Chapter 140

• Charlotte sat in her cluttered studio, the soft glow of the afternoon sun filtering through the tall windows, casting warm rays across her workspace. It was a haven of creativity filled with sketches of jewelry designs pinned haphazardly on the walls, beads and gemstones scattered across her work table, and delicate tools neatly arranged, ready for action. Today, however, her gaze was fixed on one object in particular—the engagement ring that sparkled on her finger.
• It was beautiful, more than she had ever imagined. The intricate design seemed to dance, catching the light and reflecting it in a myriad of colors. Yet, as much as she admired it, she couldn’t shake the swirl of emotions that accompanied its presence. How had she—of all people—come to be engaged to Damien? Just a few months ago, he had been with Esther, a relationship that had made her heart ache from a distance. And now, she found herself in a whirlwind of joy and confusion.
• With a soft sigh, Charlotte leaned back in her chair, trying to wrap her mind around the reality of her situation. She felt an odd blend of exhilaration and disbelief. How could Damien have chosen her, especially when his past had been so publicly tied to someone else? The whispers of their ill-fated engagement still echoed in her thoughts, a haunting reminder of a time when things seemed so black and white.