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
After hours of staring at the names and faces in the file Dylan had sent, Ivy could finally recall some of them with relative ease. Her nerves were still rattled, but at least a hint of confidence had started to form.She was just adjusting her gown when the apartment door opened. Josh stepped insid
On the other side of the city, in a hidden lounge on the top floor of a luxury restaurant, raucous laughter erupted around a round table. Cigar smoke curled thick in the air, mingling with the scent of freshly grilled meat.“See that?” one man in a gray shirt slapped the table, his voice booming. “N