Jessica was at home, feeling the familiar comfort of her space after a long day helping with Nova Tech’s interviews. She set her bag down, stretching her arms, when her phone buzzed with a notification. She glanced at the screen—and froze.

$480,000.

Her breath caught as she reread the alert. A commission from Luca Moretti for Nova Tech's headquarters that was sold to Ethan.

It had been credited directly to her account.

'This can’t be real,' she thought, staring at the numbers like they might vanish if she blinked too hard.

Her usual commissions were modest—$10,000 at best—and even those took months to process. Endless bureaucracy, agency delays, the usual runaround.

But this? This had taken just a few days.

She sank onto the couch, still holding her phone tightly in her hand. 'This is nearly half a million... What should I do with this first?'

Jessica looked over at the corner of the room. There, a stack of unopened mail from the past month sat piled up. Bills, mostly. The weight of those envelopes had felt crushing just days ago.

Now, with this money in her account, it seemed lighter—manageable. For the first time in years, she allowed herself to imagine something beyond just scraping by.

'Maybe I could finally help Mom with Grandpa's medical bills.'

Jessica’s grandfather, Harold, was a strong support for their family. He was a retired carpenter known for his quiet wisdom and his talent for fixing things.

As a child, Jessica spent many weekends in his small workshop. She watched him carve beautiful wooden toys and furniture while he hummed a tune.

But time had caught up with Harold. Two years ago, his life changed when doctors diagnosed him with congestive heart failure.

The news hit the family like a hammer. Jessica could still picture the sterile hospital room, the doctor speaking in a calm, practiced voice as they all sat there, stunned. She remembered her mother gripping Harold’s hand tightly as if she could somehow hold onto the life they knew before that moment.

“It’s manageable,” the doctor had said, his voice calm but firm. “But it will require regular medication, dietary changes, and monitoring. And, eventually, surgery may be necessary.”

The initial costs weren’t overwhelming—monthly medications came to about $500, and the occasional check-up added another $300.

When Harold’s health got worse a year ago, he needed more hospital visits and special care, which increased costs.

Jessica’s mother, Evelyn, tried to help, but as a retired teacher on a fixed income, she had limited resources.

They had to dip into Harold’s modest savings, then Evelyn’s. Eventually, they began taking loans to cover the bills.

The most pressing issue now was the surgery. Harold needed to have his valve replaced. This procedure would cost at least $50,000.

The figure towered over the family like a dark storm cloud. It was impossible to ignore but also hard to control.

Jessica had done what she could to help, sending money whenever her pay and commissions came in, but her income as a property agent was inconsistent at best.

Each month felt like a tightrope walk—juggling her own bills while trying to contribute something to her grandfather’s care.

Her father, meanwhile, had remarried years ago, starting a new family with his second wife. Jessica’s stepfamily lived comfortably, a stark contrast to her own struggles.

Her father barely reached out, always too busy with his new life to bother with his old one.

Jessica still remembered the day he walked out. She had been just sixteen, left to comfort her two little brothers—twins, only six at the time.

They sat on the porch together, trying to understand that their father had chosen someone else instead of them.

“Don’t worry,” she had told them, her voice stronger than she felt. “We’ll be okay. We still have Mom and Grandpa.”

And they had been okay, mostly. But the absence of their father left a wound that never quite healed. Jessica often wondered how a man could abandon his own children, especially when life had thrown so much at them already.

'And now this,' she thought, looking again at the notification on her phone. 'Four hundred and eighty thousand dollars. This could change everything.'

For the first time in years, Jessica felt hopeful. With this money, they could pay off the medical bills, cover the surgery, and make sure Harold got the best care. He wouldn’t have to worry about his finances, and neither would Evelyn.

Jessica closed her eyes for a moment, letting the thought settle. 'I could finally make things right. Grandpa deserves this. He’s always been there for me, for us. Now it’s my turn.'

The weight of the past year felt a bit lighter for Jessica. She planned to call her mother in the morning. They would organize everything: Harold’s surgery, the hospital plans, and hiring a nurse for his recovery.

She opened her eyes and looked out the window at the city lights. They sparkled like stars. For the first time in a long time, the future felt lighter. It felt possible.

If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

***

Later that night, Ethan met Jordan, David, and Jessica at a coffee shop. The warm smell of coffee filled the air along with quiet conversation and the sound of cups clinking.

Ethan arrived a few minutes early and sipped his cappuccino while waiting for the others.

Jordan slumped into his seat with an exaggerated groan. “I swear, after days of these training courses, I feel like I’m back in school again.” He shook his head dramatically. “And it feels... terrible.”

Ethan couldn’t help but laugh at his friend’s grumbling. “Well, you survived school once, didn’t you?"

Jordan took a sip of his coffee and nodded. “Yeah," he said. "Now I understand more that my role is pretty important. I need to handle the day-to-day stuff, make sure the team runs smoothly, and then bring the important things to you.”

Exactly,” Ethan said. "David and I can’t handle constant communication with everyone. It’s not sustainable."

Jordan grinned, some of the weight of the past days lifting from his expression. “Well, when it is put like that, I guess I can handle feeling like a school kid again.”

Jessica, sitting quietly with her latte, observed the exchange. She hadn’t been part of the original plan to meet, but when Ethan asked if she wanted to join, she had quickly agreed.

She saw it as a chance to connect with others—a rare opportunity she knew could open doors in the future.

“Jessica,” Ethan said, turning to her, “I hope you didn’t feel out of place joining us today.”

“Not at all,” she said, smiling. “Honestly, it’s nice to be part of this, too.”

“That’s the spirit,” Jordan said, raising his cup in mock salute. “And don’t worry—if anyone’s out of place, it’s probably me.”

