Chapter 1 Chapter 1

The creaking sounds finally stopped. On this heavy night, low, husky voices gradually calmed down. A subtle rustling sound of fabric could be heard as the man got up, putting on his clothes. As Stella Sealey looked at the scratch marks on his back, she felt a sudden impulse, and reflexively grabbed his wrist. “Could you stay here tonight?” Weston paused. Without turning back and letting her keep the view of his perfectly toned back, he buttoned up his shirt. Stella was anxious. Her fingers clenched at the already wrinkled sheets, further crumpling them. She held her breath as if to wait for his judgment. After a long while, she heard him say, “Okay.” Stella breathed a sigh of relief. She even felt tears well up in her eyes. The man turned around. He was strikingly tall and had chiseled handsome features, and his deep eyes looked like the starry night sky. This man was her husband, Weston Ford. Sole heir of Ford Corporation, he was the youngest man to ever top the Fortune’s List, and the most prestigious businessman around the globe. He was also a frequent guest at major banquets and events. A man as perfect as him belonged to her. Stella straightened up and looked him carefully in the eyes. “Can I help you change into a set of sleepwear?” She slowly touched his shirt collar, trying to probe for his permission. Weston’s eyes darkened, but he didn’t stop her. Although he seemed somewhat reluctant, he allowed her to unbutton his shirt. Stella quietly breathed a sigh of relief, feeling bittersweet on the inside. During their marriage, Weston was undoubtedly the perfect husband. He was wealthy and prestigious. When it came to his wife, he was considerate and respectful. Sometimes, Stella wondered why he was interested in her in the first place. Only, she didn’t have time to ponder this problem… Because she needed money badly, and this man was her only support. Weston was her only pillar. So even if they were husband and wife, she was still careful around him and tried to gain his favor. However, Weston was good enough to her. He gave her the dignity of being his wife. Even if she was so average that she would be easily lost in a crowd, her identity as Mrs. Ford had given her space to breathe in this real world. Aside from the fact that he never spent the night with her, everything was great. It was exceptionally quiet tonight. This was the first time Weston was sleeping beside her, and he slept soundly. But Stella couldn’t sleep. She kept wanting to reach out to touch his face. The man frowned and turned over to have his back face her. Her hand stopped midair. A moment later, she bitterly retracted her hand and closed her eyes to sleep. The next morning, Stella woke up very early to make Weston breakfast. She drew her hair up in a high ponytail, revealing her fair neck. Weston was greeted by such a sight when he woke up and entered the kitchen. Stella turned around upon hearing the sounds and smiled at him. “You’re up.” Weston grunted in reply. “I made you breakfast. It’ll be ready soon. Can you wait for me in the living room?”“Okay.” Stella worked faster. In the living room, without anything to talk about, they ate their breakfast in silence. She had always been skillful in cooking. As she watched Weston slowly finish up the breakfast she prepared, she smiled in satisfaction. Weston had a great upbringing. He was dignified, elegant, and a sight to see even when he was eating. After he put down his cutlery, he glanced at her and said, “There’s something I want to tell you.”“What is it?” Stella was about to clear the plates but paused and stood beside the table to look at him. The man’s defined and slender finger tapped on the table briefly before handing her a document—a divorce agreement.

Chapter 2 Chapter 2

Divorce? Stella couldn’t describe how she felt when she saw the divorce agreement. She sat down and squeezed her hands at the hems of her shirt. “W-why?” She looked up, finally staring him straight in the eyes. She had never looked at him directly before even when they were making love last night. There was always an imposing distance and iciness in his cold but charming eyes. Like an everlasting iceberg, no one could ever gain his pity or love. Just like the staff in his company, Stella was afraid of looking him in the eyes. However, divorce was a major issue. She wanted to know why he had suddenly decided to do this. Even if she didn’t have the right to refuse, he could at least give her a reason… “There’s no reason.” There was no emotion in his tone. He got up slowly and swept a glance at her, exuding an oppressing aura. “Sign it after you’ve read through it.” Stella’s gaze fell to the divorce agreement. Instead of taking it, she hung her head, looking rather pale. There was a momentary silence in the air. Weston looked at her ghastly pale face, but still, she refused to speak up. He was then reminded of last night. He had gripped her with overwhelming force and it was obvious that she felt uncomfortable. But her fingers had clenched onto the sheets tightly instead, despite looking so pale. She never made a sound even when she almost tore the sheets. They didn’t close the windows, but the curtains were drawn. When a breeze fluttered the curtains and moonlight spilled over Stella’s body, Weston wasn’t sure if the moonlight was too pale, or if Stella was just too weakened. With this in mind, his gaze mellowed and his forehead relaxed. “I will give you some time to get used to this. You can keep staying here for the time being.” Even after the man had left, Stella was still shrunk back into her chair. She hugged her knees and stared at the divorce agreement. Her eyes felt dry. At least he was willing to give her some time to let this reality sink in. It was merciful enough for an aloof man like him to not chase her out immediately… so should she feel content instead? At the hospital… Stella didn’t have time to stay upset. Roger Sealey was in the midst of undergoing treatment. Stella stood outside his ward and watched the frail young man lying there. She felt hints of being exhausted, bitter, and slightly afraid. She held up her phone and pondered for a moment before calling Weston. Perhaps the divorce had given her determination and courage, she wanted Weston to keep her company since he was still her husband for now… Would he do it? The busy tone was her answer. Stella leaned against the ice-cold wall helplessly. A silhouette strode past her, and an indignant female voice bellowed, “Weston Ford, I’m at the hospital now. If you don’t want anything to happen to the child in my stomach, come and see me now.” Stella immediately straightened up. She thought she had heard it wrong. Weston… Ford? Her mind had been a swirl of emotions so she didn’t hear anything else but the name clearly. Was it her husband, the Weston Ford? Stella looked up and immediately recognized the woman to be the recently popular celebrity, Guinevere Cohen. As Stella listened to the woman’s capricious tone, her fists clenched slightly and bitterness filled her heart.

Chapter 3 Chapter 3

As if she had sensed Stella’s gaze, the woman stopped. Holding her phone in one hand, with delicate eyebrows and the glamor of a pampered face, she quickly cast Stella a glance before talking softly on the phone, saying, “I’ll wait for you at the hospital.” Then, she hung up and extended a hand at Stella, smiling as she said, “Hi, I’m Guinevere.” Stella was stunned. She extended her hand out of confusion and said, “Hi, I’m Stella…” Guinevere only took Stella’s hand briefly before pulling away, frowning slightly. After seeing how harmless Stella looked, her lips relaxed into a smile. “It seems like I’ve misunderstood. When you were staring at me just now, I thought you were a fan who had recognized me and wanted my autograph.” Upon hearing this, Stella felt her hand that had just shaken Guinevere’s burn up. Her face flushed too. “I’m sorry… I wasn’t staring at you on purpose.” She pursed her lips before telling the truth. “I overheard you talking on the phone and heard a familiar name… I’m sorry that I bothered you.” Guinevere smiled generously and said that she didn’t mind. “It’s just a misunderstanding, then. I was talking to my fiance. He doesn’t have many female friends, and I’m acquainted with all of them, so he’s probably not someone you know. You must have misheard.” Stella nodded at this. Her eyes twinkled as she looked at Guinevere’s slightly protruding stomach. “I must have heard it wrong.” Guinevere was holding her sunglasses in one hand and noticed Stella’s gaze. She caressed her stomach and smiled. “You probably guessed it, huh? I’m pregnant. I think you’ll be able to hear the official announcement of my good news soon.”“Congratulations, Ms. Cohen.”“Thank you… But can you keep this a secret for me for now?” Guinevere seemed troubled and looked at her expectantly. Stella grunted a reply. “I won’t tell anyone.” As Stella watched Guinevere leave, she heaved a quiet sigh. She was actually acquainted with Guinevere. Being a renowned beauty, the latter had an excellent family background, academic achievements, and appearance. She was also Weston’s ex-girlfriend and first love. Weston might not be aware, but Stella had gone to the same school as he did, though their social circles were complete opposites. She could only ever watch him from afar, and had never imagined that she would one day marry him. Stella suddenly remembered how her relationship with Weston had begun… A few months ago, she was at the hospital accompanying Roger for his chemotherapy. Just as she was worrying over the hospital fee, she saw a man in the corridor who seemed to be out there taking a breather. She had only wanted to find a secluded place to cry for a bit, but her gaze met Weston’s the instant she looked up. He was smoking a cigarette. Sparks twinkled at his fingertips and the rising white smoke further mystified his dark eyes. They were like the tranquil sea without any waves. Stella had a feeling she would never forget that sight. At that moment, she even forgot to cry. When Weston saw her, he had put out his cigarette and abruptly went over to her. When his shadow was looming over her, he asked in a deep voice, “Will you marry me? I can give you what you want.” As if enchanted, she nodded. Maybe it was due to her crush on him, but she had never even asked him why he wanted to marry her. She feared that if she asked the question, this dream that never belonged to her would shatter immediately. Inside the ward, Roger seemed weak but was in good spirits. Stella was sitting by his bed, peeling an apple for him. When the knife was just about to cut her finger, Roger finally asked, “Sis, did you get into a fight with Brother-in-Law? You look absent-minded…” He was just about to reach over when he saw a familiar silhouette pass by his ward. He exclaimed happily, “Brother-in-Law!” Stella was stunned and the apple skin fell to the floor.

