Spring rain pattered against the penthouse windows as Ivy Shen prepared for the annual Shen Foundation gala. Tonight was her last formal duty before departing for Geneva's Meridian Institute—a prestigious invitation Dr. Gabriel Wren had extended after witnessing Ivy's research at the recital fundraiser. The gala hall glittered with crystal and silk; guests in tuxedos and gowns floated past, voices lilting about philanthropy and high society.
Ivy stood behind the lectern on stage, pale gown flowing like water, as she introduced the evening's honorees. Her heart pulsed beneath her ribs—fragile from surgery, yet fierce with purpose. Below her, Lucian watched from the front row, jaw clenched in polite attention.
“Tonight," Ivy began, voice steady, “we celebrate lives saved through organ dona
