A Surprising Twist of Fates (Sierra and Theo) novel Chapter 402

Xavier was working late at the office, engrossed in his studies, when the call from the bar came in. For a moment, he didn't quite process it. "You want me to pick up who?"

The bartender on the other end glanced at the man slumped on the floor and sighed. "Your father had a bit too much to drink here," he said sympathetically. "Could you come settle the bill and take him home?"

Xavier fell silent for a full minute before grabbing his coat. "Alright, I'll be there soon."

The realization hit him hard. His once dignified and authoritative father could one day be too drunk to even pay his own tab. The thought left him with a complicated mix of emotions.

…

At the bar, Xavier followed the bartender to a corner where William sat in disarray. Keeping his composure, he paid the tab and waited until the staff had left before approaching William. He gave him a couple of nudges to check if he was conscious and quickly asked, "Dad, how did you end up like this?"

William squinted up at him, taking a long moment to recognize his son. Then, gripping Xavier's shirt, he slurred with bitter remorse. "Xavier… I've failed you."

Xavier's heart lurched. He wanted to press further, but the stares from nearby patrons stopped him. Instead, he quickly helped William outside.

…

Back home, after settling his father onto the couch, Xavier crouched in front of him. He asked again, "Dad, what did you mean earlier? What do you have to be sorry for?"

The cold night air had sobered William up somewhat. Knowing he couldn't hide the truth from his own family any longer, he confessed. "That investment… It was a scam. The money I put in—gone. The people behind it have vanished.

"I wanted to set aside some money for your future, but now I've lost everything, even my last reserves."

Xavier barely registered the rest. His mind reeled at the realization. William had been scammed, and the money from selling the house was gone.