Chapter 1: The Whitemores The Whitemores were one of the most powerful families in the country. Their name appeared in newspapers beside words like generosity, philanthropy, investments, and success. To the world, they seemed almost untouchable. The Whitmore foundation had donated millions to hospitals, schools, orphanages and disaster-relief organizations. Their family company employed thousands. At the head of the Whitmore Empire, stood Joshua and Emily Whitmore. Every year they appeared at charity galas dressed in perfect suit and gowns showing the power couple they represented, smiling for cameras while presenting enormous cheques to organizations that praised their generosity. People loved them. They called Joshua Whitmore a businessman with a heart. They called Emilie a woman who had never forgotten the less fortunate. Their three sons were often photographed beside them. David Whitmore, the eldest, had just turned twenty-five. He had inherited his father’s sharp mind for business. Quiet, composed and unnaturally calm, he carried a coldness that made most people keep their distance. Jackson, twenty-two, was the opposite — lively, charming, and already a rising actor whose face appeared on posters across the city. And then there was Michael, eighteen the youngest. To the public, they illustrated the perfect family, with the cleanest image. But images were not always true. The people who worked in the Whitemore mansion knew better. They knew Emilie could donate millions to welfare organizations, and become irritated when someone accidentally stepped on her feet. What Emilie Whitemore hated the most was poverty, because she considered it beneath her. That was one of the reasons that pushed her family to make enormous donations; it was an attempt to reduce poverty around her. Reason why she hated falling on poor people on the streets, it made her feel like her efforts were in vain, and she would never get rid of what she considered a disease That afternoon, inside the glass conference room of the Whitemores headquarters, Joshua stood at the head of a long table addressing a group of foreign partners. “Ladies and gentlemen”, he said, resting a hand on David’ s shoulder, “ allow me to introduce my eldes t son”. David remained completely still. “David joined our company when he was nineteen” A few executives exchanged glances. “At twenty - two, he successfully negotiated the acquisition of three companies” David stood there, completely composed, while Joshua smiled proudly and continued his speech. “He has already proven that he understands this business better than men twice his age” The partners all listened in amazement. One of them raised his glass and exclaimed. “H e ’s certainly his father’s son”. David mouth twitched; almost a smile, but not quite. I t wasn’t in his habits to smile. Joshua continued, “Until now, he has been working here as a regular employee, but he has more than proven his ability. I believe we can all agree that he can join the executive team” Applause filled the room Later that evening, while Joshua and David where home, the heavy doors of the Whitemore mansion burst open. Jackson strode inside, straightening his jacket as if nothing happened. Behind him, a crowd of screaming girls tried to push past the security guards. “JACKSON, JACKSON” “COME BACK HERE!” “JACKSON? WE LOVE YOU!” “YOU CAN4RT JUST LEAVE --! “ The guards struggle to keep the fans outside. Jackson walked straight into the dining room, completely unfazed, and dropped into his chair. “Gentlemen” , he said with a lazy grin. Joshua ’s expression tightened. “What’s all that noise outside?” Before Jackson could answer, Emilie came down the stairs. The family took their seats as the maids began serving dinner. Joshua looked around the table. “Where’s Michael?” Silence. Jackson took a slow sip of his drink and shrugged. “Who knows? He’s probably playing with the maid’s son again... or talking to butterflies in the garden and wasting his miserable life ” Joshua ’s face hardened. Emilie immediately reached over and touched his arm, trying to calm him. She turned sharply to the maids. “What are yo u waiting for? serve the food. E veryone is hungry” The maids hurried forward. They had only just begun eating when the dining room door opened again. Michael walked in. He was dressed simply, his hair slightly messy, a few blades of grass still clinging to his sleeves. He paused when he saw everyone already seated. Joshua set down his fork. “ Where have you been? ” Michael opened his mouth, but Jackson spoke first, his voice light and mocking. “Let me guess— talking to butterflies again? ” Jackson continued with a smirk. “Really, Jackson, you should find better ways to spend your time ”. Michael ’s hands clenched at his sides. “Stop talking about things you don’t understand”. Joshua ’s voice cut through the room, cold and final. “Your brother is right”. Emilie nodded, her expression firm. “You waste hours after hour on useless things, Michael. Spending time with people who will never rise to your level, playing with insects in the garden. It is time you stopped. Find whatever hidden talent you have — If you have one — and start using it. ” Michael stood frozen in the doorway, the words landing heavier than any slap. The dining room felt silent except for the soft clink of silverware as the rest of the family continued their meal.