3. The Rise
By sunrise, Reynolds Engineering Solutions was on every news outlet. Reporters called her the woman rebuilding America. Government officials requested meetings. Her inbox exploded.
Michael didn’t call. He was busy getting engaged to Rebecca Liu, heiress to Liu Industries, whose family promised luxury and power.
Their engagement photos—Michael in a designer suit, Rebecca glowing beside him—filled business tabloids under headlines like “Tech Visionary to Marry Industry Heiress.”
Lauren ignored it. She was too busy saving her daughter—hiring top cardiologists, moving near the hospital, expanding her company to meet historic demand. For the first time in years, she slept without fear.
Then, one morning, a thick cream envelope arrived at her office. Gold lettering read:
“Rebecca Liu and Michael Reynolds request the honor of your presence…”
Her friend Rachel tore it in half. “You’re not going.”
Lauren’s voice was calm. “Yes, I am.”
“Why? To suffer?”
“No. To end it.”
