Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism novel Chapter 685

If Evelina insisted on defying fate, the consequences could be even worse than they already were.

In the end, what's meant to be will be. If something isn't in your destiny, don't force it. A simple, peaceful life is good too.

Evelina planned to attend the Hundred Blossom Award before flying to Wiltonshire for surgery. After leaving the company, her car took her to a studio she frequented for styling. It had been a while since she'd been there.

With the Hundred Blossom Awards at the end of the month, her timing to pick out a dress was just right.

When Evelina and Jenny arrived, the studio staff welcomed them warmly, and the stylist who usually handled her looks came over personally to greet them.

"It's been a while, Evie! You really took a long break this time. Where'd you go on vacation?" The stylist smiled as she handed over an iPad for them to browse the dresses.

Evelina looked a lot more haggard than before. The stylist assumed her pale, washed-out look was a deliberate makeup choice since that kind of minimalistic look had been trending recently.

"Wow, that nude lipstick looks so natural! Which brand is it? What's the shade?" the stylist asked.

Jenny laughed awkwardly, "Annie, Ms. Drayton hasn't been feeling well lately. She's not wearing any lipstick."

"What? She's not well?

"Wow, Evie, I didn't realize you were barefaced! I thought you had makeup on. Your skin is really great, haha!"

Good thing Annie is quick on her feet; otherwise, it would have been super awkward.

Handing over the iPad, she excused herself to make coffee and left the room.

Evelina crossed her legs and scrolled through the latest haute couture dresses on the iPad. She found one she liked and showed it to the stylist when she returned.

The stylist set down the tea and hesitated, "Evie, unfortunately, all the dresses from that collection have been reserved. Maybe you could pick something else? This season's ready-to-wear line is really good—it was a hit on the runway recently."

Jenny said, "What did you say? Ready-to-wear line? Who would want to wear that? We're a … "

"Forget it, just say a little less," Evelina interrupted Jenny with a worried expression, placing the iPad on the table. "Let's go with this white one for now. We can discuss the styling another day; I have other things to take care of."

Jenny fell silent.

Annie nodded, "Alright."

Evelina stood up to leave.