The next morning Sunlight filtered weakly through the curtains, casting soft golden lines across Eli's face. He woke up not because of an alarm, but from the discipline of his body clock, trained by routine and restlessness. Still half-lost in sleep, he sat up, afterca busy day yesterday he got much needed rest
After a hot shower and a quick, plain breakfast, Eli dressed in his usual work clothes: neat, modest, nothing fancy. He moved with automatic precision, like a man going through the motions of normal life.
Just as he reached for the keys a translucent panel flickered to life in front of him—familiar, yet still surreal.
**[Sign-in system available]** it read.
With a resigned breath, Eli pressed the button. A second later, his phone vibrated on the bed.
(10,000 yuan as been added to your account)
(Your balance is 20,000 yuan)
He stared at the cracked phone screen with excitement as he knew that this is just stepping stone needed to help him make more money in the future.
Later that evening, after enduring a long, exhausting day at work filled with shouting from the manager and nagging customers.Eli made his way to the hospital. The sun had gone down behind the city's skyline, painting everything in hues of orange and gray.
He clutched a small paper bag in his hand—her favorite soy milk and a sweet bun from the corner shop. As he walked through the sterile, echoing halls of the hospital, he felt his throat tighten. No matter how many times he came here, it never got easier.
"Hey, Mom," he whispered, forcing a smile as he stepped into the room.
She was asleep, frailer than he remembered, the monitor beeping in steady rhythm beside her.
Eli sat beside her bed, shoulders slumping.
Although he has the system now, he still does not have enough in order to pay for her sugery.
And time was not on his side at all.
Eli can now feel the pressure weighing down on him to do more and find away to make a lot of money.
"Just hang in there mom, I will work harder in order to help get you your surgery" Eli said with determination in his eyes.
Eli left the hospital with a heavy heart, the chill of the evening air biting through his jacket as he stepped out into the quiet street. He walked in silence, hands deep in his pockets, head low against the wind. The glow of neon signs from the stores reflected on wet pavement as passing cars sent sprays of water into the air. Everything felt distant, muffled by the weight of his thoughts.
When he finally reached home, he changed into his delivery uniform a worn navy jacket with a faded logo, black helmet slung over one arm, and a satchel slung across his back. His shift had only just begun.
Mounting his scooter, he tapped on his delivery app. The screen blinked to life.
[New Order Received – High Priority]
Pickup: Gold Fang Bistro
Delivery To: Skyview Residences – Tower A, floor 39
Eli blinked. Skyview Residences? That was one of the most luxurious addresses in the entire city. He'd only seen the building in magazines and social media videos—where influencers bragged about champagne lunches, luxury cars and designer clothes and shoes.
"Guess I'm moving up in the world," he muttered to himself with a dry chuckle.
He zipped through the traffic, weaving between cars and buses until the towering glass building of Skyview loomed before him. The valet at the front gate just ignored Eli, he then pointed Eli toward a side entrance for service workers.
A few minutes later, Eli stood in front of the apartment door, clutching a bag that smelled of lobster, truffle oil, and rich sauces. He knocked twice.
The door swung open.
Standing there was a young man, no older than Eli—maybe twenty-three at most—with perfectly styled hair, designer loungewear, and an expensive-looking watch glinting on his wrist. The penthouse behind him was massive, marble floors shining under warm lights, walls lined with art and glass.
"that was quick" the young man said, his voice smooth with a slight hint of confidence
"Babe, the food's here! Come help me bring it into the kitchen," the young man called out, his voice echoing through the apartment.
Eli, still standing in the doorway, watched as a stunning woman emerged from down the hallway. She looked to be around the same age—mid-twenties—with flawless skin, long flowing hair, and a casual elegance that radiated wealth and confidence. She wore a silk robe tied loosely at the waist, and delicate gold jewelry shimmered subtly against her skin.
She walked up to the man with a soft smile, kissed him gently on the cheek, then turned her attention to Eli. For a moment, their eyes met—and Eli froze.
There was something captivating about her. Not just her beauty, but the way she carried herself, like the world stood still around her presence.
"Thank you," she said politely.
She took the food bag from Eli with practiced grace and disappeared into the kitchen. Eli blinked, barely remembering to breathe.
"Here is your tip" the young man said as he handed Eli a 1,000 yuan note.
"Thank you so much " Eli responded as he accepted the money from the young man.
"You are welcome " the young man said witha half smile
And continued with his deliveries.