A Journey from Bitterness to Truth

After introducing herself, Matilda stepped down from the stage before the audience had a chance to react, disappearing into the crowd with Criss. It was only when they had vanished that everyone seemed to snap out of their trance, murmuring the name Dawn.

That night, Dawn became an enchanting dream in everyone’s minds. She was dignified and aloof, her gaze proud. Even though she had faced downfall, she had risen from the ashes time. and again.

As long as she still breathed, as long as her convictions held, life was but a chance to start

anew!

Matilda wove through the crowd, soon spotting her friend Chloe arm–in–arm with Declan Yeager as they, too, descended the stage. Chloe flashed Matilda a smile, “You’re quite the star tonight.”

Feeling a touch of shyness, Matilda returned the compliment, “You look gorgeous as well.

Declan, a man whose presence was always enigmatic, regarded Matilda with the respect one gentleman reserved for another. His light golden eyes, reminiscent of fine amber. acknowledged her presence.

“Ms. Thompson, a pleasure,” he greeted her warmly.

Talented women naturally commanded men’s admiration.

Grateful for Declan’s past assistance, Matilda shook his hand and grabbed two glasses of champagne from a passing server’s tray. Their glasses clinked, the bubbly liquid shimmering. “Thank you for your hospitality last time.”

“Don’t mention it,” Declan replied, casually wrapping an arm around Chloe’s waist. They made quite the pair, Declan’s casual elegance complementing Chloe’s charm.

Chloe playfully warned, “If Mr. Yeager ever tires of me and I’m out on the streets, you’ll take me in, won’t you, Matilda?”

With a laugh, Matilda replied, “Nonsense, Chloe. How could anyone let you go?”

“Exactly. I cherish you too much to ever let you go,” Declan said with his usual sardonic grin, causing Chloe to roll her eyes before turning back to Matilda with a warm smile. “We’re off to greet some partners. If we’re late wrapping up, let’s grab a late–night bite together.”

“Sounds good,” Matilda nodded.

Chloe whispered before leaving. “Behind you, there’s a guy who’s been watching you for a while Property belongs to Nôvel(D)r/ama.Org.

now.”

Before Matilda could inquire further, Chloe and Declan were off. Matilda turned, only to lock eyes with Yvan.

Yvan stood out even in a crowded room, his imposing presence hard to miss. With his impeccable attire, handsome features, and an air of detachment, he was the epitome of cool reserve. Though numerous socialites greeted him, his smiles remained distant, his eyes icy pools.

He was the kind of man who kept emotions at bay, discussing anything but love. To him, love was a mere diversion, a game he could abandon at any moment without a second thought.

Matilda’s gaze met Yvan’s, a flashback to a birthday party long ago when a younger, more naive version of herself had first encountered Yvan. Their eyes had met after a lengthy avoidance, a moment that made her heart skip a beat.

The scene was reminiscent of a dream from yesteryear, but the players had changed, the passage of time rendering everything unrecognizable. Matilda suspected she had been the first to fall, and in that instant, she had unwittingly conceded victory to Yvan.

He approached her, his steps measured, his aristocratic demeanor chilling. As he stopped before her, his almost devilishly attractive face turned to hers.

He addressed her with a familiarity that sent a jolt through her, “Mat.”