I Made $900 Trillion In 24 Hours

Suddenly, at the stroke of midnight, magic happen and hundreds of notifications started popping up on the screen.

Barry's trades took off in a way that defied all logic with profits soaring on a larger scale.

He was earning billions of dollars per second.

After the first second, he earned $10.42 billion.

After a minute, he made $625 billion.

After an hour, Barry made over $37.5 Trillion.

Barry continued to sleep, unaware his laptop was blowing up with unimaginable wealth....

The Kiss of Shame

“Get on your knees and kiss my boots!” Reeves commanded.

Everyone was watching the scene in silence, all eyes fixed on Barry.

Barry plastered his hand on his face, his eyes misty.

He had just been slapped across the face from Reeves Nightingale, first son of the Nightingale clan.

It was Laura's birthday party and the entire North Hills had turned up to celebrate with her.

Among the guests were eligible wealthy bachelors who clamoured around Laura, hoping to be the lucky guy she might consider to marry.

Reeves was more aggressive than the rest of the other bachelors.

He followed Laura everywhere like a dog, bothering her with his loud, boring stories.

Barry couldn't take it anymore and interjected when he shouldn't have.

“You're bothering my wife, Reeves, give it a rest already,” Barry said, standing between Reeves and Laura.

That was when Reeves slapped him.

“How dare you speak to me like we're equals?” Reeves snapped at him. “You're nothing but a cheap loser who got lucky to be close to Laura. Know your place, you piece of trash.”

Barry felt the sting of the slap burning on his face. He clenched his jaw. “I was only trying to—”

“I know what you're trying to do,” Reeves raised his voice. “You're acting like the jealous husband. Don't get your foolish head stuck in the clouds. The only person you're fooling is yourself.”

Before Barry could respond, Reeves pointed at his leather boots.

“You've offended me tonight. I was having a wonderful evening until you barged in. Get on your knees and kiss my boots!” Reeves commanded.

In North Hills, a kiss to the feet is a humiliation punishment to an offender.

It was popularly called the kiss of shame.

Barry glanced at Laura, hoping she would come to his aid, but she looked away, her arms crossed, and her lips pressed into a thin line.

Barry's heart sank. His marriage to Laura was a loveless, non-consummated marriage.

Laura's grandmother, Evelyn Raven who had always been fond of Barry had arranged their marriage.

Evelyn Raven saw the good in Barry and decided he would be the best husband for Laura.

The trouble was, Laura hated Barry. He was a typical nobody.

Barry worked for the Raven family as a servant. He gets paid $200 every month for doing house chores and errands.

That's not the kind of man that Laura found attractive, but because she respects her grandmother, she went along with her wish.

“Barry, you fool,” Laura's voice rang out. “Who asked you to get involved? Do you have any idea what you've done? You've embarrassed me and the Raven family in front of everyone here.”

Barry’s voice croaked. “But I was only trying to help. He was troubling you—”

“Nobody asked you,” she barked at him. “Sheesh, take a hike, would you? Quit being nosy. It's none of your business if he's troubling me or not. Go wash the plates in the kitchen or something.”

The humiliation seeped deep in every pore of Barry's body.

He hung his head and apologized. “I'm sorry, my beloved. I didn't mean to cause you any troubles.”

Laura groaned and brushed past him. “I told you repeatedly, don't call me your beloved. It's cringy and makes my skin crawl.”

As she left the scene, Jonathan, Barry's father-in-law and head of the Raven family, stepped in.

“Reeves,” Jonathan placed a hand on his shoulder, a tight smile spread across his face. “I saw what happened. Pay no attention to that useless son-in-law of mine. I'll fix him.”

Reeves sneered at him. “I will not be satisfied until that loser kisses my boot.”

Just like his daughter, Jonathan didn't like Reeves either. Reeves was an annoying asshole who grates on everyone's nerves.

Regardless of that fact, the Nightingale clan was one of the powerful families in North Hills, with a potent influence in politics.

Moreover, Reeves is the future head of the Nightingale family.

Jonathan would not let Reeves leave his daughter's birthday party in a foul mood.

It could jeopardize any favour and alliances they might need from the Nightingale clan in the future.

“Certainly, leave this to me,” Jonathan assured Reeves then he walked up to Barry.

Without warning, Jonathan slapped Barry across the face.

The slap sounded like a gun fire, sending chills down everyone's spine.

“If you know what's good for you, Kneel,” Jonathan asked, his eyes squinting dangerously. “Kiss Reeves boots and make him happy, or else I'll crucify you.”

Barry's eyes were shaking. This is the second time he has been slapped, and by his father-in-law.

Laura stared at him from across the hall. Her face was a mask of indifference.

Finally, Barry dropped to his knees. He crawled forward and pressed his lips to Reeves polished boots.

The room buzzed with whispers and laughter.

“I can't believe he's actually kissing his boot. Oh, I must record this for my I*******m.”

“Ugh, I'm disgusted. How can a loser like that be Laura's husband? He's more like a family pet.”

“I heard he earns $200, slaving for the Raven family. Even $200 can't feed my dog for breakfast.”

“What a pathetic fool. Laura should divorce him. She deserves better. Such a disgrace.”

Laura couldn't stare at Barry's humiliation. She turned around and left the hall.

Barry kept his head down. His nails dug into his palms and his teeth gnashed bitterly.

The kiss of shame had sealed his reputation as the useless trashy Son-in-law of the Raven household.

Reeves smirked, enjoying the laughter at Barry's humiliation.

He looked down at Barry as if he were a bug, he could squash under his expensive boots.

After Barry was done, Reeves turned to Jonathan and clapped him on the shoulder. “I feel better now. You handled this bastard just right.”

Jonathan returned a grin. “Of course. I wouldn't want to ruin the relationship between our families.”

“It would make more sense if you give me your daughter's hand,” Reeves smiled knowingly. “I could make an amazing son-in-law, better than this piece of crap.”

Jonathan sighed. “Unfortunately, we are stuck with him. But I'm sure when the time is right, Laura would make her decision.”

“I'll be patient,” Reeves licked his thick lips. “Laura would be mine soon. I won't give up on her.”

Jonathan turned sharply to Barry. “Get out of here. Go help in the kitchen.”

