CHAPTER 17: PRS 17

"Dad, can’t we move to a bigger house than this?" Margaret protested, her voice full of complaint as she looked at the living room of the modest house.

Joseph took a deep breath, holding back both irritation and exhaustion. "It’s fortunate that we can still afford a house this nice with our limited financial situation. At least we can each have our own room, not have to be crowded like before."

Margaret snorted, her face flushed, feeling unheard. "I’m just not used to living this cramped. We used to live in a grand house, and now we’ve fallen into this."

Joseph stared at his wife intently, trying to make her understand. "Margaret, we’ve already fallen so hard, we barely have a place to live. Have you forgotten how we used to live in that tiny rental? We’re better off now."

Margaret finally looked away, unwilling to hear any more. Though heavy-hearted, she tried to accept the reality. At least this house wasn’t as small as their previous home, before Revan married Arlina and Joseph’s retail business had flourished. But because of greed, that business nearly went bankrupt for the second time.

After selling the house Arlina had bought, Joseph immediately paid his employees’ salaries and initiated mass layoffs to reduce future expenses. He also had to spend a significant amount of money to reimburse investors who were suing for their rights. Otherwise, Joseph faced legal action. Although he couldn’t pay everything, he paid what he could to avoid jail.

Meanwhile, Revan tried to contact his friends. However, as soon as they heard the news of his family’s bankruptcy, almost all of them disappeared. Only Benedik was still willing to listen to his woes.

"Rev, I know this is hard," Benedik said over the phone. "If you want, send an email application to Lulass Corporation immediately. They’re developing a new housing complex in City XX and need a lot of marketing staff. My friend, Bobi, can help with the process as long as you send it tonight."

Revan was silent for a long time. He had read Benedik’s message many times. His pride was holding him back, but his daily needs were demanding. He sighed heavily. Maybe I should give it a try.

Meanwhile, Luna’s fate was different. As soon as people learned she was poor, all her friends distanced themselves. Luna cried in her room. "They’re all hypocrites! When I was rich, everyone bowed down sweetly. Now I’m poor, and I don’t even look at them. I’m so shameless!"

She still hadn’t realized that her arrogance and condescending attitude were the reason everyone avoided her.

Two hours later, Revan received an email reply from Bobi. His face brightened slightly. He immediately got ready for the interview.

Margaret, seeing her son dressed neatly, immediately became suspicious. "Where are you going, Rev? You suddenly smell really good."

Revan adjusted his tie. "A friend offered me a job. I was told to come in for an interview. If I pass, even though the salary isn’t much, the incentives are quite substantial. I could even get a company car. It’s better than riding a motorcycle in the heat and rain."

Margaret’s eyes lit up. "Thank goodness you’ve got a job. At least Mom can join the social gathering with your money. I’m bored being cooped up at home."

Revan turned his head, a sardonic smile creeping into his face. "Yes, if I’m successful, my money will definitely be enjoyed by Mom too."

Margaret was actually satisfied with that statement. "Of course. You’re my son, your fortune is Mom’s fortune too," she replied shamelessly.

After a 45-minute drive, Revan arrived at Ma’s housing marketing office. He was amazed by the neat and tidy building. "It’s beautiful. I wish Arlina could have bought a house here," he murmured softly.

His reverie was interrupted when someone tapped him on the shoulder. "Revan, right? I’m Bobi. Come on in."

Bobi took him on a tour of the buggy. Revan was captivated by the work atmosphere there. Although his salary was only 3 million rupiah per month, the sales incentive percentage was substantial. Coupled with the company car and target bonuses, he felt quite happy.

However, Revan hadn’t realized one important thing: He lacked managerial skills. He was even weak at operating a computer. All this time, Arlina had been his constant, silent helper. Without her, would he have been able to survive?

Meanwhile, on the toll road to the Rainy City, Isabella Clark was all smiles. The 22-year-old had received reports that her coffee shop and stationery store had been bustling with customers since opening day.

"This is a good start," Isabella said to Jery, who was sitting beside her.

Jery nodded. "You’re great, Bella. Your promotional strategy is a huge success."

Isabella shook her head modestly. "I’m just trying hard. But I want to maintain this momentum. I plan to hold a small event to attract more customers."

Jery chuckled. "Your enthusiasm always amazes me."

For the stationery store, Isabella planned to use the promotional methods she had previously used at her printing shop, only modified. She jotted down plans on her phone.

"Siva, if there’s a printing shop on the side of the road, stop for a moment. I need to print some documents," Isabella said to her driver.

A few minutes later, they stopped at a small printing shop. Isabella went in briefly to print an important document: a partnership proposal with Lulass Corporation.

She knew that if she succeeded in securing the partnership today, she would not only complete a special mission from Phoenix Systems but also open up new opportunities as a real estate entrepreneur.

"At least I can create jobs for others," Isabella murmured. "Unlike Revan, my ex-husband, who ended up working for someone else after his business collapsed."

Siva, listening, smiled. "Bella, you’re different. You have a vision, and you’re never afraid to start over."

Isabella stared at her files, her heart reassured. "I can’t fail. Phoenix System has given me a second chance. And I will prove myself."