Sophia was absolutely determined to show Ethan that she was the better woman for him, not Isabella.

Her goal was clear: erase Isabella from his heart completely and make him love her instead. A fierce determination burned in Sophia’s eyes. A smug, confident smile slowly curved her lips. She started the car’s engine and sped away from the hotel.

In Geneva, the sun was dazzling. The view from the floor-to-ceiling windows showcased a skyline of gleaming skyscrapers and bustling streets, the very picture of a vibrant, modern city. Standing by the window, Isabella took a deep breath of the crisp air. She felt an incredible sense of relief and freedom.

She turned to look around her small, but elegantly furnished apartment. A soft smile touched her lips. This was a place she had secured entirely on her own. It was compact, but it was hers. Here, she could finally start over and be her true self.

A knock at the door interrupted her thoughts.

“Come in,” Isabella said, turning toward the entrance.

Lucas walked in, his arms full of fresh fruit and various health supplements. “Isabella, how are you feeling? Any better?” he asked, his eyes filled with genuine concern.

“I’m feeling much better, Lucas. Thank you for everything these past few days.” Isabella sat on the sofa and gestured for him to join her.

“It’s nothing. That’s what friends are for.”

He set the items down on the coffee table and took a seat in the chair opposite her. “So, what are your plans now?”

“I’m going to restart my career in design,” Isabella stated, her eyes shining with renewed resolve.

“You’ve always had such a passion for design, but…” Lucas paused, well aware of all the sacrifices Isabella had made for Ethan.

“Please, don’t,” Isabella gently interrupted. “I’ve done a lot of thinking. I can’t keep sacrificing my own dreams for someone else.”

“But right now, you…” Lucas frowned, his concern evident. “Do you have enough funds? Starting over requires significant capital.”

“I’m covered.” Isabella pulled a sleek black card from her purse and placed it on the table.

“What’s this?” Lucas asked, looking confused.

“Arthur gave this to me,” she explained.

Just then, Lucas’s phone buzzed.

Ethan had left a missed call and a voicemail, asking if there was any news about Isabella.

Lucas’s grip tightened on his phone, but he decided to keep Isabella’s situation to himself. He pushed the bank card back toward her, his expression turning cool and composed.

“Alright. If that’s your decision, then go for it. And remember, I’m here if you need any help.”

“Thank you, Lucas,” Isabella replied, her gratitude sincere.

“Don’t mention it. We’re friends,” Lucas said, forcing a smile as he stood up to leave. “I should let you rest now, Isabella. Take care. I’m heading out.”

“Okay.” Isabella rose to see him to the door.

After Lucas left, Isabella went into her room. She gathered her drawing board and her pencils. She took another deep, steadying breath, her eyes filled with fierce determination.

It was time to put her own life first.

She was going to revive her passion for design. Isabella’s pencil flew across the paper, giving life to her innovative ideas. Completely engrossed in her work, she sketched tirelessly, pouring all her past disappointments and frustrations into her art.

Days passed, and Isabella finally completed her portfolio. She then sent her resume to Apex Design Collective, the most prestigious design firm in all of Geneva.