Barry gathered whatever dignity was left of him and shuffled towards the kitchen.

Evelyn Raven

North Hills was a thriving metropolitan city which uses the ranking system in its social status and hierarchy identity.

There were six ranks, A rank to E ranks, with E rank being the lowest rank.

E ranks were individuals who had little to no money. They're poor and ridiculed by society.

Barry was an E rank. He was born to an abusive father and a sick mother.

After his mother died from her illness, he took his kid sister, Snow, and ran away.

Homeless, Barry did what he could to provide for himself and his kid sister.

During one of his odd jobs, he ran into Evelyn Raven.

Her purse had fallen down on the walkway. It contained $10,000 in cash, an ATM card, and some previous jewelry.

When Barry returned her purse, Evelyn was smitten by his transparency and decided to take him in.

She gave him a job in the Raven household, rented a small apartment to shelter him and snow.

Then she enrolled them in school.

Evelyn's kindness is the only reason Barry could endure the insults and abuse the Raven household dished out to him.

* *

It was 1:24.am and all the guests who had turned up for Laura's birthday had retired back to their homes.

Barry was left alone in the kitchen to wash all the plates and wares used to serve the guests.

There were over two hundred dirty plates stacked, and he was just starting when everyone else was getting ready for bed.

As Barry scrubbed each plate, the kitchen door swung open and Ingrid Raven stormed in like a hurricane.

“You lazy pig,” she barked, startling Barry. “You're still not done? At this rate, you'll have flies buzzing around in my home.”

Barry turned to her, stammering. “I-I'm sorry, mother-in-law. I'm going to be quick—”

Before he could finish his sentence, his grip slipped and one plate fell from his soapy hands, shattering on the tiled floor.

Barry froze in terror. That plate was worth over $2,000 or more.

Ingrid exploded in fury. “You bloody fool,” she shrieked, stepping closer and slapping him across the cheeks. “Do you have any idea how expensive that plate was?”

“I'm sorry,” Barry shouted, his voice trembling. “I didn't mean to break it. It just slipped because I was startled.”

Her hands flew across his face, dealing him a loud resounding slap. “You're just full of excuses, you clumsy pig. I'll make sure you're not paid until you recover the money for that plate.”

Ingrid backed away to catch her breath. She glared disdainfully at Barry as he shielded his face from her.

“You disgust me,” she spat in his face. “You're lucky things didn't escalate with Reeves tonight. If they had, I'd have made your life a living hell, you ungrateful little worm.”

Barry didn't say anything. If he did, he would only provoke her further.

Ingrid tossed her hair back. “Now, clean up this mess before I tear you to pieces with the shards of this plate.”

Barry knelt down quickly and began picking up the shattered chunks of porcelain with shaking hands.

Ingrid glared at him with her arms crossed. “After you're done, head to Evelyn's room. She says she wants to see you. Alone.”

Barry hadn't seen Evelyn Raven in three months. Her family wouldn't let him get anywhere near her.

Barry knew her illness had gotten worse than before after the family doctor announced her case was hopeless.

Barry nodded quickly, his voice barely above a whisper. “Yes, Mother-in-law.”

With a scoff, Ingrid turned on her heel and stormed out of the kitchen, leaving Barry alone to clean the shards.

* * * *

Evelyn Raven lay propped up on a king-size bed in her room.

She was an old woman in her mid-70s, but her illness made her look 90.

All around her were life supporting machines and equipment beeping and humming rhythmically.

She hated the hospital, which was why she insisted on being treated at home.

Barry pushed the door open and stepped slowly into the dimly lit room.

Her eyes fluttered open as Moses stopped before her and bowed low. “You called for me Madam Evelyn.”

A weak, warm smile spread across Evelyn's face.

“It’s been a long while, Barry,” she said. “You’ve fought hard to survive all this time, haven’t you? Without me to shield you?”

Barry swallowed the lump in his throat, forcing himself to meet her gaze. “It's been tough, but I've managed, Madam. Only because of what you’ve done for me and Snow. Your kindness has kept me going.”

Evelyn nodded faintly. Her breathing felt dragged. “You've fought well, Barry. I've been observing you, and I'm proud of you.”

Suddenly, she started coughing.

Barry waited, watching helplessly as her body trembled with each cough.

“I wished I could have attended Laura's birthday, but my condition won't let me. How was it?” She asked after catching her breath.

Barry hesitated at first, then answered. “It was good. The guests all had a great time. Laura seemed happy.”

There was a long pause. Then Evelyn's weak smile returned. “My doctor was here earlier this week. He told me I had just three days to live.”

A volt of electricity jolted Barry's entire body.

His face went pale in seconds. “Three days? But… today's the third day!”

Evelyn nodded slowly, a calm expression settling on her face. “I know. That's why I asked him to keep it a secret from my family. I didn't want my departure to interfere with Laura's birthday.”

Barry felt tears welling up in his eyes. “Madam Evelyn…. Please don't leave. You're the only person who has ever shown Snow and I kindness.”

Evelyn reached out to Barry and touched his face. Barry was started by how cold her frail fingers were.

“Barry,” Evelyn said faintly. “Once I'm gone, I'm certain my family wouldn't treat you so nicely. I know how they've treated you all these years.”

She paused to wipe a ball of tears that slipped off his eye. “I like you, Barry. You're an honest and good man. That is why I married you to my granddaughter. Before I go, I want to secure your future.”

Barry raised an eyebrow. “Secure my future?”

Evelyn leaned her head back on her pillow. “I've spoken to my lawyer and left you a will. It ensures a modest inheritance for you and snow.”

Barry opened and closed his mouth. “I don't know what to say.”

“You deserve it,” she whispered. “Promise me, Barry. Take care of Laura. Protect her. I know she doesn't like you, but I believe with time, she will grow to love you.”

“I promise,” Barry nodded vigorously, tears choking him.

They sat in silence for a few minutes before Barry noticed she wasn't breathing anymore.

The noise from the life-sustaining machines had all died down.

Barry sank to his knees beside the bed and buried his head in her abdomen.

Evelyn Raven had bitten the dust.

Divorce papers

Evelyn Raven's funeral was a big event as she was a well respected and loved woman in North Hills.

