Living in His Sister's Shadow

Just then, my phone vibrated again. It was a message from Freya, with a photo attached.

The photo showed Eduardo’s strong forearm, where a small initial—an 'F' for Freya—had been freshly inked right next to the ivy branch he’d gotten for me.

Her message dripped with her usual triumph: "Eduardo made a little addition to his tattoo to make me happy. He said it's a surprise for you, so don't make a big deal out of it, okay?"

For three years, Freya had constantly reminded me how much Eduardo favored her. Every kindness he showed me was apparently just the leftovers she didn't care for.

I no longer felt anger, nor the impulse to confront him. This time, I quietly blocked her. If I no longer needed him, why should I care about her provocations?

After everything was settled, I walked into the top-floor office of the Keller Group. The chairman, Grant Keller, stood with a cane, his gaze gentle yet sharp.

"Gemma, the rare plant research project in Blackwood National Park is a long-term commitment. You will be leaving this place, going deep into the remote mountains, which means giving up everything you have now. Are you sure this is what you want?"

His face held a hint of regret. "You must understand, the conditions in Blackwood Park are harsh. Communication is spotty at best, and you could face any number of unforeseen dangers."

I looked at the ring in my palm. A slight ache pulsed in my chest, but my resolve didn't waver. "Yes, Mr. Keller, I understand all of that."

Grant paused, then sighed softly. "Alright. Since you've made up your mind, I will arrange for a security team to escort you. They will take you to the park's border. From there, the rest of the journey is up to you."

"The private jet for the project leaves tomorrow... You should give Eduardo a proper goodbye."

Tomorrow? That was the day of our originally scheduled engagement party.

Since I had decided to leave, I thought I should at least say a proper goodbye. I went back to the apartment and waited quietly for Eduardo to return. The sun set, and the sky grew dark.

It wasn't until midnight that he finally came home, his steps hurried, a chill clinging to him. I went to greet him, ready to speak, but my gaze fixed on the car keys in his hand.

It was a Ferrari key, with the prancing horse logo.

Eduardo shifted uncomfortably and thrust the keys into my hand. "Freya didn't mean it... I handled the gala poorly. She's just spoiled."

He paused, looking exhausted, but still watched me carefully. "I know tomorrow is the party. I promise this limited-edition sports car will cheer you up. Please... don't be angry with me."

I knew he was worried I would argue with him. All I could do at that moment was lower my head and say softly, "It's fine. I can drive another car."

Eduardo was shocked. "You... you're not angry?"

He let out a long sigh of relief. "Don't worry, Gemma. I'll get you something better. Tomorrow, at the party, I promise you'll be the most stunning woman there."

With that, he rushed out the door, unwilling to stay a moment longer. "I'm going to sort out the final paperwork now! See you at the private airstrip tomorrow!"

He didn't even give me a chance to say goodbye.

It didn't matter anymore. I grabbed my suitcase and left without a backward glance.