Chapter 154: Turning Over a New Leaf
Pinkman's descent into addiction was a wake-up call for his parents. Determined not to repeat their mistakes, they became overly strict with his younger brother, placing him under immense pressure to meet their expectations.
Despite his impressive achievements, Pinkman's presence as a bad example meant his parents couldn't relax their grip on his brother. To them, everything they did was for the younger son's benefit, to prevent him from straying onto the wrong path like his brother.
However, they failed to consider their younger son's feelings, unconsciously overlooking his own desires and thoughts.
At an age where he should be playing soccer or basketball with friends, enjoying the freedom of childhood, he was confined by his parents' watchful eyes.
Even his friendships were under scrutiny, leading to a stifling and pressure-filled existence.
Historically, there are only a few ways to relieve such pressure—through violence, alcohol, drugs, or other vices.
To maintain his "good kid" image, the younger brother turned to drugs as his sole outlet, avoiding more extreme measures.
Frank saw this as a lesser evil, at least avoiding more dire outcomes.
In China, countless children, overwhelmed by parental pressure, resort to tragic measures, ending their lives.
Recognizing these dangers, Frank discussed them with Pinkman's parents, hoping they might make changes, though uncertain if his words would resonate.
"Is it because of me?" Pinkman mused, staring out the window as Frank spoke.
Reflecting on his time at home, he recalled his brother once confiding that he never felt like the cherished son. The name often on their parents' lips was Pinkman's, hinting at his brother's envy.
Without Frank's insights, Pinkman might never have noticed these subtleties.
"Even if that joint were top quality, I would still believe it wasn't yours," Frank assured, driving.
"Thanks," Pinkman replied, snapping back to reality and appreciating Frank's support.
"You've likely realized by now that drugs are no good. Quit them, whether for yourself or for the family that still loves you," Frank advised.
Pinkman remained silent, contemplating Frank's words.
Back at Pinkman's place, they resumed their shared living arrangement.
The following morning, Frank found Pinkman dressed in a suit, struggling with a tie in front of the mirror.
"Got a date?" Frank quipped, surprised.
"No, an interview," Pinkman replied.
"An interview?" Frank paused mid-coffee pour.
Noticing a resume on the table, Frank picked it up. It was sparse, reflecting Pinkman's lack of formal work or education, given his past on the streets dealing drugs.
"Hey!" Pinkman quickly snatched it back.
"Resumes are meant to be seen. No need to be embarrassed," Frank chuckled, helping Pinkman with his tie and straightening his collar.
"What job are you aiming for?" Frank inquired.
"Sales. I do have some experience in that area," Pinkman explained, referring to his time selling drugs.
After a brief chat, Pinkman left without breakfast, determined to turn his life around and find a stable job.
Watching him go, Frank shook his head. In today's world, jobs aren't easy to come by, especially for someone like Pinkman lacking education, experience, and connections.
By nightfall, Pinkman returned home, silent, tossing his tie onto the sofa before retreating upstairs.
Frank could tell his day hadn't gone well, likely facing rejection after rejection.
As days passed, Pinkman's enthusiasm waned, but Frank's focus shifted to Junior's concerns about Walter.
"I don't get it. He's got cancer but acts like nothing's wrong, still going to work and grading papers."
"And he refuses treatment. Does he just want to die?" Junior vented in the car, frustrated.
Walter and Skyler had consulted numerous doctors, who proposed treatment plans, yet Walter showed no interest in pursuing them.
Unable to comprehend his father's choices, Junior turned to Frank for support.
"Your dad must have his reasons. Don't worry, kid. Take care of your mom, and I'll talk to your dad," Frank reassured.
After dropping Junior off, Frank and Walter shared drinks, finding a quiet spot to talk.
"Junior mentioned your cancer is treatable?" Frank asked.
"Skyler found some top specialist, supposedly one of the best in the country for tumors and cancer."
"They talked about non-small cell adenocarcinoma stage three, cancer spreading to lymph nodes, the whole medical spiel matching other doctors' diagnoses," Walter explained, taking a swig.
"So, can this specialist help?" Frank inquired.
"The doctor says it's 'treatable,' suggesting combined radiation and chemotherapy. It could extend life and ease symptoms, but it all depends on luck. Without it, it's just surviving like elsewhere."
"Plus, chemo's side effects sound unbearable—hair loss, fatigue, nausea, vomiting. Some people barely feel them, while others suffer terribly," Walter lamented.
(End of Chapter)