High-profile individuals and even the first lady of the country graced her funeral.

After Evelyn Raven was laid to rest, the Raven family gathered the next day for a brief hearing of her will.

Evelyn Raven founded Raven enterprises, a global e-commerce company.

It's the third-largest e-commerce company in the world with a net worth of $400 million.

Evelyn Raven has two sons, Jonathan Raven and Francis Raven.

Jonathan and Ingrid had three offspring: Curtis Raven, Laura Raven and Betty Raven.

Francis, with his wife Helga Raven had two offspring, Gregory Raven and Jasmin Raven.

Mr. Woods, Evelyn's trusted lawyer, adjusted his glasses and cleared his throat.

Jonathan Raven, being the first son, was appointed chairman and CEO of the company, controlling 35% stake in the company.

Everyone nodded in approval as Jonathan had dedicated decades to Raven enterprises.

The family estate was also given to Jonathan's children, Curtis, Laura, and Betty, which was divided among them.

Francis Raven, Evelyn Raven's second son, was appointed COO of Raven enterprises with a 15% stake.

His two offspring inherited the secondary estate off the coasts of North Hills.

So far, so good, nobody argued with how their inheritance was split. It was fair and reasonable to the Raven family.

Evelyn also donated the sum of $15 million to various orphanages, foundations, and charitable causes.

Then Mr. Woods paused as he read the last paper. “There is one final bequest… to a man named Barry.”

Barry, who had been sitting on a low stool at the corner of the room, raised his head slowly when his name was announced.

He had been grieving Evelyn's death that he wasn't even paying attention to the will reading, not until his name was announced.

Everyone turned to stare at Moses, surprise written all over their faces.

“How is it possible that piece of crap gets a share of our family's inheritance?” Curtis said curtly. “He's an outsider. He shouldn't be getting a cut.”

“I agree,” Gregory stood up, agitated. He pointed an accusing finger at Barry. “Did you manipulate our grandmother to leave you a share of our wealth, you street rat.”

Barry's eyes darkened. He had had just about enough with the Raven family and their dislike for him.

“I did no such thing,” he said, his voice dark. “If you don't want me to take part in the inheritance, you can have it.”

Gregory hesitated. He had never seen Barry looked so sad and moody.

“Well, then,” Francis Raven urged Mr. Woods. “What did our loving mother leave her trashy grandson-in-law?”

Mr. Woods cleared his throat and glanced down at the document in his hand.

Everybody leaned forward, eager to hear what Evelyn Raven had left Barry.

“Barry is to inherit the White mansion off the coast of North Hills,” Mr. Woods announced. “He's also given rights to own Evelyn Raven's $10,000 funded Forex trading account.”

Everybody stood up sharply in shock.

The White mansion was worth over $25 million, too luxurious for a man like Barry to inherit out of the blue.

The Raven family erupted in anger.

Ingrid pulled at her hair, her voice screeching. “This is unacceptable. My children were given the family estate, but how come this nobody gets the White mansion, huh?”

“A $25 million mansion? You've got to be kidding me,” Curtis slammed his hands on the table. “Grandmother must have been out of her mind to leave him anything.”

“I smell a rat,” Gregory yelled at Barry, pointing an accusing finger at Barry. “What sort of lies did you whisper in my grandmother's ears while she was frail and weak? I don't believe this!”

Francis Raven walked up to Mr. Woods and snatched the documents.

“Give me that,” His eyes ran over every single detail of the will. “It's all in here. That bastard gets the White mansion and her forex trading account.”

Jonathan joined him and read the will. His face knitted into a thick frown. “Barry doesn't deserve this–any of it. As the first son of the Raven family, I cannot allow a stranger to own the White mansion.”

“Yeah, father, don't let him,” Betty Raven shouted. “How is he getting the white mansion and I have to share the family's estate with Laura and Curtis? It's not fair.”

Ingrid rushed up to Barry and slapped him across the face. “You entitled bastard. I don't care what my mother-in-law saw in you, but the rest of us clearly don't. If you know what's best for you, you'd reject this inheritance.”

Barry held his cheeks, his mind racing.

He was also shocked that Evelyn would leave him a home and not just any home, the White mansion.

The White mansion was the fifth most expensive private homes built in North Hills. It was too much for a pauper like him.

Suddenly, Laura who had been watching the entire scene in a brooding silence, stood up and cleared her throat.

The room fell silent as she spoke, “Well, now that grandmother is gone, I have a very important announcement I want to make.”

Barry looked at her, wondering what she was up to.

Her heels clicked sharply against the tiled floor as she walked up to him.

With one swift motion, she pulled out a stack of papers and thrust them into Barry's face.

“I'm getting a divorce,” she declared, a bitter smile on her face.

Divorced

Barry froze as he stared at the papers in her hand.

"Laura, what is the meaning of this?" He whispered. "You can't divorce me."

"Whatever gave you the stupid idea that I couldn't divorce you?" She laughed. "Everybody knows our marriage is a sham. I only pretended to be your wife for my grandmother's sake, but now that she's gone, I don't need to pretend anymore."

Barry felt hot and cold at the same time. "But Laura.... I-I love you. I've always loved you since the day I set eyes on you. Please give me a chance. I made a promise to Evelyn."

"Screw you and your love," Laura spat, wrinkling her nose in disgust. "Don't tell me you love me. It makes my skin crawl. I hate you. I've always hated you since the day you walked into this family."

Barry's heart broke in half after hearing her words. He wanted to say something but no word got out.

Laura turned to face her family, waving the divorce papers in her hand. "Now that I'm divorcing this useless husband of mine, I'm entitled to 80% of what he owns."

She went on after a pause, a small smile playing on her lips. "And since Barry here owns nothing to his name except his inheritance, I'll just take the white mansion."

The room went wild with cheers and praises.

"That's super brilliant, Laura," Jonathan Raven patted his daughter's shoulder. "I raised you well to think on your feet. Very impressive."

"Yeah, sis," Curtis clapped her back. "Why should we let this pauper keep something that should belong to the entire family?"

Francis Raven and Helga nodded in approval. "That's very smart Laura. Divorcing Barry would save us a lot of legal actions to take back the mansion."

