#129

"So... what happened?" Robert asked.

Allan lowered his head.

"I'm... doing the best I can with what I have. I'm building a bridge—the one I believe is the safest and surest to cross."

"Then why are you sad?"

"I..."

"You don't have to fool me with that smile of yours. Your eyes say everything. I've already seen enough to know your heart is troubled. So tell me... what weighs so heavily on it?"

"I've been having doubts about the path I've chosen. I... I don't know if what I'm doing is right anymore."

Robert nodded.

"But this was your best judgment, wasn't it?"

"I believe so."

"No reservations? No holding back? Did you truly give it everything you had?"

"...Yes. With what I have, I believe I did."

"Then why not let the universe take care of the rest?"

Allan let out a quiet laugh.

"Does that work... even in business?"

Robert smiled.

"Oh, young one... you'll never know what fate has written until you've turned the next page. Besides, what are the odds of losing when you've gone all in with a good hand? You've played your cards well. That's all anyone can ever ask."

"I..."

"So cheer up."

Robert gently tapped Allan's shoulder.

"You've done enough. Let the world concern itself with the things beyond your reach."

He looked at Allan with quiet certainty.

"Just know this—you are one soul among many, and your efforts have not gone unseen.

"You've done your part. That's enough for today.

"Now rest.

"And when I say rest, I mean truly rest. Enjoy this brief moment of peace. You'll miss these quiet days when life once again calls you to stand at center stage."

"Am I supposed to... just wait?"

Robert laughed warmly.

"Yes.

"Whatever it is you're about to ask, my answer is yes.

"So clear your mind of every needless worry.

"You've earned your rest.

"And never forget...

"You are worth it."

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