Chapter 31

(Author’s POV)The thunderous applause that had shaken the auditorium gradually faded. Yet smiles remained on countless faces. The atmosphere that had moments ago been filled with deception and tension had transformed into one of celebration.The judge Leonardo Romano stepped toward Ruby with the championship trophy. It was crafted from crystal and gold, reflecting the brilliant stage lights. Across its base were engraved the words, ‘International Crown Art Competition – Global Champion’."Congratulations, Star,” He smiled warmly."You reminded all of us today that true art cannot be stolen. It always finds its rightful artist”.Ruby accepted the trophy with both hands.

Chapter 32

(Author’s POV)Stefan stood a few feet away from her, his perfectly tailored charcoal suit making his already imposing frame appear even broader. Under the bright lights of the waiting room, every sharp line of his face was visible, the defined jaw, the straight nose, the calm eyes. Yet none of those features reflected the storm hidden beneath his composed exterior.For the first time in five years, he was standing in front of Ruby Vale. Not watching her through tinted car windows, not seeing her through hospital room glass, not sitting silently beside her unconscious body…She was alive and looking directly at him.His heartbeat, something he had disciplined to remain steady even during billion-dollar negotiations and hostile acquisitions, now beat so loudly that it almost drowned out every sound in the

Chapter 33

(Author’s POV)The room fell into silence after Ruby walked away. Stefan remained exactly where he was and a faint smile rested on his lips, not the polite business smile but a genuine, warm and peaceful one. A smile that softened the sharpness of his handsome face completely. Just then, the door opened again. Nathan Cole stepped inside and his eyes widened when he saw Stefan."...What the hell? You're smiling” Nathan pointed dramatically at his face.Stefan’s eyes found Nathan’s and his expression remained unchanged."No... wait...You're actually smiling” Nathan rubbed his own eyes."This can't be real” He walked closer, circling Stefan l

Chapter 34

(Author’s POV)Ruby stepped out of the taxi and looked up at the address Amelia had sent her earlier that morning.The building stood in a quiet neighborhood, a little away from London's bustling financial district where towering office buildings dominated the skyline. Unlike the glass skyscrapers surrounding the business area, this building possessed a completely different charm.It was only four stories tall. Its exterior was built with warm cream-colored stone, large glass windows, and climbing ivy decorating parts of the walls. Small flower beds surrounded the entrance, while people carrying sketchbooks, canvases, and portfolios casually walked in and out. The entire place radiated creativity.A small bronze plaque beside the entrance simply read, ‘Blackw

Chapter 35

(Author’s POV)After being humiliated in front of everyone at the competition yesterday, Vivian became enraged and headed straight to a club to party for the remainder of the day. Camilia attempted to follow her, but she lost her way in the middle and had to return to Vale Manion. She tried calling Vivian, but she didn't answer. When Richard enquired about competition when he arrived home earlier, Camilia lied and said Vivian had placed first runner-up. Richard nodded, not expressing his disappointment and went to his room. Whereas, Camilia didn't even realise Ruby wasn't in her room because of Vivian's tension.The next morning, the grand dining hall of Vale Mansion had never witnessed such disorder.Morning sunlight streamed through the towering windows, re

Chapter 36

(Author’s POV)Ruby stepped out of Adrian Blackwood's studio with a heart much lighter than when she had entered that morning. The exclusive apprentice card rested safely inside her handbag. Every few minutes, her fingers unconsciously brushed against it, almost to reassure herself it was real.Yesterday she had been standing on a stage before thousands of people. Today she became the only apprentice of the world's greatest living artist.Life truly could change overnight.She stood on the pavement outside the building for a moment and looked up at the clear London sky. A gentle breeze played with the loose strands of her hair, a small smile curved her lips."I really have a future now" She whispered softly to herself.