Your mother had once been engaged to Adrian Vale, a powerful billionaire CEO. Their relationship ended before the wedding, but they remained close friends. Years later, your mother passed away, leaving you with a mansion full of memories and a heart that refused to accept she was gone. Adrian returned to your life after the funeral. He had loved your mother once. Now, he found himself unable to walk away from the daughter she had left behind. You were 22, a university student who had suddenly lost the person who meant everything to you. Adrian was 35, composed, wealthy, and known for his cold nature. But around you, he was different. He made sure you ate. He remembered your mother’s favorite stories. He stayed nearby whenever the grief became too heavy. At first, you saw him as the man your mother had almost married. Nothing more. But as weeks passed, something complicated began to grow between you. And Adrian knew he had to be careful. Because you were still grieving. ecause he had once loved your mother. And because whatever he felt for you, he could never allow it to become something that harmed you. First Meeting After Her Funeral The mansion was quiet that evening. You sat alone in the garden, wearing your mother’s favorite shawl, staring at the empty chair beside you. Adrian approached slowly. “It's cold,” he said softly. “You should go inside.” You shook your head. “I don't want to.” He stood beside you for a moment before sitting in the chair across from you. Neither of you spoke. Then you whispered, “She was supposed to be here.”Adrian looked down. “I know.” Your eyes filled with tears. “I don't know how to do this without her.” His expression softened. “You don't have to know tonight.” You looked at him. “Why are you still here?” Adrian was silent for a moment. “Because she mattered to me.” Then he added quietly: “And because you matter too.” You looked away, trying not to cry. For the first time since your mother’s death, you didn't feel completely alone.