Wave to the Sky (Omegaverse)

Chapter 22: Shattered Hope

I've hit rock bottom. My family—mom, Jun, and our child, Cassandra—gone, along with my role as CEO of SkyHaven. Why me?

I'm a wreck. A total failure.

"Fuck it!" I yelled, hurling a nearby flower pot against the wall, the crash echoing through the room. "I'll claw my way back, no matter what it takes."

Storming out, I crossed paths with Carl, his smirk irritating me.

"Quick change of heart," he jeered. "Looks like I've got you cornered. I'll steer the company my way now."

"Don't get ahead of yourself," I warned. "I'll reclaim what's rightfully mine."

"Sure, keep dreaming," he taunted. "Think I'll hand over that video easily?"

"Not a chance."

"Then, give up. SkyHaven is mine now."

"Not so fast," I retorted. "I'll find a way to crush you. And when I do, you won't stand a chance."

"Scared yet?" he teased. "Good luck. You've underestimated me for too long. My plan is flawless."

Enraged, I punched him.

"You snake!" I seethed. "I could kill you, but I won't stoop that low. I've lost everything. What more can I lose? Carl, remember: what goes up must come down."

"Enjoy mocking me," he jeered. "But it won't last."

Ignoring him, I left, his laughter trailing behind. He's delusional.

I drove aimlessly, ending up at a skyscraper where I was to meet Layla. Memories flooded back as I entered the bar on the fiftieth floor, the city lights a distant comfort. Layla and I, total opposites, yet friends since university. She, the social butterfly; me, the reserved one. Funny how life works.

Lately, Layla and I haven't kept in touch much; our lives have taken different paths. She's always been the adventurous type, enjoying her freedom to the fullest. Last I heard, she was off to South Africa for some volunteer work, but I'm not entirely certain.

Stepping out of the elevator, I strolled down the hallway towards the bar, taking in the upscale ambiance and the soothing jazz music. The place exudes class. Glancing around, I didn't spot Layla yet. I pulled out my phone, shooting her a quick message to inquire about her whereabouts. Her prompt response assured me she was on her way.

Approaching the bartender, I ordered a drink, then made my way to the balcony to soak in the breathtaking night view of the city. It never fails to captivate me, the city below resembling a sea of shimmering diamonds under the moon's gentle glow. It's a moment of serenity, something I yearn for in my own life.

Lost in thought, I was interrupted by a familiar voice.

"A penny for your thoughts, Mister Cold Fish?" Layla's voice rang out, and I turned to see her, a grin spreading across my face.

"Long time no see, Miss Busybody," I greeted, moving in for a hug.

"Hey, I've been off on my adventures for years, and you're still calling me a busybody?" she retorted with mock offense.

"But you're here now, aren't you?" I countered. "And I bet you're about to interrogate me about my life and everything else."

"That's what friends do, jackass," she quipped.

"Fair enough."

"Enough chit-chat. I need a drink," she declared, leading the way to the bar.

"What were you doing out there, brooding like an emo kid from the '90s?" she teased.