Chapter 5

She frowned deeply, her voice cold as she looked at me. “Since when was gambling on stocks considered a proper career? What happened to you? Even if you were out there delivering food, at least you’d be making an honest living. But instead, you’ve turned into a gambler, trying to get rich without lifting a finger. You need to quit this gambling habit of yours. I can help you get a proper job.”

I froze, then finally understood she had completely misunderstood. What I meant by "trading" wasn’t personal day-trading or gambling like she assumed.

I ran a private equity fund managing investments for others, structuring portfolios, and collecting commissions from the profits. However, from her reaction, she clearly thought I was one of those online traders who end up losing their shirts and begging for scraps.

After being sent back to relive this life, I no longer had to shoulder Cara’s massive expenses. With that weight off my back, I was finally able to save money. I applied the financial knowledge I’d worked so hard to gain and soon earned my first real profit. I also used that money to study overseas, fulfilling the dream I never got to realize in my last life.

That journey even led me to someone who saw my potential and became the most important person in my new life. However, I wasn’t about to share those sweet memories with anyone here.

Suppressing my frustration, I stayed polite, keeping my tone cool and distant. “Thanks for the offer, but I’m happy with what I do.”

Cara’s face darkened, clearly annoyed that I wasn’t falling in line. “Don’t mistake my kindness for weakness. When you’re broke and starving, don’t come crawling to me.”

I didn’t understand why she was so fixated on getting me a job, and frankly, I didn’t care to find out.

Over the years, I’d amassed a considerable portfolio through smart investments. Even just living off the interest would be enough to carry me comfortably for the rest of my life. However, even if I told her that, she’d probably think I was lying or bragging.

The truth was, I barely left the house these days, preferring to work from home to care for my daughter. My style was pretty laid-back, mostly sporty or casual. The only flashy thing I wore was the one-of-a-kind watch on my wrist that my wife gave me on our wedding anniversary.

I never said no to my wife and daughter’s shopping sprees. However, when it came to myself, I didn’t care much. T-shirts and jeans were good enough.

Someone with sharp eyes caught sight of the watch and gasped in disbelief.

“Wait, isn’t that the limited edition ‘Heart of True Love’ watch from the Lowe family’s collection? There’s only one in the entire world! How the hell does he have it?”

Cara suddenly grabbed my wrist and yanked it toward her. Her eyes widened when she spotted the nearly invisible logo etched on the back of the case.

“George, did you steal this from one of those auction lots?”

I pulled my hand away, my patience wearing thin. This was getting ridiculous.

“Why can’t it just be mine?”

Luthen gave me a mocking look and sneered.“You? That watch is worth millions. No matter how hard you work, you’d never be able to afford it. If you’re smart, return it right now. Otherwise, I’ll call the cops and you’ll be spending the rest of your life behind bars.”

Someone in the crowd chimed in dramatically. “Just look at him. I bet this isn’t even his first time stealing! The police should investigate. He might be a repeat offender!”

Cara stared at me, her expression growing darker by the second. “George, I’m so disappointed at what you’ve become.”

I didn’t want to argue anymore, so I turned to Luthen and said clearly, “If you think I stole it, call the police. Let them come.”

The place was crawling with security cameras, and the watch was insured under my name. Good luck to them proving I stole something that legally belonged to me.

Luthen clearly didn’t expect me to challenge him so boldly. He pulled out his phone, ready to make the call, but Cara stopped him.

“Wait. This charity gala is being hosted by the Lowes’ heir herself. She’ll be here in person. If we cause a scene and screw this up, we won’t be able to afford the fallout.”