Isn't this my duty as the eldest son? - Daniel

Daniel was a good-looking man in his twenties and the heir of his family business. He was dating a woman seriously and looking to settle down with her. Life felt full of promise.

Then disruptive technologies hit the industry. The Huang family business, built over many years, lost its competitive advantage. Orders slowed. Profits dwindled. The future looked uncertain.

Around this time, a lady from another family business took an intense liking to Daniel. She made her interest clear to him, to her family, to his family.

Her father spoke to the elder Huang. He made an offer: If Daniel were to marry his daughter, he would give considerable sums that could keep the Huang business afloat. Perhaps even help it modernise and compete again.

Daniel's parents sat him down. They explained the business situation in detail: The debts, the declining revenue, the employees who depended on them. Then they presented the offer.

"You're the eldest son," his father said. "The family heir. This is your duty."

His mother added gently, "This marriage could save everything we've built."

Daniel thought about his girlfriend. The life they had planned together. The future he wanted.

But he also thought about his family's legacy. The employees who would lose their jobs. His parents' life work crumbling.

Although Daniel did not have affections for the lady, he felt obligated to save his family business.

Daniel broke off with his girlfriend and married the lady.

Years later, the business stabilised. His wife seemed content. His parents were relieved.

But Daniel would sometimes wonder: Whose life was he living?