was fortunate to have her, and he wanted to provide her with a better life. But why was it so hard to make money?
When he returned, George was on the phone, speaking softly. Jason could hear a girl's voice on the other end.
After George hung up, Jason teased, "Talking to your girlfriend? When did this happen?"
George blushed, smiling. "I went on a blind date when I visited home. We hit it off, and now we're engaged. Her parents agreed after I passed the exam." He showed Jason a photo of a sweet-looking girl.
Jason nodded approvingly. "She looks like a good match. Take good care of her."
"I will. She and her parents are supportive. They'll help us financially when we get married," George said happily.
Jason reminisced about his own wedding, feeling guilty for not providing Audrey with a comfortable life.
The next morning, Jason insisted on seeing George off at the train station. He handed George $500, saying, "George, I might not make it to your wedding. Consider this a gift. Say hi to your parents for me and take care."
"Thanks. You take care of Audrey," George smiled, then walked into the station.
Watching George leave, Jason found a quiet corner of the plaza, smoking and glancing at the ticket hall. With George gone, he was the last of the original residents. Maybe it was time for him to buy a ticket home too.
Suddenly, Jason threw away his cigarette and hurried into the ticket hall. He wanted to go home, see his wife, and tell her he was sorry. He wouldn't leave her again.
"Sir, what can I do for you?" the ticket clerk asked with a smile.
"Starfall Town. How much for a seat?"
"$50. May I see your ID?"
Jason reached for his driver's license, but a commotion nearby caught his attention. He turned to look.
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