“Really?” I was somewhat surprised, and also felt a surge of pride. I hadn’t expected them to actually turn this seemingly ridiculous business into something successful while I was dealing with memory loss. 

“Yes, so we brought you one of our masterpieces. Itis nodded. ‘And we estimate you’ll receive quite a substantial dividend this quarter.” 

I didn’t need the money, but I still felt warmth in my chest, grateful for having such friends. 

“Oh, one more thing,” Sophia said. “Graves asked me to congratulate you on recovering your memory. He said he’s surprised you haven’t killed Sebastian yet. 

I deliberately ignored the latter part, asking curiously: “How are things with you two lately?” 

“Same as usual.” Sophia shrugged. ‘Except that guy is always being all mysterious. He said he was going to investigate something important and left the 

state.” 

I nodded, already used to Graves’s habit of appearing and disappearing without warning. 

As more guests arrived, we found a relatively quiet corner to continue our conversation. 

“So, Iris cut straight to the point with her usual directness, “how are you feeling? I mean, after getting your memory back.” 

I picked up a drink from a passing waiter and took a sip. The taste was a bit strange, but I attributed it to my nerves affecting my taste buds. “Like… suddenly being crushed by the weight of those years of life.” 

“I can imagine that feeling.” Iris studied my expression carefully. “What about Sebastian? What’s the situation between you two now?” 

“It’s complicated.” 

Iris nodded understandingly. “Want to talk about it? Sometimes an outsider’s perspective can be helpful.” 

I took a deep breath and began opening up to them, telling them everything. Except for the wolf and mate bond parts, of course. 

“You know what I think?” After listening to my account, Iris said, “I think you’re scared.” 

‘Of course I’m scared. Wouldn’t you be?” 

‘I mean you’re afraid of making the wrong choice again.” She leaned forward, her voice becoming serious. “Thea, think about it. Seven years ago you chose to pursue Sebastian. That marriage was painful, yes, but it also gave you Leo. Do you really regret it?” 

My answer never changed. “I don’t regret having Leo.” 

“Exactly.” Sophia smiled. “Maybe the real question isn’t whether Sebastian deserves another chance, but whether you have the courage to give yourself a chance at happiness.” 

Her words hit harder than I’d expected. Diana had said something similar before. So was I letting fear make my decisions? Fear of getting hurt again, fear of disappointment, fear of things not working out? 

“Besides,” Sophia added gently, “even so–called ‘wrong‘ choices can bring unexpected rewards. You’re not that naive girl from seven years ago anymore. You have the ability to handle whatever comes and start over.” 

Just as we were getting deep into conversation, I saw Margaret and Roman approaching. Iris and Sophia nodded at me and drifted away, giving us space. Honestly, I wasn’t sure what attitude I should take with them now, but I told myself to keep an open mind. 

“You look beautiful tonight, Thea. Margaret’s gaze lingered, a little too earnest. 

“Thank you.” I nodded. 

Chapter 306 

Roman looked a bit uncomfortable. He cleared his throat, hope in his eyes. “Thea, we wanted to thank you first… thank you for helping prove Altrora s Innocence. Without your persistence, she might have…” 

My heart sank. Of course, even now, when they were approaching me, they were thinking of Aurora first. They came here not for me, but out of gratitude for helping the person they actually cared about. 

“Don’t mention it,‘ I interrupted, my voice turning distant. “I didn’t do it for you.” 

“Thea, I know we’ve been…” Roman tried to continue, but my mood had already shifted. 

Please enjoy tonight’s event if you’d like,” I said politely, not looking at the disappointment in their eyes, then turned and walked away. 

I continued greeting other guests, but the tension was gradually building. I drank more of my beverage, but it didn’t help at all if anything, I was starting to feel a bit dizzy. 

“It’s almost time,” Diana reminded me in my mind. 

*Ladies and gentlemen,” Dad’s voice carried through the sound system across the entire forest, ‘please gather at the center of the dance floor. We have something important to announce. 

My heart began pounding wildly. The crucial moment had finally arrived. 

I looked around, watching all the guests move toward the center of the dance floor. Moonlight illuminated the entire forest, making everyone’s silhouettes clearly visible. 

I spotted Sebastian, even Jaxon and Wyatt – all the people connected to my life were gathering there. But strangely, I didn’t see Aurora anywhere. Ever since the police station, I’d been wanting to find a chance to talk with her privately, but there hadn’t been a suitable opportunity. Where was she? 

The question flickered through my mind, but was quickly overwhelmed by nervousness. 

“Are you ready?” Diana asked. 

“No,” I answered honestly, “but I don’t think I’ll ever be completely ready.” 

I took a deep breath and followed the crowd toward the center of the dance floor. For better or worse, my life was about to turn a completely new page. 

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