Mission: From Divorcee to Millionaire

Selena sat in a bit of a daze, leaning against the headboard. Yesterday, she hadn't really noticed, but now, looking around the room, it was clearly all Everett's stuff-there was no hint of another woman having been there.

Her phone buzzed. She hoped it was Everett, but a quick glance showed it was Ava. With a sigh, she picked up.

Ava's voice boomed through the speaker, "Merry Christmas, ma'am!"

Selena had never been big on Western holidays, but after three years in the States, she'd gotten used to blending East with West. She managed a small smile, "Merry Christmas to you too."

After updating her on the kids, Ava couldn't help but dive into gossip, "So, did you and the mister chat about the baby? Was he thrilled? Over the moon?"

Oh, if only. Just hearing that made Selena feel a twinge of sadness. Surprised, sure. Thrilled? Not really. Frankly, she wished she hadn't even brought it up. If Everett couldn't be straight with her, he didn't need to know about the baby, either.

Selena didn't spill any of this to Ava-no need to worry her. With a few quick words, she ended the call. Now wide awake, she got out of bed and headed to the bathroom to freshen up.

Las Vegas was famous for its casinos, and there was one right downstairs. With no clue when Everett would be back, Selena didn't want to sit around and stew. After a quick bite, she made her way to the casino.noveldrama

The hotel was decked out for Christmas, complete with a huge tree in the lobby, all sparkly and beautiful. The casino was packed, buzzing with energy.

Feeling the need to blow off some steam, Selena exchanged a hefty stack of chips, all on Everett's tab. She plopped down at a random

game was. She just tossed chips

Bot even caring what the net

around like it was nothing, hoping to make him sweat a little. But things didn't go as planned.

Whatever she bet on, she won.

Before long, her pile of chips wad

small mountain. Other gamblers looked on, green with envy.

One guy even leaned in, whispering, "Hey, Lady Luck, got any tips? Share the wealth, and I'll cut you in!" Selena just sighed. She wasn't thrilled at all-if anything, she was more annoyed. Ignoring him, she moved to another table and went all-in.

And she won. Again. It was ridiculous.

Resting her chin in her hand, Selena wondered if the universe was messing with her. She came down to clear her head, and now she was just more stressed.

Then, a man sat down next to her, giving her a curious look before chuckling softly, "Winning all the time and still grumpy? You're something else."

His voice was smooth, almost

charming. Selena knew the type-people who hung around casinos looking to latch onto someone with cash. Today, she was definitely a magnet for that kind of attention.

Feeling fed up, Selena ignored him, cashed out her chips, and left the casino. She headed to a café,

chose a seat by the window, and ordered a warm milk.

The city was wrapped in a blanket of last night's snow, shimmering and breathtakingly beautiful. Yet, she couldn't shake off the heaviness in her heart.