Rewriting My Heart's Fate

"This... This is such an honor! Meeting Mr. Fernandez is a lifelong dream of mine!"

Rowan seemed pleased with my reaction. "Well, that's great to hear. I'll have someone bring a gown to your room. I'll be waiting for you in the lobby at 8:00 pm."

I thanked Rowan profusely as he left.

Stefano was my idol! Shaking hands with the man whose work changed fashion history would complete my life!

Back in my room, I eagerly pulled out my sewing kit. No matter what, tonight, I was going to make a statement! I was determined to design the most stunning gown, even if it meant staying up all night! As night fell and the lights came on, I walked into the ballroom dressed in a champagne-colored off-the-shoulder gown, with black stockings and six-inch heels. I knew I looked both sexy and elegant.

All eyes immediately turned toward me. The intense, admiring gazes made every fiber of my being come alive.

With the crowd's attention on me, I linked arms with Rowan and made my way to the center of the ballroom.

I looked around, and the room was filled with the city's elite. Business tycoons, movie stars, supermodels, socialites-so many important people, I could barely keep track.

Annie Winter was especially friendly among them and complimented me on my gown. Starcrest queen Mary Streep even pulled me aside and chatted with me for what felt like ages.

I smiled and gracefully navigated the conversation, feeling completely at ease.

The old me would never have dared dream of being at a table with these influential figures. But here I was, standing under the spotlight, the center of attention!

Suddenly, a tall figure caught my eye. He stood with his back to the light, making his face hard to see.

But that tall, commanding presence, that calm, confident air... Could it be...

In an instant, the room fell silent. Everyone turned toward the source of the sound, and the atmosphere in the ballroom froze.

The figure slowly turned, and a familiar face came into view.

"It's you?"

Ethan's sudden appearance was like a thunderclap, sending waves through my chest. A hidden corner of my heart, long guarded and tucked away, was now exposed again.

The entire ballroom was watching us, their whispers buzzing all around.

The air felt thick, like time had stopped.

I locked eyes with him. His deep, dark gaze used to mesmerize me, but now, it felt like an abyss I was afraid to fall into.

"What... what are you doing here?" I finally managed to say.

Ethan gave a slight, playful smile, his once rebellious edge now smoothed by time. "Why wouldn't I be here? Melando Fashion Week-surely, as an industry insider, I'd come to show my support."

He strolled casually up to me, his

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long fingers brushing gently against my chin. "But you... shouldn't you be in Lendora, working on Evelyn Studio's new store? Why take the time to come to Melando and enjoy yourself?"

Rowan noticed the tension and frowned slightly, clearly displeased by Ethan's intrusion. He stepped forward, subtly moving me behind him.

"Mr. Grayson, it's a pleasure," Rowan

said, extending his hand with a polite but distant tone. "However, Ms. Wiley is here at my invitation. We're discussing a potential collaboration. I'd appreciate it if you refrained from making assumptions."

Ethan raised an eyebrow, the smile on his lips widening. "Oh, so Ms. Wiley and Mr. Ellard are already collaborating? That was quick."

He gave me a knowing look. "Well, with a backer like Rovera Group, it's no surprise Evelyn Studio is set for great success. Congratulations, Ms. Wiley."

My nails dug deep into my palm, the pain almost making me wince.

Why did I have to run into him here?

Just when I'd finally found the courage to start over, the universe had to throw a wrench into my plans.

Rowan must have sensed my discomfort, and he gently patted my shoulder. "Evelyn, the dance is about to start. Let's go-don't let Mr. Grayson spoil the mood."

I smiled coldly to myself, linked my arm with Rowan's, and walked confidently toward the dance floor.

The lights dingmed as the music

began to flow. I spun gracefully in

the center of the floor, following Rowan's lead. The dazzling crystal chandeliers reflected the light, stretching my silhouette long and elegant. noveldrama

Rowan's hand was at my waist, guiding me through the steps with ease.

The guests around us couldn't stop staring, murmuring in awe at how perfectly we looked together.