The group shared a laugh, and the conversation was light and easy as they continued discussing Nova Tech, ideas for the company, and plans for the future.

Ethan looked at David and thought for a moment. "David, do you know any experienced professionals at other companies?"

David was surprised. Before he could answer, Ethan explained, "I mean senior-level people like department heads—those who can mentor and guide our new team."

David laughed, brightening up after a long day. "Of course! I've met many of them after years in this industry. I'm not a rookie, you know," he said with a smile.

"It's good to have veteran here," Jordan joked. Somehow, these two were able to click right away.

"What veteran? I'm just experienced," David replied with a big laugh.

His laugh faded, and he became serious. "But, Ethan, the thing is... attracting them will be hard. They have good pay and job security and are happy where they are. People in their position don’t just leave for something new."

"Never mind that," Ethan replied, his eyes bright with determination. "That's exactly what I want. Offer them double their current salary—and the best benefits package we can put together."

David stared at him, momentarily speechless. "Double their salary? And the best benefits package?" He glanced at Jessica, who sat across from them, her eyebrows raised in surprise.

Jessica quickly masked her reaction, but her voice carried a note of incredulity. "Ethan, that's... ambitious. Bold, even."

"Ambitious?" Jordan leaned back in his chair, a playful smile forming. He understood well Ethan's aim. "Guys, I'm with Ethan on this."

His smile widened. "See, we're building something extraordinary here. Exceptional leaders don't leave their jobs for a slight pay bump. To get the best, we have to offer more than just money."

David's curiosity took over his surprise. He leaned in slightly. "More than money? What do you have in mind?"

Ethan's face became serious as he leaned in, speaking clearly and firmly. "Doubling their salary is just the start," he said.

David raised a hand jokingly. "You and Jordan... I'm starting to worry about this."

Jessica laughed softly and nodded. She had learned that bold ideas were typical for Ethan.

Ethan went on without hesitation. "We'll give them full health insurance, a good retirement plan, generous stock options, flexible hours, and paid vacations. In short, we'll provide everything they need to feel truly secure."

David leaned back, rubbing his temples as if trying to make sense of it all. "Double their pay and all that? You're not playing small, are you?"

Jessica folded her arms, her chuckle turning into a thoughtful smile. "Well, it's certainly going to get their attention. Nobody could say no to that without at least a second thought."

Ethan nodded, his tone shifting to something deeper, more personal. "It's more than just getting their attention. This is about giving them a reason to stay—something my parents never had in their careers. They worked hard, but there was always an edge of uncertainty. I don't want anyone here to feel that."

He paused to let his words sink in. "We need to create a workplace where employees care about more than just their paychecks; they should believe in our vision. These senior-level hires will provide the leadership we need to grow Nova Tech effectively."

David whistled softly, exchanging a look with Jessica as they both tried to wrap their heads around Ethan's bold proposal.

"It's a solid plan," Jordan admitted, "but it's a bold one, Ethan. We're talking about seasoned top talent—people who are settled, well-compensated, and not easily swayed."

Taking a measured breath, he added, "But, offering double their salaries and that benefits package will definitely grab their attention. Whether it gets them through the door..."

Jordan paused and smiled at David. "For that part, we need to believe in David's persuasion skill."

Jessica nodded, her expression thoughtful. "I'm not trying to overstep here," she began, her tone cautious, "but doesn't this start to feel… less like a startup? Don't get me wrong—I see what you're aiming for—but I just wonder if it might send the wrong message."

Ethan leaned back, his confidence unwavering. "I get it, Jessica. But this isn't just hiring—it's investing. With the right leaders, Nova Tech won't just succeed; it'll thrive. Bold moves bring bold results."

Jessica smiled faintly, her reservations softened by Ethan's conviction. "It might just work," she conceded. Turning to David, she added, "I believe it'll work, David."

She continued, "Those senior leaders could be the key. They'll guide the new hires, smooth out onboarding, and set the tone for the entire company. It's not just about now—it's the long game and... it's similar to how you're guiding thm.""

David sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Alright, you've convinced me. I know a few people who might bite, given the right offer. Double their salaries, though? Never thought I'd be making that kind of pitch," he said with a laugh.

Ethan grinned. "I'll leave the recruiting to you, David. But I'll need your help keeping track of the budget. Just because money isn't an issue doesn't mean I'm looking to waste it."

The others broke into laughter. "Now there's the voice of reason!" David said, still chuckling. "I was starting to think you'd gone completely off the deep end."

Ethan flushed slightly, rubbing the back of his neck. "Hey, I may dream big, but I'm not reckless."

"Not reckless, you say?" David quipped, raising an eyebrow.

The laughter died down, and Jessica, regaining her composure, leaned forward with a practical air. "Now, while we're at it... about the interview"

"Why do you seem in a rush, Jessica?" Ethan asked. It was clear that she had a lot on her mind.

"Oh. It's nothing. I don’t want to delay this because tomorrow morning, I'm going back to my hometown. It’s been a while, actually," Jessica said.

Everyone nodded in understanding.

David, the wiser one then ease the mood and said, "What is it that you want to talk about the interview?"

"It's about the fifty candidates we've shortlisted," she said, tapping the tablet that she always brought with her. "I suggest we offer permanent contracts to the top twenty."

Ethan raised an eyebrow. "And the remaining thirty?"

Jessica tilted her head, her tone pragmatic. "We can start them on probationary contracts—six months at 70% of their full salaries and benefits. If they perform well, we can offer them full contracts. That way, we're not locking ourselves into commitments with anyone who might not fit."

Jordan's eyes brightened. "That's a fantastic idea. It gives them something to work toward while ensuring we commit only to those who prove themselves. Let's do it."

Ethan and David nodded. Jessica's suggestion seemed good.

Jessica smiled, relieved that her suggestion had landed well.