EXT. APARTMENT BUILDING - NIGHT
The city is alive with noise. The PROTAGONIST, in a tailored suit and luxury watch, steps out of a black sedan. He walks briskly, a mix of fatigue and confidence on his face.
A PASSERBY stands smoking at the entrance and smiles as the PROTAGONIST approaches.
PASSERBY
Hey, isn't this our building's big shot? Back late again?
PROTAGONIST (smiling, nodding)
Yeah, just wrapped up a meeting.
PASSERBY
Don’t overdo it. You can’t earn money forever; your health matters.
PROTAGONIST
Life’s tough; you’ve got to work hard for a good life, right?
The PROTAGONIST checks the time on his latest smartphone.
PROTAGONIST (light-hearted)
Alright, it’s getting late. I’ll head up.
PASSERBY
Sure, get some rest.
The PROTAGONIST nods and walks toward the building.

INT. APARTMENT HALLWAY - NIGHT
The PROTAGONIST enters and presses the elevator button. While waiting, he pulls out a cigarette but suddenly hears a massive explosion from upstairs.
Startled, he drops the cigarette and looks up in shock, seeing flames and thick smoke.
PROTAGONIST (in disbelief)
My God… what’s happening?

EXT. APARTMENT BUILDING - NIGHT
The PROTAGONIST stumbles out, witnessing fire trucks and ambulances rushing in. Pale and shaky, he stares in horror.
He rushes toward his apartment floor but is stopped by a FIREMAN.
FIREMAN
Danger! Stay back!
PROTAGONIST (trembling)
My… my home… it’s up there…
He points frantically at the building.
FIREMAN (serious)
We’ll do our best to rescue, but you need to stay calm!
The PROTAGONIST collapses to the ground, empty-eyed, as the flames reflect his inner fear and despair.
PROTAGONIST (V.O.)
My home… my collection… everything… gone…

EXT. STREET - NIGHT
Time passes as the fire is brought under control. The PROTAGONIST wanders aimlessly down the empty street, memories of his apartment flashing in his mind: expensive furniture, exquisite art, limited-edition sneakers… all turned to ash.
He stops, looking up at the pitch-black sky, filled with confusion and pain.
PROTAGONIST (V.O.)
All I worked for… what was it all for in the end?


