Throughout December, the president gave public speeches about every three days. Though Conservative candidates were also campaigning, it was clear their influence had sharply declined.
Their voices were barely heard, partly because they chose to keep a low profile.
This was the era of the Progressives—the radicals—and no one could change that.
Just like a few years ago was the Conservatives’ time, when the Progressives quietly grew, waiting for change.
The final defense would be completed in January, with results expected mid-month, so Lynch wasn’t traveling much.
Sometimes he appeared at the president’s speeches in prominent spots to show his political stance and support—an essential gesture that couldn’t be skipped.
On the last day of December, Lynch spent time with his family in Eminence.
Serra arrived from Sabin City with her fitness coach, Corman, temporarily staying at Lynch’s home.
Nail had returned from Nagaryll, bringing along two young women.
The once-married couple seemed to have truly let go of each other on their divorce day. Without passion, life was like a dull cold drink. Both chose what they believed was right.
Even celebrating the New Year together, there was no tension; in some ways, it felt no different from before.
In their distance lay an unbreakable familial bond, but beyond that, two separate hearts.
Corman greeted Nail and they sat chatting about recent events.
Nail handled it better, showing no hostility and willingly talking with Corman.
Serra, however, didn’t engage with the two girls Nail brought, barely allowing any conversation. Any brief exchanges never lasted.
This was a wealthy family’s home.
Such situations troubled not just Lynch’s family. Wealth, status, and power gave people both the courage and freedom to pursue happiness.
It sounded cruel because pursuing happiness isn’t just talk—it requires conditions, at least money.
Most high society faced this issue: after feelings faded, they maintained a façade of harmony publicly but acted like strangers behind closed doors.
Still… Nail and Corman got along well.
“What are they talking about?” Serra glanced toward the nearby bar as she sat on the sofa.
She doubted these two men could have a peaceful atmosphere, even without fighting.
Corman was younger, stronger, better built—factors some blamed for ending her marriage.
For Corman, Nail was Serra’s first husband who dominated her life for years, so there was surely much history.
Two men in a woman’s life shouldn’t be chatting so warmly like this.
God, look at her—she refused even to fake politeness toward those young women. That was the only appropriate response, not sitting cozy and chatting.
Lynch glanced at the TV drama and refocused on Serra. “They’re discussing overseas investments.”
Serra was stunned, then distant. Nail had gone from an unnoticed worker to a successful man who could talk investments anytime.
Living squeezed in a small room like ordinary people felt like yesterday. She fell silent.
Corman wouldn’t show hostility toward Nail.
First, Nail was Lynch’s father—crucial. If Corman wanted to marry Serra, he needed Lynch’s approval or forget it.
Second, as a grown man, even if Corman resented Nail’s marriage to Serra, he wouldn’t show it.
It was either manly grace or necessity.
Whether he could rely on Lynch to change his life depended on his behavior.
A jealous, reckless fool had no chance.
So whether by reality or logic, Corman behaved suitably.
By consciously accommodating Nail—and with Nail’s improved abilities over two years—they enjoyed their talk.
As for Nail’s inner discomfort?
None. Serra chose one man; he chose two, maybe more. That was a sign of success.
When the cooks served dinner, the family gathered at the table.
Katherine’s team had a celebration. Staff at the presidential residence wouldn’t go home for New Year, many stayed in Eminence.
As compensation, the president’s team hosted a New Year event, requiring all out-of-town employees, including interns, to attend.
Social events were important to Katherine—every acquaintance could become a future contact.
After Lynch’s prayer, they began eating.
They weren’t religious, but now wealthy, faith was more about ceremony.
They chatted happily at the table. Even Serra smiled. Gathering for a feast wasn’t easy.
After dinner, the women watched TV while the men sat and talked.
“Mr. Lynch, I’ve some thoughts…”
Corman cautiously started the conversation. Lynch pulled out cigarettes and handed them to the two men.
Lighting his cigarette with his million-Sol lighter, he tapped the table twice, signaling Corman to continue.
“It’s like this: people’s lives are recovering. They’re shaking off their lethargy, and more are working out.”
“With social and economic development ahead, our lives will surely improve, so I think more people will start going to gyms.”
“I want to get involved in this area and hope you can give me some advice.”
Before coming, Corman had done his homework. He didn’t blindly pursue unfamiliar fields like factories or finance.
God forbid, a fitness coach talking big about industry or finance—that’d be foolish.
He spoke about what he knew best: fitness.
Gym business is much better now than last year; coaches’ wages have risen, and the whole industry seems to be improving.
The coaches often share news during breaks, and Corman found information he hadn’t paid attention to before but now could.
For example, industry trends.
“Do you want to run your own gym?” Lynch asked directly.
Corman nodded. “Yes, Mr. Lynch, this industry is getting better.”
This year, the federation held over twenty bodybuilding competitions at various levels. People’s desire for muscles and strong physiques is growing.
It reflects a societal longing for strength and approval of the progressive path.
This isn’t empty talk—it’s backed by social surveys and statistics.
The bodybuilding trend creates the illusion that I’m surrounded by muscle men, so I’m safe because they handle enemies, leading more people to gyms.
Not everyone wants protection; some want to show off their muscles to protect others.
Lynch pondered. It was a good idea, especially for Corman.
“Good idea. I’ll invest…” He looked at Nail.
Nail was surprised, then nodded. “Sounds good. I’ll consider investing a bit, but not too much. I’m not Lynch!”
In the federation’s culture and environment, financial independence is a social norm.
With Serra and Nail divorced, all three manage their finances independently.
Besides Lynch’s support, they’re responsible for their futures.
Lynch can ensure their basic needs, but wealth requires their own effort.
This project could use some investment. As long as it’s not a disaster, it won’t lose money. If Corman profits, he solves Serra’s problem, and Nail gains experience as an investor.
With Lynch and Nail agreeing, Corman became excited—a feeling he never imagined before.
“Mr. Lynch, Nail, here’s my plan,” he said eagerly. “We find a suitable place in the Upper District, close to potential clients. I’ll handle the coaches. In two weeks, our gym will be open!”
Lynch flicked ash, shook his head. “If you want just one gym, I don’t see why I should invest.”
“If we do it, let’s build a chain brand!”
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