Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism
Chapter 233 Bright Future

Niall's probably gonna study something in finance, maybe even go abroad for it.

Elaine blinked and said, "I'm heading to military school."

"Got it."

That meant they'd be splitting up.

But Niall didn't overthink it then. Where he studied didn't really matter. They'd still see each other again in the future anyway.

Elaine waved her hand at him and said, "Go on back. I should be going too.

"Wait."

Elaine pulled out the ice cream stick from her mouth and handed it to Niall.

It had "Bright Future" written on it.

That year, it was trendy to engrave messages on ice cream sticks, like opening a blind box. After finishing the ice cream, you could see a blessing carved on the stick.

Niall took the ice cream stick, hearing Elaine's clear voice beside him.

"Well, here's to bright futures for both of us."

Many years passed after that.

After finishing college, Niall returned to Hoiten, while Elaine went to the border. They never saw each other again.

The two words stuck in Niall's memory.

End of the reminiscence.

Niall couldn't help but say to Violeta, "Memories from youth, as you grow older, your mind tend to beautify it. It's strange. Back when we played together, I didn't think she was all that great, but now that we're apart, I can't help but miss her."

The person who wasn't particularly good, now became the best option in Niall's heart.

Violeta smiled in understanding at Niall's words.

Five minutes later, there was a commotion outside the private room door as the waiter brought the Cohens.

The door to the private room swung open, and everyone promptly stood to welcome them.

Walking in from outside were two remarkably dignified individuals. David Cohen wore a grey executive jacket, while his wife, in a beige coat, radiated a gentle charm. "Hey, David, you're here."

"Anton!"

Anton chuckled as he moved around the chair to embrace David.

Beside David, Patricia Harris smiled and greeted Irene. "Irene."

"Irene."

"Patricia, you're finally here. Let's start with introductions. This is Vio. Niall, greet them.

Niall stepped forward. "Ms. Harris, Mr. Cohen."

Patricia nodded at him. "Niall, it's been a while."

Then her gaze fell on Violeta, her smile unwavering. "Ah, so this is the girl you mentioned earlier. It's great to have her back. She looks just like you did when you were young."

Violeta's eyes twinkled. "Hello, Ms. Harris, Mr. Cohen."

David also spotted Violeta and clapped his hands together. "Oh, I forgot to bring a gift for our first meeting with the young lady."

Anton said, "Hey, no need to be formal with us. Have a seat first. Oh, by the way, where's Elle? Why isn't she here yet?"

Patricia replied, "Elle just landed. Her flight was a bit delayed, so she's on her way here in a taxi. It might take another ten minutes or so. We decided to come ahead so you wouldn't have to wait too long." Irene said, "Got it. No worries, let's sit down and put our order first."

The group took their seats, and the atmosphere in the private room was lively and harmonious.

"After your daughter came back, you've been keeping her hidden like a treasure! Now seeing her, she truly is a treasure!"

"Hahaha..."

"Where is she studying?"

"Toland University."

"Toland University, that's excellent!"

Irene boasted. "Vio got in through her own efforts, impressive, isn't it? Haha."

As they continued chatting, Patricia's phone rang-it was a call from Elaine.

"She's already downstairs at the hotel but isn't sure which floor we're on," Patricia explained.

"I'll go get her," she added.

Irene intervened, saying, "No need, Patricia. Niall, why don't you and Vio go together to pick up Elle?"

Violeta agreed with a nod. "Sure."

The two of them left the private room and headed to the elevator to meet Elaine.

The elevator swiftly reached the ground floor.

Violeta and Niall exited together and entered the hotel lobby. There, they spotted a poised short-haired woman standing by the entrance. She wore a black wool coat and sported a tidy, short haircut that accentuated her confident demeanor. Her appearance exuded a commanding presence typical of an elegant and mature lady.

Despite the bustling hotel entrance, Violeta immediately spotted her amidst the crowd.

Niall caught sight of Elaine right away.

She was focused on her phone, standing tall and elegant, a striking figure.

"Elaine."

At the sound of her name, Elaine turned around.

Her expression froze momentarily, then she smiled at them and walked over gracefully, saying, "Niall, it's been a while."

Niall pointed to Violeta beside him. "This is my younger sister, Violeta."

Elaine replied, "Ah, I know. My mom told me when I came back. Hello there, Vio."

"Hello, Elle," Violeta greeted.

"Let's go upstairs first. Our parents are waiting upstairs," Niall said.

"Sure."