Chapter 68: A Step Toward Change 2

Elias arrived at the office earlier than usual, mentally preparing himself for the conversation ahead. He knew it wouldn't be easy. The company was demanding, and adjusting his schedule could be seen as a lack of dedication.

But he had already made his choice—family came first.

As he stepped into the building, he heard a familiar voice call out to him.

"Elias! Good morning."

He turned to see Vanessa approaching, her usual confident smile in place.

She had come for a weekly inspection at the second branch.

"Morning," Elias replied politely, not slowing his pace.

Vanessa easily kept up with him. "You look like a man on a mission."

Elias gave a small chuckle. "Something like that. I need to speak with Mr. Sterling today."

Vanessa raised an eyebrow. "Oh? About what?"

Elias hesitated. He hadn't told anyone about his plans, and he didn't exactly trust Vanessa with personal matters. "Just some work-related things," he said vaguely.

Vanessa smirked. "Well, good luck. My father's not in the best mood today."

Elias sighed. That wasn't exactly reassuring.

They parted ways, and Elias made his way to the CEO's office. After a few moments of waiting, he was finally called inside.

Mr. Sterling sat behind his massive desk, flipping through some documents. He barely looked up as Elias entered.

"You wanted to speak with me?"

Elias nodded, stepping forward. "Yes, sir. I wanted to discuss my schedule."

That got the CEO's attention. He set his papers down and studied Elias with sharp eyes. "Go on."

Elias took a deep breath. "I've been working long hours, and while I understand the importance of commitment, I also have a family that needs me. I'd like to request a schedule adjustment—something that allows me to spend more time with my children while still fulfilling my responsibilities here."

Silence stretched between them.

Mr. Sterling leaned back in his chair, tapping a pen against the desk. "You've only been here a short time, Elias. And you're already asking for special treatment?"

Elias met his gaze. "I'm not asking for special treatment. I'll continue to give my best. But I can't be an effective worker if my personal life is falling apart."

The CEO studied him for a long moment before letting out a sigh. "Most men in your position would work harder, not less, to prove themselves."

Elias tensed. "I'm not trying to prove anything, sir. I just want to be there for my kids."

Mr. Sterling tapped his fingers on the desk, then let out a small chuckle. "You remind me of someone."

Elias frowned. "Who?"

The CEO shook his head. "Never mind. I'll think about your request. But don't expect an answer right away."

Elias nodded. "Thank you, sir."

As he turned to leave, Mr. Sterling called out, "Elias."

He stopped and looked back.

"You're a good worker. Don't let personal matters distract you too much."

Elias gave a tight smile. "I won't."

But as he left the office, he knew that wasn't entirely true.

He couldn't separate work and family anymore.

He had to make both work.

---

Dinner Promises

That evening, Elias made sure to leave work on time. As he drove home, he felt lighter than he had in weeks. Even though his request hadn't been approved yet, just taking the first step felt like a victory.

When he walked through the front door, the smell of home-cooked food filled the air. Lani was in the kitchen, plating dishes, while the kids sat at the table chatting with Olivia and Leo.

Lily was the first to notice him.

"Daddy!" she squealed, hopping out of her chair and running to him.

Elias crouched down, catching her in his arms. "I told you I'd be home for dinner."

Lily pulled back to look at him, her face serious. "You better not break your promise again."

Elias chuckled. "I won't, sweetheart."

Luca walked over with his arms crossed. "Took you long enough to figure it out."

Elias smirked. "Guess I'm a slow learner."

Lani walked over, wiping her hands on a towel. "You're home on time," she said, raising an eyebrow.

Elias smiled, pulling her close. "Told you I'd try."

Leo let out a whistle. "Damn, he's actually learning."

Olivia chuckled. "Miracles do happen."

Elias rolled his eyes. "Alright, alright. Let's eat before my own family roasts me to death."

Everyone laughed as they gathered around the table.

For the first time in a long time, Elias felt at peace.

This—this was what he had been missing.

And he wasn't going to let it slip away again.

To be continued…