Chapter 2

Elara's POV

Over the next few days, Lucas didn't come home. I calmly contacted relatives and friends, taking back all the invitations I'd sent.

My friends were shocked. "Why the sudden cancellation? Haven't you two always had a good relationship?"

My tone was flat. "I'm getting a new groom."

No one took it seriously, after all, everyone knew how shamelessly I loved Lucas.

Three days later, Lucas finally came back.

His eyes showed exhaustion, his shirt was wrinkled, and seeing me in the living room, he said casually, "Serena's grandfather passed away last night. She's emotionally devastated. I need to stay with her these next few days. As for the wedding, let's talk about it later."

He thought I would make a scene and had already prepared his excuses.

However, I just nodded lightly. "Got it."

Lucas froze slightly but didn't continue asking. He turned and went into the bathroom.

After washing up, he changed into clean clothes and said to me, "Serena is very vulnerable right now. I'll take you to see her, and you can comfort her."

Looking at Lucas, I found it laughable. But I didn't refuse. I wanted to see what other disgusting things they could do.

When we arrived at the Ashford villa, as soon as we entered, I heard a delicate sob.

"Lucas..."

Wearing a plain white dress, Serena flew like a bird straight into Lucas's arms.

Lucas immediately reached out to catch her steadily, his movements practiced as if he'd done it many times. He coaxed her softly, his eyes showing gentleness and patience I'd never received.

"Don't cry. I'm here with you."

I stood to the side, watching this tender scene with cold eyes. My heart was surprisingly calm. I guess when a heart is truly dead, even jealousy has nowhere to live.

Serena finally seemed to notice me. She pulled away from Lucas's arms and apologized, her eyes red-rimmed.

"I'm sorry, Elara. I was so upset. I couldn't help it. Please don't blame Lucas."

"It's fine." My tone was completely flat. "You two continue."

Lucas frowned, somewhat dissatisfied with my cold attitude. "Elara, can you show some compassion? Serena just lost a relative."

I couldn't be bothered to respond and turned to sit on a nearby sofa.

For the next two hours, Lucas stayed by Serena's side. I was like a ghost, quietly watching their performance.

It wasn't until Serena's emotions stabilized that Lucas walked over to me, his tone carrying an unquestionable command. "Elara, there's one more thing I need to tell you. Hand over the Starlight project at the company to Serena."

I jerked my head up, my eyes finally showing emotion.

The Starlight project was a core project I'd pulled countless all-nighters for and attended countless business dinners to secure. Lucas had promised that once the project landed, I would become the company's design director.

"Why?" I asked coldly.

"Serena's in a terrible state right now. She needs a project with a sense of achievement to distract her and rebuild her confidence. You're capable and will have more opportunities later, but Serena needs this now." Lucas spoke naturally.

I laughed bitterly. "To rebuild her confidence, you're going to take away my achievements? Lucas, what do you think the company is? What do you think my hard work is?"

"Elara, stop making a scene!" Lucas's face darkened. "It's just one project. Do you really need to be so petty about it? I'm the company president. I've already decided this."

Looking at his cold face, my heart completely died.

"Fine." I stood up, my gaze as calm as stagnant water. "I'll give her not just the project, but my job too."

Lucas froze. "What do you mean?"

"I resign." I dropped this sentence and walked out of the Ashford house without looking back.

Lucas didn't chase after me. He probably thought I was just angry.

However, he didn't know that this time, I truly didn't want him anymore.