Rewriting My Heart's Fate

"We've arrived." Richard opened the car door.

"This is Stefano's place, his creative sanctuary," he said as I followed him out of the car and toward the villa's entrance.

"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. I thank you all for coming to this gathering," a middle-aged man's voice rang out, causing a stir in the hall.

It was Stefano Fenandez himself! Time seemed to stand still around him; the years hadn't left a mark on his handsome face.

Stefano walked down the stairs, effortlessly making his way toward me. "You must be Ms. Evelyn Wiley," he said with a smile, extending his hand. It's a pleasure to meet you."

I was so nervous I could barely stand still, quickly shaking his hand. "Hello, Mr. Fernandez! It's an honor to meet you!"

Stefano smiled graciously. "I'm glad to meet you as well. Your achievements in the fashion world are impressive. Even an old guy like me has to admit it."

I was left speechless, my cheeks burning. The great Stefano Fernandez himself, saying I had impressed him?

"Oh no, no. My small achievements don't even compare to yours. It's nothing," I said, flustered.

Stefano waved his hand dismissively. "Not true. You're one of the rising stars. If you look around the globe, designers like you are few and far between. It's an honor to have the chance to learn from you."

"Then... would you mind having a drink with me and chatting for a bit?" I asked, feeling a little overwhelmed.

"Of course," Stefano said with a hearty smile. "Come, let's go to the terrace. The view is perfect for a conversation."

I followed him to the terrace.

Before me was a vast expanse of blue sea, the sunset painting the sky in shades of red as it slowly sank beneath the horizon.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" Stefano sipped his red wine, gazing into the distance. "Melando has always been my source of inspiration. The city has deep cultural roots, yet it's vibrant and modern at the same time. Every time I'm here, I always find new creative inspiration." I listened intently, occasionally smiling in agreement.

"You're absolutely right. Melando

holds an irreplaceable significance for every fashion designer. In this era of globalization, it's only when traditional and modern ideas clash that new, unique design concepts emerge ones that shape fashion and define an era."

Stefano looked at me in surprise, then smiled broadly. "Well said! You've hit the nail on the head! Ms. Wiley, not only are you a talented designer, but you're also a fashion

visionary with great insight

I was taken aback and quickly thanked him. "I'm flattered, Mr. Fernandez. It's truly an honor to receive your praise."

"Don't be so modest. We're in the same industry; maybe I'll be asking you for advice in the future."

Stefano Fernandez, asking me for advice?noveldrama

Just then, Richard hurried over. He leaned in close to Stefano, speaking in a low voice, his expression tense.

Upon hearing what was said, Stefano's expression changed.

"I'm sorry, Ms. Wiley," he said, turning to me. "Something urgent has come up. I need to step away for a moment."

"Of course, take your time," I replied quickly.

I watched as the two of them hurried off, confusion swirling in my mind.

What had happened to make Stefano so anxious? Could it be... something to do with me?

After a tense wait of several minutes, Richard finally returned. He gave me an apologetic smile. "Sorry, Ms. Wiley. We've kept you waiting too long."

"No problem," I waved it off. "But is Mr. Fernandez alright?"

Richard sighed. "It's a long story. To put it simply, a rather troublesome person has shown up."

A sense of dread surged in my chest.