LIGHTNOVELONLINE Chapter 39: Chapter 39
A few days later, Alex found himself back in Lakeside City, this time with Megan as his unofficial guide. They met in the early afternoon, with the sun shining brightly over the lake, casting ripples of light across the water. It was a perfect day to look for his future home.
"So, the first place I want to show you is about ten minutes from here," Megan said, adjusting her sunglasses as they walked through the bustling city streets. "It's in a quieter neighborhood, like you wanted. Plenty of trees, and the buildings are a bit older, but solid."
As they walked, Alex soaked in the atmosphere. Lakeside City was alive with activity, but there was a calmness to it that he didn't get back in his hometown. The air felt fresher, the people seemed more relaxed, and there was a quiet hum of city life that made him feel at ease.
The first apartment they saw was decent—spacious enough, with plenty of light, but it didn't quite have the vibe Alex was looking for. He thanked the landlord politely, and they moved on to the next spot, chatting as they went.
"You know, I'm kind of jealous," Megan teased as they walked. "You're about to have your own place in this city, working from home, calling your own shots. Meanwhile, I'm still stuck at the office, dealing with bosses who have no clue what they're doing."
Alex laughed. "Hey, it's not all fun and games. Crypto trading is unpredictable. One wrong move, and it could all fall apart."
"Yeah, but you're smart," she replied, bumping him playfully. "You always were. And now you've got the freedom to really do things your way. That's more than most people get."
"True," Alex admitted. "But it's still a big step. I've been thinking about it for a while now. Moving out, starting something of my own, just… living on my terms."
They continued the tour, visiting a few more places. The third one was the real contender—a modern apartment with a view of the lake, plenty of space, and just far enough from the busy city center. It felt right the moment Alex stepped inside. The open layout, the large windows, and the peaceful surroundings matched the mental picture he'd been holding onto for weeks.
"This is the one," he said quietly, standing by the window and looking out at the water. "It's exactly what I've been imagining."
Megan smiled. "I had a feeling you'd like this one. It's perfect for you—quiet, but not too far from everything. Plus, that view is amazing."
Alex nodded, already picturing himself meditating in the mornings, watching the sun rise over the lake. "Yeah, this is it."
Later that evening, Alex sat down with his parents via a video call, filling them in on the details.
"The place is great," he told them. "It's peaceful, has a view of the lake, and I've already worked out the budget. I'll be able to afford it comfortably with the crypto gains I've been making."
His mom looked a bit nervous but smiled. "As long as you're sure, honey. It sounds wonderful. Just make sure you're taking care of yourself."
"I will, Mom," Alex reassured her. "I've got everything under control. And I'll be close enough to come visit often. Plus, there's always video calls."
His dad chimed in, giving him a nod of approval. "Sounds like you've thought it through. Just remember to be smart with your money. Don't let that fancy view distract you from the bigger picture."
Alex grinned. "Don't worry, Dad. I'm still on top of everything."
With their support, the decision felt even more concrete. Over the next few days, Alex made plans for the move—setting up the lease, organizing his work schedule, and mentally preparing for the transition. It felt good to be in control, to be moving forward on his own terms.
As he packed up his things, the news was still buzzing with the fallout from the recent election. The new political climate was already affecting businesses, and Alex knew that the changes would ripple through the markets as well. But he was ready for it, confident that he could adapt to whatever came next.
Looking around his nearly empty room, Alex took a deep breath. It was strange to think how far he'd come in just over a year. From discovering the shard, mastering his abilities, and leaving his old job behind, to now moving into a new phase of life. It felt surreal at times, but it was also exactly where he needed to be.
As he drifted into his evening meditation, Alex's thoughts wandered to the future. He could see himself thriving in Lakeside City, building his own path, and maybe even reaching level 3 of mental strength. The possibilities felt endless, and for the first time in a long time, he was excited to see where the road would lead.