From Ruin to Reign Leander's Unbreakable Will novel Chapter 25

Chapter 25 Colin Bright

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Monica flashed a teasing smile at her daughter. “Your father also mentioned that barring any unforeseen circumstances, he plans to finalize your arrangement with Colin when you turn eighteen next month.”

Yvette’s cheeks flushed crimson as she quickly turned away, settling onto the nearby couch. “Mom, I’m only turning eighteen. What are you talking about?”

In Yvette’s eyes, Colin Bright had always been the epitome of excellence. Even the school’s reigning star, Shiloh Wolfe, or the campus heartthrob, Victor Lane, paled compared to Colin. His achievements were unparalleled, setting him leagues ahead of his peers.

From the tender age of six, Colin had been mastering both piano and painting. By ten, he had clinched first prize in a national mathematics competition. At fifteen, he was already handling company documents and business planning, earning himself the title of Ravenridge’s business prodigy. At eighteen, he aced his exams and secured direct admission to the prestigious Stanton Academy, making him a household name throughout Mornwick.

Since childhood, Yvette had idolized Colin, striving to follow in his footsteps. He was more than just a role model; he was her inspiration, her guiding star. The thought of seeing him again after six months excited her heart.

Her mother’s words echoed in her mind. ‘He plans to finalize your arrangement with Colin when you turn eighteen next month.‘

Could it mean an engagement?

The idea stirred a whirlwind of emotions within her.

As a child, Yvette often daydreamed about marrying Colin and becoming his bride. These fantasies only intensified as she grew older. She should have been overjoyed at the prospect, but today, she found herself oddly unsettled, her emotions in disarray.

Her gaze inadvertently drifted to Leander, who sat nearby with his eyes closed, seemingly indifferent to the conversation. His apparent lack of interest sparked a flicker of annoyance within her.

“Madeline,” Yvette said, turning to her friend and gesturing toward the stairs, “I just bought some new clothes. Can you give me some advice?”

“Sure!” Madeline readily agreed, following Yvette to the second floor. Despite only having met in high school, the two had quickly become as close as sisters, sharing everything.

As Yvette showcased her new clothes in her room, she casually inquired, “By the way, Madeline, how did you and Leander meet? Did you grow up in the same village?”

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Chapter 25 Celin Bright

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Madeline pondered for a moment before responding. “Actually, Leander isn’t from our village. My mom rescued him from the mountains when he was young.” She went on to recount how she and Leander first met.

Yvette’s brow furrowed as she processed this information. “So, he’s an orphan?”

Madeline nodded solemnly. “Yes, Leander doesn’t have any family. From the moment I met him, he’s always been alone. But he seems to handle it remarkably well. He’s confident and has his own beliefs. I’ve never seen him display any sadness or self–pity.”

Yvette listened quietly, her heart softening a little. She had only known Leander for two days and didn’t understand him well, but learning he was an orphan stirred a pang of sympathy within her.

Just then, her attention was caught by a Bentley pulling up to the villa. A middle–aged man and a young man in his twenties stepped out, making their way toward the villa.

“Madeline, my dad’s back. Let’s go downstairs!” Yvette grabbed Madeline’s hand and hurried to the door.

“Dad!” Yvette called out as she opened the front door.

The middle–aged man, dressed in a sharp suit and bearing a striking resemblance to Yvette, was her father, Linden Sitwell. He greeted her with a warm, affectionate smile. “Yvette, look who I’ve brought back!”

Behind him walked a young man in a burgundy checkered shirt, his face adorned with a friendly, gentlemanly smile. “Yvette, it’s been a while!” he said.

He exuded a refined, scholarly air but also had an unmistakable aura of leadership that set him apart from his peers. His poise suggested a depth of experience far beyond his years.

“Colin!” Yvette greeted him politely and welcomed the two into the house.

“Dad, you know Madeline well, so I won’t introduce her again. This is Leander Ashcroft. You must have heard Mom mention him before.”

“Oh? Leander Ashcroft?” Linden took off his suit jacket and hung it up, curiosity and scrutiny as he turned to look at Leander,

his gaze filled with

“Hello, Mr. Sitwell!” Leander said, already alert and on his feet, offering a respectful nod.

“Hello. Monica has mentioned you several times, saying you’re her savior.” Linden smiled, but privately, he was less impressed. Years ago, Monica had indeed spoken often of Leander, praising him as extraordinary and unlike anyone else. However, upon closer inspection, Linden thought Monica might have exaggerated.

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Chapter 25 Colin Bright

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(ཏྟི(4L);

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Twenty years ago, he came to Ravenridge alone, founded Sitwell Styles Corp. and built it into the successful Sitwell Group, worth over a billion. His extensive experience in the business world had honed his sharp judgment. At first glance, Leander appeared charming and well- mannered, but otherwise, he seemed just like any other high school student–nothing particularly exceptional. He glanced at the young man beside him, noting the stark contrast.

“Ms. Hollis is too kind. I just helped out a bit. It’s no big deal,” Leander chuckled modestly, showing no signs of taking undue credit.

“Alright, then. I’ll just call you Leander. Please, have a seat. Make yourself comfortable.” Despite his reservations, Linden still smiled warmly, like a kind elder.

As Leander was about to sit down, Yvette said again, “Oh, by the way, Leander, let me introduce you!” She gestured to the quiet young man standing off to the side.

“This is Colin Bright, the heir to Brightstorm Holdings.”

“Colin, this is Leander Ashcroft.”

Yvette deliberately mentioned “Brightstorm Holdings” to make Leander aware of Colin’s status, worried that Leander’s arrogance might lead to an awkward encounter.

“Oh, hi!” Leander’s face remained impassive when he heard “Brightstorm Holdings.” He just gave a casual nod. “So, you’re Colin. Nice to meet you!”

Colin maintained his polite smile and extended his hand, though his eyes revealed a flicker of disdain. To him, a young man dressed in what looked like cheap clothes didn’t measure up to his standards. What right did such a person have to associate with him?

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