Rewriting My Heart's Fate

The lounge door swung open, and Ethan walked in swiftly.

"What's the matter, Mr. Grayson?" Lianne sprang up. "Did something happen?"

Ethan took a deep breath. "I just got word that Caroline, that traitor, is also in tonight's show. And she's wearing that gown!"

"What?" Lianne and I blurted out at once and exchanged a surprised look.

The news dropped on me like a ton of bricks. I couldn't believe it.

"I..." I mumbled. "Whatever! I-I'll step on that stage in this imperfect gown and prove myself!"

"But Evelyn..." Lianne hesitated. "Are you sure you want to take this risk? If the judges and the audience mock you, your reputation could-"

"What reputation? I've got nothing to lose," I cut her off. "I'd rather face it head-on than live with shame! I, Evelyn Wiley, won't hide like a coward!"

Ethan fixed his gaze on me, nodding after a beat.

"Mr. Grayson, what's the matter?" I asked, puzzled.

Ethan gave me a knowing grin. "You'll see soon enough."

He turned and left, leaving Lianne and me baffled.

Seconds ticked by, and before we realized it, the show was almost starting. I took a deep breath, trying to calm my nerves. From then on, every step I took would decide where I'd end up. Lianne gently smoothed out the wrinkles in my gown.

It was a simple white gown, but after all the adjustments we made, it was just about good enough to wear. But the tear we couldn't hide was still

way too noticeable.

I was about to step onto the stage when Ethan suddenly showed up before me. He pulled an elegant jewelry box from his pocket and opened it. "Evelyn, put this on."

What lay inside was a sparkling diamond necklace.

My eyes went wide as I gasped. "T-This is..."

"It's my family's heirloom," Ethan said gently.

"I..." I was at a loss for words and felt a lump rise in my throat.

Without a word, Ethan helped me put on the necklace. His fingers grazed my skin, and I could practically feel a spark running through me.

"There we go." Ethan smiled, looking content. "Evelyn, you're going to be the star tonight."

I blushed and gave a small nod. I suddenly felt a wave of strength like I'd never experienced before. I

wasn't the type to be pushed around anymore. I was Evelyn Wiley the rising designer!

The music blasted through the speakers, and everyone's gaze shifted to the center of the stage. There was a hush over the venue as everyone waited for me to make my entrance. Content from NôvelDr(a)ma.Org.

Lianne helped steady me as I carefully stepped onto the stage. The lights were all on me, and I was glowing.

Even though my white gown was simple and plain, it fit perfectly. It highlighted my figure and made me seem almost otherworldly.

The diamond necklace around my neck sparkled, catching the light like stars in the dark.

Everyone in the crowd held their breath, staring at me without blinking.

I was supposed to be in something extravagant, but instead, I was in a plain gown with an obvious tear on the bodice.