"It's been confirmed that Nathaniel Fu, President of the Fu Group, and Yara Lu, daughter of the Lu family, will officially announce their engagement on the ninth of next month. This union between two of the capital's most influential families has shaken high society, and everyone is eagerly awaiting the ceremony."
Celia lowered her lashes. So, it was true—he was really going to be engaged to Yara.
The news had come so quickly, though she had braced herself for it.
That night… he had been consumed by desire, something no ordinary man could have resisted. If Yara had gone to him, then naturally, he would have been with her. Their families were aligned, their relationship intimate, and this engagement had been settled the moment they returned.
Celia had expected as much, but hearing the announcement still pierced her heart like a blade.
She quickly forced herself to regain composure. Her priority now was uncovering the truth about her life—and to do that, she needed to get closer to Nathaniel. But with his engagement so near, drawing near to him would be harder than ever.
Suddenly, Celia remembered something. She pulled out her phone and dialed.
"Didn't Yara ask me to design her wedding gown some time ago?"
On the other end, her assistant answered respectfully, "Yes, Miss Celia. But you refused outright, so I declined the commission on your behalf."
Celia's chest tightened with regret. If only she hadn't turned it down… accepting the project would have allowed her to stay close to Nathaniel without crossing any moral lines.
She never imagined Nathaniel himself would oversee Yara's gowns.
Now that she had refused, what could she do?
Her thoughts were interrupted as the host on TV continued, "Breaking news—the Fu Group has officially announced an international fashion design competition. The winner will not only receive a generous prize but will also earn the honor of designing Yara Lu's wedding gown, a chance that guarantees instant fame."
A design competition?
Celia's eyes widened in surprise. Fate seemed to be opening a door for her. This was her chance. She would enter the Fu Group's competition.
Without hesitation, Celia hurried to the Fu Group headquarters.
The contest had already caused a stir in the fashion world. Designers from all over had gathered, and the registration hall was crowded and noisy. Celia queued quietly, but soon whispers rippled through the crowd.
"Isn't that Celia? She's known for her talents, but does she really know how to design clothes?"
"She's applying to design for Miss Lu? Weren't the two of them rivals back at school, competing over the wedding gown showcase and the flower rankings? How dare she show up here?"
"I bet she's jealous. Yara's about to be the center of attention again, and Celia just wants to steal the spotlight."
Celia ignored the comments, her expression calm as ever.
Suddenly, a group of men in black suits appeared, quickly setting up a cordon to clear the way. The chatter grew louder.
"Is President Fu here?"
"Yes—look, that's his car!"
Celia instinctively lifted her gaze. A sleek Rolls-Royce pulled up to the Fu Group entrance. Secretary Song hurried forward to open the door, and Nathaniel Fu stepped out.
She hadn't expected to see him so soon.
Today, Nathaniel was dressed in a tailored black suit, exuding elegance and dominance. Walking beside Secretary Song, his steady steps drew every gaze in the room.
"Wow, President Fu is even more handsome in person."
"Of course. He's the crown jewel of the capital. Only Miss Lu could bring him down from his pedestal."
Celia quickly lowered her eyes and retreated a step, not wanting him to notice her just yet.
"Don't block my view of President Fu!" someone behind her complained.
And then—two firm hands suddenly pressed against her back, shoving her forward.