---- Chapter 7 I didn't wait for Lucien. The photography summit was held as scheduled the following week, and I went with Cody. Photographers from all over the world gathered at the event, showcasing their work and sharing their insights. I saw sunrises atop snow-capped mountains, stars stretching endlessly over desert skies, and mysterious glimpses of the deep-sea world. Every image was bursting with life and story. I was deeply moved. "How is it? Is it worth the trip?" Cody leaned in and asked softly. Inodded. "It's incredible. I never realized the world held so many beautiful moments." "Exactly." He smiled. "That's the magic of photography. It allows us to capture beauty before it slips away." We exchanged a glance and smiled, our hearts full of passion for photography and a quiet yearning for the ---- life it promised. After the summit, we headed back together. "Today was amazing," I couldn't help but say aloud. "Yeah." Cody looked at me gently. "I'm glad you enjoyed it." "Mia, you have real talent," he added, his voice sincere. "Your work... It's gentle yet resilient. It made me feel something real." I looked down, a little embarrassed. "Thank you. That means a lot." "T believe in you," he said, voice steady and eyes full of encouragement. "You're only going to get better." I looked up, right into his eyes, and for a moment, I could see a future full of possibilities. Just then, I saw someone familiar standing outside my front door. It was Lucien. He looked exhausted, but his eyes were filled with longing and hope. The moment he saw me walking with Cody, his ---- expression darkened instantly. However, he quickly forced himself to stay calm, feigning composure. "Mia... you're back," he said, trying to force a smile. " Did you have fun today?" I didn't answer. Instead, I looked at him and asked, " How's Summer? You told me she tried to take her own life. Was that true?" His face fell, and he stuttered, "S-She's fine. She didn't actually try anything. When I got back, I found out it was all pretend. She drank fake wolfsbane to trick me into returning." As he spoke, he reached out to grab my hand. "But listen, it's over. I sent her away. She won't bother us again. Mia, I was wrong. Please, forgive me." I looked at him, but there was no emotion left in my chest. "Lucien," I said quietly, "I'm done with you. I'm not going back." Lucien went pale, and his voice rose in disbelief. " Discover our latest featured short drama reel. Watch now and enjoy the story!