Barry remained silent as he watched the Raven family jubilate over his divorce.

He clenched his fists and hung his head, feeling a fresh wave of emotions rushing through him.

This emotion was rage. He was angry.

Angry about the hatred, angry about the heartbreak Laura served him and angry about the love and commitment he promised to Evelyn.

Curtis walked up to Barry, a wide jeering grin on his face. He leaned in close and whispered in Barry's ears.

"I'd advise you not to fight this, Barry. We'll hire the best lawyers money can buy. You won't stand a chance against all of us. Be wise and save yourself the trouble."

Barry slowly glanced up, his eyes dead of warmth and life.

"Do whatever you want," he said gravely. "I don't care."

Without waiting for a respond, Barry turned and walked out of the room silently.

The Raven family watched him go, pleased with themselves.

* * * *

The divorce proceedings arrived two days later in a quiet courtroom.

Barry and Laura sat across from each other, the long table littered with documents and legal papers.

Lawyers and clerks walked up and down as they prepared the paperwork.

Not for once did Barry glance up to meet Laura's eyes.

His shoulder was slumped, dark bags under his eyes, staring at his shoes.

He hadn't slept a wink in two days.

Laura, on the other hand was dazzling with brightness. She had never looked so happy in her life.

Finally, it was time to sign the divorce papers.

As Laura skimmed through the papers, she paused before signing her name.

"This Forex trading account," she began, tapping the document with her pen. "What's the full disclosure of it?"

The accountant, adjusted her glasses as she explained. "The Forex trading account is fully funded with $10,000. However, the account hasn't been performing well. The market has been volatile, and the returns aren't so impressive."

Laura snorted. "Forex? Who does Forex these days? It's been three years and a terrible era for traders. Everyone knows you can't make any real money in Forex. It's too risky."

The room fell silent as Laura leaned back in her chair and regarded Barry.

"I don't want it," she declared. "None of the Raven family members believed in Forex. Barry can keep the account. I'm not here to rip him dry. I'm a good person. As long as I keep the mansion, nothing else matters."

Barry didn't argue. He was too defeated to speak a word.

Once the paperwork was signed, Laura grabbed her bag and stood to her feet.

"If you ever feel like working for the Raven family, you're always welcome. We'll need more helping hand around the house. That's all you're good at anyway," she said.

Barry finally met her gaze.

Laura felt a thrill of excitement rush through her. She enjoyed watching him suffer.

"And one more thing," she added, crossing her arms. "The Raven family won't be paying for your house rent anymore or your sister's tution f*e. If you want money, then earn it. You've got that Forex account of yours. Start hustling."

Barry suddenly stood to his feet, startling Laura.

He stared at her from under his lashes–pain, anger and hate burning in his eyes.

"I hope you're happy now," he said.

Laura feigned ignorance. "Of course I'm happy. I got you out of my life and that's enough for me."

Barry raised his face heavenwards and let out a deep breath. "Thank goodness. I wish you happiness."

Before Laura could retort, Barry turned on his heels and marched out of the room.

The Trading account

Barry lived in a two-bedroom apartment situated in the district zone.

The district zone contains individuals with D ranks.

People in D ranks were regular folks, earning average salaries and holding common positions.

They're literally average Joes.

But Barry, who was an E Rank, had no hopes of paying the rent nor enrolling his sister in school all by himself.

As Barry headed home, his head was spinning with the additional responsibilities on his hands.

With his benefactor, dead, there was no one to support him anymore. The Raven family would only pay him $200 if he continued to slave for them.

But $200 was barely enough to feed himself, pay the rent or see his younger sister through school.

Standing outside his apartment, Barry took a deep breath before knocking on the door.

The door opened to reveal a cute sixteen-year-old high school girl wearing shorts and a sweater.

“I'm home, Snow,” Barry said, forcing a wide smile on his face. “Here, I bought us dinner.”

He stretched out a bag of groceries he bought from the nearby store.

Snow rushed at him and embraced him tightly. “Big Brother,” she called excitedly. “Welcome home. It's been lonely without you this week.”

Barry stroke her hair. Since Evelyn's death, he hadn't been home for a while.

“I'm sorry I couldn't be here with you,” Barry said. “Let's go inside. Tell me all about school while we make dinner together.”

* * * *

An hour later, Barry tucked Snow in her bed and returned to his room.

He laid up on his bed and stared at the ceiling. He had just spent his last $200 in grocery shopping.

After tonight, there would be nothing left to eat.

What's more troubling, they have not paid the landlord in months. Their rent was way overdue.

Barry gritted his teeth as he thought about how the Raven family had abandoned him.

He sat up, his rage boiling over. If he ever gets the chance, he would make each of them regret ever treating him like trash.

Just then, he received an inbox text message on his small phone.

Barry stared at his phone as he opened the text.

It was his Forex trading account details and password.

Barry recalled the accountant mentioning this Forex trading account was fully funded with $10,000.

This was all they left him with after losing the White mansion to Laura in their divorce settlement.

Unfortunately, the Forex market has been awful for the past three years.

There was hardly any money to be made these days from trading.

Barry sighed. “This is better than nothing.”

Snow still had a laptop Evelyn gifted her years ago. Barry retrieved the laptop from the living room and booted it on.

Fortunately, the Wi-Fi was free around this part of town. Barry could log in to his Forex trading account smoothly.

When the site interface appeared, Barry's eyes widened.

$10,000,000.00.

“What the…?” He muttered, rubbing his eyes just to make sure he was seeing clearly. “How I'm I seeing $10 million instead of $10,000?”

The amount was still there, $10 million, staring back at him.

“No way,” Barry's jaws dropped. “It can't be. I don't believe it. This has to be a mistake.”

He refreshed the page over and over again, thinking it was a glitch somewhere, but the amount was right there.

$10,000,000.00.

Barry scrolled to the transaction history and to his shock, he discovered the amount was deposited in his account a month ago before Evelyn's passing.

Barry sat back, his jaws hanging.

His mind drifted back to his second year in college before he dropped out after Evelyn's illness became worse.

He had been friends with a self-proclaimed Forex guru named Matthew.

Matthew had a knack for reading the market like a book. Everyone ridiculed Matthew, proclaiming he couldn't make any real money in Forex.

