Chapter 3: A Choice Made Differently
Evelyn descended the staircase, her hands curled into fists.
She had spent her past life trying to mold herself into the perfect woman for Adrian. She had attended every event he was at, studied his interests, and forced herself into his world.
And in the end, he had destroyed her.
Not this time.
She walked into the dining room, where her parents were discussing business over breakfast. Her father, Richard Ravenshire, was seated at the head of the table, flipping through documents.
Her mother glanced at her. "Evelyn, dear, your father has some exciting news."
Her father looked up, smiling. "Mr. Sterling and I are finalizing the expansion deal today. Adrian will be taking over soon—he's already proving to be an impressive businessman."
Her mother sighed dreamily. "A young man like that will be an excellent husband someday."
Evelyn's fingers curled around the handle of her teacup.
In her past life, this was the moment she had latched onto their words like a lifeline. She had clung to the idea that Adrian was meant for her just because their families were close.
This time, she refused to fall into the same trap.
She simply smiled and took a sip of her tea.
Her father glanced at her. "What do you think, Evelyn? You and Adrian have known each other since childhood."
Evelyn kept her expression calm. "I think Adrian is more focused on business than relationships."
Her mother chuckled. "That's true. He never was the romantic type."
Her father shrugged. "Well, these things happen naturally. No need to force anything."
Force.
That was exactly what she had done before—forced a love that was never meant to be.
Not this time.
This time, she had a different goal.
She would choose herself.
She would leave Adrian Sterling behind.
And for the first time in her life, she felt free.
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