Volume 4: Counterattack from the Edge
Summary: Jack establishes his own company, using his experience and wisdom to help others achieve their dreams. He and Isabella finally find each other and begin a new life together.
The news of Richard and Harold's imprisonment spread like wildfire across Wall Street, devouring its last remnants of peace. Their former followers scattered like receding waves, abandoning the once-mighty offices they had clung to. Whispers filled the air—speculation about Jack Reno's next move. The man they once trampled upon like an insect had risen like a phoenix from the ashes, soaring with a power that sent shivers through the industry.
Yet in stark contrast to the outside world's frenzy, Jack felt an unusual calm—laced with a quiet sense of emptiness. Standing on the wide terrace of his Tribeca penthouse, he gazed at the glittering night skyline of New York. Once, those lights had symbolized cold, unfeeling capital—a bottomless pit of greed. Now, they simply shimmered like distant stars, no longer threatening.
The satisfaction of revenge had burned out, leaving only ash behind. He wandered aimlessly, fingers grazing the railing, the cold wind brushing against his face. What now? Everything he had fought for seemed meaningless in the wake of victory.
"Are you cold?" a soft voice broke the silence.
Isabella stepped forward, draping a cashmere shawl over his shoulders. Her eyes were filled with understanding, as if she could see the uncertainty swirling inside him.
Jack turned, meeting her gaze. She had been his light in the darkest hours, the strength that pulled him from despair. Her love and belief in him were like spring winds melting the frost around his heart.
"I'm thinking about what comes next," he admitted, his voice low and rough. "Revenge is over, but I don't want to go back to my old life. Wall Street feels… empty. I don't even know who I am anymore."
She took his hand gently, her touch warm and steady. "Maybe it's time to do something that truly makes you happy," she encouraged, a tender smile playing on her lips.
"Something that truly makes me happy?" he echoed softly, tasting the words.
"Yes. You have such a brilliant mind for finance. Instead of serving profit-hungry giants, why not invest in overlooked startups? Help them grow, create real value." Her voice was full of hope. "Or start a charity—help people like you once were. Use your story to change lives."
A spark lit in Jack's eyes, like a distant lighthouse cutting through fog. Her words were like a breath of fresh air, guiding him toward a new horizon.
"You're right," Jack said firmly, a new fire igniting within him. "I can't live just for myself. I've known desperation. I understand what those at the bottom need. I should use my abilities to help others—to give them hope."
The very next day, Jack sprang into action. He contacted Kevin, instructing him to use his vast information network to locate promising startups lacking funding. At the same time, Jack began researching how to establish and run a charitable foundation, studying legal frameworks and operational models.
Kevin delivered as expected. Soon, he brought exciting news.
"There's a small tech startup in the Bronx," Kevin explained. "Founded by a young female engineer named Lily Parker. She's developing a revolutionary clean energy technology—but they're on the verge of collapse due to lack of funds."
Jack immediately arranged a visit. Entering the cramped, bustling lab, he met a passionate team working tirelessly on futuristic prototypes. Lily was brilliant, driven by a deep belief in sustainability. But the pressure was immense—the company was teetering on the edge of failure.
Jack listened carefully, examined the research, and was deeply moved by Lily's vision. He saw not only talent, but potential—both scientific and commercial. On the spot, he decided to invest.
Lily couldn't believe her ears. Just moments ago, she had been ready to give up. And now, Jack Reno himself was offering to fund her dream.
"Mr. Reno, I… I don't even know how to thank you," she stammered, overwhelmed with emotion. "You've saved my company. You've saved my dream!"
"No thanks needed," Jack replied with a warm smile. "I believe in your work. I believe you can change the world. I'm investing in more than just your company—I'm investing in your dream."
In addition to supporting startups, Jack also began setting up a charitable foundation. He named it Light of Hope, dedicated to helping the poor and forgotten—providing education, healthcare, and employment opportunities to reignite the light of hope in their lives.
He converted one floor of his Tribeca building into the foundation's headquarters, hiring experienced staff and volunteers to manage daily operations. He even personally designed the foundation's brochure, ensuring its mission reached every corner.
Everything progressed smoothly. Jack's life was once again filled with purpose and passion. No longer a vengeance-driven warrior, he had become a philanthropist committed to making a difference.
Yet, even while dedicating himself to charity, Jack never forgot the true mastermind behind Blackstone Fund. Though Marcus Fisher had been caught, Jack knew the real puppeteer still walked free. He wouldn't allow such a man to remain hidden in the shadows, continuing his schemes unchecked.
He tasked Kevin once again with secretly tracing Blackstone's financial trails and uncovering the identity of its true owner. Jack was certain—enough effort would yield enough evidence to bring even the darkest villain to justice.
Meanwhile, Isabella threw herself into Jack's cause. Using her legal expertise, she provided counsel for Light of Hope, assisting vulnerable groups in need of legal aid. She often joined Jack on visits to impoverished neighborhoods, offering comfort and compassion to those struggling to survive.
One evening, they strolled hand-in-hand along a quiet path in Central Park. The night sky was clear, dotted with stars, the air carrying the faint scent of blooming flowers.
"You've really changed," Isabella said softly, admiration in her voice. "More mature, more confident—and more handsome. I'm proud of you."
Jack tightened his grip on her hand, feeling its warmth. "None of this would be possible without you. You gave me the courage to start over. You reminded me that there's more to life than revenge."
He stopped, turned to face her, his eyes locking onto hers. "Isabella, you are the most important person in my life. I love you. Will you marry me?"
Joyful tears welled up in Isabella's eyes. Her voice trembled slightly. "Of course I will."
Without hesitation, she threw herself into his arms. Under the starlit sky, they embraced tightly, hearts beating as one. They both knew—after enduring the storm, their future would shine brighter and happier than ever before.
Months later, Jack and Isabella held a grand wedding ceremony in New York City. The venue was beautifully decorated, glowing with lights and flowers, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Guests ranged from Wall Street elites to residents of the city's poorest neighborhoods—all gathered to celebrate the couple's love and offer heartfelt blessings.
Jack had proven through his actions that no matter what one has endured, with hope and the courage to change, a new beginning is always possible—a beautiful future can still be built.
During the reception, Jack delivered a moving speech that inspired everyone present.
"I was once a man consumed by hatred," he stood tall, addressing the crowd with powerful clarity. "But today, I am a man filled with hope. I hope my story encourages others to believe that no matter how dire the situation, perseverance and determination can overcome any obstacle and fulfill your dreams."
As thunderous applause erupted across the hall, Jack stood bathed in cheers and good wishes, his heart swelling with gratitude and joy. He knew—his life had just begun. And he believed with all his soul that he could make the world a better place, one act of kindness at a time.