She Turned Her Grief Into Wings novel Chapter 14

It would elevate her own design capabilities while simultaneously earning the brand widespread recognition.

The voice on the other end softened. "Have I ever lied to you?"

He paused in thought before adding, "I've crossed paths with Galen a few times. Do you want me to—"

"No." Catching his drift immediately, Shera declined firmly. "I don't need help. I want to try this on my own."

Rhys chuckled, fully anticipating her answer. "I figured you'd say that."

For a highly accomplished artist like Galen, an unprompted recommendation might actually backfire. If she wanted Evegrace to be recognized, she had to prove her own worth first.

Taking a deep breath, Shera opened the registration page and filled in her details.

Her cursor hovered over the submit button for two seconds before she clicked it.

Success or failure, she was going to give it her all!

——

It was nine o'clock at night by the time Shera returned to Clearwater Villa.

She dragged her exhausted body out of the car. As she approached the door, she spotted a figure leaning against a vehicle, the cherry of a lit cigarette glowing in the dark. The faint smoke drifted around him, emphasizing his sharp, handsome features and giving him an aura of casual indifference.

Hearing her footsteps, the man crushed the cigarette under his shoe. He turned, his gaze locking onto her.

"Working late?"

His voice was a bit raspy, likely from the smoke. A stray lock of hair fell across his forehead, making it seem like he had been waiting for a long time.

Shera didn't bother asking how long. "What are you doing here?"

Caden took a step forward. "What, I'm not allowed to be here?"

His entitled, condescending tone instantly ignited the anger simmering in Shera's chest. She shot him a cold glare. "Did you sign the papers?"

Caden frowned deeply, clearly displeased. "Is that all you have to say to me?"

"What else is there to say?" Shera scoffed.

Caden gave a faint "Hmm." Once Shera disappeared into the living room, he lowered his gaze and discreetly checked the shoe cabinet.

It was entirely filled with women's shoes—all her usual style.

"Tea or coffee?"

"Water is fine."

The interior was decorated in a standard modern American style, featuring massive floor-to-ceiling windows that perfectly framed the courtyard's blooming rose wall.

Caden's eyes swept over the entryway, the living room, and the staircase without missing a detail.

Satisfied that there were no traces of another man, he casually took a seat on the sofa. His eyes shifted toward her, his tone probing. "Did you... buy this place?"

Shera set a glass of water down in front of him, her expression turning sour. "You haven't signed the papers, and I haven't gotten my settlement. Where would I get the money to buy a house?"

Surprisingly, Caden didn't get angry at her attitude. He picked up the glass, shooting her a sideways glance. "Then who gave it to you? Rhys Jewell?"