Once She Came Like a Flash novel Chapter 56

**Faith Didn’t Survive Time – by Aadi Sharma**
**Chapter 56**

Renee’s eyes sparkled with an extraordinary brilliance, captivating all who dared to gaze upon them. They were not just beautiful; they were mesmerizing, a combination of light and warmth that drew people in like moths to a flame.

Years later, that very image of her, radiant and full of life, would explode across social media, sending shockwaves through the digital realm. People would rave about her, declaring her the most stunning woman in Harbor City, her beauty becoming a topic of endless admiration and envy.

Back in those simpler times, Alison had been nestled comfortably against Jasper, her arm wrapped around his with an innocent familiarity.

“Isn’t she absolutely gorgeous? Just look at her!” she exclaimed, her excitement bubbling over as she pointed at the photo.

Jasper, ever the pragmatist, offered a nonchalant nod. “She’s alright,” he replied, his tone lacking the enthusiasm that Alison had hoped for.

Alison’s face lit up with joy, her eyes sparkling with possibilities. “She’s still single, you know! You should totally go after her. Make her my sister-in-law, please? I’ve hand-picked her just for you! She’s kind, sweet, and incredibly pretty!” Her voice was laced with hopeful urgency, as if she were offering him the greatest treasure in the world.

Jasper chuckled softly, raising his hand to gently tap her head, a gesture that was both playful and affectionate. “You’re in college now, Alison. Focus on your studies instead of this nonsense,” he admonished lightly, though a smile tugged at the corners of his mouth.

“Oh, come on! I’m a freshman already!” Alison pouted, her expression a mix of determination and mischief. “I’ll send you the picture, okay? Just think about it!”

Back then, Alison had genuinely hoped that Renee would become part of their family, her sister-in-law. It was a dream filled with laughter and shared secrets, an unbreakable bond of friendship that she longed to solidify for a lifetime.

But, as life often teaches us, plans can unravel in the most unexpected ways.

Who could have predicted that mere weeks later, Renee would bravely confess her feelings for her crush? And that crush, as fate would have it, was none other than Adam.

Luke, who had been eavesdropping with keen interest, perked up at the mention of such tantalizing gossip. “I never knew,” he said, feigning surprise as he glanced at Jasper. “Sir, Ms. Whitley is so pretty. Why didn’t you go for her back then?”

Jasper shot him a cold glare, the kind that could freeze a summer day. “You seem to have an abundance of free time, don’t you?” he retorted, a hint of irritation coloring his voice.

Alison waved her hand dismissively. “She’s not picking up. Let her sleep. She’ll leave when she wakes up,” she said with a shrug. “Oh, and one more thing, Jasper. Please, for the love of all that’s good, don’t ever tell her that I’m your sister. I’ve kept that from her for almost ten years. If she finds out, she’ll totally cut me off.”

From a young age, Alison had learned the importance of humility, understanding that flaunting her wealth could lead to unforeseen consequences.

Years ago, there had been a wealthy businessman within their circle who had made a grave mistake, crossing the wrong person. The price of that error had been devastating; the revenge taken was brutal, resulting in the murder of both his children.

That horrific incident had left a deep scar on Alison’s psyche, instilling in her a profound sense of caution. From that moment on, she adopted a low profile, rarely stepping into the limelight.

Eventually, hiding her true identity became second nature, a protective cloak she wore to shield herself from the world’s harsh judgments.

Besides, living as an ordinary girl rather than a wealthy heiress allowed her friendships to blossom in a more authentic manner, free from the constraints of expectation and envy.

“Got it,” Jasper replied, his tone now serious as he absorbed the weight of her request.