Rewriting My Heart's Fate

Time seemed to freeze at that moment. Caught between struggle and reluctance, a thousand unspoken words seemed to appear in Ethan's eyes.

He smiled faintly at me. The corners of lips curved in a way that was almost bittersweet.

I turned away. I couldn't bring myself to meet his gaze. My heart pounded painfully in my chest, as though it might leap from my throat.

Vivian was still arm-in-arm with Ethan. She smiled radiantly as she greeted the guests. She exuded beauty and charm, the very epitome of a darling in high society.

And here I was just a rising star on the runway and a humble designer at a small publicly listed company. How could I ever compete with the heir of a global empire like Mars Group?

I forced a bitter smile. I took the glass of champagne and downed it in one motion. The bitter liquid burned as it slid down my throat, leaving a lingering heat in its wake.

Perhaps it was time to let go after all. But I had no one to blame but myself. When Ethan knelt before me and offered me a ring, I had refused.

Just then, a stranger appeared before me. He was well-dressed in a suit. He looked older, yet there was something unsettling about him.

"Ms. Wiley, It's a pleasure to finally meet you. I'm Rowan Ellard, CEO of Rovera Group." Rowan extended his hand. "May I have the honor of this dance?"

I hesitated for a moment and glanced toward Ethan. But he was already surrounded by guests and swallowed up by the crowd.

a corporate empire that rivaled

be a manipulative man. He easily toyed with women's emotions without ever truly committing. Still, I hesitated only a moment before placing my hand in his. What did it matter? I had nothing to

tormenting myself further, I decided to let go and teach Ethan a

and led me to the

air as we moved together in sync. I kept my gaze down and tried to avoid

that his intense gaze was locked on me.

closer. He whispered in my ear, "Ms. Wiley, you look absolutely stunning

forced a smile and

took my hand and placed a gentle kiss on the back

every pair of eyes was fixed on us. A faint blush crept onto my cheeks. As

His intense gaze was locked on me and Rowan. His lips

seemingly aware of

with a subtle, provocative smile. He slid his arm

ached painfully. But wasn't this all Ethan's doing? He was the one who

bitter ache that swelled in my chest, I allowed Rowan to lead me to the balcony. The cool night breeze swept over me clearing the fog of emotions clouding

me the honor of joining me for dinner?"