Cracks in the Foundation

The living room was heavy with unspoken words. Felix stood there, arms crossed, face unreadable.

"You should have told us," Grace said softly.

"And then what?" Felix scoffed. "You'd feel guilty? You'd try to help? Don't kid yourself. None of you would've done anything."

Juan flinched at his words. Joseph looked down.

"Felix," Juan tried again, "we're family—"

"No," Felix interrupted coldly. "I was your ATM."

He turned and walked out, leaving behind a stunned silence.

Lisa sat in her room, staring at her phone. Baskhar had confessed his feelings a week ago, and she had yet to give him an answer.

Because the truth was, she didn't love him.

She liked him. He was kind, caring, and always there when she needed someone.

But her heart belonged to Felix.

And that terrified her.

Because Felix didn't love anyone.

She sighed, running a hand through her hair.

What am I supposed to do?

Joseph had always looked up to Felix.

Felix was strong, independent, and never let anyone push him around.

But now, knowing everything Felix had done for them, Joseph felt… ashamed.

Felix had carried the burden alone.

And they had let him.

Joseph clenched his fists.

He had to make it right.

Grace sat on the edge of her bed, staring at the ultrasound photo.

Xu Kai had been acting better—showing up for appointments, checking on her.

But deep down, she knew he was forcing himself.

And she didn't know how long that would last.

A knock on the door broke her thoughts.

"Grace?" Xu Kai's voice was hesitant.

She opened the door, and he held out a small gift bag.

"What's this?" she asked.

"A baby onesie," he muttered. "I figured… I should at least try to be a dad."

Grace felt tears sting her eyes.

Maybe there was hope after all.

Felix didn't go home that night.

Instead, he went to Xuan's place, where he lay on the couch, staring at the ceiling.

"So, what now?" Xuan asked.

Felix exhaled. "I don't know. Maybe I should just leave."

Xuan frowned. "And go where?"

Felix shrugged. "Anywhere that isn't here."

Xuan sighed. "Felix, running won't fix anything."

"Yeah?" Felix scoffed. "And staying will?"

Xuan didn't have an answer.

Because maybe Felix was right.

Maybe home wasn't a place he belonged anymore.