Stella even mused that if it were indeed a dream, she hoped never to awaken.
Matthew understood her feelings, saying, Its like when I returned to the Clark family and it wasnt as I had pictured. Yet, I calmly accepted everything and moved on.
They continued their conversation, and after a moment, Stella couldnt resist asking Matthew, From your investigations, Bella My mother, did she really get married only once?
Matthew didnt reply directly but instead questioned, Why do you suddenly bring this up?
Stella admitted openly, When I was with Kristian earlier, something felt off, but I couldnt pinpoint what it was. My father never seemed to be like him, at least in my memories.
Her memories held only a faint image of a man. He was gentle, distinctly unlike Kristian.
Stella paused, and then added, But perhaps hes changed over the years.
The thought lingered that even if a person transformed, the essence of how they made others feel remained constant.
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Every encounter with Kristian left Stella uneasy, sensing a hidden malice behind his smile.
Her instincts screamed that something was off about him!
Matthew, who had kept his investigation into Kristian a secret, noticed Stellas troubled expression and reassured her, Dont dwell on it too much. Perhaps its just because you havent spent enough time with him. It might get better over time.
Stella nodded, somewhat convinced. Maybe.
Holding her hand firmly, Matthew advised, But if you find that you really cant get along with him, dont force yourself.
His care was always thoughtful, warming Stellas heart. After a brief pause, she said, Do you think Im being too paranoid? I obsessed over finding my biological parents for so long, and now that Ive found them, Im starting to doubt my father. It feels a bit ungrateful.
Seeing her mood darken, Matthew offered comfort. Its not your fault. Its natural to feel this way. You dont have strong memories of your parents, which makes trust hard to build as an adult. Trust and understanding take time to develop unless theres an immediate connection. Just take things one step at a time.
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Soothed by Matthews words, Stella felt calmer.
They continued their conversation until they arrived at the Clark family home.
Upon entering, they were greeted by the sounds of Lucia and Lindsay chatting and laughing together.
Lucia was sitting with her back to Stella, unaware of her arrival.
As Stella observed Lucia and Lindsay chatting intimately, she couldnt help but recall her first meeting with Lindsay. The recent news posted by the paparazzi and the online comments had clearly left their mark on her. Watching their harmonious get-together, Stella felt a pang of indescribable emotion.
Upon noticing Stella and Matthews arrival, Lindsay greeted them warmly, Stella, Matthew, youre here. I was just catching up with Lucia about recent events.
Lucia turned to Stella and invited her to join them, Stella, come and have a seat.
Seeing that only the two of them were in the living room, Stella asked, Where are my grandpa and Waldo?
Lucia smiled. Its rare for them to have a chance to chat like this. Theyre both fishing in the backyard.