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.

Group? That was a corporate empire that rivaled Grayson

to 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?

to

appeared pleased with my response and led me to the center of the

in sync. I kept my gaze down

shake the feeling that his intense gaze was locked on me. It

my ear, "Ms. Wiley, you look absolutely

smile and

finally came to an end. Rowan took my hand and placed

through the crowd. It felt as though every pair of eyes was fixed on us. A faint blush crept onto my

gaze was locked on me and Rowan. His

seemingly aware

responded with a subtle, provocative smile. He slid his arm around my waist and nonchalantly guided me

all Ethan's doing? He was the one who pushed me away. And now, what

I allowed Rowan to lead me to the balcony. The cool night breeze swept over me clearing

the honor of