Chapter 193

For the past three years, not a single moment has passed without my thoughts consumed by revenge. Countless days and nights, I gritted my teeth and persevered. Now, having built my own power and company, I can finally confront those who wronged me. Snowflakes drifted past my eyes, but my gaze remained unwavering.

"Mom," I vowed before my mother's tombstone, "all the wrongs you suffered, I will make right."

Dylan, sensing my burden, spoke, "Sienna, don't worry. I'll protect Yvonne. I won't let anyone hurt her."

"No one can hurt me anymore," I replied, my voice brimming with confidence. I was no longer the vulnerable target I had been three years ago.

"True," Dylan nodded, a smile playing on his lips. "Yvonne, aren't you sleepwalking anymore?"

"Yeah," I said, surprised by my own admission. "After having the baby, I've been healing a lot." Before, plagued by nightmares and fears of motherhood, I'd imagined raising a child as unbearable torment. It still was, in many ways, but alongside the hardship, healing had begun. My child's pure, unconditional love was slowly mending the cracks in my heart. This love sustained me, allowing me to carve out a life in a foreign land.

Just then, Marlon called. "When are you coming back? I'll pick you up."

"No need," I replied. "Dylan and I will head back soon. It's snowing heavily, and it's cold up here." I instinctively tilted my head toward the sky. The bodyguard holding an umbrella behind us stepped back, giving me space to admire the falling snowflakes. The scene was breathtaking.

"Marlon's upset that Dylan's always with you?" Dylan asked, a hint of irritation in his voice.

"He's just worried about me," I smiled.

Three years ago, during a trip abroad, Marlon had given Dylan a strange look. Their animosity persisted, often requiring my mediation.

Marlon paused before stating, "The Wavepeak Stadium land I mentioned is up for auction next week. I have other matters to attend to, so you'll have to handle it." He, as Jethive Group's vice president, was deeply involved in its operations. Why was he delegating this to me?

I was surprised. "Me?" This wasn't abroad; Elysiumville was far too familiar. My appearance would create a frenzy. Marlon, however, seemed eager.

"Since you've returned, it's time for a grand entrance," he said, smiling.

I didn't hesitate. "Alright, I'll handle it."

"Come back soon. Dinner tonight," Marlon said before disconnecting.

Putting away my phone, Dylan asked, "Did he badmouth me again?"

"Yeah, told me to get a real job," I nodded. "You're a PhD in psychology. Aren't you going to use it?"

"I have been," Dylan said confidently. "You're not sleepwalking anymore, you don't feel nauseous at mealtimes. That's all thanks to me."

I recalled the struggles of those early months: adapting to a new culture, morning sickness, hormonal fluctuations. But Dylan was there, supporting and guiding me every step of the way.

"You've really earned your hero title," I teased. "Maybe I should open a psychology clinic for you?" I wanted to repay his kindness.

He furrowed his brow. "Not yet. I lack experience. I'd ruin my reputation. Let's discuss it later."

"Alright," I agreed. "Whenever you're ready."

Over these three years, I'd learned to relax, both internally and in my relationships. I no longer forced things; I let them flow naturally.

"Don't worry, I won't be shy with you," Dylan said, his face radiant. His happiness was infectious.

We bid farewell at my mother's grave and began our descent. The cemetery, halfway up the mountain, was accessible by car to the entrance, but a ten-minute walk was still required to reach the gravesites. The road could have extended directly into the cemetery, but its absence perhaps allowed for a more sincere expression of remembrance.

Soon, the snow fell heavier. Dylan took a larger umbrella from the bodyguard, sheltering us both. The snow was so thick, visibility was limited. And then, Hayden appeared in the distance, carrying a black umbrella.

The heavy snow blurred the scene, creating a hazy effect. Both our large umbrellas obstructed the view, and the slippery ground made everyone cautious. On a snowy day like this, no one would notice a passing stranger, especially Hayden, lost in his own world. Yet, in that brief encounter, both our hearts stirred.

Hayden touched his chest, his brow furrowing. What was that fleeting pain? He continued walking. I, too, felt something stir within me, causing me to pause. This feeling was unfamiliar.

Dylan noticed my hesitation. "What's wrong?" His voice was soft, barely audible above the falling snow.

I shook my head, quickly regaining composure. "Maybe I'm just hungry. Didn't eat much for lunch; been busy."

"Let's head back then," Dylan said, smiling and offering his hand. "Yvonne, let's walk together. It'll be faster."

"Don't underestimate me," I chuckled. "We're going skiing later!"

"Slow down," Dylan called, "you'll get soaked!"

I smiled, walking ahead to ease the awkwardness of subtly rejecting his offer. Some people were simply beyond love.

Having walked ahead, Hayden turned back, drawn by our laughter.