Chapter 1792

It all seemed so unfair to Elizabeth.

She silently vowed to tarnish Stella’s reputation and win over Matthew.

She refused to let Stella revel in her good fortune.

Elizabeth returned to her table, her thoughts still consumed by what she had heard, her expression somber.

Bella and Andrew chatted amiably, but Bella couldn’t help but notice Elizabeth’s change in demeanor after her brief absence.

Confused, she asked, “What’s the problem? You seem off.

”

Lost in her thoughts, Elizabeth didn’t initially catch Bella’s question.

It took Andrew’s gentle prompt to bring her back to reality, her confusion apparent.

Bella persisted.

“What’s wrong? You seem distracted.

”

Elizabeth shook her head, taking a moment to gather her thoughts.

Seizing the opportunity, she turned to Bella.

“Mom, can I help with your project alongside Stella? I want to lend a hand.

”

She couldn’t afford to delay any longer.

Bella and Stella were growing closer by the day.

Bella furrowed her brow, puzzled.

“But you’re not into design, are you?”

Sensing Bella’s suspicion, Elizabeth smiled reassuringly.

“No, not really.

But considering your health, I hate seeing you overworked.

Plus, you’ve taught me before.

I want to do my part and ease your load.

I don’t want you to stress too much.

”

Bella hesitated, pondering Elizabeth’s suggestion carefully.

Undeterred, Elizabeth persisted.

“Stella’s been in charge of the project.

She’s solid, and I’m sure she’s got it under control.

I’ll just help you get in touch with her.

That’s all.

”

Bella didn’t immediately agree, opting for a cautious response instead.

“Stella’s the one in charge right now.

I’ll need to check with her first.

”

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Elizabeth found Bella’s response a bit unsatisfactory.

But she managed to mask her disappointment with a forced smile, reluctantly accepting it.

She understood Bella’s lingering worries from past events.

Insisting on this might only make her disagree.

“By the way, do we really need to rush Stella into the successor role?” Elizabeth suggested further, “Let her wrap up this project first, make a name for herself in Dorburn.

Then we can announce it publicly.

It’ll show she’s the real deal and earn her some respect.

”

Bella considered Elizabeth’s proposal thoughtfully.

Elizabeth continued, her tone calculated, “Stella has mostly developed her career in Seamarsh.

Despite your support, some might question her credentials.

They might think she’s only your student because of Matthew.

It might be best to hold off a bit longer.

”

Finding Elizabeth’s reasoning sound, Bella commended her insight, agreeing.

“You make a good point.

That’s a sensible approach.

”

“That’ll work for us all,” Elizabeth replied with a hint of insincerity, simmering with resentment toward Stella.

At ten o’clock, Stella and Matthew said their goodbyes to Miley and Neville, and then left the restaurant.

When they arrived home, Stella could perceive a strong fragrance of roses in the air just as she opened the gate slightly.

At that moment, she suddenly realized what was going on and instinctively gazed at Matthew.

As she locked eyes with his affectionate eyes, her heart skipped a beat.

Pursing her Lips, she placed her hand on the gate and slowly pushed it open as Matthew watched her.

When she switched on the light, a rose petal path was revealed, which extended from the gate to the living room.