The echoes of the Grand Showcase still lingered, its impact rippling through the university’s social and business circles. But as Vaelis Cara stepped into the opulent ballroom of the Charity Gala, she knew this was where the true game would be played.

Tonight was no longer about performance—it was about recognition.

Dressed in an ethereal rose-pink gown, Vaelis exuded elegance and untouchable grace. Every detail, from the delicate embroidery to the soft shimmer under the chandelier lights, was intentional. She wasn’t just here as a performer—she was here as a statement.

And she had succeeded.

Whispers followed her as she moved, and it wasn’t long before one of the event organizers approached her with a poised smile.

"Miss Cara," the woman greeted. "I believe we owe you a conversation."

Vaelis arched a delicate brow. "Oh?"

The woman led her toward a more private area, where several high-profile sponsors of the gala were seated. Their expressions were unreadable but their presence alone was telling.

One of them, an older gentleman with a calculating gaze, leaned forward. "Miss Cara, your performance was nothing short of remarkable. It left a lasting impression on everyone here."

Vaelis tilted her head slightly, waiting.

Another sponsor, a woman known for her investments in rising talents, spoke next. "Initially, the sponsorship was meant for Miss Vale, but after witnessing both performances... we've had a change of heart."

Serena.

Vaelis already knew Serena had faltered, but this solidified just how badly.

The woman smiled, though her words carried weight. "We would like to extend the sponsorship to you instead."

A murmur of approval passed through the group, but Vaelis merely offered a poised smile. "That is quite the shift in plans."

"Talent should be rewarded accordingly," another sponsor added smoothly. "And you, Miss Cara, have proven yourself beyond expectation."

Vaelis let the words settle before finally responding, her voice smooth yet unreadable. "I appreciate the recognition. However, before I give my answer, I would like to see the terms of this sponsorship in detail."

It was a calculated response, one that ensured she held control of the situation rather than simply accepting out of flattery.

The older gentleman chuckled. "Of course. A wise decision."

As discussions continued, Vaelis couldn’t help but notice the subtle shift in the room. Some people who had once overlooked her were now paying attention. Connections were being rewritten in real-time.

Serena, wherever she was, would not take this well.

And that, Vaelis thought, was exactly as it should be.

---

Later that night, Vaelis found herself alone in a quiet hallway of the venue, the evening’s success still unfolding in her mind.

But her fingers traced over the small note she had received.

A note she recognized instantly.

Lucien.

There was no name, but she didn’t need one. The choice of words, the subtle weight behind them—it could only be him.

Their relationship was a tangled web of past and present, neither fully aligned nor in opposition. He was not an ally, but he was not yet an enemy.

And yet, he was watching.

She folded the note carefully, slipping it into her clutch. Whatever Lucien wanted from her, it was clear that he wasn’t done yet.

Neither was she.

---

Just as she tucked the note away, a soft voice called her name.

"Vaelis?"

She turned sharply, her heart skipping a beat.

Standing before her was someone she never thought she would see again.

A girl—her only true friend in her past life.

For a moment, Vaelis felt the carefully constructed walls around her tremble.

"You..." The words barely left her lips, emotions knotting in her throat.

The girl’s eyes shimmered with unshed tears. "It’s really you..."

Memories rushed back—the only person who had ever stood by her side, the only one who had never betrayed her.

Vaelis had braced herself for this world, hardened herself against its cruelty. But seeing her—someone who had once been her only light—shook her in a way she hadn’t expected.

She had thought she was alone in this life.

But perhaps... she wasn’t.