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Chapter 43
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2024-11-29 20:51:14Related chapters
A Game of Hearts Chapter 44
I studied the item Selena held out to me. It was a piece of amber, clear as glass, with a tiny cicada perfectly preserved inside.The memory hit me immediately. I had stumbled upon it by chance during a company retreat, deep in the heart of an untouched forest, buried under layers of leaves and dirt.The night I gave it to Selena, she'd been spending New Year's with me.After dinner, I handed it to her and said, "In some ways, this is a prison for the cicada, a place it can never escape. But cicadas only live for about eighty days, so maybe this amber also gave it a new kind of life—one that lasts forever."Almost jokingly, I had added, "Take it, Lena. Someday, if you really need to, you can trade it back to me for a wish."At that time, I knew that Jessica had been my prison in my earlier days. Giving Selena that amber had felt like a promise to start over.But reality had a way of shattering dreams.Looking at Selena now, I knew the truth. No matter how much I cared for her, n
Last Updated : 2024-11-29A Game of Hearts Chapter 45
The next day, Selena left the country. I stood at a distance in the airport, watching her plane taxi down the runway.As it took off, soaring higher and farther away, I whispered softly, "Lena, be happy. Be better. Be free."I turned to leave, only to find Jessica standing behind me. I didn't know how long she had been there."You clearly don't want her to go," she said, her voice steady but laced with confusion. "So, why let her?"I didn't meet her eyes. Instead, I looked back toward the sky where Selena's plane had disappeared."Because she deserves more. She shouldn't be held back by someone like me."Jessica looked momentarily dazed.After a moment, she murmured, "Seb, you really are… amazing."As she quietly looked at me, I caught a fleeting look of hope in her eyes. I smiled, but didn't respond to her wishes. Instead, another thought crept in, and I turned to her."Four years ago, you gave Timothy two hundred thousand dollars, didn't you?"Jessica blinked, startled. For
Last Updated : 2024-11-29A Game of Hearts Chapter 46
After Selena left, I found myself with a lot of free time on my hands. I started staying late at the office and pushing myself harder at the gym.One day, I overheard a new hire talking to a colleague about wanting to join the Ashenford Design Competition but feeling like he wasn't good enough yet. He seemed disappointed about it.As if sensing my interest, he turned to me. "Director Grant, I think you've got some serious design talent."I chuckled and replied, "Honestly, I've always been pretty interested in design."He grinned, leaning even closer. "Then, you should enter the Ashenford Design Competition!"Before I could say anything, he added, "If I had your talent and skills, I would've started my own design firm by now, instead of working nine-to-five for someone else."He gave a small laugh, as if it was obvious. "Every guy dreams of being a boss, right?"His words hit me harder than I expected.This guy, fresh out of university, was already thinking about stepping up and
Last Updated : 2024-11-29A Game of Hearts Chapter 47
Samuel was incredibly efficient—by the time the morning was over, everything was set up.I had a plan now. Regardless of whether I won the competition or not, I was determined to start my own design firm. To have more time to prepare, I handed in my resignation.I rented a small office across from Ashenford University to use as a temporary studio. After investing some of my savings into the necessary equipment, Samuel, his students, and I got to work.The students, full of energy and enthusiasm, dove right in without hesitation, and we made steady progress. A week later, we finally finished our project. At the same time, the day of the Ashenford Design Competition's bid presentation arrived.As I walked to the venue, I couldn't help but feel the weight of the competition. Aside from our team—just a group of unknown designers—the other participants were established, well-known firms in Ashenford.But there was something about the students' youthful confidence that gave me hope. The
Last Updated : 2024-11-29A Game of Hearts Chapter 48
Soon, it was my turn to present."Good morning, everyone. It's an honor to be here today at the Ashenford Design Competition organized by the government. I'd like to start by showing you the 3D model our team has put together."I gave a nod to the two team members who were with me on stage.One of them, Logan, clicked the remote, and the screen came to life with my design—a black and white, simple… ball? Inside it were images of Ashenford, but what was this supposed to be?There was a confused murmur amongst the crowd.I smiled and said, "I know this might look a little strange to some of you. Some might think it's a hot air balloon with pictures of Ashenford's scenery, circling the city every day and lowering different flags at various locations. Others might think it's a unique building that belongs on top of a tall building, a mountain, or even a tower."Or, some of you might think this is a massive ship, placed in the river, floating down the stream alongside beautiful bloomi
Last Updated : 2024-11-29A Game of Hearts Chapter 49