Chapter 4 Chapter 4

Roger had only met Weston once. On the day Stella and Weston got their marriage certificate, Weston had treated Roger to a meal. Weston had always maintained a gentleman’s image in front of outsiders and his manners were impeccable, so Roger had a good impression of him. At that moment, Stella stared at Roger dazedly while holding her breath. Why was Weston here? He didn’t even answer her call earlier. Roger didn’t notice Stella acting strange. He was waving at the door excitedly, calling out, “Brother-in-Law!” Yet, the man merely passed by without stopping. Finally, Roger put down his arm in confusion. “Sis, did Brother-in-Law get the wrong room?” Having said that, he was about to lift his blanket and get out of bed. “He must have gone the wrong way. I’ll go get him.” Stella snapped back to her senses then. “Don’t go!” Weston had just brought up divorce with her this morning, so he might not be here for her sake. Hence, they might get into a fight if Roger abruptly went over. Roger was very protective of Stella, but he would get impulsive due to his young age, and Stella didn’t want him to cause trouble. She and Weston would be divorced soon, so she didn’t want any trouble at this point in time. She had to at least ensure that Roger’s medical fees were secured. Roger frowned at her. “Sis, tell me the truth. Did you get into a fight with Brother-in-Law?” Stella’s gaze wavered. “Stop thinking too much. We’re fine.” Seeing that he was about to ask more, Stella quickly stood up. “I’ll go and ask the doctor if there’s anything we need to be mindful of. Stay here and rest well.”“Sis!” Stella closed the door and sealed Roger’s protests inside the ward. She gently breathed out a sigh. Just as she was about to turn away, she saw a man at the end of the corridor who she was all too familiar with, but also knew nothing about at the same time. Weston looked her way. His face looked gentle and dignified as always but showed no emotion. There was no warmth in his expression as he studied Stella, and after a moment, he came over. “Here to see Roger?” He came up to her and glanced at the ward’s tag. Stella grunted in reply. She tried to avoid his gaze when she saw an examination sheet in his hand. “Why are you here, Mr. Ford?” She pointed to the piece of paper in his hand and asked, “Are you here for a checkup? Where do you feel unwell, Mr. Ford?” Mr. Ford… ? Weston frowned slightly upon hearing this form of address. This was how Stella had addressed him when they first got their marriage certificate. After they started living together, she came over to ask him sheepishly, “Mr. Ford… Could I not call you Mr. Ford? It sounds rather distant for a married couple to address each other this way.” He wasn’t the type to mind these minor details, so he answered her casually, “Do as you please.” However, he had never expected to hear this form of address coming out of her lips after a few months had passed. Not used to her sudden change, he was somewhat shocked. He was just about to speak up when he remembered that he had brought up divorce with her. He gave up and smirked instead. “Don’t you understand my body best?” Stunned, Stella only came to a realization when she saw the same intense look in his eyes he had shown in bed last night. “Mr. Ford…” When he saw the color of red creep up her cheeks, that inexplicable irritation he felt was slightly appeased. It was as if this was how she should be—a little dazed, a little awkward, and easily embarrassed. She looked much better this way, to him at least.

Chapter 5 Chapter 5

Just as the atmosphere between them mellowed down, a woman’s voice interrupted them. “Weston, why didn’t you wait for me outside?” The sound of high heels clicking against the floor got closer until Guinevere’s gorgeous face appeared before them. When she noticed the two of them, she slowed down and glanced at Stella, feeling surprised. “Ms. Sealey, why are you here too? Did you need anything else?” She stood beside Weston naturally and latched onto his arm. Weston looked at her, frowning slightly, but he didn’t push her away. He asked, “Do you know her?” Guinevere leaned against his arm affectionately and smiled. “We met just now. I even thought she was my fan.” Stella felt as if she had been struck by lightning when she saw how relaxed and intimate they were. She didn’t know how to respond for a moment there. Her lashes trembled and she dug her nails into her palms. “Mr. Ford…” It was easy to tell that her voice was breaking. Confusion and hurt were visible in her eyes. For some reason, Weston felt inexplicably irritated seeing her like this. Guinevere didn’t seem to notice how strange Stella was acting, and just went on to introduce Weston with a smile, “As you can guess, he’s my fiance, and he’s here to accompany me for my prenatal care checkup.” Stella’s mind immediately went blank. Prenatal care checkup… ? She looked at Guinevere’s stomach, unable to control herself as her eyes reddened. “Your child belongs to… Mr. Ford?”“Yeah.” Guinevere nodded happily with a sweet expression. However, she suddenly realized something and stared at Stella in confusion. “You keep calling him Mr. Ford. Are you acquainted with my fiance?” Having said that, she turned to Weston curiously as if to ask him as well. Stella reflexively turned to Weston. A moment later, she heard him answer coldly, “I don’t know her.” ‘I don’t know her…’ Stella took a step back. She was his wife. At least she still was right at this moment. But he had claimed to not know her in front of another woman… Guinevere breathed a sigh of relief. “I thought you’d gained a female friend that I know nothing about!” She seemed to be joking and angry at the same time as she added, “If it were true, I would’ve aborted your child six months ago!” Six months ago? Stella shuddered internally as she stared at Weston in disbelief. They only got married six months ago, and Guinevere seemed to be about five or six months into her pregnancy… Weston didn’t have time to consider Stella’s feelings. His eyes widened when he heard Guinevere threaten him with an abortion again, and he admonished, “Nonsense!” Guinevere was frightened and frowned immediately. “Are you scolding me…” Upon hearing this, Weston’s gaze softened and he said in a comforting tone, “Don’t throw a tantrum. It’s bad for the baby.” Guinevere sniffled, looking aggrieved. “I just wanted you to coax me. If I really wanted to abort the baby, I would’ve done it six months ago instead of waiting until now.” Having said that, she caressed her stomach and breathed a sigh of relief. “Thank God I wasn’t impulsive back then… Weston, you must be good to both of us.”“Yeah.” Stella seemed like an outsider as she stood there, watching her husband openly being intimate with another woman. She had never seen this side of Weston before, nor had she ever seen him so gentle and patient with a woman. As if a hole had been dug in her chest, all that was left was the wind whistling through. She felt cold and hurt.

Chapter 6 Chapter 6

Stella stared at Weston with reddened eyes. She was waiting for an explanation, waiting for him to talk to her. Weston glanced at her, stopping only briefly before he retracted his gaze and showed no emotion. “Let’s go,” he said to Guinevere gently. Guinevere shrugged with a smile on her face. Then, she glanced at Stella with compassion in her eyes. Stunned, Stella was rooted to the spot as she watched them leave. Tears welled up in her eyes uncontrollably. She had wanted to rush over and demand an explanation. But she couldn’t move at all, as if roots had grown out of her feet. Guinevere was already six months pregnant… But they had been married for six months too! So Weston had gotten Guinevere pregnant shortly after they got married. Was he still in touch with Guinevere during the time they were married as well? Did he come home and hug her after he had just hugged Guinevere? Did he come back and kiss her after he had just kissed Guinevere? Did he… Stella’s frame shuddered. She suddenly gagged at the possibility. She quickly covered her mouth, bent down slightly, and rushed to the washroom. Her thoughts cleared up a little after she splashed her face with cold water. She looked in the mirror to study her plain and bare face. Other people must find her distasteful for looking so bland, right? Her heart gradually calmed and she breathed out slowly. Then, she laughed at herself. After the longest time, she finally regained composure. She turned around only to meet a pair of dark eyes. Weston was standing at the entrance of the washroom since god knows when, staring right at her. His tall figure was blocking the light source, and with his handsome features shadowed under the light, he seemed all the more mysterious. What a charming face. Stella subconsciously held her breath. In just six months of their marriage, she had fallen deeply for this man, and this face deserved the most credit for it. It tempted her no matter from which angle she looked. But now, it was time to awaken from her dream. “You…”“Have you signed it?” They spoke almost at once, but the contents of their conversation differed greatly. Upon hearing Weston’s question, Stella felt bitter at first before hanging her head to say, “I’ll move out as soon as possible.”“Okay.” The man moved to lean against the frame of the door, studying her. “Lift your head up.” Stella paused, confused as to why he had suddenly made this request. Weston was surprised that he didn’t feel impatient with her slow response. He only felt a hint of annoyance. He repeated, “Lift your head up and look at me.” Stella looked up at him. “Mr. Ford…” This form of address again. Weston frowned and his tone became much harsher than before, “Don’t you have anything to ask me?” Stella’s eyes wavered and then she laughed at herself. “You don’t even know me, Mr. Ford, so what is there for me to ask?” She was using his earlier statement to counter him instead. Weston was baffled, but he quickly composed himself. Judging from his expression, it looked like nothing had happened at all. “I don’t like tempers.” Stella clenched her fists slowly and finally grew some courage. “Since you don’t like me, why did you marry me?” Right after she said that, she suddenly felt queasy and turned around to gag. Weston stared at her. Then, as if realizing something, his expression fell.

