Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism

Chapter 685 Parting Gift

If Evelina insisted on defying fate, the consequences could be even worse than they already were.

In the end, what's meant to be will be. If something isn't in your destiny, don't force it. A simple, peaceful life is good too.

Evelina planned to attend the Hundred Blossom Award before flying to Wiltonshire for surgery. After leaving the company, her car took her to a studio she frequented for styling. It had been a while since she'd been there. With the Hundred Blossom Awards at the end of the month, her timing to pick out a dress was just right.

When Evelina and Jenny arrived, the studio staff welcomed them warmly, and the stylist who usually handled her looks came over personally to greet them.

"It's been a while, Evie! You really took a long break this time. Where'd you go on vacation?" The stylist smiled as she handed over an iPad for them to browse the dresses.

Evelina looked a lot more haggard than before. The stylist assumed her pale, washed-out look was a deliberate makeup choice since that kind of minimalistic look had been trending recently.

"Wow, that nude lipstick looks so natural! Which brand is it? What's the shade?" the stylist asked.

Jenny laughed awkwardly, "Annie, Ms. Drayton hasn't been feeling well lately. She's not wearing any lipstick."

"What? She's not well?

"Wow, Evie, I didn't realize you were barefaced! I thought you had makeup on. Your skin is really great, haha!"

quick on her feet; otherwise, it would have

she excused herself to make coffee

on the iPad. She found one she liked and showed it to the stylist when

set down the tea and hesitated, "Evie, unfortunately, all the dresses from that collection have been reserved. Maybe you could pick something else? This season's ready-to-wear line is really good-it was a hit on the runway recently." Jenny said, "What did

expression, placing the iPad on the table. "Let's go with this white one for now. We can discuss the styling another day;

Annie nodded, "Alright."

up

in confusion, "Evie, why

like her at

couture. The last thing she would do is compromise

terminated my

the brand," Evelina

Even if I wanted haute couture, would they lend me a dress

wasn't

Evelina knew her popularity had plummeted, and the chances of a brand agreeing to lend her a dress were slim. Instead of embarrassing herself, it was better

Jenny paused, "That's true."

continued, "The dress doesn't matter. I'm only showing up for a brief

exit in solitude while she receives all the attention on