Ava washed her face and looked into the mirror again. Her reflection stared back with wide, innocent eyes. No one would believe the storm brewing behind them. She carefully tied her hair, letting a calm smile settle onto her lips.
If everyone thought she was still the same naive girl, then let them believe it. That would be her greatest advantage.
She walked downstairs, each step measured like she was crossing a battlefield from the moment she opened her door. Her mother, Maria, was seated at the grand dining table dressed elegantly even at home. She held her teacup like a queen, and her thoughts echoed louder than her voice.
The Hart family is already showing interest. I must push Ava to accept the proposal. Our entire family status depends on this.
Ava sat down quietly. Her father read the newspaper. He glanced at her with the same indifference he always had. She could almost hear his mind without touching his thoughts.
Pretty girl… expensive burden…
Every heart in this house was rotten. She realized she was never loved here either.
Maria spoke without looking up."Ava, the Hart family's eldest son will be coming to meet you again. Be prepared this time."
Her words were icing over poison.Ava smiled sweetly."Of course mother. I will welcome them properly."
Inside her chest, hatred twisted like a blade.
After breakfast, Ava stepped into the garden. The sun felt too warm and soft for the thoughts she was having.She needed a plan.If she pushed away the Hart family immediately, her parents would become suspicious. She had to move carefully.
While she stood thinking, a black luxury car slowed near the Cole mansion gate. It did not belong to the Hart family.
The window slid down and cold silver eyes met hers. A man sat inside with the kind of expression that never showed what he was truly thinking.
He did not speakHe did not smileHe simply observed her
Her heart skipped.His thoughts remained silent.
Nothing.
She pushed her mind harder but the silence around him grew heavier instead of clearer.
That was impossible.Every human had thoughts. Every person had a voice in their head.But this man was completely locked to her. Her new ability hit a wall for the first time.
The car door opened.He stepped out wearing a suit sharp enough to cut. His presence alone made the morning colder.
The guard at the gate hurried to bow."Mr. Ethan Wade. We will announce your arrival…"
Ethan.She had heard that name many times in her first life.The heir to the Wade Empire.The most dangerous enemy of the Hart family.
He walked closer until he stood right in front of her."You are Ava Cole"It was not a question.He already knew.
His eyes lowered, slowly taking in her face like he was memorizing every detail.Then he said something that made her spine tighten.
"You once trusted the wrong people. Do not make that mistake again."
Ava froze.How did he know anything about herHe gave no time to question."Soon, you will need allies. And I do not enjoy waiting"
The corner of his mouth lifted slightly.Not a smileA warningA promise
"I will return"
He stepped into the car and vanished as quickly as he appeared.
Ava stood still, the garden suddenly feeling too small for the world that just opened before her.
She pressed her hand over her heart, steadying her breath.The game had already begunThe players had already arrivedAnd the most dangerous one was now looking directly at her
In her past life, she begged for helpIn this life, power was coming to her doorstep
This time… I choose my path