Chapter 7 Chapter 7

Even with her back against him, Stella could sense his sharp gaze on her. After gagging for a bit, she realized something as well. Her period… was a few days late this month. After this thought was planted, it gradually grew out vines that enveloped her heart. What would her child with Weston be like… ? “Stella,” a man’s deep voice called, sounding forceful and seemingly probing her. Stella shuddered before snapping out of her reverie. He was going to divorce her, and Guinevere was pregnant with his child too. So it didn’t matter even if she was pregnant with his child. She even had a feeling that he would have her abort the baby without an ounce of hesitation… She dared not turn around, afraid of meeting the man’s eyes. Weston seemed impatient and stepped forward oppressively. “What’s wrong?” Stella chuckled bitterly on the inside. By the time she turned around, she was wearing a nonchalant expression. “Oh, I might have caught a cold last night, so my stomach feels unwell…” There was a moment of silence after she said that. Her words seemed like a reminder, and they inadvertently remembered last night. They both knew how passionate Weston was last night. But he had brought up a divorce the next day. Since he had decided on a divorce, why did he… The man’s expression further darkened. His deep eyes studied her face, and his jaw tightened as the atmosphere around them somehow got tenser. After a moment, he massaged his temples and said, “Sign it quickly. I’ll bear Roger’s medical fees as compensation.” Stella’s gaze wavered. She was about to say something out of reflex. But when she looked at his distant and ice-cold expression, she merely nodded obediently and said, “Okay.” Perhaps Weston was satisfied with her response, his expression mellowed. “Be good.” Stella’s eyelashes trembled, and she dug her nails into her palms. The pain helped her endure the tingling sensation in her nose, and she choked out the word, “Okay.” … Inside the ward, Roger was hesitant to speak after seeing Stella being so out of sorts. Once the time was up, Stella looked at her phone and stood up. “I’ll be going now, Roger. I’ll come and visit you tomorrow.” She had to go home and pack up. Weston had given her some time to move out, but he didn’t mention how long. And before that… she had something she needed to clarify. Roger nodded. “Take care, Sis.”“Okay.” Roger pursed his lips at the sight of his sister’s dispirited figure, and a dark glint flashed in his eyes. … At a pharmacy… “Hi Miss, can I help you with anything?”“It’s alright. I’ll just take a look on my own…” Stella chose the pregnancy test kit she wanted from the fully stacked shelf and hurried away from the pharmacy with her purchase. After she left, a man in a black baseball cap entered the pharmacy. After confirming what Stella had just purchased, he said respectfully on the phone, “Mr. Ford… Ms. Sealey has just bought a pregnancy test kit…” … The air inside the single VIP ward was silent. After seeing Weston hang up, Guinevere went up to him and hugged him from behind. “Weston, who was that woman just now?” She could actually tell that something was off, but she didn’t expose them in hopes that Weston would explain to her. She had been doing a lot of thinking. For a man like Weston, she could only get closer to him by being proactive. If she ignored him, he would only be much more indifferent. Compared to insignificant restraint and pride, Guinevere preferred Weston.

Chapter 8 Chapter 8

She had heard that Weston randomly married a woman to anger her, but she had never thought anything about it thus far. Weston grabbed her wrist and slowly pushed her away before making her sit beside him. “An unimportant person.” Guinevere’s eyes twinkled, and her lips curled up slightly. “I’m very satisfied with your answer, so I’m giving you a reward.” Having said that, she leaned over, wanting to kiss him. Her red lips were supposedly alluring, but Weston frowned instead. He subtly evaded and caressed her hair. “You have something on your mouth.” Guinevere was stunned. Shock flashed in her eyes, and then she chuckled. “It’s just lipstick… Fine, I know that you’re a germaphobe, so I’ll give you your reward after I remove my makeup.” Weston grunted in reply before moving away to get up. He picked up the suit jacket he had casually draped on the back of the sofa and said, “I have something to do. Rest well.” Guinevere leaned into the sofa and gave him a half-hearted smile. “Where are you going?”“I have something to do.” She said playfully, “Something to do… What is this ‘something’ that you can’t tell me about?” Weston didn’t answer, but instead just opened the door and left. The smile on the woman’s face disappeared instantly, and she clenched her fists. Once outside the ward, right after Weston had closed the door and turned around, he met a pair of eyes that were red with anger. Roger couldn’t believe it. What did he just see? He was breathing heavily with the veins on his neck throbbing as he glared at Weston. “Who was that woman?! How could you do this to my sister?!” After roaring out, he raised a fist and threw it forward. … Stella returned to the mansion. The empty living room made her chest tighten. This place would no longer be her home soon. After tidying up a bit, she went to the washroom with the pregnancy test kit. She read the instruction manual carefully, afraid of missing out on even a single word. The waiting for the results was probably the most agonizing period of her life. Before the stick showed either one or two lines, her phone suddenly rang. The ringtone she had set exclusively for Weston sounded rather abrupt in this enclosed space. Feeling shocked, Stella subconsciously hid the pregnancy test. After realizing it was just a phone call, she took a deep breath and answered the call out of irritation. “Mr. Ford…”“Hurry to the hospital now.” His message was short and hurried but carried an indescribable sense of authority. He hung up right after saying that. “Mr. Ford, did something happen to you?” Stella was stunned. After she heard the dial tone, she suddenly became anxious. By the time she hurried to the hospital, Weston’s assistant was waiting for her at the entrance. Upon seeing her, he led her to the room on the topmost floor. When Weston heard the sound of footsteps, he turned back into the room from the balcony and strode over to her. With an icy gaze, he asked, “Are you a Bombay blood type?” Bombay blood was also known as Dinosaur Blood because people with such blood type were rarer than pandas. Stella didn’t know why he was asking, but she nodded. The next instant, she heard something that made her mind buzz. “Roger injured Gwen. She might lose the baby. She needs a blood transfusion right now.” His assistant supplemented, “Ms. Cohen has the same blood type, but the hospital doesn’t have this blood type in their storage as it is too rare.” Stella gasped. Weston took a step forward. Staring down at her trembling body, he said resolutely, “If you don’t want Roger to be put behind bars, you know what to do.”

Chapter 9 Chapter 9

Stella’s throat tightened, unable to digest what he had just said. After a while, she said with great difficulty, “Roger doesn’t even know Ms. Cohen. How could he possibly harm her…”“Weren’t you the one who told him?” Weston interrupted her impatiently. Stella was stunned. She explained reflexively, “I didn’t tell him anything!” She finally noticed that the man’s face was injured too. There was a tiny bruise at the corner of his mouth, though it wasn’t very obvious. It was probably Roger who had hit him. But that didn’t affect the man’s appearance at all. He looked just as exquisite, dignified, and daunting. Stella pursed her lips and took a deep breath, calming down all of a sudden. “Where is Roger? I want to see him.”“He’s fine for now. You can see him once Gwen is safe.” He had deliberately mentioned ‘for now.’ Stella clenched her fists to suppress her anxiety. “I want to see Roger or I refuse to donate blood… The hospital wouldn’t force me to donate blood if I don’t want to, would they?” Weston’s eyes narrowed slightly at her forceful response as if to study her. Stella had always been submissive and accepting with him, and had never been this forceful before. So rabbits do get angry when they’re anxious. Weston snorted a laugh. “Give me a reason why you refuse.” Stella’s heart shuddered. She had come in a hurry so she didn’t know the results of her pregnancy test… If she was really pregnant, would a blood donation affect her baby? Her emotions were a mess, but she couldn’t leave Roger be, much less go against Weston. She didn’t have the power to go against him. After a while, as if she was willing to compromise, she said, “Mr. Ford, you must promise me that if I donate my blood to Ms. Cohen, you won’t hold Roger accountable anymore.” Weston merely stared straight at her without saying anything. She was clearly nervous and at a loss, but she still found an advantage to strike a deal with him. He suddenly lifted her chin and stared into her eyes. His gaze darkened as he said, “Sure.” Then, he released her and instructed his assistant, “Take her there.” Due to the urgency of the situation, they didn’t have time to perform any tests. By the time Stella regained her senses, she had been pressed down onto a chair, and had a plastic tube tied to her slender and fair arm while two indistinct veins appeared. “You’re too skinny…” The nurse in charge of taking her blood frowned as she found it difficult to find Stella’s veins. Stella looked down without saying anything. A tiny but sharp pain surged through her body and she quickly turned away. Her eyes slowly turned red. She feared needles a lot. She had trypanophobia since she was little. As a result, she would tremble every time she had to get an injection. She used to have people who would hug her and coax her in the past, allowing her to wail and be spoiled without having to restrain herself. But now… “I didn’t use that much force, so why are you shaking?” The nurse sounded flustered. She even started panicking after seeing how pale Stella’s lips were. “You even shook the needle out, so we have to do it again…” Stella forced a nod. Paling as she stared at the needle that seemed like a beast to her, her mind began to swirl. In the next instant, her world suddenly turned dark as warmth spread around her eyes. Weston went over to her and covered her eyes. “Don’t look if you’re afraid.”

