CHAPTER TWO- Mrs. Gwen's Sinister Plot

The brisk breeze swept through the towering buildings of Oxford University as Daniel stood on the rooftop, his eyes gazing across the historic landscape. The echoes of academic endeavors surrounded him, and the weight of his final year in Economics and Management at one of the world's prestigious universities bore down on his shoulders.

The soft sound of footsteps approached, and Harry, a steadfast companion from their shared past to the present, joined him on the rooftop. The view of Oxford sprawled out before them, a testament to the journey they had undertaken together.

"What are you up to?" Harry inquired, observing Daniel's contemplative stance against the backdrop of the university spires.

"Harry, I was thinking of the past—how far we've come and how far we're willing to go," Daniel responded, his voice carrying the weight of reflection. The years spent navigating the complexities of life, from their humble beginnings to the distinguished halls of Oxford, unfolded in his mind.

Harry joined him in peering out at the Oxford skyline. "It's a long way from where we started, isn't it? From those late-night study sessions to navigating the intricacies of life in a new country,

Daniel nodded, a subtle smile playing on his lips. "I never imagined standing here, studying at Oxford. It's a testament to resilience, hard work, and the support we've given each other."

"Yeah! But have you announced home that you're coming?" Harry asked.

"I only told Dad; by now my stepmom should have known," Daniel said, looking assured.

"So we should be expecting some gangs when we get home," Harry chuckles.

"Yeah! Let's first visit the company site to see how far they've gone about it." Daniel said.

"I heard they're almost done with it, but the products we're planning to launch are still under review. I hope that won't delay us." Harry said, resting on the roof top.

Daniel has been trying hard to get his Uni-Sex Body Lotion approved by the FDA agency so that he can launch it together with his company. But they kept rejecting them. This time around, he sent Lisa, with whom they'd been working on the products for so long.

"I have a good feeling this time that they're going to approve our lotions," Daniel said with assurance.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting hues of orange and pink across the sky, Harry chimed in, "And here you are, in your final year, majoring in Economics and Management. Not too shabby, my friend."

Daniel chuckled, appreciating the camaraderie. "It's been a journey, Harry. And I wouldn't have wanted anyone else by my side."

The two friends continued to converse, memories of shared struggles and triumphs weaving through their words. The university, steeped in history and academic achievement, provided a fitting backdrop to their reflections on the passage of time.

"So, what's next?" Harry asked, breaking the silence that settled between them.

Daniel looked into the distance with a glint of determination in his eyes. "After this, who knows? The future is a vast canvas waiting to be painted. My company is growing little by little, and I am waiting for approval of my new product. But whatever it is, I'm ready for the next chapter."

As the city below began to light up with the glow of evening, Daniel and Harry stood on the rooftop of Oxford University, their friendship a constant amidst the ever-changing landscape of life. The echoes of the past resonated, propelling them forward into the uncertainties of the future.

*************************************

Katherine, the daughter of Mr. Jay, hails from a low-income household, struggling to make ends meet for her two younger siblings, Moana and Frank. Their lives took a tragic turn when their father fell victim to a hit-and-run orchestrated by a wealthy billionaire.

The untimely loss of their father plunged them into turmoil, forcing Daniella to abandon her education to support her ailing mother, Mrs. Sandra, and her siblings. Mrs. Sandra grapples with acute post-traumatic stress disorder, leading to sporadic memory loss.

Despite the challenging circumstances, Katherine, a resilient and intelligent young woman, has become a pillar of strength for her family. Struggling with poverty, she has found empowerment through her dedication to martial arts, holding a black belt in karate. Her daily routine includes rigorous morning exercises, a testament to her unwavering commitment to self-improvement.

"Sis, did you bring anything for us today?" inquired Little Frank.

"Oops, I'm sorry. Today isn't a good day. I didn't receive my bonus," Katherine explained, expressing regret to her younger siblings.

"How's Mom doing?" Katherine inquired about the well-being of her bedridden mother.

"Mom is resting well, sis," Moana responded.

"Ok, tomorrow I will buy the remaining drug prescribed by the doctor," Katherine said with hope.

*************************************

"Any news from Daniel?" inquired Mr. Johnson.

"He never bothers to call me when he's at school. No matter how caring I am towards him, he always keeps his distance," Mrs. Gwen replied, subtly casting Daniel in a negative light.

"He mentioned he's returning home today, and unfortunately, I have an appointment in Australia tonight. So, I doubt we'll have a chance to meet. Just give him some time; he'll eventually fully accept you," Mr. Johnson assured.

"Really? Is he coming home today? Well, then, let me prepare my special car to pick him up. Don't worry, dear; you go ahead with your trip, and I'll take care of things here," Mrs. Gwen said, feigning concern and portraying herself as a caring stepmother.

Alright, dear. I appreciate your assurance." Mr. Johnson conveyed his gratitude before gently kissing his wife on the forehead. With that, he set off, leaving the house for his scheduled appointment.

As soon as Mr. Johnson left, Mrs. Gwen's demeanor shifted. An insidious plan began to unfold in her mind. She promptly reached for her phone, dialing a number she knew all too well. Joseph, the leader of her clandestine gang, answered on the other end.

"Listen carefully," Mrs. Gwen commanded, her voice dripping with malevolence. "I want you and your men to tail Daniel. Ensure he doesn't return home safely."

Joseph, well-versed in Mrs. Gwen's ominous requests, acknowledged with a curt, "Yes, boss."

The plot was set in motion. Mrs. Gwen's desire for Daniel's demise was chillingly apparent in the sinister chuckle that escaped her lips.