Caught up in her thoughts and hindered by the dim lighting, Stella didn’t notice a loose stone on her path. Her foot hit the stone, and her ankle twisted painfully.
Just as she was about to topple over, a strong grip steadied her by the waist.
Matthew’s voice, tinged with concern, sounded from above her.
“Are you okay?”
“This is none of your concern,” Stella retorted, struggling to free herself from his hold.
Frustrated, she punched him on the shoulder.
“Let go, Matthew. Don’t touch me!”
(EagleNovels)
Matthew tightened his grip for a moment, his voice heavy with emotion.
“Stella, listen to me. My love for you is genuine. I truly wanted to propose to you tonight.”
Stella’s voice was unwavering as she shot back, “Let go of me, you jerk! Stay away from me…”
Fearing she might injure herself further, Matthew finally released his hold.
“Alright, I’ll let you go. Just don’t hurt yourself. Can we talk, Stella?”
Stella broke away from his arms and walked ahead without looking back at him.
Matthew was momentarily stunned before following Stella.
Books Chapters Are Daily Updated Join & Stay Updated For All Books Updates…
However, cautious not to incite Stella’s ire further, he maintained a careful distance of a few paces.
Aware of his measured footsteps, Stella realized he was following her.
Yet, emotionally spent from a nerve-wracking night, she lacked the energy to confront him.
Feeling drained and defeated, Stella finally relented. If he insisted on following her, then so be it.
Just then, her phone buzzed with a new message. It was from Farris, inquiring about her whereabouts.
Halting in her tracks, Stella composed a courteous reply.
“I’ve made it back to the hospital. Don’t worry about me. Please enjoy celebrating your friend’s birthday.”
After sending the message, she was about to stow her phone back in her purse when a raindrop splashed onto the screen.
Looking up, Stella noted the sky had begun to drizzle.
Casting her gaze around to find shelter from the rain, she spotted a dessert shop across the street.