Chapter 2

My grandfather was the reclusive billionaire chairman of Vance Hospitality Group, the largest culinary empire in the country.

When I first met Julian, he complained endlessly about how much he despised spoiled, lazy trust-fund babies. So, I hid who I really was.

For him, I rejected my gilded destiny. I abandoned my wealth, walked away from my family, and ran off with him.

For him, an heiress with a fortune at her fingertips willingly became an ordinary line cook.

Only now did I realize how pathetic my so-called love had been.

After hanging up, I went back to the apartment I shared with Julian to pack my things.

On our bed lay rose petals, scented candles, a custom bridal gown, the deed to a luxury penthouse I bought for him, and a sparkling diamond ring.

I had imagined a thousand times how overjoyed he would be when I finally surprised him with all of this.

Now, I swept everything into my suitcase, ready to walk out for good.

Opening Instagram, I saw a new post from Chloe.

In the photo, a flushed Julian wrapped his arms tightly around Chloe, who curled up against his chest like a pampered kitten.

Even though I had already decided to let go, my chest still tightened with a sharp ache.

Chloe’s caption read: *Thank you all for the love and blessings!*

The old me would have exploded with rage, spamming Julian's phone in a jealous fit.

Not anymore.

I blocked both Julian and Chloe on every platform. I never wanted to see either of them again.

Moments later, Julian's call came through on my regular line.

His voice barked through the speaker, trembling with fury: "What is your problem, Scarlett?! You blocked me?! Just because I gave Chloe the shares? You're completely talentless, and now you have the nerve to be jealous?!"

My grip on the phone tightened. "Am I really talentless, Julian? Do you honestly believe that?"

He hesitated for a second, then his voice grew even louder and nastier.

"You dare talk back to me?! Scarlett, you’re getting way too big for your boots! You think knowing how to cook a few dishes makes you special? You don't even hold a candle to Chloe!"

"I've never tried to compete with her," I said coldly, enunciating every syllable. "Because she isn't even in my league."

I hung up before he could respond. He called back repeatedly, but I ignored every single ring.

When he realized I wasn't answering, the texts started rolling in.

*Hang up on me again and see what happens! Who do you think you are? You think The Grand Mirage can't survive without you? If Chloe hadn't hyped you up, your garbage food would be an embarrassment.*

*Get your ass over here right now and apologize to Chloe! If you beg, I might let you drive me home. Otherwise, you can kiss any chance of marrying me goodbye!*

A cold sneer formed on my lips. I wasn't about to waste another second on him.

I powered off my phone and went to sleep.