Rewriting My Heart's Fate

I switched to a more formal tone to get the conversation back on track.

Ethan's soft sigh came through the phone. "Evelyn, you've really toughened up over the years... Work always comes first for you, and I'm always second."

I went quiet, my emotions all over the place. I used to believe love was everything. But after everything, I realized that self-respect and a career mattered just as much. "Ethan, love isn't everything. Let's focus on our careers and push forward to greater heights, okay?"

Ethan didn't answer right away. After a long silence, he gently said, "Okay, I'll back you up in my own way. You just keep shining your way."

I ended the call and sighed heavily.

Teaming up with Ethan would open up new opportunities for Evelyn Studio. And I'd continue to move ahead with my career.

I kept the conversation with Ethan to myself. Noticing how swamped I was, Kevin and Lianne pitched in without hesitation.

the search for the perfect spot for Evelyn Studio's Lendora branch was well underway. Ethan kept his word and

busiest areas. It wasn't long before they set their sights on a charming, historic

only a stone's throw from Thallus River. It featured towering spires

of modern design and timeless charm. When the sign for Evelyn Studio went up above the entrance, the crowd couldn't help but clap and cheer. I glanced around and

Studio had risen from the shadows to greatness like tiny pieces of stardust slowly gathering into

branch!" I lifted my glass, faced the crowd below, made a toast, and

venue. Curious, I looked behind me and saw Ethan slowly approaching me in a

standing before me and gracefully lifting

all this way. I'm guessing you've got more than inspections

eyebrow, a knowing smile crossing his face. "Can't I be here simply because I miss you and

My heart fluttered.

polite. "It's time to welcome Ms. Evelyn Wiley, founder of Evelyn Studio, to unveil her new company! Let's give her a warm round of