Chapter 500

Maybe he’s worried he’ll end up dying in a car crash again, so now he’s trying to play the good guy this time around?

I tossed my hair, trying to shake off all those tangled thoughts, and forced myself to focus on the work in front of me.

As night fell, my brother Aiden called me.

He was practically buzzing with excitement. “Victoria, I got a job!”

I was honestly surprised. Not long ago, when I called him, he was totally discouraged, saying it was nearly impossible to find a decent job these days.

I’d spent so much time trying to cheer him up, and now, just like that, he found one. I was genuinely happy for him. “Really? What kind of job is it?”

“Financial investments,” Aiden said, sounding super proud. “Not just anyone can get into this. My girlfriend just landed a job at a bank, too.”

I knew Aiden had majored in finance. Sure, financial investments sound fancy on paper, but the reality is, it’s a high–pressure field—and without the right connections, it’s hard to get by in Braylin.

“Aiden, is the job stressful?” I asked him.

“Yeah, but I’ve only been there for half a month and already closed a few big deals. The veterans are green with envy,” Aiden said, sounding so smug it honestly made my heart race a little.

“Aiden, how did you manage to land those deals? I know you’re a good talker, but…” I asked, worry creeping into my voice.

“Victoria, can you just have a little faith in me? Hard work is like one percent, luck is ninety–nine. Maybe our ancestors are really looking out for us today. And hey, things are going pretty smoothly for you too, aren’t they?” Aiden shot back, sounding a little annoyed. He’d always been super confident.

I sighed. “Alright, I get it. Just do your best at work.”

“Don’t worry, Victoria. If I ever get stuck, I’ll just hit up Jared for help… uh, I swear, I don’t bother him every single day,” Aiden said, suddenly sounding sheepish.

It hit me right away who must be helping him out. I asked seriously, “Did Jared help you land this job?”

“No way! He was just as surprised as you when I told him. He’s always cheering me on, not grilling me like you do,” Aiden replied.

I let out a sigh of relief. Honestly, I really don’t want to owe Jared any more than I already do.

“Alright, I’m heading to Braylin for work in a few days. We’ll catch up then,” I said, not wanting to nag him like some overprotective mom.

“You’re coming to Braylin? But aren’t you in Shaville?” Aiden asked, all excited.

“Yeah, Jared’s opening a new branch in Braylin, and I’ll be in charge,” I explained.

“Jared really treats you well, sis. So, is there any chance you two might get back together?” Aiden asked with a grin.

Get back together? Not a chance.

“Quit prying, Aiden. Just focus on your job,” I said, shutting down the topic.

“Come on, Victoria, just get back together with him. Jared told me he still really likes you,” Aiden said, obviously trying to play matchmaker.

We bickered for a few more lines before I hung up.

Jared had already left the office, so I gave him a call. He said he was having dinner with someone and asked if I wanted to come join him.

I just wanted to check in with him about Aiden’s new job. After I explained, Jared said, “I didn’t help Aiden with that, but if he ever needs help, just let me know.”

“It wasn’t you? Then who was it?” I couldn’t help blurting out.

I know exactly what kind of person Aiden is, and I know what he’s capable of.

Honestly, him suddenly landing a job at an investment bank has me a bit worried.

“Victoria, your brother’s in Braylin. Now, think–who else do you know there?” Jared reminded me, snapping me out of my daze.

I blurted out, “Ryan?”

Jared stayed calm. “Ryan’s out of the business game. He’s all about politics these days.”

“Edward?” My heart gave a sudden jolt.