Chapter 158

Sebastian Cortez gently stroked his sister's long hair, his gaze tender yet firm. "Evelyn, loving yourself is life's most important lesson. Only when you become your own sun can you truly shine."

Evelyn Roland lowered her lashes, shadows dancing beneath them in the lamplight.

Her journey had been unbearably difficult.

Alexander Durand's death had shattered her.

Now Adrian Valentine had left her utterly broken.

Sebastian's heart ached at the sight of her gaunt face.

Her current radiance had been earned through countless sleepless nights.

Four years of trials had transformed her into a stronger version of herself.

"I understand, brother," Evelyn murmured.

How could she not?

Sebastian remained troubled.

Evelyn's life had been filled with suffering, yet she'd known so little love. Adrian was her first true love—how could such feelings simply vanish?

Perhaps this would remain her lifelong regret.

But Evelyn had fought so hard. Surely fate would smile upon her now.

With an affectionate smile, Sebastian left with their grandfather.

One month later, Sterling Manor's new product sales stunned the Nine-City Alliance, securing the industry's top position.

Competitors burned with envy.

Meanwhile, Scarlett Orlando's new drama became a sensation, propelling her career to new heights.

Isabella Langley seethed in frustration.

Thankfully she'd sabotaged things behind the scenes—otherwise the humiliation would have been unbearable.

...

At Nightfall Bar, Adrian Valentine and Julian Roscente drank in a private booth.

Sterling Manor's sales figures elicited complex expressions from both men.

Julian lounged against the sofa, swirling his wine glass. "Adrian, time reveals truth better than eyes ever could. Sterling Manor's young mistress continues to surprise us."

Adrian shot him a cold glance. "Weren't you planning to marry her?"

"My father's idea." Julian shrugged. "She's too exceptional for me. I prefer someone like Evelyn."

At Evelyn's name, Adrian's expression darkened.

She hadn't appeared in over a month.

Agitated, he stood abruptly and strode toward the door.

As it swung open, he froze.

She'd recovered...

Nathan Aldridge stood beside her, both laughing easily. Nathan held Evelyn's favorite chicken wrap, occasionally feeding her bites.

Evelyn carried a laptop and a bouquet of roses, her smile radiant.

"One more bite," Nathan urged gently.

"I'm really full," Evelyn protested.

She'd come tonight for business negotiations, skipping dinner entirely.

"Not negotiable. Finish it." Nathan was adamant.

Evelyn widened her eyes. "Why?"

She'd gained two kilograms during her month of bedrest. Now she'd need two months of strict dieting.