“How could you hit someone in public?”
“Call the police!”
Mrs. Winters shot Evelyn a furious glare before turning and walking away.
Security quickly came to help Evelyn up. She sat up, wiped away her tears, and a determined, resolute light flashed in her eyes—the kind that comes when you have nothing left to lose.
*
Inside the banquet hall.
Gabriel stepped out into the courtyard to take a call. When he finished, he didn’t rush back, instead staying behind for a cigarette.
He heard footsteps behind him. Crushing out his cigarette, he turned to see a young woman approaching.
The courtyard had a wooden railing and overlooked an artificial lake. The water flowed through decorative rocks, then into another section of the grounds. Water trickled down the rocks, filling the air with mist. With the shade from surrounding trees, the courtyard stayed pleasantly cool even in summer.
Sylvia leaned against the rail, picked up some fish food left for guests, and tossed it into the water. Instantly, dozens of bright red koi swam up, jostling for food.
“There were so many people toasting me inside, but since I can’t drink, I snuck out here to hide,” she said.
Gabriel replied, “You could just say no. You have that right.”
Sylvia tilted her head with a smile. “You should have someone look into Nash’s company. He’s honest, the company is well-run, and I’ve worked with him for years. I know him pretty well.”
“I’ve already sent someone,” Gabriel said.
Sylvia laughed softly. “I’m only trying to help you.”
Gabriel shot her a glance but said nothing.
Gabriel watched the fading ripples for a long moment before asking, “Are you sure you’ve decided?”
Sylvia nodded. “Yes, I have. I’ve talked to my mom already, and she’s helping me look at schools.”
“When will you leave?”
“Pretty soon after the family banquet is over.”
Gabriel asked, “Will you come back?”
Sylvia smiled. “Of course. If Grandpa doesn’t come with us, Mom and I will visit him often. And I really am fond of J City—I’ll definitely come back.”
It seemed she had always been rushing through life, spinning like a top for other people’s sake. Now, she wanted to finally live a life that was her own.
Maybe someday, she would follow him again. But for now, she wanted to try something different—to learn, to live like any regular girl, and to experience family life with her mother by her side.

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