Mission Pretty Possible Chapter 16.1 (Patreon)

College was over, the pageant was over. The fun of college was gone, and the applause for being the runner-up in the pageant had faded. But Ethan’s mind refused to slow down.

Claire sat cross-legged on the chair. Sam, meanwhile, had claimed the beanbag in the corner like he owned it — legs dangling, phone in one hand, a smug smirk plastered on his face. Since the pageant, he had become a frequent visitor, sliding into Ethan’s life with the comfort of an eccentric older brother who made himself at home wherever he went.

Ethan’s thoughts were spiraling when Claire finally broke the silence. “Now that college’s over… what are you thinking about? I mean… life?”

He exhaled heavily. “I don’t know. I thought I’d be directing my first indie film by now. Instead I feel like I’m just… floating.”

Claire nodded slowly, then cleared her throat. “Well… I’ve made a decision.” She hesitated, then smiled. “I’m joining Lynford Finance.”

Ethan tried to smile, he really did, but something stung.

“Ethan, you don’t have to keep drifting,” Claire said gently. “Your dad’s company—it’s still yours. His legacy is still yours.” The words struck deep, hitting something raw and unsteady inside him.