But Barry followed Matthew everywhere.

Barry spent countless hours absorbing everything Matthew could teach him about Forex trading — strategies, risk management, patterns, and timing.

After Evelyn's illness struck, Barry had to drop out of college in order to care for her, but he was more knowledge about Forex than anyone could imagine.

He shared his experience with Evelyn during their late night talks. She used to tease him about his ambition.

Barry never thought she was making arrangements behind his back to prepare this account for him to trade.

She believed in him more than anyone else.

Still, this Forex trading account seemed too good to be true.

"There's no way Madam Evelyn could entrust me with all that money to trade with," Barry sighed, his throat tightening. "$10 million is a lot of money. No one is stupid enough to risk putting all that money into Forex for a beginner to trade with."

Barry rubbed his temples as he studied the screen displaying his account.

"My suspicion is correct. This is a demo account," Barry concluded. "It's the only logical explanation. Madam Evelyn may be a generous woman, but she's not stupid to fund $10 million for me to trade with."

The more Barry thought about it, the more convinced he felt Evelyn Raven created this simulation account to test and hone his skills.

Now, the money in a demo account isn't real.

Barry could carry out his strategies without bearing any risks, so any profits or losses he made from the demo account won't affect his actual finances.

Barry glanced at the time. It was 9:20.pm. The market was active by this time and fluctuating.

The Forex market wasn't what it used to be before. Many people had given up on it a long time ago.

"I guess I'll give it a try and make my first trading," Barry said. "I still have all the knowledge and strategies I acquired from Matthew. Even if it's a demo account, I'll give it my all."

With renewed determination fueling him, Barry opened a chart and started analyzing it.

A surge of adrenaline rush through his entire body as he executed his first-ever trade like a seasoned trader.

Barry got so caught up in the moment he didn't know when he ended up trading the entire $10 million–every penny.

Since it's a demo account, it wouldn't matter.

* * * *

Barry's apartment was quiet except for the soft hum of the laptop and rustling of the curtains as breeze passed through the window.

Barry lay slumped over the small wooden table, his head resting on his folded arms.

For two days, He had deprived himself of sleep after Evelyn's funeral. His exhaustion took its toll, causing him to drift into a deep sleep without him knowing it.

The laptop was still on, with charts and candlesticks flickered across the screen.

Suddenly, at the stroke of midnight, magic happened and hundreds of notifications started popping up on the screen.

Barry's trades took off in a way that defied all logic, with profits soaring on a larger scale.

He was earning billions of dollars per second.

After the first second, he earned $10.42 billion.

After a minute, he made $625 billion.

After an hour, Barry made over $37.5 Trillion.

Barry continued to sleep, unaware his laptop was blowing up with unimaginable wealth.

The Phoenix Bank

The first cock crow woke Barry up.

He groggily lifted his head, blinking against the light coming from his laptop.

Barry was startled his laptop was still on. The time was 5.am.

Expecting to see a modest gain or a loss, Barry peered into the laptop screen.

“Let's look at how much I've earned today.”

Suddenly, Barry froze as he saw his account balance.

$375 TRILLION!

Barry staggered back away from the laptop as if it had suddenly turned into a cobra.

He backed himself against the wall, his heart pounding wildly against his ribs, but not for once, did his eyes left the numbers on the screen:

$375 trillion.

“I don't believe it,” he muttered, his breathing laboured. “This is a dream. It has to be a dream.”

Barry pinched his arm, hard and twice.

The pain he got told him he was wide awake, and this wasn't some dream.

He slowly approached the laptop, his legs wobbling.

When he was close enough, he peered at his account. The balance ticked up again:

$375,010,420,000,000.00

Barry gasped in shock. “How the hell is this possible? The numbers–they're still climbing.”

Another second passed.

$375,020,840,000,000.00.

Barry's jaws dropped as he realized every second was adding $10.42 billion to his account.

Barry dropped to his knees, feverishly opening the trading charts.

The market was still chaotic and disastrous to trade, but somehow Barry's trades had skyrocketed beyond logic.

Barry scrolled through transaction logs, trying to understand how this had happened.

None of it made any sense to him. “This can't be possible. The system had probably glitched. That's the only plausible answer.”

Barry's mind raced. Could this really be a demo account? What if it wasn't?

Barry needed to be sure whether the money was real or not.

There was only one bank Barry could trust, and that was the Phoenix Bank.

The Phoenix Bank was the only bank in the world that can offer protection to trillions of dollars.

It was now 5:30.am and the Phoenix Bank would be open by 7:00.am.

If there was any bank in the world that could confirm the account and understand what was happening to him, it was the Phoenix Bank.

Barry hurriedly shut down the laptop and rushed to the bathroom.

His hurried preparation caused noises around the apartment, waking Snow from her sleep.

“Big Brother?” She called sleepily from her bed. “What's the commotion about?”

“Nothing, Snow,” Barry said, forcing a smile as he entered her room. “Go back to sleep. I'll be going out for a bit.”

“Eh?” Snow exclaimed, checking her bedside clock. “It's five o'clock in the morning.”

“I'll be back soon, I promise,” Barry kissed her on the forehead. “Just stay indoors and don't go anywhere until I return. Got it?”

Snow stared worriedly at Barry as he rushed out with her laptop.

She had never seen him look so anxious. “What the hell happened to Big brother?” She asked herself.

* * * *

Barry was standing in front of the massive gates of the Phoenix Bank feeling anxious.

Unlike other banks, Phoenix bank was a very exclusive bank with branches in just 30 countries in the world.

Each country had just one bank delegated to the capital state.

North Hills, being a capital state, happens to be lucky to get one Phoenix bank built.

By 8.am., Barry was ushered by a sharply dressed Blondie receptionist into the lobby.

She had a bright smile on her face and was warm and nice to him, despite his shabby clothes.

Phoenix Bank had a reputation for treating every customer with respect and honour, irrespective of status or wealth.

“Good morning, sir,” the receptionist welcomed him. “You're our first customer today. How can I assist you?”

Barry looked around him nervously. “I need to discuss something privately. It's Forex related. Do you have a Forex guru or something?”

The smiling receptionist nodded. “But of course, please come with me. Right this way.”

