Chapter 9
Two years later, L&W Group held its annual product launch at the top floor of the International Convention Center.
The announcer’s enthusiastic voice boomed through the speakers: “Let’s welcome, with a round of applause, the leader of L&W Group, Ms. Wren
Lockhart!”
I walked onto the stage in high heels as spotlights immediately illuminated me.
Nearly a thousand people sat in the audience below-industry elites and A-list celebrities.
Standing at the podium, I habitually scanned the crowd.
In the most inconspicuous corner of the very last row, I spotted a familiar figure-Knox Riviera.
He wore an ill-fitting suit of obviously cheap material.
His hair was cut short, and he had lost a considerable amount of weight, his facial features noticeably gaunt.
Compared to the glamorous movie star of two years ago, he looked like an entirely different person.
Our eyes briefly met across the distance.
His gaze held a complex emotion, something like a plea.
I acknowledged him with a polite nod before shifting my attention away, as I would with any ordinary audience member.
“Thank you all for coming today.”
“L&W has journeyed through sixty years, witnessing the birth of countless beautiful moments.”
“Today, our new ‘Starlight Tear’ collection tells a story of rebirth.”
I gently touched the necklace at my throat.
“Every piece of jewelry has its story, and the story of ‘Starlight Tear’ is about renewal.”
“Sometimes we experience darkness, face betrayal, encounter deception.”
“But true stars never lose their brilliance, even when clouds try to obscure them.”
Enthusiastic applause erupted from the audience.
I continued: “This necklace was inspired by the brightest star in the night sky.”
“It’s unique, impossible to duplicate, and irreplaceable.”
“Just like every truly valuable soul.”
As I said this, I couldn’t help glancing toward the back row again.
Knox was still sitting there, visibly trembling.
I redirected my attention and resumed my speech.
“Every creation from L&W carries our commitment to excellence.”
“We won’t change our principles because of anyone’s doubt.”
“We won’t pause our journey because of any interference.”
“Because true value never needs to prove itself to anyone.”
The audience erupted in applause once more.
After the launch event, a staff member approached me.
“Ms. Lockhart, there’s a gentleman who wishes to see you. He says he’s your… friend.”
I knew who it was.
“Tell him I’m busy.”
“But he insists-”
“No buts,” I cut off the staff member. “Tell him Ms. Lockhart isn’t seeing anyone.”
The staff member nodded and left.
Emily cautiously asked, “Was that Mr. Riviera?”
“Yes.”
“His recent situation…”
“I don’t care,” I said, arranging my purse. “The past should remain in the past.”
“Some people, some things-once you miss your chance, you never get another.”
“This was his choice, and these are the consequences he has to live with.”
