Simon was practically on fire with frustration, itching to reveal Dn''s true colors. But his resolve fizzled out when his family called, reminding him about Quinn''s wedding dress fitting. The gown had been rushed in from overseas. It was flown in overnight, and everything else was set. The whole city knew he was marrying Quinn.


    As ra''s car disappeared into the distance, a brief scowl crossed Simon''s face. From a young age, Dn had always been the one he feared and despised most. The idea of ra ending up with his worst enemy was unbearable.


    ra had changed; she was dazzling now. Simon regretted spending years belittling her and missing her brilliance. Now, the fear of losing her was suffocating.


    ra and Dn couldn''t be together. If Dn wanted to pursue her, he''d better stay in the shadows because ra hadn''t caught on to his intentions yet.


    On her way home, ra got a message from Dn.


    Dn: [Any progress?]


    She remembered bragging about her confidence before meeting the director, Calix, but ended up too intimidated to speak. Her main task now was to figure out who Hugh was and what he had to do with her-it was key for her project.


    Before she could start digging, Johnny called. "Are you noting home tonight either?"


    ra was about to remind him she''d cut ties with the Bradfords, but he added, "Today''s my fifty-ninth birthday."


    Those simple words unexpectedly tugged at her heartstrings. She suddenly had a hard time choosing her reply.


    "ra, at leaste home for my birthday. We''ve got a meal prepared."


    She couldn''t bring herself to refuse, a pang of guilt sweeping over her as she replied with a quiet "okay."


    ra arrived at the Bradford''s. She hadn''t even reached the door when she heard Quinn''s voice. "Isn''t she here yet? Did something happen on the way?"


    Her voice was all concern, as if she truly worried about ra.


    ra felt a wave of nausea; if Quinn ever took up acting, she''d win an Oscar for sure. At the entrance, ra changed her shoes, her voice t. "I''m back." She ced the gift she''d bought on a cab, not expecting anyone to notice.


    Ryan spotted her and rushed over eagerly. "ra, you''re finally here. You''re staying over tonight, right? I found a great two-yer game we can try."


    As he spoke, he leaned in with a conspiratorial grin. "Remember I said I''d make it up to you? I know you''ve been through a lot, so I sold my beloved sports car and got you a purse."


    He was clearly proud, keeping an eye on ra''s reaction. A warmth spread through her, and she ruffled his hair affectionately. "How much was the purse?"


    Her question made Ryan snort. Still, he was pleased that ra epted the gift. "Over two million. They said it''s a limited edition or something. I''ll sneak it to youter, so Quinn doesn''t get upset."