Chapter 10 Chapter 10

Stella couldn’t help but think about when she started harboring a misconception that Weston might like her? Perhaps it was due to moments like these and the insignificant little actions. The man would catch her off guard, mess up her feelings, and then retreat coldly, leaving her all alone. After her blood had been taken, Weston released her. “You can see Roger after Gwen’s surgery is over.” Stella’s eyes widened before looking down and grunting a reply. “I got it.” He always had this ability to lift her up one second, and then trample on her the next second. The nurse packed up her tools. “Press this cotton ball here for a few minutes. You’ll be fine after the bleeding stops.” Stella stood up upon hearing this and thanked her politely. Once the nurse was gone, Stella turned to Weston. “Mr. Ford, I’ve packed up my things in the mansion. When do we go and get our divorce certification?” When he first mentioned the divorce, she had once fantasized about trying to save their marriage. But now that Guinevere had appeared, she only wanted to stay far away from him. Weston looked straight at her upon hearing what she said. He stared at her briefly before saying, “I’ll get the lawyer to inform you.” Stella nodded. “Okay.” She showed no reluctance at all as if she had fully accepted this decision. She went past Weston, intending to leave. Weston’s eyes darkened and abruptly called out to her. “I said, you can only see Roger after Gwen is safe.” Stella stopped and pursed her lips before explaining, “I’m not going to see him.” She had her back facing him and never turned around even as she spoke. Weston slipped his hand into his pants pocket and went up to her. “Where are you going?” As Stella felt him closing in and the sense of oppression grew, she suddenly rebelled. “I don’t have to report that to you, do I, Mr. Ford?” Since they were getting a divorce, he had no right to control her anymore. Weston was stunned for a moment. He stared at her back before returning to his aloof self. “Do as you please.” He walked past her and never looked at her again. *** Stella didn’t actually know where she could go. She only wanted to escape from Weston and his suffocating aura. She wandered the hospital mindlessly, thinking only about Roger. Weston had already promised he would pay for the remainder of Roger’s medical bills, so Stella had no right to interrogate him even if he cheated during their marriage. Her feelings seemed insignificant compared to such real problems. With so much on her mind, Stella didn’t see a man in a wheelchair up ahead. She had wandered onto a path in the rear garden, and when they passed each other, Stella accidentally knocked into the man’s wheelchair as the path was too narrow. Bam! She regained her senses and immediately apologized. “I’m sorry, did I hurt you?”“I’m fine, don’t worry.” A clear and gentle voice comforted Stella’s uneasiness. Sitting in the wheelchair was a handsome man with elegant features and a warm smile. He even looked worried as he looked at Stella. “You don’t look so good. Are you feeling unwell?” Stella shook her head, but all of a sudden, the man’s face began to blur and she was even seeing double. Her body began to sway. The aftereffects of her blood donation seemed to be taking effect and her world blacked out as she fainted. By the time she woke up, she was lying in a ward. The man in the wheelchair was gone, and in his place was Weston standing beside her. Stella felt dizzy and she propped herself up shakily. “What happened to me?” Her mind wasn’t fully functioning so she didn’t notice how dark Weston looked. When she finally regained her senses, she heard a low voice saying, “You’re pregnant.” It was said in an affirmative tone. Weston placed a blood test report in front of her. “I had someone send a sample of your blood for examination after taking your blood.” Stella stared straight at the report, her eyes widening, and she was unable to speak. With an enigmatic tone, the man repeated, “You’re pregnant.”

Chapter 11 Chapter 11

It was a bright sunny day and the curtains fluttered with the wind. The man who stood by the bed blocked most of the sunlight. His elongated shadow made him seem so much taller. Stella was covered by his shadow. She slowly clenched her blanket as she regained her senses. “Pregnant…” She looked down as she mumbled. Her belly under the white blanket showed no signs of protruding. But there was a human life inside. A glint slowly appeared in Stella’s dark eyes. It had merely been her assumption, and she didn’t have time to check the pregnancy test’s result before hurrying here. But to think she was actually pregnant… She couldn’t conceal the joy on her face. Weston lit a cigarette and took a drag at it. “Are you happy about this?” Stella looked up at him upon hearing this. The man’s face was shrouded by the white smoke and his exquisite features were shaded by the light, making him look all the more stoic, dignified, and unattainable. The soft expression on her face gradually stiffened. “Mr. Ford…” Stella clenched at the bedsheet, getting nervous. She had forgotten that Weston was divorcing her and that Guinevere was pregnant with his child. She was only a tool used to relieve his loneliness when the two of them had a lovers’ spat. How could he possibly tolerate her having this child? The man noticed the changes in her expression. With a cigarette in one hand and the other arm resting lazily on the back of a chair, he flicked the cigarette ashes into an ashtray. “I’m sorry.” Just two words and nothing else. These words hinted that she should give up on the child. Stella shook her head, looking pale. “You don’t have to be sorry… We won’t be related at all after we divorce.” Then, she looked up. “This child will have nothing to do with you either. I guarantee you that I won’t appear before either of you after we divorce, okay?” Weston frowned. “You want to keep the child?” Stella’s jaw tensed up and her gaze wavered. Before she could speak, the man snorted. “Putting aside the influence you would bring to the Ford family by having this child, you’re having a hard enough time now just taking care of Roger. If you do have the child, how will you take care of it?” What he said was true. Stella didn’t know what to say for a moment there, but she clenched her fists. “I will think of something on my own. I won’t give you any trouble…”“You’re giving yourself trouble.” Weston put out the cigarette and stood up. “There’s no need to give the two of us trouble over something that hasn’t taken form yet, don’t you agree?” Stella’s lips turned pale as her nails dug into her palms. She didn’t speak, and Weston didn’t have the patience to wait. He simply grabbed his suit jacket and said, “Rest well. I’ll make arrangements for everything else.” Having said that, he left the ward. The door closed, and Stella closed her eyes. Even the buzzing noise ringing in her ears couldn’t compare to what Weston had just said to her. To have called their child a ‘thing’ with such a cold tone. One part of her heart gradually died away and the expectation that shouldn’t have existed was sucked out too, leaving nothing but cold emptiness. … Stella was only allowed to see Roger the next day. Weston never came back to see her after he left, but he assigned someone to watch over her. Inside the ward, Roger was resting with his eyes closed. His complexion was far worse compared to several days ago, and there were a few obvious bruises on his face. Stella’s heart ached. She closed the door gently and went over to sit down beside the bed. Her eyes reddened as she watched the youth’s sleeping face. She said softly, “I’m sorry… I didn’t protect you properly.” They used to have a happy family, and Stella was once a renowned young lady in their community. On the day of her coming of age ceremony, their parents were involved in a plane accident while they were rushing home… It only took one night for them to fall from grace. These past few years, she and Roger experienced how heartless the world could be. Stella, who never had to worry about survival, and spent most of her time playing the piano and doing ballet, found it difficult to even pay her university fees. Later on when Roger fell ill, Stella finally knew how important the money she never used to care about would be. Roger frowned and woke up. “Sis…” He looked uncomfortable. He massaged his temples and sat up with Stella’s help. “How long have I been asleep…?” Then, he suddenly remembered something and grabbed Stella’s arm. “Where is Weston? Where is he?!” Stella saw how furious he was, so she quickly comforted him, “Calm down. You just woke up…”“Sis!” Roger didn’t want to hear this so he interrupted, “That man’s keeping a celebrity as his mistress. He even got her pregnant!” He was utterly exasperated. “How could he do this to you?!” Stella’s eyes darkened. She abruptly grabbed his shoulder and pressed him back down. “That has nothing to do with you. You just have to rest and wait for the doctor to schedule your surgery. You don’t have to worry about anything else.” Roger looked like a little enraged beast with his red eyes. When he saw how calm and exhausted Stella looked, he immediately deflated as if he had been stabbed by a needle. He hugged her tightly. “Did he give you trouble…?” Stella sighed and patted him on the back. “I know you’re angry, but you shouldn’t have hit Guinevere.” Guinevere was Weston’s beloved. If Stella didn’t have the same Bombay blood type that could save Guinevere, Weston wouldn’t have forgiven Roger. Roger clenched his fists upon hearing this and his voice lowered down. “I didn’t hit her… I only wanted to hit Weston, but she came up and shielded him, so I accidentally hurt her…” Then, he asked, “Is her baby okay?” Before Stella could answer, Roger suddenly spat. “Even if she had a miscarriage, a third wheel like her who interferes in someone’s marriage deserves it!” Stella’s chest tightened. She released Roger and caressed his head, forcing out a smile. “It doesn’t matter. You just have to go through with your treatment and stop making me worry, okay?” Roger noticed the exhaustion in her delicate face and he swallowed. Finally, he averted his gaze with reddened eyes, and said, “Okay. I got it.” … On the day Weston finally came to see her, Stella was standing on the balcony, staring dazedly at the high-rise buildings in the distance. Weston was welcomed by such a sight when he entered the room. A frail woman was standing by the window with her hands on the railings. The wind blew at her long hair, and she looked pale and weak. If the wind was a little stronger, it seemed as if it could blow her away. The man’s pupils dilated and he strode over, lifting the woman up without a second thought. Stella was startled. “What are you doing?” She felt herself being lifted into the air, and the next instant, she saw Weston’s furious gaze. “Stella, are you trying to kill yourself?”