Barry loved it how she didn't dismiss him because of his shabby clothes. These guys were the best.

He was led to a set of golden elevators, which whisked them upward to the executive floor.

When the doors opened, Barry found himself in a large, furnished office.

A man in a perfectly tailored navy suit stood up to greet him, a bright smile on his face, as if Barry were the most important person in the world.

“Good morning, Mr…?” the man inquired, extending his hand.

Barry shook his hand firmly. “Barry, just Barry is fine.”

“I'm Jeremy Austin, senior Forex analyst and wealth manager for the Phoenix Bank,” the man said, gesturing to an expensive leather chair across his desk. “Please, seat. Is it too early for a cup of coffee?”

“No I'm good,” Barry sat down, placing Snow's laptop on the desk. “I have a problem. My forex trading account has been acting up crazy after I traded last night. It's freaking me out.”

Jeremy returned to his chair. “Let me take a look, Mr. Barry.”

Barry didn't hesitate. He opened the laptop, logged into his account, and spun the screen around, so Jeremy could see it.

“At first, I thought I was trading on a demo account but after I woke up, I'm not so sure,” Barry said, leaning forward. “Could you confirm the account for me?”

“Sure, give me a second,” Jeremy examined the screen closely. At first, he was startled when he saw Barry's balance.

He had never seen such an amount on a Forex account.

$10.42 billion topped just then, the next second, the account balance was topped by another $10.42 billion.

Jeremy blinked twice. “Wha–what just happened?”

The next second, another $10.42 billion was earned.

Barry watched as Jeremy's eyes widened so wide they threatened to fall off his eye sockets.

“In my entire career, I've never seen anything like this before,” Jeremy exclaimed. “Numbers like this aren't supposed to exist in a Forex trading account.”

Barry placed both hands on the table, leaning closer. “I suspect it might be a glitch or something. Is it a demo account?”

Jeremy shook his head. “You're wrong, Barry. These are neither a glitch nor a demo account. These trades, these profits—they're real and legitimate. There's no way the system could produce errors like this.”

Barry felt a cold sensation washing over him. If what Jeremy was saying was true, that could only mean one thing.

Barry had been trading on a real Forex trading account. It wasn't a demo account after all.

His earnings were as real as his trades.

Jeremy reached out and pulled out his phone. He dialed some numbers and spoke as the line connected.

“Get me the Global Operations Executive on the line immediately. I need her here in person. Now!”

Jeremy turned to regard Barry as he ended the call. “This is beyond me, Barry. We'll need to verify everything down to the last cent.”

Barry's stomach tightened. “Who is coming?”

“The granddaughter of the late chairman of Phoenix bank, Veronica Phoenix,” Jeremy revealed.

Snow is missing

Veronica Phoenix took her private jet from headquarters and flew to North Hills as soon as she received Jeremy's message.

When her private jet finally landed in North Hills airport, she rushed over to the Phoenix Bank.

A staff was waiting to welcome her. They all inclined their back at angle 90 to greet her as she walked past them.

When she was ushered into Jeremy's office, she was surprised to find a shabbily dressed young man seated opposite Jeremy.

“What's this about, Jeremy?” She demanded, oozing an aura of confidence that overpowered the room.

Jeremy stood up, bowing respectfully before her. “Miss Veronica. Allow me to introduce you to Barry. Barry, here, came into my office with his Forex account, which he thought was fluctuating. But after examining it… You need to see this for yourself.”

Veronica moved to the desk as Jeremy spun the laptop towards her.

The balance read: $450.144 Trillion.

Veronica stiffened in shock. Are those numbers real?

Another second passed, and the amount ticked upward: $450.15442 Trillion.

Veronica turned sharply to Jeremy. “I don't believe it. You're telling me these trades are legit?”

Jeremy nodded. “I won't lie about something like this. I've been over everything for the past four hours. The profits are real, and they're still climbing at $10.42 billion per second.”

Veronica glanced at her wristwatch. It's been four hours since she got that call, but this man seated beside her had made $150 Trillion extra in four solid hours.

For the first time since her birth, Veronica felt broke.

“Leave us, Jeremy,” she ordered, turning to face Barry. “I want to have a word with Mr. Barry.”

Jeremy bowed and quietly exited the room.

The moment the door closed, Veronica extended a hand to Barry.

“Congratulations, Mr. Barry,” she said with a warm smile. “You're now the wealthiest man alive. Far wealthier than my late grandfather.”

Barry had learned the former chairman of Phoenix bank had a personal net worth of over $100 Trillion.

Barry shook her hand, by now he had recovered from his initial shock.

“This is all too sudden for me,” he said. “It's my first trade, and it paid off more than I expected.”

Veronica's smile widened. “You're one lucky guy, I'll tell you that. I want us to discuss about all that money. Phoenix Bank is prepared to offer you the Emperor's Vault.”

Barry was stunned. He had heard about the emperor's vault.

It was an account created exclusively for Trillionaires with earnings over $50 Trillion or more.

There were only four Emperor vault users in the world and Barry was about to become the fifth user.

Barry ran his hands over his face. This all felt too good to be true.

Veronica approached him. “No bank in the world can handle your type of money, sir. You can rely on us to manage your wealth. I, personally, would oversee your account and reinvest it to yield more and more profit.”

For the first time in a long time, Barry smiled. All his troubles are over. His future was now secured.

“Do it,” he said.

* * * *

Barry took the afternoon train back home.

It was 3:26.pm. Barry had been handed a Phoenix Platinum Card, which was fully loaded with $10 billion.

Barry couldn't stop counting the seconds, knowing he was earning billions of dollars with every breath he took.

Madam Evelyn had kept her promise of securing his future.

Barry felt grateful. His luck was shinning. With one single trade he had become the wealthiest man in history.

On the way home, Barry bought a fresh set of groceries, more than enough to last them for a month.

There was a wide smile on his face as he arrived at his apartment and knocked on the door.

“Snow, I'm home. Open up,” he said, eager to watch her reaction.

No answer. The apartment was quiet inside.

Barry felt a chill crawled up his spine as he imagined the worst.

He had instructed Snow not to leave the apartment until he came back home.

Snow had never disobeyed him, and she was already ready by the door whenever he returned home.

