Matthew had intended to head to the hospital right after finishing his wine, but he hadn’t anticipated encountering the woman he longed for, standing beside another man and appearing irresistibly enticing.
Matthew’s expression darkened.
Was Stella deliberately trying to provoke his jealousy, or had she genuinely moved on and found someone new?
A fire of rage ignited within him, but recognizing that this was Cordell’s special day, he suppressed his anger.
The people in the room were unaware of the connection between Matthew and Stella, and thus, they remained oblivious to Matthew’s expression upon seeing her.
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The guests simply assumed there was something romantic going on between Stella and Farris.
“What a rare sight! This is the first time Farris has brought a lady to our get-together, and she’s quite the looker. You’ve kept this well-hidden, Farris.”
Casting them a glance devoid of intimidation, Farris retorted, “Don’t jump to conclusions. We’re just good friends.”
Yet, mo one took his seriously. The room buzzed with knowing looks and increasingly audible whispers.
Just as Stella was grappling with her emotions, a resonant voice emerged from the crowd, bringing an immediate hush.
“Everyone, let’s settle down. We rarely get Farris to join us. Let’s not scare him away.”
Stella’s eyes darted to the source of the voice, and she became more flustered. It was Cordell.
In a daze, she heard Farris offer his birthday wishes.
“Happy birthday, Cordell.”
Only then did it dawn on Stella that the celebration was in honor of Cordell, which explained Matthew’s presence.
But the coincidence seemed almost too surreal.
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With a half-smile, Cordell looked at Stella but addressed Farris.
“Why don’t you introduce us to your friend?”
Oblivious to Cordell’s cryptic expression, Farris responded succinctly, “This is Stella Anderson, a friend of mine.”
“Nice to meet you, Miss Anderson.” Cordell greeted her cordially.
Feeling a blend of embarrassment, awkwardness, and a touch of guilt, Stella nodded slightly, offering no words.
Seizing the moment, Farris spoke for her.
“She’s a bit shy. We’ll go sit over there, if you don’t mind.”
“Sure,” Cordell answered before moving on.