...I never thought my life would come to this. A business degree in my hand, dreams of success in my head, and yet... here I was, standing outside my parents’ modest house, feeling like the biggest failure in the world. ...

...The sun was setting, painting the sky with hues of pink and gold. But all I could see was the peeling paint on the front door, the cracked windows, the rusted metal fence barely standing. This house held memories, love, and sacrifice. It was everything my parents had worked for, and I was supposed to be the one who’d give them a better life. Yet, I had nothing to show for it. ...

...Inside, I heard my mother’s soft voice, humming an old tune from her youth as she prepared dinner. The aroma of arroz con pollo wafted through the open window, a reminder of simpler times. My father’s cough echoed from the living room, a harsh reminder of the long hours he spent working at the factory. His health was failing, and they were counting on me. But what could I do when every job interview ended in rejection? ...

...I took a deep breath and walked inside, putting on a smile to mask my frustration. “I’m home.” ...

...“Daniel!” My mother’s face lit up as she came out of the kitchen, wiping her hands on her worn apron. “How did it go?” ...

...I hesitated, the familiar knot tightening in my stomach. “They... they said they’ll call me.” ...

...Her hopeful eyes sparkled. “That’s wonderful! I know they’ll see how smart you are.” ...

...I forced a nod, the lie burning my throat. They weren’t going to call. They never did. Why would they? I was just another name on a long list of desperate graduates. But I couldn’t bear to shatter her hope. ...

...“Your father’s resting,” she added, her voice softening. “He’s had a rough day.” ...

...I looked toward the living room, where my father lay on the old, faded couch, his chest rising and falling slowly. His face was pale, eyes closed, his hand resting on his chest as he slept. The man who once stood tall and proud now looked frail and exhausted. Guilt gnawed at me, knowing he still worked long hours despite his illness because I couldn’t support them. ...

...“I’ll go see him,” I whispered, my heart heavy. ...

...Before I could move, my phone buzzed. I pulled it out, my chest tightening at the sight of Amelia’s name flashing on the screen. My pulse quickened as I answered, “Amelia?” ...

...Her voice was cold, distant. “We need to talk.” ...

...My throat went dry. “Yeah... sure. When?” ...

...“Now. I’m outside.” ...

...I turned to the window, my heart sinking as I saw her standing by her car, arms crossed, her face expressionless. “Alright. I’ll be right out.” ...

...“Who was that?” my mother asked, her eyes curious. ...

...I forced a smile. “Just... a friend. I’ll be back soon.” ...

...Stepping outside, I closed the door behind me and walked toward Amelia. Her arms remained crossed, her eyes cold, void of the warmth I once loved. She was beautiful, as always, dressed in her usual elegance. But her expression sent a chill down my spine. ...

...“Hey,” I greeted softly, my voice uncertain. “What’s going on?” ...

...She didn’t bother with pleasantries. “Daniel, this isn’t working.” ...

...My heart skipped a beat. “What do you mean?” ...

...She sighed, looking away. “This... us. It’s not working. We’re on different paths.” ...

...I felt the ground shift beneath me. “Amelia, I know things are tough right now, but—” ...

...“That’s just it!” Her eyes snapped to mine, frustration boiling over. “It’s always tough with you. You have dreams, Daniel, but no means to make them happen. And I can’t keep waiting for you to get your life together.” ...

...Her words cut deep, each syllable a dagger to my heart. “You said you believed in me...” ...

...“I did,” she whispered, her voice softer now. “But belief isn’t enough. I need stability. I need security. And you can’t give me that.” ...

...My chest tightened, anger mixing with pain. “So that’s it? You’re leaving because I’m broke?” ...

...She looked away, her jaw clenching. “I’m leaving because I can’t keep pretending that love is enough. I deserve more than this... more than a future built on empty promises.” ...

...I opened my mouth to argue, but no words came out. She was right. What future could I offer her when I couldn’t even take care of my parents? When I was drowning in my own failures? ...

...“I’m sorry, Daniel,” she whispered, her eyes glistening. “I do love you. But I have to think about myself too.” ...

...I wanted to beg her to stay, to promise I’d change, to do anything to keep her. But the look in her eyes told me it was too late. She’d made up her mind. ...

...Without another word, she turned and got into her car, the engine roaring to life. I stood there, frozen, watching as she drove away, leaving me behind like a discarded memory. ...

...The world around me blurred, the ache in my chest spreading like wildfire. I felt empty, hollow, a shell of the man I once was. Everything I cared about was slipping through my fingers, and there was nothing I could do to stop it. ...

