Chapter 18
From Cain's Point of View
Cain returned to his office, his mind fully focused on the meeting with Mr. Denver—a crucial negotiation for the expansion of his business empire. Peter, his assistant, stepped into the room.
"Sir, Mr. Denver is here," Peter said.
"Send him in," Cain replied, adjusting his cuffs and standing as the door opened.
"Mr. Mysia," Mr. Denver greeted with a firm handshake.
"Please, have a seat," Cain offered, motioning to the leather chair across from his desk. "So, what's the issue? You wanted to see me."
Mr. Denver leaned back, fingers steepled in thought. "Mr. Cain, I've reviewed your proposal. The vision is solid. The numbers are even better. But before I commit to a collaboration on the Singapore mall project, there's one condition."
Cain's brow arched slightly, already anticipating something beyond business.
"I need a partner who represents stability—family values. Singapore is a family-oriented society. And quite frankly, your online reputation doesn't scream reliability."
Cain's jaw tightened. "And what exactly are you suggesting?"
"I want to see you married," Mr. Denver said bluntly. "A wife gives this project a wholesome image. Right now, your lifestyle isn't the kind of image we want tied to this venture."
A heavy silence filled the room. Cain rose slowly, his face expressionless but his eyes burning cold.
"I don't build my empire on appearances or performative relationships," he said. "My personal life is none of your concern. And if that's your condition, then this deal is off."
"You can't dictate how I live my life," he added sharply. "If you refuse to move forward, there are plenty of investors who will jump at this opportunity."
With that, he turned and walked out, Peter trailing behind him without a word.
---
As they stepped into the elevator heading to their next appointment, Cain's phone vibrated in his pocket. He checked the screen and frowned—it was an unknown number from New York General Hospital.
"This is Mr. Cain," he answered curtly.
The voice on the other end was professional, but urgent. "Sir, your brother, Caleb Mysia, has been admitted to our emergency ward. He was in a car accident along with two female passengers. Their conditions are critical. We need someone to authorize treatment."
Cain's blood ran cold. "I'm on my way," he said, already turning on his heel.
---
Elsewhere, Christy was out on a quiet date with William.
"So when's your next match? I'd really love to watch you play," Christy asked, smiling across the café table.
"Next month, I think. We're still in training," William replied.
Suddenly, Christy's phone rang. She checked the caller ID, her smile fading.
"Yes, this is Christy speaking."
Her face went pale. "What? Which hospital?"
"New York General? Okay. I'm on my way." She hung up, visibly shaken.
"What happened?" William asked, concerned. "Why are you shaking?"
"Kassia… she was in an accident," Christy stammered. "I need to go now."
"I'll drive you," William said without hesitation.
---
The hospital had tried contacting Kassia's emergency contact with no success. Christy, the only person they could reach, didn't hesitate. She rushed to Kassia's apartment building, heart hammering in her chest as she ran up the stairs.
Kassia's mother, Caesarea, answered the door, her expression quickly turning from curiosity to dread.
"Christy? What's wrong?"
Christy was breathless. "It's Kassia… and Chicago. They've been in an accident."
Caesarea's face went white. "Oh my God. Where is Daniel? Where is he when I need him?" she muttered to herself, panicking.
"Who's Daniel?" Christy asked softly.
"My boyfriend… he left after a fight with Kassia." Caesarea wiped her tears.
"Where are they?" she asked urgently.
"They're at New York General. It's serious," Christy said quietly.
There were no more questions—only movement. Two women, bonded by fear, prepared to face whatever came next.
---
Cain arrived at the hospital within the hour. Several police officers were already stationed outside the emergency ward.
He made his way directly to the administrative desk and was quickly ushered to the head physician.
"I need an update," Cain said briskly. "How is my brother?"
The doctor on call signaled for another. "Dr. Kevin is assigned to your brother. He'll brief you."
Moments later, Dr. Kevin approached. "You must be Mr. Cain Mysia."
"Yes. Talk to me."
"Your brother is stable. Just a few bruises—nothing life-threatening. He's in recovery and should regain consciousness in a few hours."
Cain exhaled, just slightly.
"And the two girls with him?" he asked.
Dr. Kevin's face turned grave. "They weren't as fortunate. One appears to be around five or six years old. The other is a young woman, probably eighteen or nineteen. Both sustained severe injuries. The little girl… we're doing all we can, but her chances don't look good."
Cain's brow furrowed deeply. Little girl? He felt a twist in his gut. Please don't let it be who I think it is…
Dr. Kevin excused himself to return to the operating room.
Cain took a shaky breath and dialed his mother.
"Mum?"
"Yes, dear?"
"Caleb's been in an accident."
"What?!" Charity gasped. "Oh my God—I need to call your father!"
"He's okay, just bruised," Cain said quickly, trying to calm her.
"Was he alone?" Charity asked.
"No… he was driving Kassia and Chicago."
There was a sharp pause on the line.
The doctor told me that Kass and Chicago injuries are serious
That Chicago might not make it
"What?!" Charity screamed.
"Where are you?" she demanded.
"I'm at New York General," Cain replied, but the call dropped before he could say more.
Suddenly, a loud commotion broke out behind him. He turned and saw three people shouting at a nurse.
"Where is Kassia?! How is she doing?!"
"Where is my Chicago?!"
Cain stared at them as the chaos swelled in the hallway. The storm had only just begun.
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Author's Note
I know—the accident happened so suddenly.
I'm really sorry, everyone.
I truly hope that both Chicago and Kassia pull through and are safe.
This chapter took an emotional turn, and I can imagine how intense it felt to read.
But now, I'm wondering—who caused the accident?
Was it really just a drunk driver, or is there more to the story?
What are your thoughts?
Let me know in the comments section—I'd love to hear what you think might happen next!
Xoxo
CC