Bullied and Dumped, But She Won in the End (Adriana) novel Chapter 154

**When Time Tried to Heal Me But I Refused to Listen by Kael Niro Senn**
**Chapter 154 Fake Time**

Adriana’s gaze was fixed on Curtis, her eyes brimming with anxiety. “Then … if we lose this baby, will you divorce me?” The words escaped her lips, trembling with the weight of uncertainty.

She craved clarity, a definitive answer that could ease the turmoil within her.

Curtis, sensing the gravity of her question, responded firmly, “No.” He drew her into his embrace, wrapping one arm around her protectively. “Adriana, let’s make a deal. We won’t divorce until you’ve made a name for yourself as a designer in this industry.”

Adriana blinked, momentarily taken aback, then lifted her gaze to meet his.

In that moment, Curtis understood something profound—that somewhere deep within Adriana’s heart, there still lingered remnants of feelings for Matthew. Even if her love for him had faded, the transition to loving Curtis wouldn’t happen overnight.

He was prepared to be her foundation, her stepping stone on the path to success.

He envisioned her brilliance, shining like a diamond under the spotlight of her achievements.

And when the day arrived that she no longer needed him—or when she chose to move on—he would not hold her back.

“Really?” Adriana asked, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

So, does that mean the moment I find success is the moment we part ways?

“Yes. I always keep my word,” Curtis affirmed, nodding with conviction. He took her hand, guiding her out of the room. “Regardless of what happens with this baby, our agreement remains intact.”

Adriana followed him in silence, the bustling sounds of the hospital fading into the background. All that resonated in her ears was the rhythmic thumping of her own heartbeat.

Could I truly be this fortunate? To have crossed paths with someone as wonderful as Curtis?

If she hadn’t been aware of Curtis’s own struggles, she might have thought she had stepped into a dream or stumbled into a cleverly laid trap.

Perhaps this is my moment. After 23 long years of enduring hardships, maybe I’m finally getting my chance.

Or maybe those 23 years were merely guiding me to Curtis.

—

The date for the long-anticipated class reunion was finally confirmed.

Cheryl was particularly active in the group chat, her excitement palpable. She declared that with college coming to an end, she would bring gifts for each classmate—because soon, everyone would be venturing off into different paths.

What she really meant was that they would be scattered across various social strata, and she would undoubtedly ascend to greater heights.

The flattery from the group was relentless, and Adriana found herself unable to tolerate it any longer. In frustration, she powered off her phone and began contemplating what to wear for the reunion.

Curtis had been preoccupied lately, consumed by the demands of a pressing project.

Without his guidance in selecting outfits, Adriana felt utterly adrift.

She rummaged through her closet, finally pulling out a dress that she thought might work, pairing it with a set of flat shoes.

The doctor had advised against any falls or bumps at this stage, so flats felt like the safest option.

After all, it was just a class reunion. She was primarily interested in hearing about the language program.

“Yes,” the staff member affirmed with a nod. “It’s all happening here.”

Adriana checked the group chat once more, but the silence was deafening; no one had said a word all afternoon.

“Adriana.”

Just as she prepared to leave, Cheryl made her entrance, flanked by Natasha, Felicia, and Elise.

Adriana scowled, ignoring them as she headed straight for the exit.

“What are you acting all high and mighty for?” Cheryl intercepted her, grabbing her wrist and blocking her path.

Adriana shot them a glare. “You did this on purpose, didn’t you? You sent out a fake time in the group chat just to lure me here.”

Cheryl wore a smirk, relishing in the moment. “Yeah. We created a new class group. You’re the only one not invited.”

Adriana felt a sting in her nose, but she held her tongue. “Blocking someone’s way is illegal.”

She attempted to push past Cheryl, but the latter stood her ground.

Felicia and Elise settled into a nearby chair, looking down at Adriana as if she were beneath them. “Ms. Xander, let’s have a word,” one of them said, a condescending tone lacing her voice.

Adriana’s glare intensified. “We have nothing to discuss.”

“Ms. Xander,” Elise said, her demeanor calm yet firm, “you’re an intelligent woman. You know your marriage with Curtis won’t endure. So why are you sabotaging your own future? We heard you dated Matthew for four years. And then you sent Mia to prison. Was that an act of revenge? Or were you trying to manipulate Matthew into marrying you?”