Chapter 12 Chapter 12

Before Stella could even react, she was being carried back to her bed. She was stunned as she stared at the man’s dark expression. “What are you planning to do…?” Weston pressed down on her shoulder. It was obvious that he was furious as he spoke ominously, “I should be asking you. What were you planning to do?” He clamped down on her waist and was leaning so closely into her that they were only inches apart. Stella could feel his oppressing aura. After she understood his meaning, she found it oddly amusing and said darkly, “Let me go!” She struggled to pull her wrist away but the man’s grip didn’t budge. Stella’s jaw tensed up and she abruptly raised her head to stare into his dark eyes. Her hands slowly balled into fists. “I was only enjoying the breeze. I wasn’t trying to commit suicide, so relax.” Weston still didn’t let go. Instead, he stared at her quietly as if to distinguish if she was telling the truth. A moment later, he snorted a laugh and lifted her chin, warning her, “Indeed. You wouldn’t try to seek death with Roger around.” Then, he released her. Stella steadied herself and looked at him. “Don’t worry, Mr. Ford. I wouldn’t seek death just because of a divorce.” She looked down, refusing to meet Weston’s eyes. He couldn’t see what she was feeling. He suddenly changed the topic and looked at her faintly. “Have you thought about the issue with the child? A doctor will be coming over in the afternoon, so be mentally prepared.” Stella’s pupils dilated at this. She looked up at him. “Why should I be mentally prepared?”“I thought you'd already thought it through a few days ago?”“Is there no room for discussion…?” Stella subconsciously felt her stomach. Her voice was light and shaky. “No.” Weston didn’t hesitate at all. Before he left, he stood at the door and said one more thing to her, “After this is over, someone will come and pick you up for the divorce procedures.” His voice remained in the air even after he left. Stella felt as if she could still hear the indifference and bone-chilling cruelty in his tone. She relaxed her tightly clenched fists and saw red marks on her palms. Their marriage now seemed like a huge joke and dream, even more so than ever. And only she found it difficult to wake up from it. … At the office, Guinevere was stunned when she saw the man return. She quickly smiled at the doctor and said, “Thank you, Doctor. I will take note of what you just told me…” Weston came up behind Guinevere and asked, “Is it over?” Guinevere stood up and naturally latched onto his arm. The man frowned discreetly as he stared at the part where their arms linked, but he didn’t say anything. He turned around, holding back the annoyance in his eyes. “Let’s go.” Guinevere’s expression darkened slightly, but she kept her smile on. “Okay.” Inside the car, Guinevere seemed excited as she talked about the checkup incessantly. “Weston, the doctor said our baby is very healthy and it’s growing well…” She leaned against his shoulder with a yearning look in her eyes. “I don’t want to know if it’s a boy or girl yet… Do you prefer boys or girls?” Weston supported her shoulder and pushed her away. “Sit properly. We’ll be departing soon.” Guinevere’s eyes twinkled and she asked hesitantly, “Weston, are you in a bad mood?” He had been out of sorts since just now. No, to be precise, he had been out of sorts since he divorced Stella. He was a very reserved man who didn’t like displaying his emotions. However, Guinevere was a woman who possessed extraordinary observation skills that all women had when it came to the man they loved. She pursed her lips. “Weston, are you thinking about Stella?” The man abruptly lifted his head, his gaze tensed up for a moment there. The veins on his temples were throbbing as if he was trying to suppress something. After a while, he forced out the words, “Don’t mention her name.” Guinevere wanted to say more but kept quiet when she saw how solemn he looked. She could only endure her turbulent emotions. “Alright, let’s not mention her anymore. Weston, let’s forget about the past and start over.” ‘Forget about the past and start over… huh?’ Weston thought to himself but said nothing. He merely closed his eyes as his temples throbbed painfully. His emotions were a mess and too many images were flashing through his mind. But they all stopped at the image of a crying face that was trying to stay strong… Stella. She was pregnant. Weston suddenly reached up to unbutton his collar and loosen up his tie. Perhaps it was due to being in an enclosed space, but he found it hard to breathe for some reason. The child was an accident. It would only mess up their original plan and pace for both him and Stella. But it seemed like she really wanted to keep the baby… Weston’s eyelids felt heavy and he massaged his temples. … Golden Eve Apartment was located in a wealthy neighborhood far away from the city and was exceptionally quiet. The top two floors were where Weston frequently stayed. As he was constantly busy with work and frequently traveled abroad, he was here most of the time aside from being at the Ford family mansion and Stardust Mansion where Stella stayed. Before they got out of the car, after much consideration, Guinevere decided to give up on holding herself back. “Weston, I’ve never been to your apartment before… We’ll be getting married soon, so can I go and take a look?” Weston did notice the hint and shyness in her eyes, but he had no intention of complying. “You’re pregnant so the apartment is very inconvenient for you. There are people to take care of you at the family mansion, so I’ll get the driver to send you back.” While it sounded like he was being considerate, Guinevere’s expression immediately fell. She put on a straight face and said, “Alright, I understand.” Weston knew he should say something to comfort her, but he didn’t do anything as he watched her get into the car and leave. As the car drove away, all he could hear after that was the sound of the engine. The streetlights in the area were warm, and Stella’s image suddenly appeared before Weston. He turned around and a familiar steel gate seemed to manifest with Stella standing there, waiting for him to come home. After just an instant, that silhouette disappeared. Weston subconsciously stopped as a feeling of annoyance surfaced in his chest. … His minimalistic living room only had basic furniture so it was quite spacious and vacant. Weston sat at the bar and took out a bottle of aged red wine given to him by a business partner from the wine cabinet. He propped his elbow on top of the cold counter and poured himself a full glass. Before he started drinking, a gentle and worried voice suddenly rang beside his ear, sounding rather fearful as the voice said, “Are you drinking? But it’s very late now. Drinking too much isn’t good for your health…” Stella always sounded forgiving and flattering whenever she spoke to him. There were also traces of affection that she couldn’t hide no matter how hard she tried. “If you must drink, could I make you some tea to help you sober up?” Weston closed his eyes and swallowed. For a moment there, he didn’t realize it was just an auditory hallucination, so he uttered a word in response, “Sure…” He heard no reply after the longest time. His surroundings were so quiet that it was beginning to feel eerie. He abruptly opened his eyes and Stella was gone. He was alone.

Chapter 13 Chapter 13

Weston’s words were still ringing in Stella’s mind even after he had left. He was right. With her current circumstances, she couldn’t afford to raise a child on top of caring for herself and Roger. It was probably her instincts that made her want to keep the child. After learning that there was another life inside her, Stella naturally built up some sort of connection with it. She looked down at her flat stomach, feeling disappointed. “I’m sorry that I couldn’t give birth to you,” she said softly. Suddenly, there was a knock on the door. She looked up and said, “Come in.” In came a young female doctor wearing black-framed glasses. She was tall and slender, and her thin face made her look dispassionate, but she had on a friendly expression. “Are you feeling better?” Stella nodded. This was probably the doctor Weston had mentioned. “Are you here to perform a checkup?”“Yeah.” The doctor went over to the balcony and pulled the curtains open. As the sunlight shone in, Stella closed her eyes out of reflex. The brightly lit room further accentuated how pale she looked. The doctor sat down beside her. “My name is Zeta Taylor. You can just address me by my given name.” Stella nodded. Her obedience baffled Zeta, but then Zeta seemed to have understood why and went on to say, “Mr. Ford might have already told you, but you will be undergoing an abortion procedure later on. It’s a simple process so you don’t have to feel pressured.” Stella clenched her fists so tightly that her fingers were turning white, but she forced herself to nod. “I understand.” The woman watched her with clear eyes that were hiding behind her glasses. She suddenly reached out and patted the back of Stella’s hand. “It’s alright. I know that you find this hard to accept, but technology is advancing really fast nowadays. Who knows, you might still be able to have a child one day…” Her words didn’t comfort Stella. Instead, Stella looked up at her, puzzled. “What do you mean by I might still be able to have a child one day…?” Zeta paused. “Didn’t Mr. Ford tell you that your body isn’t suited for an abortion, and that you might not be able to bear a child after this?” … Stella felt like she was being shrouded by a shadow. No matter how dazzling the sunlight was outside, her body felt no warmth. Then, the sound of sturdy footsteps pulled her out of her spiraling thoughts. She didn’t have to look up to know who was standing beside her. “You’re here.” Her voice sounded hoarse. She then looked up at Weston. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to disturb you.” When she had called Weston earlier, she heard Guinevere’s sweet voice complaining in the background and suddenly felt humiliated. She didn’t want to keep seeing him either, for fear that he might assume she couldn’t part with him. She only… “The doctor says that I might not be able to bear a child anymore if I get an abortion. Did you know about this?” Perhaps her rage had reached a boiling point, she sounded very calm. “You called me all the way here because of this?” Weston frowned as he casually sat down on the sofa. The sunlight shone in. His features were further accentuated under the shadows. He had such a good-looking face, but the man was so aloof and unapproachable. Stella stared straight at him. “Don’t you think I have the right to know?”“You already know now.”“But that’s because someone else told me! If Dr. Taylor hadn’t mentioned it, I might have already aborted the child…” Her voice was getting louder and finally, angrier. “I might not be able to get pregnant again for the rest of my life.” The man stared at her indifferently. “So?” Stella took a deep breath as her body trembled slightly. She already figured that Weston wouldn’t care, but she didn’t expect him to be so detached. Even a normal person would have feelings for a dog they had been raising… Her eyes suddenly turned red. “Please let me be…” Stella’s voice was shaking as she said, “I’m begging you. I’d already agreed to abort this child, but the doctor says I might not be able to get pregnant anymore… I’m grateful that you’re willing to pay for Roger’s treatment, and I can slowly pay you back in the future…”“Why did you marry me if you didn’t want me to get pregnant? This child might even be the only child I can ever have in this life…” With her current predicament, she didn’t even have the mental capacity to ask Weston why he had involved her in a lovers’ spat between him and another woman. Now that they had reconciled, he wanted her to leave the picture quietly without even telling her the reason and consequence. “Did you get my agreement when you used me as a tool to irritate Guinevere? You’d never even explained things to me…” She shouldn’t have brought this up, because now that she had, she found it incredibly amusing and aggrieving. “You don’t have to assume that I must have this child so I can blackmail you. Don’t worry. Once I get the divorce certification, I’ll stay far away from you and never appear in front of you ever again. I won’t bother you and Guinevere either.” Had she known from the start that Weston was only marrying her for this reason, she wouldn’t have agreed to it. Nor would she have fallen for him because of his careless tenderness and care for her during their daily interactions… Weston looked at her face and gave no response. After a while, he said enigmatically, “Are you crying?” He stared at Stella’s face. What used to be an expressionless face that had been trying hard to contain all emotions after he brought up divorce was finally starting to show something different. She was crying in front of him again, and both her eyes and nose were red. Weston rarely saw Stella cry, aside from certain times, of course. Her crying face was actually quite alluring. Stella sniffled, refusing to meet the man’s eyes. When the nails digging into her palms were threatening to draw blood, the man suddenly stood up and went over to her. He lifted a hand to caress her head. “You’re quite clever, aren’t you?” His low voice sounded from above her. Stella didn’t understand what he meant, so she looked up at him. Tears were sparkling in her reddened eyes, and she looked so stubborn and weak. Weston suddenly leaned down and lifted her chin. His voice deepened as he looked at the tears in the corners of her eyes. “Did you think that your tactic of crying so pitifully will work on me?” Stella kept quiet and stared at him nervously.

