A Journey from Bitterness to Truth

At that moment, Adrian and Mason were just settling down at a table opposite Matilda. As they looked up, their gazes collided with hers.

Matilda hadn’t expected to run into them here, and her expression instantly became guarded. She quickly pretended she hadn’t seen them and turned her attention back to discussing the menu with Chloe.

Chloe winked conspiratorially at Matilda. “Looks like your bad luck in love has followed you

here.”

Matilda let out a sigh. “Please, for the love of God, let’s drop it. I really don’t want to see them.”

Their words had drifted to Adrian and Mason, causing the men to stiffen.

Mason had been grounded by his mother for quite some time and had only recently regained his freedom. Unaware of Matilda’s latest tribulations, he was still brooding over some scandalous photos. Seeing Matilda’s nonchalant demeanor only intensified his sense of injustice. He felt duped, misled into believing Matilda was a good girl, but now she seemed

more enigmatic than ever.

Criss, meanwhile, was just being himself, leaning in and chatting casually with the two young women as if he were their older brother.

Adrian’s gaze lingered on Criss, prompting Mason to inquire softly. “Who’s that guy? Why does Matilda always seem to be surrounded by different men?”

Adrian’s voice was icy. “Mr. Criss.”

At the mention of the name, Mason showed a flicker of surprise. The infamous designer Criss? Why was he mingling with them?

Matilda was aware of the probing stares from the table across, but she was done living under their judgmental gaze as if she couldn’t survive without them. She’d had enough of that condescending attitude.

Who couldn’t live without whom, after all?

The trio ordered their meals and huddled over their phones. Chloe mentioned that Declan had recently invested in a mobile game still in beta, and she pulled out her phone. “Declan sent me a copy too. Wanna give it a try?”

“Oh? It’s a romance simulation game, huh?” Criss chimed in with his thoughts, “That’s unexpected. Declan investing in something like this doesn’t quite fit his style.”

Chloe chuckled. “As long as it makes money, right? Young girls these days love these romance sims. There are several male characters to pursue: a superstar, a domineering CEO, a politician’s son, a gentle doctor, and a university professor. And there are all sorts of scenarios: spiked drinks, masquerade balls, bar encounters – each one a dream for romantics. These games are like catnip for young girls.”

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“Sounds irresistible…” Matilda felt she was past the age of obsessing over virtual idols, but there were plenty of young girls who would be captivated. The game could be a massive hit.

“Now I want to play,” said Criss, visibly excited. “I’ll ask Declan if he can send me a copy. With all those handsome characters, I’ve got to try it out.”

“Can you tone it down a bit?” Matilda laughed lightly. “Games like this will definitely require in–app purchases to unlock the most thrilling and romantic scenarios.”

“Smart girl!” Chloe snapped her fingers. “You’re free right now, aren’t you? Why don’t you come help us with the design aspect? The heroine can change outfits, and we’re planning to release new items regularly. You could design a few looks.” This content provided by N(o)velDrama].[Org.

The casual banter and plans for the future seemed a world away from the tension at the other table, where Adrian and Mason sat, watching the scene unfolding with mixed feelings.