Chapter 45

Yvonne clung to Wilson’s arm as they navigated the event space, radiating the confidence of victors before the cameras.

Daphne, about to exit the livestream, caught sight of the ring on Yvonne's finger—the unique meteorite ring that had symbolized her ten-year relationship with Wilson. Her chest tightened. She frantically grabbed her phone and took a screenshot, zooming in to confirm the details. She couldn't believe Wilson had given the ring to Yvonne.

She had convinced herself she would no longer feel heartache over Wilson's actions since her rebirth. She felt only hatred and fury toward him. He had stood idly by when Ezra touched her and claimed she wanted to have fun with him. All she felt then was disgust.

Now, a searing pain pierced her heart, driving her to her knees. Deep breaths offered no relief. The ache spread uncontrollably, as if she'd been poisoned. Daphne fought back tears.

Wilson surely knew what the ring represented. Yet, he'd given it away so effortlessly. Disappointed, she opened a bottle of red wine and sipped it, replaying their history in her mind like a slideshow. Why had they ended up like this? Her so-called pain therapy felt like repeatedly throwing herself into a fire, tearing open healed scars until she could endure it.

Daphne made a silent vow: "Wilson, this is the last time I'll cry for you. After tonight, I'll protect my emotions from you. I'll only take what's mine."

Sebastian messaged Daphne after the event, but received no reply. He called, but she didn't answer. Only after several missed calls did his unease grow. He contacted Ava.

He was relieved to learn Daphne hadn't gone home. He parked near her apartment, knocking repeatedly, but there was no answer. He knew her door code, but out of respect for her privacy, had never used it. This time, however, he had no choice. He entered the code, opened the door, and stepped inside. The apartment was dark, except for the faint glow of streetlights illuminating a solitary figure sitting near the floor-to-ceiling windows.

She looked fragile and heartbroken. He quietly closed the door and approached her. A strong scent of alcohol hung in the air; a nearly empty wine bottle sat beside her. Sebastian gently brushed the hair from her face, revealing her delicate features.

Her beauty was undeniable, even to her critics. She had large eyes framed by long lashes, a straight nose, and slightly thin lips, currently curved into an elegant smile. Her usual aloof demeanor made her seem unapproachable, but the flush on her cheeks and her dazed gaze held an innocent charm.

She looked at him with half-closed eyes.