Chapter 2

After leaving Nightscape Bar, Jolene went to the hospital to treat her wound. Returning home, she packed everything related to Preston into a box.

Just then, Francis and Gloria returned. Stunned by her actions, they asked, “Jo, have you really let go of your feelings for Preston? Don’t you love him anymore?”

Her unhesitating nod brought them relief. They smiled. “That’s great. Cedric is abroad, deeply engrossed in work. We video-called him today, along with the Norwoods, and reached a mutual agreement regarding the marriage.”

“Compared to Preston, Cedric is more sensible and mature—a better match for you. However, given his reputation, we considered him too unlikely a candidate for the arrangement, so we never pursued it.

“We expected him to refuse, but surprisingly, he agreed without hesitation.”

Jolene’s eyes instantly reddened. Making the decision, she already knew Cedric would agree.

In her past life, descendants of noble families, including herself, feared Cedric because of their age difference. She rarely interacted with him; they almost never met outside family banquets.

All she knew was his dedication to his career, his single-handedly built business empire, and his unmarried status.

It wasn't until his suicide at 35 that others discovered a stack of love letters among his belongings.

Each letter was addressed to someone named “Starley,” unknown to the Norwood family.

Only Jolene knew. On the day she was born, the sky blazed with stars. “Starley” was the nickname her dearest elder bestowed upon her, hoping she would shine brightly.

She never knew that the cold, seemingly unattainable Cedric had secretly loved her his entire life. Fate granting her a second chance, she was willing to give them both a chance.

While she was still dazed, Francis and Gloria produced a gift box.

“Jo, it’s your birthday tomorrow,” they said happily. “Cedric couldn’t make it, but he had his assistant bring this from his study. See if you like his gift.”

Opening the box, Jolene saw a brilliant ring—the “Eternal Star,” the most expensive diamond Sotheby’s had auctioned in 50 years.

She’d seen it once and never forgotten it. Unprepared for such a priceless gift, she felt a surge of warmth.

In her past life, Preston ceased giving her gifts once their marriage was announced. She’d long forgotten what it felt like to receive a gift from a loved one.

The next day, Jolene’s birthday banquet commenced at 7:00 p.m. sharp in the city’s most luxurious hotel.

Guests offered well wishes. With the marriage arrangement settled, a burden lifted, her smile never faltered.

That is, until a commotion erupted. Everyone turned toward the entrance. Jolene saw Preston entering with Simone.

More insulting than their arrival was the sight of his friends approaching her with a sign reading “Hypocrite.”

Guests gathered, murmuring.

Jolene’s face paled. Clenching her fists, she stared them down. “What’s the meaning of this?” she demanded coldly.

Preston’s friends scoffed, mocking her openly.

“We should ask you the same question! Didn’t you tell us yesterday that Pres wouldn’t be your groom? Then explain why his family is preparing for the wedding. No one’s better at playing hard to get than you, Ms. Miller! This signboard describes you perfectly!”

“I told you she was just being stubborn. She’s pursued Pres for years, even sacrificing her dignity. Claiming she doesn’t love him is just a stalling tactic. He’s the only Norwood her age. Who else would she marry?”

Laughter filled the hall.

Preston’s gaze was icy. “Jolene, stop being a hypocrite and trying to get my attention. After we marry, you’ll get nothing but the title of my wife.”

She’d heard that before. He’d kept his word; throughout their seven-year marriage, she received nothing but the title.

The crowd buzzed. Jolene took a deep breath and raised her voice. “Preston Norwood! I need nothing from you. Listen carefully. I’m not marrying you, and my fiancé isn’t my age. He’s your—”

Before she could name Cedric, an incident interrupted.

Simone suddenly clutched her face, rashes blooming. Eyes reddening, she leaned into Preston’s arms. “Mr. Norwood, it’s so itchy! Why are there so many hyacinths? I’m allergic!”

Hyacinths, Jolene’s favorite, adorned the hall.

As Simone’s breathing quickened, Preston panicked, calling her name before carrying her away.

He left two instructions. To Jolene: “You’re not allowed to plant or place hyacinths anywhere after we marry!” To his friends: “Wreck this hall after I leave.”

“Leave it to us, Pres!” They began smashing chairs and tables like hooligans.

Jolene’s birthday cake lay ruined. Utensils shattered, guests trampled flowers fleeing the chaos.

“Stop! Who authorized this? I said, stop!”

“You’re marrying Preston. Obey him; he’ll be your husband.” Preston’s friends roared with laughter.

Despite her efforts, Jolene couldn’t stop them. Instead, she was thoroughly mocked.

The guests departed, leaving her birthday a shambles.