Besides, Rowan had always been their golden boy.
"Caleb," Lyra said flatly, "I'm officially calling off the engagement. I'm giving the ring back."
In her past life, she never left the town. Instead, she had thrown public tantrums and declared open war on Jasmine, which deeply disgusted Rowan and ultimately fueled his drive to crush Fairchild Holdings.
This time around, she wouldn't stand in the way of Rowan and Jasmine's sweeping romance.
As for what happened that night at the seaside hotel, she would just treat it as a meaningless, drunken mistake.
If she removed herself from the equation, Rowan wouldn't have any reason to target her family's company.
"I've got your back." Caleb reached over and gave her hand a supportive squeeze. It broke his heart to think about all the years she had wasted on a man who didn't care. Now that it was over, he just hoped she could finally heal and move forward.
...
They pulled up to the company headquarters.
Lyra trailed closely behind Caleb as they walked onto the main corporate floor.
Several nearby employees immediately jumped up to greet him. "Morning, Mr. Fairchild." But the moment they caught sight of the stunning woman walking behind him, a sudden, curious hush fell over the room.
Caleb smiled at the floor. "We have a new face joining the team today. Everyone, come say hello."
The staff exchanged bewildered glances. Why was the CEO personally escorting a new hire? She had to be a VIP or a wealthy relative.
The newcomer was breathtaking, with a radiant complexion and an unmistakable aura of confidence. Anyone with eyes could see she was a woman raised in high-society luxury.
Plus, she bore a striking resemblance to their boss.
"Good morning, everyone," she announced warmly. "I'm Lyra Fairchild, the Chairman's new secretary. I look forward to working with you all."
The moment the surname 'Fairchild' dropped, everything clicked into place.
Chairman Fairchild hadn't hired a new secretary in years, preferring seasoned veterans. He certainly wouldn't have hired a fresh college graduate out of the blue.
"Is this your sister, sir?" one brave employee asked.
"Good eye," Caleb praised.
The HR manager blinked, completely caught off guard. "Understood, Miss Fairchild."
Despite the confusion, the manager maintained a perfectly respectful tone.
The moment Lyra stepped out of the HR department, her phone rang. It was Victoria Jameson.
"Lyra, your father mentioned you finally flew back," Victoria's elegant voice floated through the speaker. "Come over for dinner tonight."
Lyra hesitated for a beat before politely declining. "I'm sorry, Victoria, but I'll have to come visit you in a few days."
Victoria was stunned. She had never expected Lyra to turn down a personal invitation. Recovering quickly, she assumed the girl was simply overwhelmed from her recent move. "Well, your father said you've started working at Fairchild Holdings. Do your best. I believe in you."
"Thank you, Victoria."
Lyra waited for the older woman to end the call before lowering her phone.
Staring at the screen, she sank into a moment of deep thought. Then, she pulled up Maddie's contact and hit dial. "Let's grab dinner tonight. There's something I need your help with."

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