Isabella swallowed hard. Her voice was barely a whisper. “I don’t understand… I just—” She let out a sharp sigh and shook her head. “I can’t believe he would do this to me.”

Olivia reached out, placing a steady, reassuring hand over Isabella’s. “Don’t assume the worst just yet,” she murmured softly. “Maybe there’s more to it. Maybe he had reasons he couldn’t share.”

“Reasons?” Isabella repeated, disbelief heavy in her tone. “I doubt it.” Her fingers clenched into tight fists, nails digging into her palms as she fought to suppress the trembling inside.

“He’d do anything for Sophia,” she muttered under her breath.

She couldn’t comprehend why Ethan was treating her like this. Did she really mean nothing to him?

Olivia observed her in silence, noting the rigid way she held herself—as if forcing the pain to remain hidden.

This woman was stubborn, that much was obvious. She was breaking, but refused to let the cracks show.

With effortless grace, Olivia lifted her wine glass and took a slow sip.

“Isabella.” She set the glass down, a hint of curiosity in her eyes. “Are you prepared for the Starlight Gala tomorrow?”

Isabella went still. The Starlight Gala. She had almost forgotten.

Recent events had consumed her, pushing everything else to the back of her mind.

Isabella opened her mouth, but no words came out.

Even with the “Dewy Hibiscus” restored, the weight of the Starlight Stone lingered like a thorn. It festered beneath the surface, making it impossible to feel at ease.

Olivia watched her carefully, amusement flickering in her gaze. Then, a knowing smile touched her lips.

“Isabella,” she said smoothly, her voice both gentle and firm. “I know this is painful. But you cannot let it destroy you.”

Isabella blinked, startled by Olivia’s sudden intensity.

“You need to pull yourself together,” Olivia continued, leaning slightly forward. “Show them what you’re made of.”

She met Isabella’s gaze directly. “The Starlight Gala is your opportunity. Let the world see your talent. Let Ethan see it too.”

Her words hit like a hammer, echoing through Isabella’s mind.

She was right! She couldn’t let this crush her! She had to stand strong no matter what!

“Thank you, Ms. Sterling,” Isabella said, her voice steadier now, a spark of determination returning.

Olivia chuckled softly, tilting her head. “Oh, darling, why thank me?” Her smile was effortless, laced with quiet confidence. “I believe in your talent. Of course, I want to see you succeed.”

She paused, then added smoothly, “I’ve taken the liberty of arranging for a dress to be delivered to you tomorrow morning. Consider it a small gesture. Prepare well—I’ll be expecting you at the Starlight Gala tomorrow night.”

Isabella met her gaze and nodded, determination flickering in her eyes. “I’ll be there.”

Olivia’s lips curled into a satisfied smirk. “That’s what I like to hear.” She leaned back in her chair, the evening lights casting soft shadows over her features. “It’s late. Go home and get some rest. You’ll need your strength for tomorrow.”