Devoid of any warmth in her gaze, Elizabeth had no inclination to remain in his company any longer, especially after Luka’s interference with her plans.
“Thank you,” she responded tersely, preparing to exit the vehicle.
Yet, Luka interjected before she could leave. “Hold on a moment. I have something more to say.”
Intrigued and slightly annoyed, Elizabeth turned, her eyebrow arched in question. “And what might that be?”
The playfulness previously evident in Luka’s demeanor had evaporated, now replaced by a seriousness that held weight. “Stay away from Stella.”
Stella again!
The mention of the name instantly shadowed Elizabeth’s features.
Her voice, icy with disdain, shot back, “You’re in no position to dictate my actions.”
(EagleNovels) ‘s (EagleNovels)
With a forceful motion, she flung open the car door, stepped out, and slammed it behind her, striding away in a mix of anger and determination.
Back in the sanctuary of her hotel room, Elizabeth could no longer suppress her fury. Her bag met the floor with a thud as she released a pent-up scream, the sound echoing through the room.
Alarmed by the commotion, Bella noticed the discarded bag and approached with concern etching her features.
“Elizabeth, what’s wrong?” she asked, observing the storm brewing in Elizabeth’s demeanor.
Arms crossed and face etched with frustration, Elizabeth offered no reply.
Sensing the depth of her upset, Bella sat beside her, attempting to offer comfort. But Elizabeth, in her agitated state, brushed off the gesture impatiently.
In a gentle tone, Bella probed further, “What’s troubling you?
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Sweetheart, didn’t I skip the banquet for your sake? Why are you so upset? Did someone at the event treat you poorly?”
Recalling the events before the party, Bella remembered how Elizabeth had fervently requested to attend Luther’s banquet in her stead, citing an interest in a particular man and a desire to connect with him away from her mother’s presence.
Bella, ever indulgent of Elizabeth’s wishes, had agreed without hesitation.
Her brows knitting in concern, Bella continued, “Is this about the man not reciprocating your feelings?”
“It’s not about him not liking me. The issue is, he’s already married,” Elizabeth responded with defiance.
“What?” Bella’s expression morphed into one of deep concern, her eyebrows knitting together more tightly. Shaking her head, she advised, “Then you must let it go, Elizabeth. We shouldn’t intrude upon someone else’s marriage. The world is full of remarkable men.
Surely, you can find another who is unattached.”
Her advice was earnest, stressing the moral imperative of respecting the boundaries of another’s relationship.
Had Bella been aware of Elizabeth’s feelings for a married man earlier, she would have never condoned such behavior.