...I didn’t know how long I stood there, staring at the empty street. But when I finally turned around, I saw my mother watching me from the window, her face etched with worry. I tried to smile, to pretend everything was okay. But the lie shattered before it even formed. ...

...The truth was, my dreams were falling apart. And so was I....

END OF CHAPTER 1

...The glow from my laptop screen was the only light in my room. I stared at the rejection email, my eyes skimming the words I’d seen too many times before....

...“We regret to inform you...”...

...I slammed the laptop shut, the thud echoing through the quiet room. Frustration tightened in my chest. I leaned back on my bed, staring at the ceiling, the shadows dancing in the faint glow from the streetlamp outside....

...A knock on the door broke my spiraling thoughts. “Daniel?” My mom’s voice was soft, hesitant....

...I quickly wiped my face, making sure no trace of disappointment was visible. “Yeah?”...

...The door creaked open, and she peeked in, her eyes gentle and curious. “Dinner’s ready. Your father’s already at the table.”...

...I forced a smile. “I’ll be there in a minute.”...

...She stepped inside, her gaze lingering on the closed laptop. “Any news on the job applications?”...

...My chest tightened, and I looked away. “Not yet. But... I’m still trying.”...

...She sighed, her shoulders sagging a little. “I know you are, mijo. Just... don’t lose hope. Things will get better.”...

...I wanted to believe her, but I could hear the worry in her voice. I hated being the reason for that worry. “I won’t, Mom.” I stood up, trying to sound more confident than I felt. “Let’s eat before Dad finishes everything.”...

...Her face softened, her smile small but genuine. “You know how he gets when he’s hungry.”...

...I followed her to the dining room, the familiar scent of home-cooked food wrapping around me. ...

...My father sat at the head of the table, his shoulders hunched, eyes distant. His once-strong frame now seemed smaller, worn down by years of hard work and the illness that clung to him like a shadow. He looked up as I entered, his face brightening....

...“Ah, there he is! Finally decided to join us, huh?” He tried to sound playful, but his voice was hoarse, raspy from another day at the factory....

...I forced a grin. “Wouldn’t miss Mom’s cooking for the world.”...

...He laughed, a rough sound that turned into a cough. He waved it off quickly, but I saw the strain in his eyes. I clenched my fists under the table, guilt gnawing at me. He shouldn’t still be working, not in his condition....

...As we ate, my parents exchanged light banter, my mother scolding him for not taking his medicine on time, him complaining about the doctor’s orders. I tried to keep up, laughing when appropriate, but my mind was miles away, tangled in the mess of my failures....

...My father looked at me, his gaze sharp despite his tiredness. “Any news on the job front?”...

...I hesitated, my stomach knotting. “Still waiting. But I’ve sent out more applications. Something’s bound to come up.”...

...He nodded slowly, his eyes lingering on me. “Keep at it, son. You’ve always been a hard worker. Someone out there will see that.”...

...I forced a smile. “Yeah... I hope so.”...

...Silence settled over the table, heavy and uncomfortable. My mother cleared her throat, forcing a brightness into her voice. “Amelia came by earlier. I told her you were out for an interview.”...

...My heart sank. “She... did?”...

...My mom smiled, oblivious to the pain her words were causing. “Such a sweet girl. You’re lucky to have someone who supports you.”...

...I looked down at my plate, the food turning to ash in my mouth. How could I tell her that Amelia was gone? That I wasn’t enough for her? That I was losing everything I cared about?...

...My father’s voice cut through my thoughts. “You’re quiet tonight, Daniel. Something on your mind?”...

...I looked up, forcing another smile. “Just... thinking about tomorrow. I have another interview lined up.”...

...His face brightened. “That’s great news! See? I told you, hard work pays off.”...

...I nodded, my chest tightening with every lie. “Yeah... I’m hoping this one works out.”...

...After dinner, I helped my mom clear the table, her soft humming a comfort I didn’t deserve. As she washed the dishes, she glanced at me, her eyes tender. “Are you alright, mijo? You seem... distant.”...

...I swallowed hard, the weight of my failures pressing down. “I’m fine, Mom. Just tired, I guess.”...

...She placed a gentle hand on my shoulder. “I know things are tough right now. But you’re strong. You’ll find your way.”...

...I looked at her, my heart aching. She believed in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself. “Thanks, Mom... I needed to hear that.”...

...Her smile was warm, her love unconditional. “Always, Daniel. Always.”...

