Her Rise 334

In Chapter 334 of “Her Rise,” titled “What If She’s the One?”, the story delves into the emotional turmoil faced by Athena as she grapples with her feelings about Zaden and the ghost of his past relationship with Maya. Harriet, a friend, expresses her frustration over Maya’s decision to leave Zaden for someone wealthier, which leaves Athena in disbelief. The conversation highlights Zaden’s past heartache and his current feelings for Athena, but Athena is plagued with insecurity and the possibility that Maya could be connected to Teri, complicating her relationship further.

As the lunch progresses, Athena’s mind is consumed with worries, particularly about Teri’s mother potentially being Maya. Despite Harriet’s attempts to reassure her that Zaden has moved on and cares for her, Athena feels unsettled and distracted, barely touching her food. When Zaden reaches out, she hesitates to respond, indicating her internal conflict and growing distance from him. This moment underscores her emotional struggle, as she feels a mix of confusion and dread about their relationship.

After their lunch, Harriet messages Zaden, expressing concern for Athena and urging him to pay more attention to her. This revelation hits Zaden hard when he realizes he has been neglectful, reflecting on how little he has checked in on Athena while she has been busy with work. Guilt washes over him as he recognizes that Athena has been struggling, especially after a setback with her article being pulled from a journal.

When Zaden finally connects with Athena, he senses her anger and distance. Despite his attempts to reach out and soothe her, she coldly informs him that she will not be coming home, leaving Zaden stunned and regretful. The chapter concludes with Zaden’s realization of the seriousness of the situation, highlighting the emotional stakes between him and Athena, as well as the misunderstandings that have driven a wedge between them.

**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.

Maybe it was just a lack of security that was gnawing at her.

Once dinner concluded, Harriet and Athena parted ways. As she walked away, Harriet couldn’t resist sending Zaden a message, urging him to take better care of Athena and to stop burying himself in work all the time. She even mentioned that Athena had confided in her, expressing frustration over his absence in her life lately.

Zaden was at home in his villa when the notification pinged. He stared at his phone, momentarily frozen.

Athena had been complaining about me not being around?

He racked his brain, recalling the past few days. Athena had been swamped with her hospital patients, and their conversations had dwindled to almost nothing.

And he hadn’t checked in on her even once.

Today, her patient had finally been discharged, so she should have had more time on her hands. Moreover, he had just learned that the journal had pulled Athena’s article about the surgery—something that must have hit her hard, and he hadn’t even offered her any comfort.

Guilt washed over him like a tidal wave.

He quickly dialed her number. The phone rang endlessly, but she didn’t answer.

In that moment, Zaden realized just how upset she truly was, and a heavy sense of regret settled in his chest. He silently cursed himself for being so oblivious.

But now that she was clearly in a mood, he felt there was little he could do except try to make amends.

He called again. This time, Athena finally picked up. Zaden lowered his voice, trying to keep the tone gentle. “Why didn’t you answer earlier?”

“I was busy.”

“Did you finish dinner with Harriet? I’ll come pick you up, okay?” he suggested, hoping to soothe the tension.

But Athena’s response was cool and distant. “It’s late. I’m staying at the hospital dorm tonight. I’m not coming home.”

Zaden glanced at his watch; it was only ten.

Late? Hardly.

That excuse felt weak and was clearly intentional. She was upset with him.

He let out a quiet sigh, chastising himself for his lack of awareness.

Just as he prepared to apologize, the call abruptly ended.

The cold, mechanical tone of the disconnected call reverberated in his ear. Zaden sat there, stunned and bewildered.

She was genuinely, truly angry.

In the aftermath of the emotional turmoil that engulfed both Athena and Zaden, it became evident that their relationship was at a pivotal crossroads. Athena’s insecurities, fueled by her fears of the past and the potential connection between Zaden and Maya, had created a chasm between them. Despite Zaden’s unwavering support and affection, Athena’s internal struggles overshadowed the love that blossomed between them. As she chose to distance herself from him, seeking solace in the hospital dormitory, it was clear that the unresolved tension had taken a toll on her heart. Zaden, in his moment of realization, felt the weight of his negligence; the guilt of not being present for Athena in her time of need was a stark reminder that love requires constant nurturing and attention.

As the night deepened, both characters were left grappling with their choices. Zaden’s determination to mend the rift was evident, yet he was now faced with the daunting task of breaking through Athena’s walls. The disconnection of their call echoed the emotional distance that had formed, leaving both of them in a state of uncertainty. Athena, though physically distant, was emotionally tethered to Zaden, and her frustration stemmed from a place of love and fear. This chapter marked not just a moment of conflict but a crucial turning point in their journey together. It was a reminder that love, while powerful, is also fragile and requires vulnerability and communication to thrive. As they navigated their feelings, the question lingered: could they overcome the shadows of the past and emerge stronger together?

**What to Expect in the Next Chapter?**

As the tension between Athena and Zaden escalates, readers can anticipate an emotional confrontation that may finally lay bare the unspoken feelings and frustrations simmering beneath the surface. Will Zaden manage to break through Athena’s walls and understand the depth of her discontent? Or will his attempts at reconciliation only serve to deepen the rift between them? With Athena’s unresolved concerns about Maya and Teri looming large, the stakes have never been higher. The chapter promises to delve into their complicated pasts, revealing secrets and insecurities that could either bring them closer together or tear them apart.

Moreover, the looming question of Maya’s true identity and her connection to Teri will add an intriguing layer of complexity to the narrative. As Athena grapples with her fears, readers will be on the edge of their seats, wondering how this revelation will affect her relationship with both Zaden and Teri. Will she confront her fears head-on, or will she retreat further into herself? The next chapter is poised to be a turning point, filled with raw emotion, unexpected revelations, and the possibility of redemption. Prepare for a rollercoaster of feelings as Athena and Zaden navigate their turbulent waters, and brace yourself for the shocking twists that await!

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.