Chapter 2

Lily's POV

Perhaps because I still held onto a thread of hope, I couldn't bring myself to believe Ethan would really propose to another woman.

Even less could I believe that woman would be my half-sister.

In the end, I still went to the hotel hosting the victory party.

I found a server, paid them, and changed into their uniform with a mask. I slipped into the banquet hall without trouble.

The hall was crowded.

Everyone wore flattering smiles as they raised their glasses to the outstanding man at the center of the crowd.

Ethan wore the suit I'd personally ironed that morning. He stood tall, conversing easily, his expression full of confidence and success.

The emcee took the stage and made some opening remarks.

Then Ethan took the microphone, his magnetic voice carrying clearly through the speakers to every corner.

"Thank you all for being here. My company's success today wouldn't be possible without your support. But for me personally, there's something even more important I want to share tonight, and I hope to receive your blessings."

His gaze shifted to the crowd below, landing on Vivian.

She wore a silver sequined mermaid gown, her makeup flawless and elegant.

Ethan walked toward her, took her hand under everyone's gaze, and led her to the center of the room.

"These past four years, I've faced many setbacks, but one person has always supported me and given me strength. Her name is Vivian." He looked at the woman beside him, her cheeks flushing. "Without her, I might not be standing here today."

In the corner of the hall, my heart sank.

Then I watched as Ethan reached into his jacket and pulled out a deep blue box.

He opened it. A diamond ring sparkled brilliantly under the lights.

The ring's design was intricate and gorgeous, clearly made with tremendous care.

As everyone held their breath, Ethan knelt on one knee before Vivian.

"Vivian," he said with deep emotion, "will you marry me?"

Vivian covered her mouth with her hands, tears spilling from her eyes as she nodded emphatically. "Yes!"

The room erupted in enthusiastic applause and cheers.

I stood in the shadows, watching the embracing couple, my nails digging deep into my palms. I felt no pain.

So these four years, Vivian had been his most important pillar of support? It was Vivian who constantly encouraged him, supporting him until today?

Then what about me? What did my years of companionship and sacrifice mean?

Was it all just a stupid joke?

I tried to smile, but the curve of my lips was bitter.

I didn't rush over screaming to ruin this carefully prepared proposal. Instead, I turned silently and left this ceremony that was never meant for me.

The April night wind felt cold.

I wandered the streets like a ghost, with no destination.

I don't know how long I walked before a bridal shop window caught my eye.

A pristine wedding gown on a mannequin looked beautiful in the warm yellow light, like an unreal dream.

Memory's floodgates suddenly opened. I remembered during our most desperate days, Ethan and I passed by an upscale bridal boutique, and I couldn't help stealing a few glances.

Noticing my longing for the wedding dress, Ethan squeezed my hand tightly and said, "Lily, I'm sorry I can't give you much right now. But in the future, I'll personally design you a one-of-a-kind wedding gown and make you the most beautiful, happiest bride in the world."

Back then, the light in his eyes had been so bright and genuine.

So I believed him and willingly gave everything for that promise.

But now, he'd slipped his personally designed ring onto another woman's finger.

Well, he did say he'd design me a unique wedding gown to make me the happiest bride. He just never said I'd be his bride.

My chest ached unbearably again, tears blurring my vision.

My trust in him had become one enormous joke.

Just then, my phone rang.

The caller ID showed an unfamiliar number, but I recognized it.

I was about to decline when my finger hovering over the screen suddenly hesitated.

I took a deep breath, composed myself, and answered. "Hello."

"Lily, I apologize for calling so late, but I truly admire your talent. Our company sincerely invites you to join us. Whatever conditions you name, I can agree to them. Won't you reconsider?"

They'd called multiple times offering me this opportunity.

This time, I suddenly didn't want to refuse for Ethan's sake anymore.

After a pause, I said, "Alright. I accept your offer."

They were clearly surprised by my decisive answer. "Really?"

"Give me some time to handle things on my end."