With a flick of her wrist, Stella settled the bill and departed with Miley in tow.
Outside, Miley couldnt hide her perplexity as she asked, Who were those three women? Did you have any issues with them before?
Stella shook her head, bemused. I dont know them. Ive never met them before. They started being mean to me as soon as they saw me.
Even as she spoke, Stella couldnt shake off Joanns mention of Lindsay, hinting at a past romance with Matthew. It stung, though she quickly dismissed the thought.
Regardless of the truth in Joanns words, Stella was sure that Matthews heart belonged to her now, rendering the past irrelevant.
Miley, less tolerant than Stella, fumed, saying, You didnt provoke them at all, but they still treated you like that. Whats wrong with them?
Stella brushed off the incident with a smile, unfazed.
Miley persisted in her anger. Those women were so out of line! You shouldve called security right away. I mean, this is a mall owned by Prosperity Group. How could someone like you, Mrs. Clark, be bullied like that?
Stella remained the epitome of serenity compared to Mileys boiling frustration.
She simply waved off the incident with a gentle shake of her head and remarked, Never mind, I dont care. Its not me who got upset anyway. No need to waste resources on this.
Miley stewed in anger the entire time, convinced that Stellas kindness bordered on weakness. Despite being unjustly berated, she didnt try to retaliate.
Books Chapters Are Daily Updated Join Stay Updated for All Books Updates
.
Stella soothed Mileys emotions with a shopping spree, eventually coaxing her into letting go of the incident.
booksbybunny s booksbybunny
Later that evening, over dinner at home, Matthew broached the topic cautiously. Did you find a suitable gift today?
Yes, its in the living room. Stellas demeanor remained unchanged, subtly gesturing for him to glance outside the dining room.
A sizable gift box adorned the living room table.
Matthew paid little attention to it, instead probing further, Did anything happen while you were out? Did it affect your mood?
Stella picked up on an unusual undertone in his words.
Setting down her utensils, she met his gaze squarely. Did Miley talk to you?
Stella figured he wouldnt be asking these questions unless he was already in the loop.
Matthew conceded, admitting, I reviewed the surveillance footage. The woman who confronted you today was Joann Crawford.
Stella furrowed her brow, the name triggering a connection.
She gasped, realization dawning. Joann Crawford? Isnt that the name of the bride on the invitation card? Are they the same person?
Matthew nodded, affirming her suspicions.
Stella frowned, contemplating the implications of this revelation.