Bullied and Dumped, But She Won in the End (Adriana) novel Chapter 152

**When Time Tried to Heal Me But I Refused to Listen by Kael Niro Senn**

**Chapter 152 Little Treat**

Adriana’s eyes widened in astonishment as she regarded Irene. How on earth does she know that I’m pursuing architectural design? And that I’m headed to Pastalia for my studies? Did Curtis let it slip?

“I’d like you to meet Wendy Blake, Adriana. You should definitely know her—she’s quite the renowned designer in our industry,” Irene said, her tone brimming with warmth as she made the introduction.

In that moment, Adriana felt a wave of gratitude wash over her. Irene was not just a friend; she was actively helping Adriana forge valuable connections in her field.

With a respectful grip, Adriana shook Wendy’s hand. The woman before her exuded humility, and her smile radiated kindness. “Hello, Ms. Blake. I must say, I’ve always held great admiration for your work. Your latest project, the Stargazer Tower in Riverdale, has garnered so many accolades. It’s truly remarkable.”

Adriana prided herself on being well-prepared; she had spent hours researching the achievements of designers she looked up to, and recalling Wendy’s project felt like a small victory.

Wendy’s surprise was evident. She had already felt a fondness for Adriana, knowing a bit about her difficult past, but this new revelation deepened her admiration. The Stargazer Tower was one of Wendy’s crowning achievements, and the fact that Adriana could mention it specifically indicated her dedication and diligence.

“Curtis, you’ve chosen well,” Wendy said, her smile broadening as she glanced at him.

Curtis wrapped his arms around Adriana, beaming with pride. “She still has so much to learn from you,” he replied, his voice filled with encouragement.

“Don’t worry, Adriana. Once you arrive in Pastalia, I’ll make sure to introduce you to some esteemed colleagues in the field,” Wendy promised, her tone reassuring.

Adriana’s heart raced with exhilaration. This was her first significant step towards building her professional network, and she hadn’t anticipated it would unfold so seamlessly.

That night, a sense of joy enveloped her. It wasn’t merely the satisfaction of having outshone Nicole and Natasha; it was the realization that Curtis genuinely wanted to support her career. He believed in her potential and was eager to see her thrive.

During her four tumultuous years with Matthew, he had shown little regard for her academic ambitions. His sole focus had been on confining her to the role of a lowly personal assistant within the Lincoln Group, disregarding any aspirations she might have had.

Matthew had never acknowledged the talents she possessed.

Perhaps he feared her success, knowing that if she shone brightly, she could eventually stand on her own and choose her own path, free from his grasp.

He preferred her to remain a delicate little bunny, one who needed his protection and would remain nestled in his embrace forever.

But Curtis was different.

Despite the nature of their contract marriage, Curtis treated her with respect and trust. He was not just a partner in name; he was willing to be her support, her stepping stone toward a brighter future.

As they drove home, Adriana’s excitement bubbled over. “Curtis, can I kiss you?” she asked, her eyes sparkling with joy.

The exhilaration coursing through her was intoxicating, making even the simple act of drinking water feel euphoric.

Their driver discreetly raised the privacy divider between the front and back seats, a gentle reminder of their current situation.

Reality hit Adriana like a wave; she had completely forgotten that someone else was behind the wheel. Her cheeks flushed crimson, and she wished she could vanish into thin air.

Curtis, with a playful smirk, lifted her effortlessly into his lap. “You’ve already teased me, so why stop at just that?”

In these early stages of her pregnancy, she required regular blood tests, and Curtis was meticulous about keeping track of everything.

Adriana glanced at him, her heart fluttering with realization.

She had to admit it—she liked Curtis.

Even though she felt she shouldn’t, it was already too late to turn back.

Living with a man like Curtis day in and day out made it nearly impossible not to develop feelings for him.

Just as they stepped into the house, Curtis’s phone rang, interrupting the moment.

It was Eva.

“Mr. Lincoln, Cynthia has lost control again. She broke a glass and attempted to cut her wrist. I’ve called an ambulance, and she’s at the hospital now. Fortunately, the cut isn’t deep, but… ” Eva’s voice was laced with concern.

Curtis inhaled deeply. “I’ll head over right away.”

Cynthia’s condition had been precarious. He had hoped her situation would improve after her discharge, but it hadn’t.

“What happened?” Adriana asked, her worry evident.

“Cynthia tried to harm herself. I’m going to the hospital. You stay home and rest, alright? You’ve had a long day, and I don’t want you to exhaust yourself any further.” He was protective of her, not wanting her to run around in her current state.