Chapter 14 Chapter 14

After a while, Stella heard him chuckle. A strong scent of cedar wafted over and she heard him say, “It is a little effective.” Stella didn’t think he would react this way. She stared up at him dazedly, unable to regain her senses. The tip of her nose was still red and her eyes were bloodshot. Her delicate and fair skin seemed so translucent in contrast. If it had been a few days earlier, Weston would have held her chin and kissed her. He never held back whenever he needed physical relief with Stella, but now, he was no longer in that position to do that. Weston leaned in closer and his dark gaze stared at the tear that was threatening to roll down. “I’ll go soft on you this time. Don’t give me any trouble, okay?” Stella nodded and answered hoarsely, “Okay.” Weston’s lips curled up but his smile had no warmth. He straightened up. The top two buttons of his white shirt were undone and his suit jacket was casually draped on his arm. He said lazily, “This method does work, but I prefer your obedient side.”“So, be good.” … Stella was discharged. There was nothing wrong with her health but because she had donated blood to Guinevere in the early stage of her pregnancy, she was weakened as a result. She had recovered considerably by now. Zeta met her at Roger’s ward when she was patrolling the rooms and greeted her. “You look great. I presume you’ve decided to keep the baby?” Roger had been lying on the bed obediently. But when he heard this, he abruptly turned to Stella and asked, “What baby?” Stella’s lips were pursed tight and she didn’t answer. The atmosphere became tense for a moment there. Zeta glanced at Roger, then at Stella, before scratching her nose awkwardly. “His condition is stable, so I’ll be going now.” Then, she quickly left the ward. Before she closed the door, she looked at the siblings whose expressions darkened at each other and realized that she had said something wrong. She slapped her mouth and mumbled to herself, “Why do I keep running my mouth…” Inside the ward, perhaps because the consecutive setbacks had helped Roger learn to stay calm, he solemnly asked Stella about it instead of flying into a rage. “A baby? Don’t tell me it belongs to Weston.” His hands had balled into fists under the blanket, making the veins on his arms visible. He was originally skinny but further lost weight when he was ill, so even the shape of his bones was showing. Stella sat down beside his bed and looked at him calmly. “It’s my child alone.”“How can you have a baby on your own? Do you think I’m an idiot?!” Roger couldn’t resist bellowing, “What does Weston mean by this? He doesn’t want you and isn’t willing to take responsibility, and now he wants you to bear his child?” Stella abruptly raised her voice and interrupted him, “I wanted to keep the child! He didn’t want it, but I begged him to let me keep it…”“Why…?” Roger didn’t understand. Stella looked at her stomach and said faintly, “I have a unique constitution. This might be the only child I can ever have.” Roger felt the energy drain from his body. His eyes became bloodshot and he hammered a fist onto the bed in resignation. Stella also felt upset after seeing his reaction. Her nose tingled as her calm facade began to crack. “Roger, you can’t tell anyone about this. You must keep it to yourself. This is my child alone, do you understand?” Roger took a deep breath and kept quiet as he shook badly. After a long while, he finally contained his hostility and said, “I understand…” … After calming Roger’s emotions, Stella planned to return to the mansion to pack up. She didn’t know when Weston would send someone to pick her up to collect their divorce certification, so she must secure accommodation before he kicked her out. As she passed by the hospital’s rear garden, she saw a man in a wheelchair. He was rolling his wheelchair on the cobblestone path slowly. Stella subconsciously slowed down as memories surfaced in her mind. This seemed to be the man she last saw before fainting a few days ago. She felt a sense of familiarity just by looking at his back. When he heard footsteps behind him, the man in the wheelchair stopped. He turned around and his gaze met Stella’s. Unlike the time she saw him before she fainted, Stella could now see the man’s face clearly. Back then when she had only caught a quick glance, she remembered that he was good-looking, gentle, and had a warm smile. Now that she got to see him properly, he did indeed have outstanding features. It was easy to tell that he had a tall stature even if he was sitting in a wheelchair. However, he seemed rather thin and exuded an ethereal aura. He gave Stella a small smile. “It’s you.” With this, Stella was sure that he was the same man she had met that day. She took a step forward. “Hello. I haven’t apologized for bumping into you that day, I’m sorry.” The man rolled his wheelchair toward her. “You already apologized when you bumped into me.” His action of studying Stella was actually considered quite forward, but his ethereal aura helped to cover up the elements of disrespect. He didn’t make her feel uncomfortable or oppressed at all. “But it was quite frightening indeed when you suddenly fainted in front of me.” Stella was even more embarrassed upon hearing this. “I’m sorry. I hadn’t expected myself to faint either.” She looked at him warily. “I didn’t crush you, did you?”“I may be sitting in a wheelchair, but I won’t be crushed by such a small frame like yours.” By now, he was right in front of Stella. After observing her tone and demeanor as she spoke to him, he suddenly asked, “Don’t you know me?” Stella was stunned. She searched her memory for information on this person but to no avail. “I’m sorry, have we met somewhere before?” The man cradled his chin and said, “My name is Henry Moore.” Henry Moore… Stella was about to say she didn’t recall hearing his name before when the man suddenly added, “Didn’t Weston ever mention me to you?” Stella immediately clenched her fists. She willed herself to stay calm after the initial shock to say, “So you’re his friend.” Henry found the drastic change in her expression amusing. “He happened to see me when I was carrying you to the doctor. He looked very angry back then as if he didn’t like me carrying you.”“What? He didn’t tell you about me after you woke up?” Stella frowned before answering faintly, “No.” Henry chuckled. “Now that’s interesting.”“If there’s nothing else, I’ll be leaving then. Thank you for that day.” The man probably wasn’t lying when he said he had carried her to the doctor. And since he didn’t leave her be, Stella’s tone mellowed down when she talked to him. However, he was still Weston’s friend, so she didn’t really want to say much to him. As she was leaving so suddenly, Henry grabbed her wrist out of reflex. “Are you in a rush?” Right after he said that, a deep and detached voice spoke up from behind them. “Don’t tease her. She’s not your type.”

Chapter 15 Chapter 15

The familiar voice pinned Stella to the spot. She looked to the source of the voice and found him standing near a flowerbed. There was a lush camphor tree beside him, and the sunlight that shone through the gaps between the emerald leaves left layers of shadows on Weston’s face. The weather in summer was stifling, but the atmosphere was always dark wherever this man was. It was as if uneasiness didn’t exist in him. As Weston slowly made his way over, Stella had to admit that he had exceptional looks that would put anyone in a daze. Even the lines on his shoulders were perfect. His aura easily overwhelmed even if he would say nothing. After he came over, his gaze fell onto Henry’s hand that was grabbing Stella’s wrist, and his eyes darkened. “Have you gotten desperate after being in a wheelchair for so long and never met any women lately?” His faint voice resonated in the air. Stella could hear the mockery in his words and she abruptly flung away Henry’s hand. “Weston!” She had tried to hold herself back but she couldn’t conceal the rage in her voice. However, as if he couldn’t sense her anger, Weston glanced at her passively. “Hm?” Stella suddenly calmed down after seeing his nonchalant expression. She looked him straight in the eyes and said, “Looks like Mr. Ford understands his friend well.” Her tone was light, neither humble nor arrogant, but it pricked. “Since Mr. Ford understands him well enough to know that he’s not desperate enough to pick someone like me, this makes me curious. You’re both friends, so why are Mr. Ford’s standards so much lower than Mr. Moore’s? Or has Mr. Ford always been this desperate?” Her tone was faint and didn’t sound aggressive, but the sarcasm in her words was obvious. Henry was only staying next to her and Weston called him desperate. Then what about him prior to this? What he had done to Stella… was far worse compared to this! Weston raised an eyebrow. “You seem to have complaints about me.” During their marriage, he had gotten used to Stella’s meek personality and had rarely heard her speak with such sarcasm. Stella’s gaze darkened and her lips curled up. “I wouldn’t dare. Mr. Ford has provided me accommodation and paid for Roger’s medical bills. I’m very grateful to him.” Having said that, she took a step back. “I have something to attend to so I won’t disturb you two. Goodbye.” Weston was indifferent the entire time as if he didn’t mind her leaving. Henry pushed his wheelchair around as he watched Stella leave. His lips curled up into a faint smile. “Looks like she’s really just a toy to pass time. It’s no wonder I’ve never heard you mention her or take her out to meet us even after so long. And she’s so easy to dismiss.”“Gwen didn’t disappoint me after all. She’s really quick in defending her territory.” Weston snorted. He was about to light a cigarette when he remembered that this was a hospital. So he gave up on the notion. “How long do you plan to stay in this wheelchair?”“What’s the hurry?” Henry looked relaxed. “It’s only for a few years. I’ve gotten used to life in a wheelchair now.”“Don’t tell me that you plan to stay crippled if she doesn’t come back.” Weston’s cold voice contained undisguised mockery. Henry’s face immediately fell. The leisured look on his face was gone and a hint of hostility flashed in his eyes. This seemingly ethereal man in a wheelchair possessed methods and cruelty that struck fear in the entire city of Ahn. Only Weston could openly take a jab at him on where it hurt. Henry stopped and regained his usual indifference. He looked at Weston. “There’s something I wanted to ask you.”“Spill.”“You spoil and pamper Gwen so much, so why did you suddenly go off and marry another woman?” He paused for a moment and suddenly narrowed his eyes. “Don’t tell me that you’re planning to use her to irritate Gwen. Putting aside the fact that you’re not the type of person to do something so childish, there are tons of other ways to irritate Gwen. Gwen is such a proud person so you can easily achieve the same effect by starting a scandal with some random celebrity. Why did you choose to marry this woman instead?” No response came for the longest time. When Henry thought Weston wouldn’t answer him, Weston said, “The reason isn’t important. It’s all over now.” … The stifling hot weather easily put people on edge. As Stella walked, she felt a stinging pain in her chest when she recalled running into Weston at the hospital just now. She knew he didn’t love her, and that he only cared for her when they were married because they were husband and wife. Now that he had decided on divorcing her, he obviously wouldn’t be gentle toward her anymore. Especially not when he had someone else in his heart. Would she feel reluctant? Would she have agreed to marry him had she known that she was just a catalyst for his relationship with Guinevere? If so, she might just compromise and marry him because of her financial problem, but she definitely wouldn’t lose her heart in the process and fall for him. Because Weston had kept the truth from her, she came to assume that his care and tenderness toward her were real. She had ended up indulging in those fleeting affections. Now that she thought about it, it was all just a lie. It should’ve been easy to hail a cab near the hospital around this time of the day, but perhaps Stella was having bad luck, she didn’t manage to get one even after walking a long distance. She took a few more steps forward. A black luxury car stopped beside her but she pretended not to see it and continued forward. The car followed beside her slowly, and then the window rolled down, revealing the side profile of the man’s handsome and exquisite face. Weston looked at her impassively. His tone was as indifferent as usual. “Get in.” Stella frowned. She rejected him, saying, “No need. I can get a cab myself.”“Get in. Don’t make me repeat myself.” The man looked at her with no warmth in his gaze. His tone was cold but allowed no room for discussion.