Barry slammed the door opened and rushed into the apartment like a wild beast.

“Snow! Where are you?” He caught his breath sharply when he saw how ruined the apartment was.

There had been a struggle, probably between Snow and a number of people, because many of his properties were missing.

Barry felt like his entire world was spinning. There was no sight of his sister anywhere.

Just then, the landlord appeared at the front door.

“Oh, there you are, finally about time,” he said, entering the apartment. “I've been waiting all day for you to come back.”

Barry rushed up to the landlord, his breathing laboured.

“Mr. Barnes, I think I've been robbed. What's worse, my sister's missing? Someone must've taken her during a struggle.”

Barnes raised his hand to silence Barry. “Don't waste your breath, Barry. It was I who took your sister.”

Barry's body went stiff. “You took her? Why?”

Barnes scowled. “It's been two long years since your benefactor, Evelyn Raven stopped paying for the rent. It's been way overdue. I've put up with you as long as I possibly can. That's why I have to take action now.”

Barry knew his landlord only did this because Evelyn Raven was gone. He wouldn't have tried it if she were still alive.

“Where is my sister?” Barry demanded. “We will leave your apartment. Just give her back to me.”

A cruel smile appeared on Barnes' face. “Your sister is a high school girl, pretty and young. I figured she'd fetch a good price, so I struck a deal with a buyer, and he brought his men and took her.”

Barry felt his entire world shatter. “You sold my sister?”

“Yeah,” Barnes passed a tongue across his lips. “I sold her for $250,000. That covers the total rent you owe me, Barry.”

The landlord's words felt like a whip lash on Barry's back.

He clenched his hands into fists so hard his nails were digging into his flesh.

A new surge of anger rushed through him. Without warning, he surged forward and grabbed Barnes by the front of his shirt.

Then he slammed him against the wall with a force that shook the building.

Barnes gagged as his body made contact with the wall. He felt his spine shifted.

Barry didn't give him time to recover. He jerked Barnes to his feet again, his grip like a steel vice.

“Where is she?” Barry growled, his face inches from Barnes. “Give me the buyer's name and tell me where I can find him, or I'll murder you with my own hands.”

Barnes' face went instantly pale as he saw the pure fury in Barry's eyes.

He had expected Barry to cry and act miserably, but this was a different reaction he hadn't anticipated.

Barry had changed into a wild animal.

The heart transplant

The landlord revealed he sold Snow to the Nightingale family at an underground slave auction.

He revealed Reeves Nightingale ran the transaction, buying Snow in cash.

Barry almost went nuts as the thought of Reeves claiming ownership of his sister's life filled him with cold dread.

“You cold-hearted bastard,” Barry bawled at Barnes' face. “How could you do this to me behind my back? You didn't have to sell my sister just because we owe you rent.”

Barnes was scared of the viciousness in Barry's eyes that he lost most of his colour.

“I-It's not my fault,” Barnes retorted nervously. “A member of the Nightingale family needed a heart transplant. They took your sister to the Central hospital, and she was a perfect match. I couldn't resist the price Reeves offered me.”

Barry smacked a blow to the side of Barnes' face, dislocating his jaw.

“You're evil,” Barry said breathlessly, his voice laced with malice. “When I get back, I promise you, I'll have this apartment torn to the ground. Mark my words.”

Without caring to check on Barnes, Barry rushed out of the apartment, waved down a taxi and urged the driver to drive as fast as he could to Central hospital.

* * * *

Barry stormed into Central hospital, approaching the reception desk with hurried strides. “I need to speak with the doctor in charge of the transplant surgery for the Nightingale family.”

The receptionist hesitated at first before she responded. “He's currently having a meeting."

Barry glanced over the counter at a list laying on her desk. It contained office numbers and names of each medical specialists.

Barry was quick to grasp the little info on the heart transplant doctor and took off without waiting for her.

He looked around every corridor and passages, his mind filled with desperation.

Finally, he found the doctor's office and rushed in without knocking.

Seated before the doctor was the Nightingale family.

Reeves Nightingale was startled when he saw Moses. He jumped to his feet. “What the hell are you doing here, Barry?”

Barry's blood boiled as he gazed at Reeves. Ignoring his tone, he stepped forward towards him. “Reeves, I learned you bought my sister from my landlord. Hand her over. I'm here to take her back.”

Reeves was taken aback by Barry's bold demand. “That girl was your sister? It's a small world indeed. If I had known she was related to you, I'd have paid lesser for her.”

“I don't want any trouble,” Barry said. “Just hand her over. She's all I've got left.”

A cruel smile lit up Reeves' face. “What gives you the stupid idea I'll hand her over? Forget it, Barry. Your sister belongs to the Nightingale family now.”

Barry spread his arms, his voice rising with frustration and anger. “My stupid landlord sold her without my permission over our unpaid rent. I have every possible rights to claim her back.”

Reeves' grin widened. “That's no skin off my nose. She was brought to the underground slave auction this afternoon. I paid good money for her. She's mine now.”

“Then let me pay you back,” Barry pleaded, staring around the office. “I'll double the price if it suits you. Just hand over my sister back.”

Reeves slapped Barry hard across the cheeks, startling him.

“You're too loud and annoying, Barry,” Reeves spat out. “You seem to forget you're standing before the Nightingale family– the top elite families in North Hills. Bow and show some respect.”

Barry waited for the other members of the Nightingale family to say something, but they all looked at Barry with their nose up in the air, expecting him to bow and beg them.

To their surprise, Barry ignored Reeves, then turned to Kane Nightingale, the patriarch of the Nightingale family.

“Mr. Kane. You paid $250,000 for my sister. I'll double the price. Just release her.”

Kane Nightingale frowned at Barry's unusual confidence. “Double the price, huh? Aren't you the broke son-in-law who's a leech from the Raven family? You can't even afford to pay your own rent without help from the deceased Mrs. Evelyn.”

Barry clenched his fists until his knuckles turned white. “I'll get the money. If you want it now, I'll deliver.”

Kane's eyes went icy. “I'm not giving your sister back, you piece of trash. My youngest daughter, Patty, is gravely ill and in need of a heart transplant. Your sister, Snow, is a perfect match.”

