Chapter 7
When Delia learned Estela would be attending the National Heritage Expo, she immediately suggested they go together.
Estela had studied design in college–sharp, creative, and full of fresh ideas. She had once joined Delia’s design studio under the pseudonym Smile, contributing to several dazzling, standout projects.
But after marrying into the Leon family, she’d quietly stepped
away.
Delia’s studio, meanwhile, had steadily risen to prominence. It was no surprise she’d been invited to such a major industry
event.
When Estela arrived, Delia was already surrounded by admirers, navigating the room like a star.
In recent years, she’d made quite a name for herself, with a strong presence in the design world.
People gravitated toward her effortlessly, eager to introduce themselves, eager to be seen.
A successful woman always shone brightest–men, in contrast, felt more like props in the background.
Estela watched from a distance and lowered her gaze.
For years, she had poured her heart into Vance and their children–so much so, she had nearly forgotten who she used
to be.
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‘Could I still be that bold, brilliant designer I once was?‘ she
wondered.
Just as the thought surfaced, Delia made her way over.
“This year’s expo is really something. A lot of new talent showing up,” she said with a knowing smile. “Watching them today reminded me of you. Back when I tried to keep you at Allison Group–it’s a shame how things turned out.”
Allison Group had been the name of Delia’s college startup- the predecessor to her current firm.
Estela gave a small, bittersweet smile. “Allison Group’s doing just fine without me.”
In the world of design, fresh talent emerged constantly. No one could stay on top forever.
Besides, she hadn’t been part of that world for years.
“I don’t agree,” Delia said, lighting a cigarette and finally saying what she’d been holding in all these years.
Estela looked up when she heard the words, her long lashes fluttering slightly as she gazed at the artwork on display.
Delia raised an eyebrow. “The Rangel Group has been focused oneloping a modern aesthetic these past couple of years
in jewelry to fashion. That just happens to be your area of pertise. Estela, I need you.”
Estela was no stranger to the Rangel Group.
In recent years, it had expanded rapidly, especially in traditional industries.
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Its head, Wesley Rangel, though young, had already earned a reputation for being ruthless and calculating, with a sharp eye for the future.
It didn’t surprise Estela that Delia was trying to team up with the Rangel Group to carve out a space in the design market.
‘But… could I really go back to that world?‘ she wondered.
Just as the thought crossed her mind, a cold, aloof voice called out from nearby. “Estela? Shouldn’t you be taking care of Mom? What are you doing here?”
It was Thelma Leon- Vance’s younger sister, and a star student at Choross University.
Ever since Estela married into the Leon family, Thelma had kept her at arm’s length.
She had nothing but disdain for women like Estela – women who relied on men, buried themselves in housework, and, in her eyes, had no real worth.
Estela hadn’t expected to run into her here.
She didn’t offer much explanation. “Just came to take a look.”
“These pieces have significant artistic value,” Thelma said coolly. “Even the simplest design here is probably beyond. standing. My brother, Josh and Rowena will be You’d be better off focusing on them.”
er, Estela was nothing special. Sure, she’d heard that Estela had a decent education and some design talent before marrying in, but in the end, she was just another woman who landed on her feet by marrying well. ‘What real ability could
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Chapter 7
she possibly have?‘ she wondered.
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Estela stood frozen for a moment. ‘Vance is coming back?‘ she thought.
Her fingers curled slightly, a trace of bitterness rising in her chest.
Even though they were getting divorced, he was returning with the child – and he hadn’t even bothered to tell her.
In his eyes, the woman who had once been Mrs. Leon really didn’t matter at all.
Thelma, never one for small talk with Estela, was about to leave when something crossed her mind – the fish soup Rosalyn had been craving.
“Oh, right,” she said offhandedly. “If you’ve got time, make some of that fish soup. You’re not exactly busy, and your cooking’s still passable.”
In the past, Estela would’ve agreed without a second thought.
Back then, she’d done everything she could to win the Leon family’s approval. No matter how complicated the request, if Rosalyn asked for it, she’d make it happen.
But now? She didn’t care anymore.
“Sorry. I’ve got my own things to take care of. Let the chef
handle it.”
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