“Scarlett,” came her steady voice, imbued with encouragement, “I know graduation is near, but don’t squander this opportunity. You still have a wonderful chance in the upcoming jewelry design competition. With your talent, you could win. Don’t let it go to waste.”

Her grip tightened around the phone. Memories of a past rife with loss bubbled to her thoughts—the betrayal that had cost her the competition before. Or inevitably, the hand of Matthew, giving ...