Rewriting My Heart's Fate

The lounge door swung open, and Ethan walked in swiftly.

"What's the matter, Mr. Grayson?" Lianne sprang up. "Did something happen?"

Ethan took a deep breath. "I just got word that Caroline, that traitor, is also in tonight's show. And she's wearing that gown!"

"What?" Lianne and I blurted out at once and exchanged a surprised look.

The news dropped on me like a ton of bricks. I couldn't believe it.

"I..." I mumbled. "Whatever! I-I'll step on that stage in this imperfect gown and prove myself!"

"But Evelyn..." Lianne hesitated. "Are you sure you want to take this risk? If the judges and the audience mock you, your reputation could-"

"What reputation? I've got nothing to lose," I cut her off. "I'd rather face it head-on than live with shame! I, Evelyn Wiley, won't hide like a coward!"

on me, nodding after

the matter?"

me a knowing grin. "You'll

leaving Lianne and me

almost starting. I took a deep breath, trying to calm my nerves. From then on,

after all the adjustments we made, it was just about good enough to wear. But the tear we couldn't hide was

way too noticeable.

suddenly showed up before me. He pulled an elegant jewelry box from his pocket and opened it. "Evelyn, put this

inside was a sparkling

as I gasped.

my family's heirloom," Ethan

words and felt a lump rise in my

me put on the necklace. His fingers grazed my skin, and I

Ethan smiled, looking content. "Evelyn, you're going to be