...I went back to my room, the darkness feeling heavier than before. I sat on the edge of my bed, my phone clutched in my hand, Amelia’s last message haunting me. “I deserve more than this... more than a future built on empty promises.”...

...I wanted to call her, to beg her to come back, to promise I’d be better. But what could I offer her? A man with no job, no future, no hope?...

...I tossed my phone on the bed, my chest aching. I couldn’t even face my parents with the truth. How was I supposed to face her?...

...A knock at the door startled me. “Come in.”...

...My father entered, leaning heavily on the doorframe. “Can we talk?”...

...I straightened, masking my worry. “Yeah, of course.”...

...He moved slowly, his body stiff as he sat beside me on the bed. “You know... when I was your age, I went through something similar.”...

...I looked at him, surprised. “You did?”...

...He nodded, his eyes distant. “I lost my job at the factory. Your mother was pregnant with you, and I didn’t know how we were going to make it. I felt... lost.”...

...I swallowed, the image of my strong father struggling with doubt hard to imagine. “What did you do?”...

...He looked at me, his eyes warm but tired. “I kept trying. Every day. Even when I felt like giving up. I worked odd jobs, did whatever I could to put food on the table. It wasn’t easy, but... I did it for you. For our family.”...

...His words hit me hard, shame burning in my chest. “I don’t want to let you down, Dad.”...

...He placed a heavy hand on my shoulder, his grip firm. “You could never let me down, Daniel. As long as you keep fighting, keep trying... that’s enough for me.”...

...I looked down, my throat tight. “I just... I wanted to give you and Mom a better life. I wanted to take care of you.”...

...His face softened, his voice gentle. “You are taking care of us. Just by being here. Just by trying. Don’t carry this burden alone, son. We’re in this together.”...

...Tears stung my eyes, and I quickly looked away, blinking them back. “Thanks, Dad... I needed that.”...

...He smiled, a tired but genuine smile. “I’m proud of you, Daniel. No matter what.”...

...He stood up slowly, his movements stiff. “Get some rest. Tomorrow’s a new day.”...

...I watched him leave, his shoulders still strong despite his frail body. I sat there for a long time, his words echoing in my mind....

...“I’m proud of you... No matter what.”...

...I took a deep breath, the weight on my chest easing just a little. Maybe I wasn’t a failure. Maybe... I still had a chance to make things right....

...Tomorrow was a new day. And I was going to keep fighting. For my parents. For myself. For a future worth believing in....

END OF CHAPTER 2

...I woke up to the familiar creaking of our old house. The sun filtered through the torn blinds, casting lines across my room. I lay there for a moment, letting the warmth wash over me, trying to summon the strength to face another day....

...But I couldn’t afford to linger. I had another interview today – another chance to prove that I wasn’t a complete failure....

...“Daniel! Breakfast’s ready!” my mom’s voice echoed through the hallway....

...“Coming!” I called back, quickly changing into my only decent shirt and jeans. I tried to flatten my unruly hair in front of the mirror, but it was a losing battle....

...As I entered the kitchen, the smell of eggs and toast filled the air. My father was already seated, sipping his coffee slowly, his face pale and tired....

...“Morning,” I greeted, trying to sound cheerful....

...My mom smiled as she placed a plate in front of me. “You’re up early today.”...

...I shrugged, digging into the eggs. “Got another interview lined up.”...

...My father looked up, a flicker of hope in his eyes. “Where at?”...

...“It’s a small marketing firm downtown. Just an entry-level position, but... it’s something.”...

...He nodded approvingly. “Good. Every opportunity counts. Make sure you show them what you’re made of.”...

...“I will,” I promised, my chest tightening. I couldn’t bear the thought of disappointing him again....

...He leaned back, wincing as he shifted his weight. His cough was worse this morning, each wheeze cutting through the room like a knife....

...My mom’s face tightened, but she forced a smile. “After your interview, can you pick up your father’s medication? They’ve increased the dosage again.”...

...I nodded, trying to hide the worry twisting in my gut. “Yeah... no problem.”...

...She hesitated, her eyes lingering on me. “If... if you get the job, that’ll help a lot with the expenses. But don’t stress yourself, mijo. We’ll manage, no matter what.”...

...I looked away, guilt washing over me. They were counting on me, depending on me... and I was barely holding it together....

...“I’ll get it, Mom,” I said, trying to sound confident. “I’ll get the job. I promise.”...

...She reached out, squeezing my hand. “Just do your best, Daniel. That’s all we ask.”...

...I finished my breakfast in silence, the pressure building with every bite....