Chapter 16 Chapter 16

Stella glanced at him upon hearing this, ignoring the warning in his eyes. She pursed her lips, said nothing, and continued forward. Weston had one hand on the steering wheel while the other hand unbuttoned the cuff on his wrist out of annoyance. “There’s a large-scale examination today, so all the cabs have gone to the west district. You won’t be able to get a cab near here.” Stella was baffled that he would actually explain to her. She paused and said, “It’s alright, I can take the bus.” Weston had run out of patience. He tapped his finger on the steering wheel before opening the door and getting out of the car. Then, he strode over to Stella and carried her up in a bridal style. Startled, Stella reflexively hugged his neck. After meeting the man’s meaningful gaze, she regained her senses and pushed his shoulders out of irritation. “Put me down!” Weston ignored her protest. He simply tossed her into the passenger seat and leaned down to fasten her seat belt. There was only limited space in the car and their silhouettes were practically overlapping. Even their breaths were mingled. Stella stared at the handsome face that was only inches away and clenched her fists. “What are you doing?”“Like I said, don’t make me repeat myself.” The man supported himself by propping an arm on the back of her seat and looked down at her. “And like I said, I don’t want to get into your car. I can walk on my own!”“You don’t want to get into my car?” Weston suddenly gripped her face. His dark eyes scanned her expression before he snorted a laugh. “You’ve even gotten into my bed before, so why are you afraid of getting into my car?” Stella’s fist tightened as she felt the urge to raise her hand and slap him. However, she remembered her predicament, so she merely clenched her fist tight and then let it slump to her side. “We’ll be strangers after our divorce, so I don’t want to have any excessive interaction with you.” The man’s eyes darkened and he suddenly tightened his grip. “If you didn’t want to have anything to do with me, why did you beg me with tears in your eyes to let you keep the baby?” Then, he looked down at Stella’s stomach as his lips curled into a grin. There was no joy in his eyes, only ridicule. Stella’s expression immediately fell. She bit her lip and endured. “Like I said… This child belongs to me alone. It has nothing to do with you.” Weston’s slightly calloused fingertip caressed her lips. His eyes darkened after seeing the rows of red. “Tell me, how do you have a child alone, hm?” Stella glared at him angrily. “You clearly know what I mean. I want to keep the child not because it has anything to do with you, but because it might be the only child I can ever have. I would’ve kept it no matter who the father is… Ouch!” She felt the force gripping her increase before she could finish her sentence. Stella noticed the raging hostility in Weston’s eyes, threatening to drown her. But after a moment, they quickly stilled and showed no turbulence. She thought she was mistaken. Weston’s thumb pressed down on her bottom lip, forcing her mouth to open slightly. “You look better when you’re crying.” Stella stared straight at him. They were too close together that his breaths reminded her of their intimate nights together. She didn’t understand how someone who had ruthlessly used and abandoned her could nonchalantly say this to her now? Stella’s gaze gradually darkened and she turned her head away. “You’ll be marrying Guinevere soon. Aren’t you afraid that she might get upset that you’ve carried your ex-wife into your car out here in public?” Right after she said that, she heard the man laugh. “Not bad. You’re even bringing Gwen into this.” Weston studied her clear eyes. “What else do you have? Try me.” Stella scoffed, laughing at herself in the process. “Don’t you love it when women cry, Mr. Ford? Can’t Ms. Cohen compare to my tears?” Weston’s eyes on her gradually darkened. He released her with flagging interest. “Don’t compare yourself to her.” Stella looked down. “Ms. Cohen is a great celebrity loved by all, so of course I can’t compare to her. But since you love her so much, Mr. Ford, you shouldn’t let an insignificant ex-wife like me be a thorn in her heart.” Weston kept quiet. She didn’t seem forced when he looked at her, and her eyes were calm as if she agreed with him. After a moment, he chuckled for some reason. When he finally backed away and went around the car to get in, Stella slowly turned her head back, breathing a sigh of relief. The car moved away. Stella frowned. “Where are you going?” Weston didn’t answer. He stared at the road ahead and casually propped his hand on the steering wheel, revealing a metal watch on his wrist. “Stardust Mansion.” Stardust Mansion was their marriage home. Their marriage was sudden and they didn’t host a ceremony. Stella only had Roger as her relative, so after they got their marriage certificate and had dinner with Roger, she officially became Mrs. Ford. The place she used to call home was now just a name. Stella retracted her gaze. “Great. I just happened to need to head there to collect my luggage.” Then, she would collect their divorce certificate with him, and this man shall disappear from her life. … The mansion’s district was quite far away from the city center. Stardust Mansion wasn’t exactly huge, but it was well-positioned. The scenery and environment around it were top-notch, and it was a suitable residential location for newlyweds. A black luxury car drove into the yard and stopped at the parking lot. The two entered the elevator. After opening the door, Stella subconsciously studied the decor of the house with mixed feelings. Weston didn’t like having strangers at home. He was a detached and aloof man who preferred being meticulous at work, but alone in private. Although the mansion wasn’t big, it had all the necessary facilities. It even had a garden and swimming pool, so keeping the house in order required a lot of work. Weston had arranged for a few housekeepers to be in charge of cleaning and cooking. However, Stella liked the feeling of being able to manage her house herself, so she frequently took charge instead. As a result, they didn’t let the housekeepers live with them but only had them come over once in a while. For Weston, this was only a house, but for Stella, this was her home. There were traces of her in each corner of the house. Hanging on the porch was the seashell bell chime she made, and there were also plush couple indoor slippers that she had specifically picked out for them. Weston used to call them childish and refused to wear them, but after Stella begged him a few times, he stopped objecting. “Weston…” Stella stared at their shadows on the floor as she changed into her slippers. The man was standing behind her. He rarely came home after their marriage, but he had gotten used to this place after living here with her for a while. Perhaps recalling how obedient and agreeable Stella was when they were together, Weston’s gaze softened. There was even a hint of warmth. “Hm?” Then, he heard Stella ask, “When are we collecting our divorce certificate?”

