Chapter 2

"My name is Cambria James. I am not a scammer. I find your story very compelling. This is a segment we've planned, and this is my own short video account. They both have a solid fan base.

"You're working here, doing a part-time job. How long will it take to pay off your medical bills? Let me film and document your story. If we make any money, I'll share it with you. Is that Okay?"

My movements suddenly froze as I looked at Cambria.

I asked, "When will I get the money?"

She said, "Once the documentary series finishes airing, you'll receive the earnings then."

I force a bitter smile and shake my head. "It's too late."

This was the first time I took off my wig in front of the camera.

Only sparse hair remained beneath the wig, and the entire scalp was clearly visible, making it look terrifying.

I added, "I don't have much time left."

Cambria's eyes widened as she hurriedly grabbed my arm.

She said, "I still have some savings. As long as you help me film, I'll pay you by episode!"

Maybe it was the shock of seeing my ghastly appearance, she couldn't hold back her tears and spoke, choking up.

"If you help me shoot one episode, I'll pay you a commission of 10 thousand dollars. As for profit sharing, that will have to wait until New Year's Eve, after the show airs.

"I believe you can wait for it."

I put the wig back on and handed her a tissue.

I said, "Did I scare you? Don't cry. I won't take off my wig again. Honestly, you don't need to be afraid. I just had chemotherapy last week, so I look a bit rough."

She took the tissue from my hand, looking especially sad.

"I... I'm not doing this because of that..."

I smiled and tried to reassure her. "We'll do as you said. record a video and get a commission of 10 thousand dollars..."

Before I could finish, a surge of stomach acid hit my throat. My nose started to bleed, and I wiped it away with my hand.

Everything went black, and I collapsed to the ground.

"Mr. Hudson!"

The camera shook violently.

Cambria's voice trembled all over. "I'll take you to the hospital!"

I was breathing heavily, my eyelids drooping, but I seemed to see my once healthy son coming out of kindergarten.

He rushed over and hugged me. "Dad, I missed you so much."

Looking at my sweet child, I felt a lump in my throat. I tried to hug him, but caught only air.

Cambria tried to help me up. I grabbed her hand and pushed her away.

I skillfully bought a bottle of water and started washing the blood off my face.

"No, thank you."

With a trembling voice, Cambria said, "Are you worried that you can't pay the medical bills? I can pay you in advance for episode 1 of the documentary. Go get checked at the hospital."

I sat on the ground for a while to catch my breath, then looked at her seriously.

I pulled out a slip of paper from my pocket. "Can you do me a favor? Please send all of my earnings to this account."

She was confused. "What is this?"

"My son's hospital account," I said.

I smiled happily. "The money I earn from part-time jobs is enough to buy painkillers. The rest—the earnings from this job—should be saved for my son's surgery fee."

From November 20, 2023, to December 30, 2023

Episode 1

I asked, "Is the camera on? Can you tell I'm wearing a wig?

"I made a few adjustments for the camera today. Do I look a bit healthier?"

This was my first time appearing on camera. I wanted to look my best but wasn't used to filming, so I had to calm my nerves by fixing my wig.

Cambria complimented me.

"Don't worry. You look great on camera."

I felt relieved.

Her gentle voice came through the screen. "Mr. Hudson, what is your first wish?"

I said, "I want to go to Lakeshireville."

She replied, "No problem. I'll book the tickets right now.

"But Mr. Hudson, may I ask why you want to visit this place?"

I smiled at the words, my eyes filled with tenderness. "Because that is where my wife and I held our wedding."

Before I die, I truly want to go there one more time.

Navorville was about 1,500 miles away from Lakeshireville. Because of our limited budget, we took a 14-hour train ride.

After we arrived at the lakeside, the long journey left me feeling physically uncomfortable.

Cambria was very concerned about my health, continually monitoring my overall condition.

Joking with her, I said, "Don't worry. The doctor said since I just finished chemo, I won't die so soon."

At my words, Cambria's eyes reddened again.

She gazed at the shimmering water and asked cautiously, "Mr. Hudson, what kind of person is your wife?"

Everyone knew that after my son was diagnosed with a malignant tumor and my wife fell into poverty, I filed for divorce.