It wasn't surprising when we won the bid. The announcement felt like a natural progression, but it still left me buzzing with excitement.After the meeting, the CEO of Xeron Innovations, Luke Xeron, personally came to speak with me."I really admire your talent," he said, shaking my hand firmly. "I'd like to extend an offer for you to join my company as deputy CEO."I smiled politely and shook my head. "I appreciate the offer, but I have plans to start my own design firm."Luke's eyes brightened. "I respect that. You've got vision. To help you get started, I'd like to invest three million in your company."His offer was generous, and with his help, the funding for my design company was secured. But before I could focus on that, there was still one major project I needed to complete—working with the government to bring The Ashenford Eye to life.Once the project started, I spent every day at the construction site, and lunch was usually a quick sandwich grabbed between meetings.O
Last Updated : 2024-11-29A Game of Hearts Chapter 50
It had been over two years since I last saw James. He looked so different now—much thinner, his face pale and sallow. The energy he once had was completely gone. As we spoke, I discovered he was gravely ill with late-stage kidney failure.Maybe it's true what they say—when people were near the end, they spoke more openly and honestly.He looked at me and said, "Sebastian, back then, I was the one who tore you and Selena apart. Now, I'm about to die. I can't stop you anymore. Why don't you go to her?"I stared at him, my lips curling into a cold smile. "There's no need. Things between us were impossible for a long time."It had been two years. Selena had probably moved on. Since I made my choice back then, I shouldn't bother her anymore.He looked like he wanted to say more, but I cut him off before he could, saying, "To love someone, sometimes you just have to wish them the best and let them go. That's all."James took a deep breath. "I really want to apologize to you. I know I m
Last Updated : 2024-11-29A Game of Hearts Chapter 51
Just before boarding the plane, I was about to turn off my phone when I got a text message.The contact name was Lena.My hand trembled as I opened it, and there, in front of me, was a picture. I zoomed in—it was an invitation. Another message followed right after.Selena wrote: [Sebastian, I'm getting married. Here's the invite. If you're free, bring Jess and come.]I stood there stupidly, staring at the invitation.After what seemed like an eternity, I finally typed back: [Sure. I hope you'll have a lifetime of happiness.]Maybe by this point, the truth didn't matter anymore.-In the end, I attended Selena's wedding. I kept my distance, watching from afar.She looked stunning. Her wedding dress flowed out behind her, thirty feet of white silk embroidered with roses so lifelike, they almost seemed to bloom with every step she took. I remembered how she once told me that when she got married, she wanted to wear a dress covered in roses.She had made her dream come true.The
Last Updated : 2024-11-29
Latest chapter
A Game of Hearts Chapter 51
Just before boarding the plane, I was about to turn off my phone when I got a text message.The contact name was Lena.My hand trembled as I opened it, and there, in front of me, was a picture. I zoomed in—it was an invitation. Another message followed right after.Selena wrote: [Sebastian, I'm getting married. Here's the invite. If you're free, bring Jess and come.]I stood there stupidly, staring at the invitation.After what seemed like an eternity, I finally typed back: [Sure. I hope you'll have a lifetime of happiness.]Maybe by this point, the truth didn't matter anymore.-In the end, I attended Selena's wedding. I kept my distance, watching from afar.She looked stunning. Her wedding dress flowed out behind her, thirty feet of white silk embroidered with roses so lifelike, they almost seemed to bloom with every step she took. I remembered how she once told me that when she got married, she wanted to wear a dress covered in roses.She had made her dream come true.The
A Game of Hearts Chapter 50
It had been over two years since I last saw James. He looked so different now—much thinner, his face pale and sallow. The energy he once had was completely gone. As we spoke, I discovered he was gravely ill with late-stage kidney failure.Maybe it's true what they say—when people were near the end, they spoke more openly and honestly.He looked at me and said, "Sebastian, back then, I was the one who tore you and Selena apart. Now, I'm about to die. I can't stop you anymore. Why don't you go to her?"I stared at him, my lips curling into a cold smile. "There's no need. Things between us were impossible for a long time."It had been two years. Selena had probably moved on. Since I made my choice back then, I shouldn't bother her anymore.He looked like he wanted to say more, but I cut him off before he could, saying, "To love someone, sometimes you just have to wish them the best and let them go. That's all."James took a deep breath. "I really want to apologize to you. I know I m
A Game of Hearts Chapter 49
It wasn't surprising when we won the bid. The announcement felt like a natural progression, but it still left me buzzing with excitement.After the meeting, the CEO of Xeron Innovations, Luke Xeron, personally came to speak with me."I really admire your talent," he said, shaking my hand firmly. "I'd like to extend an offer for you to join my company as deputy CEO."I smiled politely and shook my head. "I appreciate the offer, but I have plans to start my own design firm."Luke's eyes brightened. "I respect that. You've got vision. To help you get started, I'd like to invest three million in your company."His offer was generous, and with his help, the funding for my design company was secured. But before I could focus on that, there was still one major project I needed to complete—working with the government to bring The Ashenford Eye to life.Once the project started, I spent every day at the construction site, and lunch was usually a quick sandwich grabbed between meetings.O
A Game of Hearts Chapter 48
