Her Rise 297

In this chapter, Athena firmly refuses to go to the research institute arranged by Zaden because she distrusts Maya’s connections there and dislikes being constantly watched. She abruptly leaves the hotel room, leaving Zaden frustrated and unsure how to mend the situation. When he follows her, Athena coldly questions his presence, expressing her anger openly for the first time in their relationship, highlighting a growing rift between them that neither wants to face.

Athena’s need for space stems from past emotional scars and her instinct to withdraw when things get difficult, especially after recent tensions involving Lewis. Zaden, recognizing her upset, offers to book her a separate room next door to his in the hotel, hoping this compromise will give her the peace she needs while keeping them close. Though reluctant, Athena accepts, retreating quietly to her new room to cool off.

Zaden waits outside, troubled by their conflict and feeling helpless about how to fix things. He reflects on how Athena had previously moved out due to issues with Maya, and now they are arguing again over what seems like a small matter. Inside her room, Athena contemplates the day’s events, including her successful surgery simulation, which she had wanted to share with Zaden but now feels unable to.

Later that evening, after a long shower to relieve her stress, Athena receives a video call from Harriet. On the screen, she sees Teri’s joyful face, whose affectionate use of “Mommy” for Athena brings a moment of warmth and comfort amid the tension. This interaction hints at a source of emotional support for Athena as she focuses on herself and her goals despite the current strain in her relationship with Zaden.

Chapter 297: Cooling Off

“By the way,” Athena said, raising a skeptical eyebrow at Zaden, “I’m not going to that research institute you arranged. Maya has connections there, and I don’t like the idea of being watched all the time.”

With that curt remark, she turned and strode out of the hotel room, her footsteps echoing softly down the corridor.

Zaden stood frozen for a moment, frustration flickering across his eyes. He wasn’t sure how to fix this—he had clearly upset her again.

He quickly caught up to her, closing the distance between them.

Athena paused and shot him a cold glare. “Why are you following me?” she asked sharply.

“I’m just worried about you,” he replied gently, his voice low and sincere. “Please don’t be mad.”

“No,” she said bluntly, “I am mad.”

Since the day they first met, Athena had always admired Zaden’s calm and gentlemanly nature. They had never really argued before.

Even when Maya appeared and tensions rose, they only gave each other the silent treatment—never a real fight.

But now, something between them felt broken, as if a rift had opened that neither wanted to admit. If they didn’t address it, the same conflicts would keep resurfacing, wearing them down.

Maybe it was because of what had happened with Lewis.

Athena still carried the scars of past relationships. Whenever things got tough, her instinct was to pull away, to protect herself from getting hurt again.

Right now, she needed space—a quiet place to think clearly and figure out where they stood. That was why she wanted to stay alone in her hotel room for a while.

Zaden could see the genuine upset in her eyes.

He regretted the harsh words he’d said earlier, but it was too late to take them back.

For now, Athena needed time to cool off. No matter what he said, nothing would help until her anger subsided.

“All right,” Zaden said calmly, “if you want your own room, that’s fine. I’ll come with you. We’ll book it here—this hotel belongs to my company anyway.”

Athena had planned to stay closer to the research institute that Kate had recommended.

She hadn’t expected Zaden to be so insistent. Before she could refuse, he pulled out his phone and called the front desk.

She listened quietly as he spoke in a foreign language, giving swift instructions to open another room right next door to theirs.

By the time she realized what he was doing, it was too late to protest.

“Athena,” Zaden said, ending the call, “your room’s ready. It’s right next to mine. If you need anything, just knock.”

Athena was left speechless.

Arguing further seemed pointless. At least in her own room, she could find some peace and quiet.

“We’ll wait here,” Zaden added, standing beside her in the hallway.

Moments later, a hotel staff member approached briskly, holding two room cards. “Mr. Storm, here are your keys,” he said politely.

The employee recognized them as Mr. and Mrs. Storm.

They had checked in together before, but now there was a second room involved.

He couldn’t help but wonder silently if they’d had a fight.

But wisely, he kept his thoughts to himself, handed over the cards, and walked away.

Zaden pressed one card gently into Athena’s palm and said softly, “Go get some rest. If you need anything, just call me.”

Athena hesitated for a moment, then let out a long sigh and nodded.

Without another word, she stepped into her new room next door.

She swiped the card, pushed the door open, and once inside, quietly closed it behind her.

Out in the hallway, Zaden stood staring at the closed door, releasing a heavy sigh.

Things had become complicated once again.

Back in Vlephia, Athena had moved out to the hospital dormitory because of everything with Maya. And now, over something seemingly small, they were arguing again.

He rubbed the back of his neck, feeling helpless. How could he make things right with her this time?

Inside her room, Athena sat on the edge of the bed. The space was pristine—untouched, silent, and still.

Her face darkened as she reflected on what had just transpired. She didn’t think she was overreacting. She simply needed some space to calm down.

Earlier that day, her first surgery simulation had gone perfectly.

She had wanted to share the good news with Zaden, but now that felt impossible.

With a deep breath, she resolved to focus on herself. In this quiet room, away from distractions, she could keep practicing until she reached perfection.

Everything else could wait.

That night, Athena took a long, hot shower to wash away her fatigue and frustration.

Just as she was about to order dinner, her phone buzzed with an incoming video call. Harriet’s name flashed across the screen.

Without much thought, Athena answered.

A moment later, Teri’s bright, smiling face appeared on the screen.

“Mommy!” Teri’s cheerful voice filled the room with warmth.

Ever since she’d started calling Athena “Mother,” every word she spoke carried a special excitement, as if she truly believed Athena was her mom.

The tension between Athena and Zaden lingers palpably, underscoring the fragile balance of their relationship. Both are caught in a web of past wounds and present misunderstandings, each craving connection yet retreating into solitude. Athena’s need for space is not just about cooling off; it is a quiet assertion of her independence and self-care, a moment to gather strength before facing the complexities of love and trust again.

Despite the emotional distance, the chapter closes with a tender reminder of the bonds that still hold them together—through silent support and the warmth of family, symbolized by Teri’s innocent affection. It is in these small, heartfelt moments that hope quietly flickers, suggesting that healing and reconciliation, though uncertain, remain within reach.

Next chapter promises to delve deeper into the fragile dynamics between Athena and Zaden as they navigate the tension that has quietly settled between them. Their unspoken feelings and unresolved conflicts simmer beneath the surface, hinting at emotional challenges that could either draw them closer or push them further apart. The quiet moments of separation may reveal more about their vulnerabilities and the strength of their bond.

Meanwhile, Athena’s solitary time in her new room sets the stage for introspection and growth. Her dedication to perfecting her skills amidst personal turmoil highlights her resilience, but also raises questions about how her focus on work might affect her relationships. The unexpected video call from Harriet and Teri adds a tender touch, suggesting that family ties and affection will play a crucial role in the unfolding story, possibly bringing moments of warmth amid the tension.

Sara Lili

Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.