In the ward, Stellas voice wavered as she finished speaking. Facing Bellas stunned eyes, she mumbled an incoherent apology. Im sorry
Stellas gaze dropped to the floor, unable to meet Bellas eyes. I asked Matthew to help me find my biological parents. His investigation led him to you.
Fearful that Bella might not believe her, Stella launched into a detailed recount of the events, explaining how the misunderstanding about Bella not being her mother had occurred.
She suddenly remembered the DNA test report in her bag. With shaky hands, she pulled it out. You can look at our DNA test report. It was done by Cordell himself. There should be no mistake.
Her hands trembled as she handed the report to Bella.
If you dont believe me, we can do it again.
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Stellas nerves were frayed; she couldnt recall the last time she felt this anxious.
Bella took the report and read it in silence, her thoughts swirling. The dream shed had resurfaced, filling her mind with confusion.
If the child in her dream was Stella, and Stella was indeed her daughter, then who was Kori?
Where did she fit into this puzzle?
Bellas face grew darker, her expression unreadable.
Stella, noting Bellas silence, felt her initial hope ebb away, replaced by a creeping chill in her heart.
From the start, Stella had been eager to find her mother, nearly forgetting that Bella might not welcome this revelation.
The sudden revelation of a daughter could indeed upend Bellas life.
As the silence stretched on, Stellas heart sank further.
She began to grasp that the mother she had yearned for might not be ready to accept her.
But she could understand. Bella had no memory of her past. How could she accept a stranger claiming to be her daughter?
Despite her dreams of a joyous reunion, Stella didnt want to impose on Bella.
Forcing a smile, Stella said softly, Its okay. I know this is a lot to take in. I respect your feelings. Just knowing youre alive is enough for me. I never expected more.
She bit her lip, fighting to hold back the tears that threatened to spill.
She couldnt cry in front of Bella, not now.
Bella, snapping back to reality, felt her heart break at the sight of Stellas forced smile.
Im sorry I didnt mean to hurt you, Bella said softly. After a moments hesitation, she continued, Ive liked you since the first time I saw you. I would be thrilled if you were indeed my biological daughter, but you must understand, that my memories of the past are blank.
Stellas eyes widened in surprise.
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So, Bellas silence was due to shock, not rejection?
I understand, Stella said gently. I know this is overwhelming. It doesnt matter. We have time. And youre undergoing treatment; your memories will come back.
Bella looked into Stellas bright, hopeful eyes, feeling a confusing swirl of emotions. There was something indescribable stirring in her heart.
Just then, the door swung open and Kristian walked in, his demeanor casual despite the charged atmosphere.
He approached Bella with a relieved smile. Youre finally awake.
Bella turned to him, guilt evident in her eyes. Sorry to make you worry.
Kristian shook his head. Dont apologize. When I found out about the accident, I was terrified. Its all my fault. If I hadnt gone to buy those chocolate bars, this wouldnt have happened.
Bella shook her head. Its not your fault. I asked you to go
Kristian let out a relieved sigh and said gently, As long as youre okay, thats all that matters.
His eyes fell on the document in Bellas hand. Whats that?
He took a closer look, his expression shifting to surprise. Is this a DNA test report? Whose is it?