Chapter 55

Enlyan scoffed bitterly, but tears prickled at the corners of her eyes. The realization hit her hard—loving him had always been a losing battle. She had loved him with everything she had, yet he had never once looked at her the same way. Even if he was good to her now, it was only because of her status and what she could offer him professionally. Men like Daimon were practical and realistic—love had nothing to do with it. A bitter laugh escaped her lips as she wiped away her tears, forcing herself to regain her composure. She whispered to herself, "Never again." Enlyan wiped the tears from her cheeks and picked up her phone, turning it back on. The screen lit up, and she hesitated for a moment before dialing Austin’s number. He answered almost immediately. “Iris, did he give you a hard time?” Austin’s voice was tense with concern. “No,” Enlyan replied softly, trying to keep her voice steady. “To him, I’m just a stranger now.” Austin let out a sigh of relief, a faint smile in his tone.