***Clara slammed her office door shut, the echo cracking through the corridor. Two staff outside exchanged startled looks before quickly lowering their heads. Clara’s face was flushed crimson, her eyes blazing with fury.“How dare she…” she hissed, tossing her handbag onto the desk. “Standing besid
The music of the party swelled brightly, yet in the corner of the room Ivy felt at ease. She was still standing beside Madam Sohyun, chatting lightly about travel and flower gardens. The older woman’s smile was far warmer, far more genuine, than the polite one she gave to other guests.Then came the
Ivy’s eyes locked with Clara’s, steady and unflinching. “You might be right—this world isn’t mine. But I won’t step aside just because someone else wishes it.”Clara inhaled sharply, her composure slipping. “Ivy, don’t mistake this for acceptance. Being here doesn’t mean you’ll ever belong.”Before
“Josh,” she greeted sweetly, as though they were old friends. “It’s been far too long since I’ve seen you this formal. You look… extraordinary.”Josh turned slowly, his expression unruffled. “Clara.” Nothing more. No pleasantries.Viona slipped in next, her eyes wide with feigned admiration. “Mr. Mi
The main hall had grown crowded, classical music weaving softly through the air, mingling with the clink of glasses. Guests in elegant gowns and tailored suits filled the space, their voices a blend of business talk and polished small talk.“Ivy.”The warm call of her name made her turn. Madam Sohyu
The car finally turned onto a wide avenue lined with luxury vehicles. From a distance, Ivy could already see the blaze of lights, a sure sign the grand event had begun.Her throat tightened, nerves curling back into her chest. But Josh’s hand never wavered in hers—steady, unyielding.“We’re here,” J