Chapter 9: The Cracks

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Before thirty, each of them was stuck in a different cage. Ethan Lu watched his manager steer the team in the wrong direction until his frustration finally snapped. Aiden Fang's designs were altered by clients beyond recognition, leaving his talent nowhere to go. Ryan Su posted impressive sales numbers, but he was sick of selling things he didn't believe in for someone else. A single sentence—"I want to start a company"—united three lonely islands. One folding table, one old apartment, zero clients—that was the beginning of Islandlight Design. They wanted to prove one thing: a company that genuinely respects people can survive in this cruel market, and even flourish. But ideals never glow by themselves. A major client is stolen away, the money dries up, and the rift among the three brothers widens daily. When fear grips you, can you still cling to your best work? This is a story of friendship, conviction, and growth. It isn't about beating anyone. It's about looking back and seeing that the people beside you are still there.

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