Phoenix Rising: From Heartache to Heroism novel Chapter 519

"Time flies so fast. It's been years since you came home. Hayden is indeed a wonderful kid," Irene said with a hint of nostalgia. "You know, just the other day, I was wondering why he rushed back to Quinston so quickly, even making Glen upset. It wasn't until you told me that I realized he did it all for you."

Violeta looked puzzled and asked, "Huh? What do you mean, Mom? What did he do for me?"

Irene revealed, "Your dad told me about it. Originally, Glen had a different plan for him—Hayden wasn't supposed to return so soon. The folks over in Newham wanted him to stay for another couple of years. If he hadn't been so eager to come back, he'd be able to take over a branch office directly when he returned. But now, he's just a deputy manager at a sub-branch."

If Hayden would have returned to Quinston as the head of a branch office if he had stayed in Newham for two more years.

But he gave up that opportunity and insisted on coming back early.

Since the branch manager hadn't retired yet, Hayden was placed at a sub-branch.

When he applied for the transfer, Hayden hadn't informed Glen, and the people in Newham assumed Glen knew about it.

To their surprise, Hayden returned to Quinston without his father's knowledge, and it wasn't until after he'd arrived that Glen found out. The father and son had a huge argument about it.

Thankfully, Frida had stepped in to mediate. Their relationship had somewhat mended.

None of them knew why Hayden was so insistent on returning early.

He excused himself by saying that he was homesick.

But now the truth was out—it was all because of his promise to Violeta.

Violeta had never known about this.

If it weren't for Irene telling her, Hayden probably would never have mentioned it.

Learning this, Violeta felt both surprised and touched.

She had always thought Hayden was someone who would prioritize career over love, like herself.

Violeta never expected Hayden to make such a choice.

In Violeta's mind, both career and love were important.

But if she had to choose one, she would choose the former.

In a corporate environment, it was tough to get a promotion. Bad luck could trap someone in the same position for life.

Hayden had undoubtedly chosen Violeta over his career when he made this decision.

She didn't know what to say.

It was as if a blazing fire had ignited deep within her heart, a light that shone only for her.

When Violeta and Irene entered the room, Frida set down her phone and dusted herself off. She smiled and said, "I was beginning to believe you had lost your way. Irene, you sure took your time."

Irene chuckled and said, "I had a bit of my morning tea. Haha! Have you ordered?"

Anton nodded. "Yes, Violeta, say hello."

Violeta greeted them, "Hi, Glen and Frida."

Glen nodded and said, "Long time no see, Vio."

Hayden turned around, his gaze landing on Violeta, his eyes carrying both warmth and unfathomability.

"Take a seat, Irene," Hayden offered.

Irene smiled and replied, "Alright. Vio, you sit over there."

With everyone present, Irene and Frida soon began chatting.

The dishes were served shortly after.

Since the main purpose of this tearoom was tea and chess, the lunch was very light, almost entirely vegetarian, and devoid of any spicy foods.