Chapter 29

“The expulsion order has been issued. There’s no chance for appeal,” Ken read, crumpling the paper in his hands and falling to the ground with a guttural cry of anguish. The world felt as though it had turned against him.

“Why? Why did this happen?” he muttered, his voice breaking.

Uncle Johnson stood nearby, his expression a mix of disappointment and sorrow. “Child,” he said gently, “wherever life takes you, learn to live it well. Cherish what you have; cherish the people who care for you. Don’t wait until it’s too late and all you’re left with is regret.” He placed a hand on Ken’s shoulder.

Tears streamed down Ken’s face as his uncle’s words sank in. For the first time, he truly understood his foolishness.

Three years later, Calista’s satellite research base achieved a groundbreaking milestone. The team successfully launched a new generation of satellites equipped with advanced electrical systems, a remarkable achievement in space technology. Cheers erupted across the base as the team, overwhelmed with pride and joy, celebrated their shared success. For that moment, nothing else mattered but the glory they had brought to their country.

The base granted everyone a month’s vacation. Calista and Henry returned to their family home, where warm embraces and fond memories awaited them. Henry’s parents welcomed Calista with open arms, their approval unmistakable.

“Henry has cared for you since you were children,” Henry’s mother said with a fond smile. “And thank goodness he finally married you.”

Henry, embarrassed, scratched the back of his head. “Mom, let’s not embarrass me in front of Calista.”

Calista laughed, the lighthearted moment easing the tension. But that night, standing in the hallway, her gaze lingered on the empty room next door. She sighed, her thoughts drifting to the bits and pieces she’d heard about Ken’s downfall during her visit. It saddened her to think of what had become of the Johnson family.

Later, in bed, Henry noticed her melancholy. “What’s on your mind?” he asked softly.

“I want to visit Uncle Johnson,” she replied. “He was kind to me for so many years. I owe him that respect.”

Henry nodded. “That’s the right thing to do. Besides, your husband needs to pay his respects to his father-in-law, too.”

Calista playfully glared. “You’re always so good with words.”

The next morning, Henry bought a generous assortment of gifts, and the couple visited Uncle Johnson at his modest new home.

“Uncle Johnson!”

The older man, sitting in the yard, his eyes lit up with joy at the sight of Calista. “Calista, you’re back!” he exclaimed, rising to greet her.

Henry followed, beaming. “Dad, we brought a few things for you!”

Uncle Johnson welcomed them inside, his gratitude and happiness evident. As they settled in, Calista’s eyes fell on Ken. The man before her was barely recognizable; his once-proud demeanor replaced by a disheveled appearance, his beard unkempt, his eyes hollow.

“Calista…” Ken’s voice was hoarse, thick with unspoken emotion. His gaze lingered on her, filled with regret.

Calista, calm and composed, smiled faintly. “Brother, long time no see.”

The single word “brother” hit Ken like a wave, washing him back to the past. His chest tightened as he noticed her rounded belly.

“You’re… pregnant?” he asked hesitantly.

Calista nodded. “Yes, five months along.”

Ken swallowed hard. A thousand words swirled in his mind, but all he could manage was a faint, “Congratulations.”

The afternoon passed with lighthearted conversation. Calista spoke animatedly about her work, her face glowing with happiness and fulfillment. Ken sat quietly, watching her from afar; she seemed so distant, as if she existed in a world he could no longer reach.

Before leaving, Calista discreetly handed Uncle Johnson an envelope filled with money. “Take care of yourself,” she said softly.

As they walked to the door, Ken followed. His voice trembled. “Calista…” She turned.

Tears welled in his eyes. “You should be happy,” he whispered.

Calista’s smile was gentle but firm. “Thank you. I will.”

With that, she stepped outside, hand in hand with Henry. Ken watched her go, frozen at the door as her figure faded into the distance. From that day forward, their paths never crossed again.