Chapter 17 Chapter 17

They had only stayed at Stardust Mansion for about six months. But Stella had a feeling that she was all too familiar with each corner of the house. She even remembered which layer of the wardrobe Weston’s frequently used shirt was kept at, and which tie he liked to match it with. Habit was a scary thing. Stella had previously packed up her luggage, so it only took her less than ten minutes to leave the master bedroom with her luggage bag in tow. The man was seated casually on the living room sofa with an arm propped on the armrest. His black shirt further darkened his expression. Weston had a freshly lit cigarette sandwiched between his fingers. The smoke in the air had yet to dissipate. He narrowed his eyes at Stella, then looked at her luggage bag. “You don’t have to move out. I can give you this mansion.” He recalled how he had pitied her for some reason just now. When Stella was changing into her slippers with her back facing him, he saw how skinny she was from the lines on her body. He only had one thought. ‘This woman is too thin.’ He didn’t remember how bony she felt when he last hugged her. Perhaps that atmosphere had deluded him into thinking she was still his meek wife who only had eyes for him, Weston subconsciously assumed Stella would say something intimate to him when she called his name. Alas, she merely asked, “When are we collecting our divorce certificate?” The cigarette suddenly burned Weston’s finger, scalding him. He flicked the ashes away and shifted into another position, crossing his legs. His leisurely and proud appearance made him seem like a natural-born noble. “After all, we were once married.” Stella shook her head and dragged her luggage bag over. “I have no use for this mansion. There’s no need for me to stay in such a big place by myself. If you’re okay with it, Mr. Ford, can you give me the equivalent value in cash instead?” Weston’s expression darkened upon hearing this. He looked at her. “You only want money?” Stella nodded. “I only need money right now. If you insist on giving me this mansion, I won’t refuse, but I’ll sell it instead.” Then, she frowned. “But I don’t have the contacts for such dealings, so I’m afraid that I might get cheated when I sell the house. If you’re willing to help me out on this, I’d be less troubled.” All expression was gone from his face. He finished his cigarette before saying, “I’ll get my assistant to transfer the money into your account in one transaction.” Stella’s gaze faltered slightly but she nodded. “Thank you, Mr. Ford.” Weston stood up and went over to her. She wasn’t exactly short, but she looked rather tiny in his presence. Stella usually dressed plainly and rarely put on makeup. She only puts on light makeup sometimes for the sake of improving her complexion. But she had luscious black hair that accentuated how flawless her fair skin was. Like warm jade, her skin was delicate, translucent, and delightful to the touch. Weston suddenly wanted to touch her face. But he didn’t do anything. He just put out his cigarette and then reached for her luggage. Stella blocked his hand reflexively. “It’s alright. I can manage.” Weston retracted his hand. Without any emotion in his dark eyes, he looked at her. “Where are you staying now? I’ll give you a ride.” Stella’s expression tensed up and she forced out a smile. “That’s alright. I’ll just take a cab.” Seeing Weston stay quiet, out of fear that he might insist on sending her, Stella added, “Mr. Ford, it’s best that we don’t get involved with each other anymore unless necessary, especially for matters like giving me a ride. It may be a minor thing, but women care. Aren’t you afraid that Ms. Cohen might be upset if she learns about this?” Since he was only using her as a tool to incite Guinevere, this marriage was just a lie. Or, she could call it a deal. After all, Weston had given her a huge sum of money when she needed it, so they no longer owe each other anything. She would bury her feelings within her so no one would find out. The best ending they could have was to be strangers again. He would eventually marry Guinevere, and for now, Stella still couldn’t forget him completely, so meeting him would only cause her grief. So, she would rather have nothing to do with this man anymore. Sure enough, she only had to mention Guinevere and Weston would keep quiet. Stella got into a cab and gave the driver a random location. After the car drove away, she looked at Stardust Mansion through the rearview mirror and her eyes finally turned red. That was the place she used to call home. Her chest still hurt. It was especially whenever she saw Weston, for she would recall the fact that he had tricked her and then abandoned her. Stella placed her hand on her flat stomach and closed her eyes. At least she had another family member now. … Stella hadn’t found a place to stay yet, so she could only put her luggage at her workplace at an office building for now. She had learned to play musical instruments and dance as a child, even winning many awards before. She could have gotten into a famous art school with her artistic skills, but her literature scores were just as impressive, so she had ended up attending another school instead. If her parents hadn’t gotten into an accident, she might have still been the old happy Stella. For the sake of paying for Roger’s medical bills, she started working in a piano shop as a piano teacher after she graduated. Stella was only a piano teacher at a piano shop at first. But then a colleague who planned to start her own business found out that Stella knew many instruments, and even knew how to dance, so she poached Stella over. Yvonne Quirk had just finished teaching a class when she saw Stella coming in with a luggage bag. “You’re early today. Isn’t your class in the afternoon?” Yvonne went to the water dispenser to get some water, and the children around greeted her. Stella avoided them and placed her luggage bag at her workstation. She then came over with her insulated mug with a teabag in it. “I have no place to put my stuff, so I’m leaving it here for now. I’ll take it away at night.” Yvonne studied her upon hearing this. “Did something happen…?” Although they were only colleagues, they had a good relationship. Perhaps due to the fact that Stella hadn’t had a friend in a while, she would always tell Yvonne her troubles. Yvonne was a rich wife and her husband was a capable man. The woman was young and beautiful too, but she didn’t like staying at home without doing anything. And so, she started teaching young children and eventually founded her own art school here in this office building, and got a few classrooms to teach music and dance. Stella looked down and watched the hot water flow out, filling the cup for her tea. “I got a divorce.” Yvonne choked on her water, and began to cough and splutter. She stared at Stella in shock. “Didn’t you love your husband a lot? Why did you suddenly get a divorce…?” Stella smiled without saying anything. Yvonne understood at once. “He has someone else…?”

Chapter 18 Chapter 18

It wasn’t until the hot water splattered onto her that Stella snapped back to her senses. After seeing the dispirited look on Stella’s face, Yvonne understood it all. She didn’t continue the subject but asked, “By the looks of it, you haven’t found a place to stay, have you?” Stella grunted a reply. “I’ll stay at a nearby hotel for now and slowly search for a place.” Her salary as a trainer here was actually quite lucrative. Besides, Yvonne was also a generous person and offered Stella commissions, so Stella had some savings. Yvonne knew many rich wives, and their children had wealthy family backgrounds. So the families who sent their children here to learn extra skills could obviously afford to spend. As a result, Stella had earned quite a bit over the course of a year. However, Roger’s medical bills were a bottomless pit, so Stella had to live frugally. Although Weston had promised to bear Roger’s medical bills, Stella was now with child. She had to work hard for their sake. Yvonne sighed and leaned against the water dispenser. “Just tell me if you have any troubles. I like you as a person, and we’re also working together, so you don’t have to hold back.” Stella wiped the water spill on the table with a tissue and smiled. “I got it.” Yvonne had a straightforward personality and gorgeous looks. Though she might not seem friendly, she was a very loyal person. For this exact reason, Stella refused to give her trouble. Seeing as to how Stella refused to say more, Yvonne didn’t force her. She then patted Stella’s shoulder and left without saying anything. Then, Stella turned to the reddened patch on the back of her hand that was scalded by the hot water, and went into a daze. It felt like the pain was slowly coursing through her veins through her skin, and then spreading further into her bones. She sighed as her eyes turned bloodshot. As if there was a thorn stuck in her heart, the pain was excruciating whenever she thought about it. But she didn’t have time to be upset. She even had to wait until work hours were over before she could have a good cry. … At the Cohen family mansion, the two families were now closer than ever as a marriage was soon to happen. Weston’s parents had yet to return from abroad. Since the Cohen family was very concerned about their marriage, Weston was mostly at the Cohen family mansion aside from his office. He stood on the balcony and rubbed his temples, feeling tired. The door to his room was pushed open. Assuming it was a servant, he asked, “What is it?” Guinevere’s hand on the door frame tightened before she put on a smile. “Can’t I see you without a reason?” They would be married soon and her stomach was getting bigger, but it was amusing that they were still sleeping in separate rooms. The Cohen family had been busy planning their marriage. Guinevere’s mother assumed that they would be sleeping together, so when Weston mentioned wanting to sleep in the guest room instead, the expressions on Guinevere’s parents’ faces immediately faltered. Guinevere got annoyed by this and was peeved at Weston for a few days. Alas, it was Grandma Cohen who reasoned with Guinevere. “We have many people at home, and your aunts and uncles are watching. Since both of you aren’t married yet, it makes sense to sleep in separate rooms. Moreover, Weston is still young and vigorous, but you’re pregnant…” Then, she revealed a knowing smile and patted the back of Guinevere’s hand. “What if you accidentally go overboard, and end up hurting the baby?” Guinevere blushed and lowered her head, but her mouth felt bitter. Grandma Cohen was only trying to comfort her in the first half of her talk. They already had a child together before marriage, so it seemed amusing for them to be concerned about sharing a room before marriage. As for the second half of Grandma Cohen’s talk… Guinevere heaved a sigh. Looking at the strikingly tall figure standing on the balcony, the man could look proud and dignified even in a simple white shirt. With a face that was much more exquisite than popular male celebrities and such flawless features, this man could easily draw everyone’s attention even without his family background, wealth, skills, and capabilities. Guinevere took a deep breath as a sense of fear and impulse suddenly welled up in her heart. A moment later, she strode over and hugged his waist. “Weston… We haven’t done it since that night. I had too much to drink back then, so I don’t remember what had happened. If it wasn’t because I got pregnant, I would’ve assumed it was just a dream…” Right after she said that, she felt the man stiffen as if he was repulsed by her contact. Her heart sank. She closed her eyes and tossed aside her dignity to mumble, “Weston, I’m now six months in. The doctor says we can if we do it gently. I want…”“This isn’t important,” Weston interrupted her gently. He sounded kind and patient, but there was a hint of detachment in his tone. “Gwen, there’s no need for you to bear excessive risk.” His words sounded considerate, but they turned Guinevere’s heart cold. She retracted her hands as reason returned to her. Then, she smiled at him. “You’re right. We have a whole life ahead of us, so there’s no need to rush.” Despite saying that, her eyes were filled with a sense of reluctance. She had wanted to ask him if he was just as abstinent when he was with Stella. Had they… done it during the time they were married? They must have… Since he could do it with Stella, why couldn’t he do it with her? … After moving out of Stardust Mansion, Stella rented a two-room apartment near the art school. The place wasn’t big, and despite calling it a two-room apartment, it was really just a one-room apartment separated by a partition. The rent was cheap too. Although it was rather simple, at least she had a place to stay now. She would rent a two-bedroom apartment after Roger got discharged, but for now, she didn’t need to live lavishly. Her life had settled down, and Weston finally contacted her to officialize their divorce. At the Social Security Administration, Weston had yet to be there by the time Stella arrived. Their agreed time was 2 p.m. sharp, but Weston’s black Maybach only appeared at 2.15 p.m. It wasn’t only Weston who got out of the car. There was also Guinevere who looked as stunning as always. Her stomach was much more obvious now, and she even staggered as she got out of the car. Weston carefully supported her. His actions proved just how protective he was of her, and the patient expression on his face was something Stella had never seen before. “Sorry, did you wait long?” Guinevere slowly walked over to her and smiled. “We could have been on time, but we were delayed slightly because of me…” Stella glanced at them indifferently and nodded. “Let’s get to business.” Weston’s gaze fell on her face. When he didn’t see any expression, he averted his gaze and followed her into the Social Security Administration without saying anything. They only got a marriage certificate when they got married. Now that they were getting a divorce, the procedure was just as simple. There wasn’t even any excessive interaction between them. Stella then realized that divorce certificates were the same color as marriage certificates, which were white. It would have been better if it had been black instead, as it seemed to be a better fit for what she was feeling right now.