Chapter 39

"Stick to your original goal." Xander Lewis adjusted my posture, his gaze unwavering as he looked me straight in the eyes. "Even if you mess up and regret it later, it's still better than quitting halfway and living with that what-if." I dropped my head slightly, letting out a soft sigh. "You're right. I don’t have much time left, and I shouldn't be wasting it hesitating." Something about what he said must've hit a nerve. I finally snapped out of it. I quit dwelling on the mess Henry Smith left in my head. One thing was clear—if I didn’t push myself harder, everything he threatened me with would happen. I wasn’t strong enough yet, and if I wanted to protect Grandma, I had to level up—fast. Otherwise, he’d keep me under his thumb. No more second-guessing. I followed Xander to meet Jason Smith right away. The restaurant we picked was in the business district of the CBD—classy and full of exotic flair. We’d just sat down when Xander got a call from his company. Something urgent came up, a