Soon, it was my turn to present."Good morning, everyone. It's an honor to be here today at the Ashenford Design Competition organized by the government. I'd like to start by showing you the 3D model our team has put together."I gave a nod to the two team members who were with me on stage.One of them, Logan, clicked the remote, and the screen came to life with my design—a black and white, simple… ball? Inside it were images of Ashenford, but what was this supposed to be?There was a confused murmur amongst the crowd.I smiled and said, "I know this might look a little strange to some of you. Some might think it's a hot air balloon with pictures of Ashenford's scenery, circling the city every day and lowering different flags at various locations. Others might think it's a unique building that belongs on top of a tall building, a mountain, or even a tower."Or, some of you might think this is a massive ship, placed in the river, floating down the stream alongside beautiful bloomi
A Game of Hearts Chapter 47
Samuel was incredibly efficient—by the time the morning was over, everything was set up.I had a plan now. Regardless of whether I won the competition or not, I was determined to start my own design firm. To have more time to prepare, I handed in my resignation.I rented a small office across from Ashenford University to use as a temporary studio. After investing some of my savings into the necessary equipment, Samuel, his students, and I got to work.The students, full of energy and enthusiasm, dove right in without hesitation, and we made steady progress. A week later, we finally finished our project. At the same time, the day of the Ashenford Design Competition's bid presentation arrived.As I walked to the venue, I couldn't help but feel the weight of the competition. Aside from our team—just a group of unknown designers—the other participants were established, well-known firms in Ashenford.But there was something about the students' youthful confidence that gave me hope. The
A Game of Hearts Chapter 46
After Selena left, I found myself with a lot of free time on my hands. I started staying late at the office and pushing myself harder at the gym.One day, I overheard a new hire talking to a colleague about wanting to join the Ashenford Design Competition but feeling like he wasn't good enough yet. He seemed disappointed about it.As if sensing my interest, he turned to me. "Director Grant, I think you've got some serious design talent."I chuckled and replied, "Honestly, I've always been pretty interested in design."He grinned, leaning even closer. "Then, you should enter the Ashenford Design Competition!"Before I could say anything, he added, "If I had your talent and skills, I would've started my own design firm by now, instead of working nine-to-five for someone else."He gave a small laugh, as if it was obvious. "Every guy dreams of being a boss, right?"His words hit me harder than I expected.This guy, fresh out of university, was already thinking about stepping up and
A Game of Hearts Chapter 45
The next day, Selena left the country. I stood at a distance in the airport, watching her plane taxi down the runway.As it took off, soaring higher and farther away, I whispered softly, "Lena, be happy. Be better. Be free."I turned to leave, only to find Jessica standing behind me. I didn't know how long she had been there."You clearly don't want her to go," she said, her voice steady but laced with confusion. "So, why let her?"I didn't meet her eyes. Instead, I looked back toward the sky where Selena's plane had disappeared."Because she deserves more. She shouldn't be held back by someone like me."Jessica looked momentarily dazed.After a moment, she murmured, "Seb, you really are… amazing."As she quietly looked at me, I caught a fleeting look of hope in her eyes. I smiled, but didn't respond to her wishes. Instead, another thought crept in, and I turned to her."Four years ago, you gave Timothy two hundred thousand dollars, didn't you?"Jessica blinked, startled. For
A Game of Hearts Chapter 44
I studied the item Selena held out to me. It was a piece of amber, clear as glass, with a tiny cicada perfectly preserved inside.The memory hit me immediately. I had stumbled upon it by chance during a company retreat, deep in the heart of an untouched forest, buried under layers of leaves and dirt.The night I gave it to Selena, she'd been spending New Year's with me.After dinner, I handed it to her and said, "In some ways, this is a prison for the cicada, a place it can never escape. But cicadas only live for about eighty days, so maybe this amber also gave it a new kind of life—one that lasts forever."Almost jokingly, I had added, "Take it, Lena. Someday, if you really need to, you can trade it back to me for a wish."At that time, I knew that Jessica had been my prison in my earlier days. Giving Selena that amber had felt like a promise to start over.But reality had a way of shattering dreams.Looking at Selena now, I knew the truth. No matter how much I cared for her, n
A Game of Hearts Chapter 43
To completely sever Selena's lingering hopes, I moved away. I also deliberately avoided any chance of running into her. During that time, Jessica called me frequently and even came to see me a few times. But I turned her away every time.I knew clearly where my heart lay—I loved Selena, deeply.Turning her down wasn't because I still had unresolved feelings for Jessica. It was because I wanted Selena to be free to chase her dreams without hesitation.At one point, I had considered going abroad with her, supporting her as she pursued her goals.But there was always James.He had made it clear—if I didn't let go, he would continue to threaten Selena.With my current abilities, I couldn't stand against James. Besides, he promised me that he would arrange for Christopher to receive the best medical treatment overseas. After making another call to James to confirm the arrangements, I got the news the next morning. Christopher had already left the country, accompanied by medical profes
