A Life Extinguished

Mr. Xia awoke with a sense of contentment, a feeling that had become all too rare in his life. As he dressed and prepared for the day ahead, he couldn't help but feel grateful for the small blessings that had found their way into his world.

Working as a supervisor at a construction site, his salary was modest, but it was enough to provide for his family – a luxury he had once taken for granted. After years of struggling with a gambling addiction that had nearly torn his world apart, he had finally found the strength to overcome his demons, aided by the unexpected demise of the Golden Dragon Casino's ruthless boss, Xiao Mingzhe.

With that particular tormenter no longer harassing him and his loved ones, Mr. Xia could breathe a little easier. Moreover, his daughter's recent acceptance of a scholarship to a prestigious private school had lifted a weight from his shoulders, allowing him to envision a brighter future for his family.