---- Chapter 17 The regional design awards ceremony was a glittering affair. Olivia wore a simple, elegant dark blue dress. Ben was by her side, looking proud. Carter Creative Designs won. Olivia stood on the stage, accepting the award, thanking her team, her clients. She felt a warmth spread through her, a genuine sense of accomplishment. This was hers. She had built this. No lies, no manipulation. Just hard work and talent. After the ceremony, as they were celebrating with champagne, Maya pulled Olivia aside. "Guess who's back in the news?" Maya said, holding up her phone. A picture of Chloe Vance, in a wheelchair, giving an interview. The headline: *"Chloe Vance: My Life After Tragedy. Finding Strength, Seeking Justice."* "She's reinventing herself," Maya said, a note of grudging admiration in her voice. "The tragic survivor. She's even talking about starting a foundation for victims of reckless driving." Olivia looked at the picture. Chloe's eyes were different. Harder. But there was a new determination there too. "Good for her," Olivia said, and she meant it. ---- Everyone deserved a chance to redefine themselves, to find a new path Chloe was doing it publicly, under the glare of the media. Olivia had done it quietly, in the rain-soaked streets of Portland. Different paths, but the same journey, in a way. The journey away from Ethan Reed's destructive orbit. Later that week, Olivia received a certified letter. From a law firm in New York. Her heart gave a little jump, a throwback to old anxieties. It was from the lawyers handling Ethan's estate. Asmall, almost negligible sum was being disbursed to "known associates" after the settlement of major debts. Apparently, an old joint account she'd had with Ethan, long forgotten and with a tiny balance, made her technically eligible for a pittance. The letter asked if she wished to claim it. Olivia stared at the paper. Money from Ethan. Blood money, in a way. She picked up a pen, checked the box: "| waive any and all claims." She signed it "Olivia Carter," sealed the envelope, and mailed it back the same day. 5 She didn't want his money. She didn't want anything from that life. She was free. And that was worth more than any inheritance. In "A Relationship Kept in The Dark" by CrushReel, the storyline unfolds as renowned photographer Jane finds herself drawn to the charismatic rookie model, Hector. Little does she know that Hector harbors a secret—he is actually the heir to a powerful business empire. As their romance blossoms, Hector grapples with concealing his true identity to capture Jane's heart. However, their love story takes a tumultuous turn when jealousy rears its ugly head, threatening to unravel the delicate balance they've built. This modern romance novel delves into themes of hidden identities, unexpected love, and the complexities of maintaining a relationship shrouded in secrecy. With its blend of sweet romance and suspenseful twists, "A Relationship Kept in The Dark" stands out for its exploration of hidden feelings and the consequences of revealing long-held secrets. For readers seeking a captivating tale that combines elements of romance, intrigue, and emotional depth, this ongoing story is available to read at CrushReel. Immerse yourself in the world of Jane and Hector as their journey unfolds against the backdrop of hidden truths and heartfelt revelations.