From Betrayal to Brilliance Her Rise to a New Life novel Chapter 334

**Title: Her Rise 334**
**Chapter 334: What If She’s the One?**

“Okay, okay! What’s got you so worked up, seriously…” Harriet remarked, her voice tinged with exasperation. She continued, “Honestly, that whole situation back then was just absurd. Maya left Zaden because she thought he didn’t measure up and ran off with some other guy. And she never looked back. It really did a number on Zaden.”

Athena’s gaze sharpened, her brow furrowing in disbelief. “She walked away just because he didn’t have enough money?”

It was hard to fathom. Zaden hailed from a respectable family, and even back then, before his current accolades, he was undeniably handsome—better looking than most of the guys around.

Could Maya really have mustered the courage to abandon him?

Or was there someone out there, perhaps richer and more charming, who made her feel that leaving was worth it?

Or… maybe Preston was right. Perhaps Maya felt she had no other choice.

Could Teri have been the reason behind it all?

The mere thought sent a wave of unease through Athena, tightening her chest.

Harriet caught the shift in Athena’s expression and added, “Yeah, that’s what the whispers said. Zaden never wanted to discuss it, though. Well, it’s been years now, and it’s not like he’s still pining for her. You’ve seen how he treats you lately, haven’t you? He’s clearly moved on. Just think about everything that’s transpired; he’s been in your corner every single time, completely ignoring Maya. That should tell you all you need to know.”

Yet, despite Harriet’s reassurances, Athena felt no sense of relief. Her worries lay elsewhere.

Her mind drifted to Teri’s mother. If Maya turned out to be Teri’s mom, the complications would be unbearable. Athena wouldn’t know how to face Teri again.

She had hoped that this lunch with Harriet would provide her with some clarity, perhaps a way to dismiss her troubling thoughts.

But instead, she felt even more unsettled.

While Harriet rambled on about the latest happenings, Athena sat there, her plate mostly untouched. She listened, but her mind was miles away, caught in a whirlwind of confusion and dread.

When Zaden’s name flashed on her phone, she hesitated. With a sigh, she declined the call and sent him a quick text, letting him know she was out with Harriet and that he didn’t need to fret.

His response came swiftly, “Okay. Just let me know when you’re done.”

It was clear he intended to pick her up afterward. Athena didn’t bother replying. Instead, she found herself staring blankly at her screen, lost in a sea of thoughts.

Harriet glanced over, concern etching her features.

What’s going on with Athena?

Anyone unaware of the situation would think she had just experienced a breakup.

Why was she suddenly so fixated on that ancient drama? It was a chapter long closed. Zaden had completely moved on from Maya.

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