Chapter 29
“The expulsion order has been issued. There’s no chance for appeal.”
Ken clutched the paper in his hands and suddenly crumpled to the ground, letting out a guttural cry of anguish. It felt as though the entire world had turned against him.
“Why… Why did this happen?” he muttered, his voice breaking.
Uncle Johnson stood nearby, his expression a mix of disappointment and sorrow. “Child,” he said gently, “wherever life takes you, learn to live it well.”
He in front of you. Cherish the
placed a hand on Ken’s shoulder. “Cherish what you have people who care for you. Don’t wait until it’s too late and all you’re left with is regret.”
Tears streamed down Ken’s face as his father’s words sank in. For the first time, he truly understood how foolish he had been.
*
Three years later, the satellite research base, where Calista worked, achieved a groundbreaking milestone. The team successfully launched a new generation of satellites equipped with advanced electrical systems, marking an extraordinary achievement in space technology.
Cheers erupted across the base. The team, overwhelmed with pride and joy, shed tears as they celebrated their shared success. For that moment, nothing else mattered but the glory they had brought to their country.
After the initial success, the base granted everyone a one–month vacation. Calista and Henry returned to their family home, where warm embraces and fond memories awaited
them.
Henry’s parents welcomed Calista with open arms, their approval of her as their daughter–in–law unmistakable.
“Henry has cared about you since you were kids,” Henry’s mother said with a fond smile. “And thank goodness he finally married you.”
Henry, feeling embarrassed, scratched the back of his head. “Mom, let’s not embarrass me
12.20
in front of Calista.”
Calista laughed, the lighthearted moment easing her. But that night, as she stood in the hallway, her gaze lingered on the empty room next door.
She sighed, her thoughts drifting. She had heard bits and pieces about Ken’s downfall during her return. It saddened her to think of what had become of the Johnson family.
Later, as she lay in bed, Henry noticed her melancholy. “What’s on your mind?” he asked
softly.
“I want to visit Uncle Johnson,” she replied. “He was kind to me for so many years. I owe him that respect.”
Henry nodded. “That’s the right thing to do. Besides, your husband needs to pay his respects
to his father–in–law too.”
1
Calista shot him a playful glare. “You’re always so good with words.”
The next morning, Henry bought a generous assortment of gifts, and the couple visited Uncle Johnson at his modest new home.
“Uncle Johnson!”
The older man was sitting in the yard, basking in the sun. When he saw Calista, his eyes lit
up with joy.
“Calista, you’re back!” he exclaimed, rising to greet her.
Henry followed close behind, beaming. “Dad, we
hr a few things for you
Uncle Johnson welcomed them inside, his gratitude and happiness evident. As they settled. in, Calista’s eyes fell on a figure in the living room–Ken.
The man before her was barely recognizable. His once–proud demeanor was replaced by a disheveled appearance, his beard unkempt, his eyes hollow.
“Calista…” Ken’s voice was hoarse, thick with unspoken emotion. His gaze lingered on her.
2
“Gaying Up My First Love For Secret Research: Second Chance at Happiness
12.35
filled with regret.
Calista, calm and composed, smiled faintly. “Brother, long time no see.”
The single word “brother” hit Ken like a wave, washing him back to the past. His chest tightened as he noticed her rounded belly.
“You’re… pregnant?” he asked hesitantly.
Calista nodded. “Yes, five months along.
Ken swallowed hard. A thousand words swirled in his mind, but all he could manage was a
faint. “Congratulations.”
The afternoon passed with lighthearted conversation. Calista spoke animatedly about her work at the research base, her face glowing with happiness and fulfillment.
Ken sat quietly, watching her from afar. She seemed so distant, as if she existed in a world he could no longer reach.
Before leaving, Calista discreetly handed Uncle Johnson an envelope filled with money. “Take care of yourself,” she said softly.
As they walked to the door, Ken followed. His voice trembled as he spoke.
“Calista…” She turned to look at him, her expression serene.
Tears welled in his eyes. “You should be happy,” he whispered.
Calista’s smile was gentle but firm. “Thank you. I will.”
With that, she stepped outside, hand in hand with Henry.
Ken watched her go, standing frozen at the door as her figure faded into the distance.
From that day forward, their paths never crossed again.
