Aria POV
The invitation lay on my desk for three days.
I read it countless times, hoping the words would somehow change.
Country E International Fashion Expo
Selected Designer: Monroe Atelier
Venue: Capital Convention Center
My fingers tightened around the letter.
The capital.
The one place I had spent five years avoiding.
Margaret knocked gently before entering my office.
"You've been staring at that invitation all morning."
I sighed.
"I don't know if I'm ready."
She sat across from me.
"Ready to grow your business... or ready to face your past?"
I lowered my eyes.
"Both."
Margaret smiled kindly.
"Aria, you've worked too hard to let fear stop you now."
"I know."
"No."
She shook her head.
"I don't think you do."
She reached across the desk and placed her hand over mi
