Episode 1

I am Andrew Castela, and this is my story. For as long as I can remember, success has always been my main objective. Growing up in a wealthy London family—my father, the CEO, and I, the heir to a chain of hotels that we manage alongside our other businesses—my parents instilled in me the importance of discipline and hard work. I have always been competitive, always striving to be the best, whether at school, in sports, or later, in the business world.

My journey began at Harvard University, where I graduated with honors in Economics. Harvard was the first stage where I could demonstrate my skills and ambitions. It wasn't just about learning; it was about being the best. Every class, every exam, every project was an opportunity to prove my worth. My peers saw me as someone determined, though I knew some considered me arrogant. For me, it was simple: I had a goal, and nothing would stop me.

When I started working on Wall Street at my parents' company, the largest financial firm in the country, I began like any recent graduate, but for me, it was just another battlefield. I quickly stood out, not for being the nicest or the most popular or the CEO's son, but because my results spoke for themselves. I understood the markets like few others and was willing to make decisions that others would hesitate to make. Yes, that meant being ruthless at times. Restructuring, staff cuts, risky decisions—it was all part of the game to maximize profits.

By the age of 30, I was promoted to vice president. This early success only solidified my approach: focus on results above all else. I knew I wasn't loved by everyone, but I also knew I was taking the company to new heights. Being a leader often means making tough and unpopular decisions, something I was more than willing to do.

When I turned 40, I was appointed CEO of one of the largest multinational companies in the world. My father decided to retire when he saw that I was ready to take the lead. Under my leadership, the company thrived like never before. Implementing drastic reforms and focusing on efficiency and innovation were my main strategies. Profits soared, stocks hit record highs, and the company became a global giant. However, these achievements did not come without criticism. Many saw me as a cold and distant leader, someone who preferred intimidation to inspiration. I understand these criticisms, but I've always believed that achieving great things requires a certain degree of emotional detachment.

My personal life has always been a mystery to many. I prefer to keep my privacy away from the spotlight. I'm not the type to share intimate details or seek validation from others. My satisfaction comes from numbers, results, achievements. Charity events and networking are part of my role, but I never fail to assess each situation with a critical and calculating eye.

Despite all the controversy surrounding my leadership style, there's no denying that I've been effective. I transformed the company into a profit-making powerhouse and left an indelible mark on the business world. I am an example of how determination and intelligence can take someone to the top. Yes, my coldness and arrogance are traits that many point out, but they are also what allowed me to make difficult decisions and achieve my goals.

I continue to shape the business world with my relentless vision and innovative strategies. My name, Andrew Castela, is synonymous with success and controversy. And to me, that's just a reflection of a life dedicated to achieving excellence, no matter the cost.

Despite being strict with my upbringing, my parents were always loving and present in my life, before I became so cold and calculating as to push people away from me. I was in love with a woman and was betrayed in the worst way by my best friend.

Daiara knew about my feelings for her; we were teenagers, still in high school. I confided in the one I considered my best friend, Pablo, and being shy, I asked for his help in winning Daiara over. But he betrayed me in the worst way possible: he made up lies about me, humiliated me in front of our class, and started a relationship with the girl I liked. And she chose to be with him.

When I was in college, I received a wedding invitation from Pablo and Daiara. That was enough for me to close myself off to these feelings that only make people suffer: love and friendship.

I don't trust anyone, I don't talk about my personal life, I don't go to many parties. Only for professional reasons; my biggest focus is solely on my work and my fortune.

I live in a mansion in a private condominium. Known as "The Reserve", only the biggest CEOs, true tycoons, own mansions in this condominium. I like my peace and quiet.

Sometimes I go out and hook up with someone I meet at night, taking them to some hotel downtown. After one night, we each go our separate ways. I'm 40 years old and haven't been interested in anyone since.

In recent years, loneliness has become my constant companion. Although I focus on my businesses and accumulate wealth, sometimes I wonder if this emptiness inside me will ever be filled. My employees respect and fear me, as my reputation for being ruthless in business is well known. But in moments of silence, I wonder if Pablo and Daiara's betrayal was worth the price I paid with my heart.

My hobbies are solitary, such as reading and collecting art. My house is filled with works by renowned artists, and I appreciate the silent beauty of these pieces. They are silent witnesses to my loneliness and the choices I have made.

Recently, I've begun to reflect on the meaning of happiness. Am I truly happy, or have I simply become accustomed to living in a cocoon of protection from further heartache? The life I've built is secure, but I feel that something essential is missing. Perhaps one day, I'll be able to find a balance between the security I value so much and the vulnerability I've always feared.

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