Sunny's and Sacrifice

It had been seven days since her mom came back from the hospital. Their home was now more still like the air was thin. Her mom, who used to talk a lot and move fast, now took careful steps, and her eyes lacked their usual spark. Stacey spent many nights watching her mom rest, scared that her mom’s breathing might just halt. The doctor had said it clear—Stage 2 pancreatic cancer. Immediate treatment needed. Radiation. Chemotherapy. Surgery, if possible. But all Stacey heard was money, money, more money.She skipped the last week of her senior exams without telling anyone. What was the point? College was a distant dream now. The only thing that mattered was keeping her mom alive.So she hit the streets.Stacey walked block after block through her neighbourhood, looking at each window for a "Help Wanted" sign. Each step made her heart feel even more down. She saw old stores, tired shop-owners, and food spots that looked so unkempt that they might be shut down soon. But she didn't mind.

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Crossroads

Stacey’s mom had been going for regular hospital checkups, and each time it was harder than the one before. The doctors had given her medication to keep her well and steady as they prepared for surgery. But the clock was ticking— But time was short—and Stacey felt it deep down. Every pill her mom took felt like more money she didn't have. Working at Sunny’s Diner helped a little, but not enough. Between empty cupboards, mounting hospital bills, and overdue utility bills, even basic groceries were now a luxury. The crumpled bills in her apron barely kept the lights on—if they stayed on at all.So when Gloria offered an extra night shift, Stacey said yes. Even if she was running on fumes. Even if her legs ached and her back screamed. Her mom was counting on her.The diner was quiet at night with Late eaters, truck drivers, and those with no other place to go. Stacey went from table to table, gathering plates and giving a phony smile if necessary.She had just cleaned a booth in the ba

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A Dangerous Invitation

When the girls walked in, the bell rang out. They were all happy, their laughter filling the air. Stacey looked their way from behind the counter, her heart skipped. There she was - the girl from that night. The one who’d talked about making hundreds in a weekend like it was nothing. Two more girls came in right after, all in classy clothes, with high-end bags hanging on them like shields. Stacy breathed deeply, feeling unease in her stomach as she saw them take a seat by the window. She wiped her hands on her apron; it wasn't her corner, nevertheless, she grabbed a menu and notepad and went over there.“Hey there, welcome to Sunny’s,” she greeted, voice level, “How’s your night going? What can I get you tonight?”The original girl—slim, poised, with lip gloss that sparkled under the light—looked up and smiled faintly. “Hey.”“You were here the other night, right?” Stacey asked her, trying to sound casual."Yeah," the girl answered, then sat back looking inquisitively. "What is your

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Lahat ng Kabanata ng Breaking the Billionaire Code: Kabanata 51 - Kabanata 53

Sunny's and Sacrifice

Crossroads

A Dangerous Invitation