The next morning, as Mix rushed to work, his phone rang, interrupting his frantic pace. He fumbled with his bag to retrieve it, nearly dropping it in his haste.
"Hello?" Mix answered breathlessly, trying to catch his breath.
"Mix, Son, it's me," his mother's voice greeted him warmly through the phone.
Mix's heart skipped a beat at the sound of her voice. "Morning, Mum. What's up?"
His mother's tone turned slightly solemn. "I just wanted to ask when you're planning to come home. Your sister's birthday is coming up, and she's been asking about you."
Mix's stomach twisted with guilt. He had completely forgotten about his sister's birthday in the midst of his chaotic work schedule. "I...I know, Mum. Things have been really busy at work lately..."
His mother's voice softened. "I understand, dear, but your sister would love to have you there. You know how much she adores you."
Mix's heart sank. He couldn't bear to disappoint his sister, especially on her special day. "I'll try to make it, Mum. I promise."
His mother's smile was evident in her voice. "That's my boy. Just don't work too hard, okay? Family comes first."
Mix nodded, even though his mother couldn't see him. "I won't, Mum. I'll figure something out."
His mother hesitated for a moment before speaking again. "I'll make up an excuse to tell your sister you can't make it. But try your best, alright?"
Mix's chest tightened with a mix of gratitude and guilt. "Thanks, Mum. I'll do my best. Love you."
"Love you too, Mix. Take care."
As Mix ended the call, he couldn't shake off the nagging feeling of guilt gnawing at him. He glanced at the calendar on his phone and cursed under his breath. How could he have forgotten his sister's birthday?
Determined to make things right, Mix made a snap decision. He would take a week's leave from work and go home to celebrate his sister's birthday in person. He couldn't bear the thought of disappointing her, not when she meant the world to him.
With newfound resolve, Mix hurried to work, his mind already racing with plans to make his sister's birthday celebration one to remember. Little did he know, his decision would set off a chain of events that would change his life in ways he never could have imagined.
Meanwhile, at Earth's house, the atmosphere was tense as his father broached a sensitive topic during their morning conversation. Earth's father, a respected figure in the legal community, had a request that weighed heavily on his mind.
"Earth, my boy," his father began, his tone serious yet gentle, "I need to ask for your help with a case."
Earth glanced up from his breakfast, his brow furrowing in concern. "What case, Dad?"
His father hesitated for a moment before explaining the situation regarding a village land dispute. It was a complex issue that had deeply divided the community. The conflict centered around a parcel of land that held sentimental value for the farmers who had worked it for generations. The proposed government plans to acquire a portion of this land for a new highway had sparked outrage among the farmers, leading to protests and a standoff with officials.
Earth listened intently as his father outlined the details of the case, his mind already calculating the potential challenges and legal strategies involved. But when his father suggested that Earth take on the case himself, Earth balked.
"Dad, I appreciate the trust you have in me, but I'm swamped with other cases at the moment," Earth protested, trying to deflect the responsibility.
But his father was resolute. "I understand, son, but this is important. It's not just any case—it's about standing up for what's right and helping those who need it the most. Besides, I promised my friend that I would send my own son to assist."
Earth sighed, knowing he couldn't argue with his father's sense of duty and loyalty. Reluctantly, he nodded his agreement. "Alright, Dad. I'll take the case."
His father's face softened with gratitude. "Thank you, Earth. I knew I could count on you."
As Earth prepared to delve into the complexities of the land dispute case, he couldn't help but feel a sense of trepidation. It was a daunting challenge that would test his legal skills and principles to their limits.
But deep down, he knew that he couldn't shy away from the opportunity to make a difference, even if it meant stepping out of his comfort zone. With determination in his heart, Earth vowed to do whatever it took to bring about a just resolution for the farmers and uphold the legacy of his family's commitment to justice.
