As she settled into the vehicle, Matthew leaned over to assist her with her seatbelt. Concerned, he inquired, Youve chatted with Bella for so long. How is she doing?
Stella relayed the truth. She seemed to be doing well today.
Then, remembering her encounter with Kristian, she added, I met her husband today. He appears to be kind and genuinely cares for Bella. Upon hearing about her health concerns, he came right away.
Stella couldnt help but sigh, pondering how he would react if he discovered that Elizabeth might be the cause of Bellas illness.
As Matthew pondered the middle-aged man who accompanied Elizabeth, a faint sense of recognition nagged at him.
Though the distance prevented a clear view, he couldnt shake the feeling of familiarity.
Scrutinizing his memory, he struggled to recall where he might have seen the man before.
Meanwhile, Stella mused aloud, I cant understand why someone as elegant as Kristian and someone as gentle as Bella would have a daughter as scheming as Elizabeth.
Catching the confusion in her tone, Matthew suggested, Perhaps its because shes their only child, and theyve spoiled her too much.
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Stella considered his words, acknowledging their observations of Bellas patience with Elizabeth.
Yet, she recognized it as a family matter beyond her purview. I just hope Bellas situation isnt connected to Elizabeth, she remarked softly.
Matthew remained silent as he drove off.
Later that evening, Bella, Elizabeth, and Kristian sat down for dinner.
Elizabeth sensed an unusual tension in the air. Normally, their dinners were warm and welcoming, but tonight felt different.
The source of the tension seemed to be Bella herself.
Throughout the meal, Elizabeth was preoccupied, her mind consumed by thoughts of Stella and Bellas conversation earlier in the day. How could they chat about work for so long?
Puzzled, she ventured softly, Mom, are the dishes not to your Liking? Why arent you eating?
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Bella responded nonchalantly, The food is adequate.
Detecting her mothers indifference, Elizabeth grew convinced that Stella had said something to influence Bella.
Thinking for a moment, she remarked, Today is Dads first visit to Seamarsh. We havent dined together in ages. We should be celebrating.
Bella glanced up, lips pressed into a thin line. Fine, she acquiesced.
Following dinner, Bella retired to her room for some rest.
Meanwhile, Elizabeth summoned Kristian, concern etched on her features.
Did you see her just now? I sensed shes starting to suspect something. Her behavior has been odd lately, she confided, her tone grave. Have you arranged everything for tomorrow? Are you certain there wont be any issues?