Stars Waited Above Empty Streets by Lorin Wren 153

The Five Powerhouses Who Match the Unwilling Bride 

Chapter 153 A Promise Made 

Finished 

“If this is limited to routine research, I’m fine with it. But the moment it touches on core vulnerabilities or anything that could become my fatal weak spot, I’m walking away.” Ava held Ysabel’s gaze as she stated her conditions clearly. 

Ysabel studied the girl’s composed, practical demeanor–and how she cut straight to the heart of the matter. 

She mused, Smart kid. No wonder Dylan and Elena are willing to cash in long–standing family favors with Theodore for her sake. 

A flicker of jealousy surfaced when Ysabel realized just how fortunate Dylan and Elena were to gain a daughter–in–law like Ava. And not only the Brock family–the Holcomb family, the Caswell family, the Heiser family–every one of those lucky families. Meanwhile, her own child was still just a kid: her eldest. Lucius Jones, was only three. 

Ysabel abruptly shut down the thought before envy showed on her face. Whatever. The opportunity was already right in front of her. As Ava’s mentor’s wife, the role she and her husband played was as much parental as it was instructional. 

The more she dwelled on it, the more excited she became–too excited. She reined herself in, cleared her throat, and said, “Of course, Ava. I would never hurt you under any circumstances. If I ever violated that promise, I’d sooner end my own life than betray you.” 

Ava froze. “Ms. Severn, please don’t say things like that. That’s not what I meant. I know you’re not someone who would do that.” 

Ysabel chuckled softly. “You should start getting used to a different way of addressing me. I’ll head back and prepare with Theodore–we’ll be waiting for your visit. From now on, just call me Mrs. Jones.” 

Ava laughed despite herself. “After my coming–of–age party, I’ll pay my respects in person.” 

Ysabel smiled broadly. “I’ll be looking forward to it.” 

Jonathan spoke with Ysabel a while longer before asking his daughter Margaret to keep her company. The two had never interacted before, but since the Morren family hoped to strengthen ties, Ysabel saw no reason to decline. Though decades separated them, one was a seasoned social strategist who could spark any topic, while the other flowed easily with the conversation. They bonded instantly, like old friends regretting lost time. 

Observing Margaret’s effortless social mastery, Ava was quietly amazed. Experience really did make a difference. Compared to her, Jane was still far too inexperienced. Watching the animated exchange between Margaret and Ysabel, Ava felt energized–her thoughts sharpening along with her gaze. 

Margaret checked the time and blinked. It was already past eleven, unnoticed. She smiled warmly. “We completely lost track of time. Talking with you has been wonderful, Ms. Severn. I’m already looking forward to next time.” 

Ysabel laughed. “You’re older than me, but I’ll take the liberty of calling you Margaret. I’m honored to know you. It’s getting late, so I won’t keep you any longer. Next time, dinner’s on me.” 

They exchanged Holoband contacts, and Margaret escorted Ysabel out alongside Ava, only turning back once the hovercar had lifted into the air. 

16:51 Thu, Jan 15 G MI 

Chapter 153 A Promise Made 

Finished 

The hall was nearly empty now, with only a few guests lingering to say their final farewells. Margaret squeezed Ava’s hand lightly. “Go on. You left your matches waiting all evening. Don’t keep them hanging.” 

Ava glanced over and, under Margaret’s playful stare, felt warmth creep into her cheeks. 

The room they entered felt stark and overly silent, making the handful of people inside seem even more isolated. 

Ava rarely felt remorse, but tonight she did–just a little. “Sorry. I kind of ditched you all night.” 

“Everything settled? Did it go well?” Ethan asked. 

Ava nodded. “Yeah. Once the date is set, I’ll make a formal visit to pay my respects. Ms. Severn said my wood elemental power is different from others! She wants to study it, and I agreed.” 

She studied their expressions before adding, “She promised my safety comes first. And that it’ll stay confidential.” 

Seeing her cautious look–like a child bracing for a lecture–Ethan smiled. “Ms. Severn lives and breathes science. Her reputation speaks for itself. She knows exactly what lines not to cross. You agreed, so that’s final. We’re behind you.” 

Ava exhaled quietly. It had been her decision, but she told them now to avoid misunderstandings later. 

Ryan had been barely containing himself all night. The moment his brother finished speaking, he jumped in. “Well, Ava–you said you’d come visit us. When?” 

She hadn’t expected that level of enthusiasm. Pressing her lips together, she thought for a moment before answering gently, “Give me a couple of days. Tomorrow I’m taking Granny Yara to visit my grandpa’s grave. I’ll let you know ahead of time, alright?“. 

The simmering excitement Ryan had been holding onto instantly burst free. He ran a hand through his hair, unable to hide his grin. “Deal!“. 

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