...As I stood up, my father’s voice stopped me. “Daniel... come here for a moment.”...

...I turned, walking over as he motioned to the chair beside him. I sat down, waiting as he gathered his thoughts....

...He looked at me, his eyes serious. “I know things have been tough lately. But I want you to remember something...”...

...I swallowed hard, bracing myself. “What is it?”...

...His voice softened. “You’re not alone in this. We’re family. We face things together. Don’t carry all this weight by yourself.”...

...My throat tightened, and I looked down at my hands. “I just... I don’t want to let you down.”...

...He shook his head, his expression firm. “You could never let me down, son. You’ve always been strong, even when you don’t feel like it. And no matter what happens today... we’re proud of you.”...

...I felt the sting of tears behind my eyes, quickly blinking them away. “Thanks, Dad... that means a lot.”...

...He smiled, his face softening. “Now go out there and give it your best shot. That’s all anyone can do.”...

...I stood up, my heart pounding. “I will.”...

...He reached out, gripping my shoulder with surprising strength. “And remember... no matter how many doors close, there’s always one waiting to open. Don’t give up.”...

...I nodded, his words echoing in my mind. “I won’t.”...

...With a last look at my parents, I grabbed my worn-out briefcase and headed out the door, feeling the weight of their hopes and dreams resting squarely on my shoulders....

...The bus ride downtown was long and crowded. I stood near the back, swaying with every jolt and turn, my mind racing with a thousand anxious thoughts....

...What if they don’t like me? What if I mess up? What if......

...I shook my head, forcing myself to breathe. I couldn’t afford to spiral. Not today....

...The building was small but tidy, the company’s name displayed in sleek silver letters: BrightStar Marketing. I straightened my shirt, wiping my sweaty palms on my jeans before walking inside....

...The receptionist looked up, her smile polite. “Good morning. Do you have an appointment?”...

...I cleared my throat, trying to sound confident. “Yes. Daniel Cruz, for the 10:30 interview.”...

...She nodded, typing quickly on her computer. “Alright. Mr. Thompson will see you shortly. Please have a seat.”...

...I sat down on the stiff leather couch, my heart pounding. I glanced around, taking in the bright, modern decor. Everything looked so... expensive. I suddenly felt out of place, my worn-out briefcase looking shabby against the pristine white floor....

...Before I could spiral further, a tall man in a sharp suit approached. He looked to be in his early forties, his hair perfectly styled, his eyes sharp and calculating....

...“Daniel Cruz?”...

...I jumped to my feet. “Yes, sir.”...

...He extended a hand, his grip firm. “I’m Mark Thompson. Come on in, let’s get started.”...

...I followed him into his office, trying to keep my posture straight, my nerves barely contained....

...He sat behind his massive desk, motioning for me to sit across from him. “So, Daniel... tell me about yourself.”...

...I took a deep breath, launching into my rehearsed speech. “I recently graduated with a degree in marketing, and I’m passionate about creating impactful campaigns that resonate with audiences. I believe my skills in communication and creativity would be a great fit for BrightStar.”...

...He listened, his face unreadable. “I see. And why did you leave your previous position?”...

...I hesitated, my chest tightening. “The company downsized... and unfortunately, I was let go.”...

...His eyes narrowed. “Tough break. But that’s business, I suppose.”...

...I forced a smile. “Yes, sir.”...

...He leaned back, his fingers steepled. “We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running. Someone who’s proactive, adaptable. Do you think you’re that person?”...

...I sat up straighter, my voice steady. “Absolutely. I’m eager to learn and grow, and I’m not afraid of hard work. I’m ready to contribute to your team.”...

...He studied me for a moment, his gaze piercing. “Confidence is good. But results are better. Can you deliver results, Daniel?”...

...I swallowed hard, meeting his stare. “Yes, sir. I can.”...

...His lips curled into a faint smile. “We’ll see.”...

...He stood up, signaling the end of the interview. “Thank you for coming in. We’ll be in touch.”...

...I stood as well, shaking his hand. “Thank you for the opportunity.”...

...As I walked out of the office, my heart was pounding, my mind racing....

...Had I done enough? Had I impressed him? Or was this just another failure waiting to happen?...

...The ride home was a blur, my thoughts tangled in worry and doubt. But as I walked through the front door, my father’s words echoed in my mind....

...“No matter how many doors close, there’s always one waiting to open. Don’t give up.”...

...I took a deep breath, forcing myself to believe it....

...Because giving up wasn’t an option. Not now. Not ever....

END OF CHAPTER 3