“But if you do that, what's going to happen to my sister?” Barry demanded, almost viciously. “She would die. I can't stand and let her die just to save a total stranger. Name your price. I'll pay you whatever amount you demand to find someone else.”

At that moment, Naomi Nightingale, Kane's wife, stood up abruptly and slapped Barry across the face.

“You heartless pig,” she cursed. “So you would rather prefer my daughter to die while your stupid sister goes on living, right? Here's a news flash for you! Snow belongs to us now. You're never getting her back until our Patty's life is saved.”

Barry realized something at that instant. These people didn't care about him or his sister.

They were confident in their power and wealth to bend him to his knees.

However, Barry wasn't intimidated anymore. Twenty-four hours ago, he would have broken into tears and pleaded on his knees.

But not today.

Barry was rich. Far richer than any human has ever been in the history of humankind.

Something died inside Barry instantly. It was his humanity. He wanted to destroy these people.

He wanted to dominate them and make them crawl on their knees.

Not only that, but he wanted to make them suffer the humiliation and pains he endured all these years.

Taking a deep breath, Barry narrowed his eyes and turned to the doctor. “How much are you willing to sell this hospital? I want to buy everything.”

The doctor and the Nightingale family were taken aback by Barry's sudden demand.

They weren't expecting it.

“This institution is owned by the government,” the doctor replied. “It's not in my power to sell it.”

“Everything has a price,” Barry said coolly, placing his hand on the table and leaning towards the doctor. “Call your superiors and inform them Central hospital is under a new management. If the government is willing to sell, I'll buy it.”

The central hospital

“You rotten piece of trash,” Reeves roared, slamming his fist on the desk. “How dare you ignore us and make such an outrageous demand? I'll have you skinned alive.”

Before Reeves could make a move at Barry, Kane Nightingale stood up and raised a hand, stopping him immediately.

He gazed at Barry with growing interest. “Don't push it, Reeves. Barry, you've piqued my interest. Do you really think you can buy this hospital which is owned by the government?”

Barry looked straight into his eyes. “I will. Once I acquire it, the surgery won't happen.”

Kane threw his head back and laughed as loud as he can. “This is just remarkable. You? Buy Central hospital? You're the same broke bastard who couldn't pay rent without the assistance of a dead woman.”

Barry gritted his teeth. “Don't make mockery of Madam Evelyn.”

Kane's smile widened into a smirk. “This is really entertaining to say the least. I'll humour you, Barry. Here's a deal. If you acquire this hospital this very night and prevent the surgery, I'll let your sister go.”

Barry's gaze didn't waver for a bit. He locked eyes with Kane. “And if I fail to buy the hospital?”

Kane stepped closer, folding his hands behind his back, a jeering expression written all over his face. “If you fail, I'll proceed with the surgery and take your sister's heart. Afterward, you'll become my slave for the rest of your miserable life.”

Reeves grinned. He loved where this was going. “What do you say, Barry? Want my advice, kneel and plead for our mercy, then we might just let you go.”

Barry ignored Reeves and took a step forward, glaring down at Kane. “You've got yourself a deal. You had better keep to your words. Once I buy this hospital, Snow leaves with me.”

For a second, Kane felt a wave of Barry's confidence overpowering him. He didn't like the way Barry gazed down at him.

“I'm a man of my words,” Kane replied stiffly. “Although I doubt you will succeed.”

A small smile appeared on Barry's face. “We shall see.”

There was something about Barry's confidence that made Kane felt like he had made a terrible mistake.

“I need to make a call,” Barry announced, exiting the office.

No one stopped nor questioned him. They were all curious to know how Barry could do.

* * * *

The central hospital had a phone booth in the hospital lobby, where calls were made for free.

Barry locked himself inside as he retrieved Veronica Phoenix's number from his pocket.

He dialed her number and held the receiver to his ears, his heart pounding.

The phone rang only once before she answered. This was her personal line. Only five people could call her with it.

“Hello?” Her lovely voice came on the line.

“Veronica, it's Barry,” he began, his voice steady and calm. “I'm in a jam right now, and I need your help.”

Veronica responded. “Tell me what's going on. I'll help whatever way I can.”

Barry began. “The Nightingale family bought my sister through some underground slave auction this afternoon, and they're planning to use her for a heart transplant.”

“That's outrageous,” she exclaimed. “Where is the surgery supposed to take place?”

“Right here at Central hospital,” Barry paused. “I need to buy the hospital tonight and stop the surgery from ever happening. I made a bet, Veronica. If I fail, not only would I lose my sister, but I'll also become a slave to the Nightingale family.”

“I can't let that happen,” Veronica said firmly. “I'll call the government and make them an offer I'm sure they can't refuse. Give me a moment. I'll get back to you shortly.”

Before Barry could reply, she had hung up.

Barry was beginning to feel at ease. He took a deep breath and leaned against the glass, waiting for Veronica's call.

Ten minutes later, Veronica called back. Barry answered the phone as if it had just turned hot.

“Hello?” Barry said.

“It's done,” Veronica stated. “Phoenix bank now owns Central hospital. I've also issued strict instructions to the government to forbid the surgery from happening. The hospital management is already speaking with the doctor in charge of the surgery as we speak.”

Barry was speechless. He couldn't believe how fast Veronica pulled it off. “But….how…”

Veronica laughed softly. “The government owes Phoenix bank a truckload of money. They tied several major loans to their infrastructure projects. Central hospital is one of the many governments owned institute used as collateral. It was quite easy to make them an offer.”

Barry felt like jumping for joy. “Veronica, I owe you a lot for this. You just saved my sister's life. How can I ever repay you?”

“Well, now you owe me dinner someday,” she replied warmly.

Barry smiled. “You've got it. I'll get back to you on that date after I take my sister home.”

“That would be great. Your account is still blowing up with numerous credit alert,” she added. “I'll keep you informed of how much you've made.”

Barry thanked her, then hung up.

He didn't rush to meet the Nightingale family. Instead, he took his sweet time.

When Barry entered the office, he met the Nightingale family gaping at him as if he were a god who had descended from heaven.

Their faces were pale, as if every blood on their faces had drained away.

Kane Nightingale's voice croaked as he asked, “How the hell did you do it?”