Rewriting My Heart's Fate

Rowan seemed to see through my thoughts and subtly steered the conversation.

"I can understand that you might not be in the best of spirits tonight, Ms. Wiley. After all, it's hard to come to terms with encountering your ex and their current partner, especially in such a setting."

I froze for a moment, then smiled wryly and shook my head. "Mr. Ellard, you've misunderstood. Mr. Grayson and I were just ex-classmates. And now, we're only business partners."

"Don't lie to me." Rowan chuckled softly. His gaze locked with mine. "You're not very good at it. The words Mr. Grayson said to you on the balcony tonight certainly didn't sound like something one would say to a mere business partner." A chill ran through me as I suddenly remembered that Rowan had indeed been there. Had he heard everything?

"Oh, by the way," Rowan said casually, "since Mr. Grayson and you are not in a relationship, may I ask if you have any interest in me?"

My pupils contracted, and I almost choked on my breath. Rowan sure was direct, wasn't he?noveldrama

But then I realized, given the private nature of the setting, his words made sense. After all, I was the chairwoman of Evelyn Studio. I was pretty, successful, and accomplished.

a top-tier tycoon like him, I was certainly a desirable prospect. But did I still have the courage to love again?

Rowan seemed to sense my hesitation and smoothly changed the subject. "By the way, Ms. Wiley, I heard you're planning to open a new studio in Melando?"

I was impressed by how well-informed he was, and I nodded. "Yes, that's right. I'm planning to expand into the Erudia market and establish Evelyn Studio in the fashion capital, Melando." "Great idea." Rowan nodded. "But to make a mark in a foreign country, without strong connections and resources, it's going to be a tough battle."

His tone shifted and became more meaningful. "Here's an idea. As Rowan Group's partner in Valleria, I could help connect you with the right people and offer some conveniences."

My heart skipped a beat. I had indeed been uncertain about my trip to Melando. If I could secure support from a giant like Rovera Group, things would undoubtedly be much easier. But, as always, there was no such thing as a free lunch. Rowan's kindness probably came with strings attached.

I spoke carefully, "I truly appreciate your offer, Mr. Ellard, but given that we've had no prior dealings with your company, I wonder if it would be appropriate to accept such a gesture." Rowan laughed heartily. "Don't be so formal! We're both rising stars in the fashion industry, it's only natural that we support each other and create something great together!" "But what's in it for you if you support Evelyn Studio? This isn't charity," I retorted.

Rowan stood up and strolled to the

window. His tone shifted to something more meaningful. "Rovera's roots in Valleria are deep, but when it comes to the fashion industry, we're still beginners

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"If we can collaborate with Evelyn Studio and bring in your cutting-edge design concept, it'll be incredibly beneficial for Rovera's presence in the market."

A lightbulb went off in my mind. So

this wasn't just about helping me-it was more about Rowan seeing the value of Evelyn Studio and wanting to leverage it to enter the fashion industry. In that case, our interests were aligned.

"Alright. I accept your offer. Let's make this collaboration a success." I raised my glass to make a toast. "To a successful partnership!"

I downed the drink. The bitter liquid burned as it slid down my throat, leaving me feeling warm all over.

Rowan smiled knowingly and lifted his glass to toast in return. "To a successful partnership! I'm sure this will be a rewarding and memorable journey."

As the night grew darker, the estate fell into an eerie silence.

Rowan instructed the housekeeper to settle me into the guest room on the second floor, while he went into his study to attend to business.

Before leaving, he looked at me with a meaningful gaze. "Rest well, Ms. Wiley. We'll head to Melando

tomorrow morning. I'll make suret

you get a taste of Rivaria's charm between work. Trust me, you fall in love with it."

I politely wished him goodnight and watched him disappear down the hallway.