Plot Twist, The 'Dead' Ex is Thriving

Chapter 22

After that day, Vincent Montgomery didn't show up for several days, and I was more than happy to enjoy the peace.

I poured most of my energy into the designer competition, spending my free time sketching designs. After the second round, I submitted my semifinal entry. Five days flew by, and I received the news that I'd made it to the finals.

To celebrate, I invited Linda and a few colleagues over for dinner. While preparing the meal, the doorbell rang—Daniel Harrison stood outside.

Seeing me, he handed over a box. "I got these from a Michelin restaurant. All your favorites..."

"I've told you many times—I don't need it."

"Stop wasting your effort."

His smile turned bitter. "Lauren, is there anything I can do to earn your forgiveness?"

"I've moved on. You should too."

Daniel fell silent for a long moment. "Next month… it's Mom's death anniversary. Will you go?"

"Two years ago, I didn't make it. I regret that."

For a second, my mind flashed back to that phone call I'd made to him. He'd chosen to stay with Emily Carter and her mother, watching their pet give birth, instead of visiting Mom's grave on that day.

At least Mom still had me. Even in another world, I'd never forget to honor her.

This year, of course, I would go.

I shook my head. "Don't apologize to me. Save it for Mom."

Daniel muttered another "I'm sorry" before leaving, shoulders slumped.

Linda walked over and gently touched my shoulder. "Another admirer?"

"No. Just someone from the past."

Perhaps noticing my mood, she didn't press further, instead asking about the competition's next phase.

The moment the topic shifted, the gloom in my heart vanished. Soon, those unpleasant memories faded away.

On the day of the finals, I sat in the audience in a sleek black dress. Daniel, dressed in a tailored suit, was among the spectators. Vincent wasn't there.

When the host announced my name, the room fell silent for a heartbeat—then erupted in applause.

Under countless gazes, I rose and walked step by step onto the stage, finally claiming the glory that should have been mine two years ago.

I thanked my colleagues for their support, Linda for her guidance, and my mother in heaven.

Not a word about Daniel.

As I stepped down, he suddenly rushed over. "Lauren, Vincent was stabbed by Emily. Do you want to see him?"

"Is he dead?"

"No, but it's serious."

"I'm not a doctor. Seeing him won't help."

Daniel stood there, silent and despondent, for a long time.