Chapter 1803

Interrupting Elizabeth’s rising frustration, Bella intervened with a sigh.

“Shut up.

Stella’s just trying to be helpful.

”

Elizabeth’s response was dismissive as she snorted, “Who knows what her intention is?”

Bella felt torn, unsure how to handle her daughter’s outburst.

With a guilty glance at Stella, she said softly, “We’ve spoiled Elizabeth.

Please don’t be upset with her.

You really don’t have to call a doctor for me.

I’m well acquainted with my body system.

It’s nothing serious, honestly.

Thanks, Stella.

And thank you, Mr.

Clark.

”

Deciding not to pursue the matter further, Stella put aside her suspicions of Elizabeth and shifted the conversation toward design instead.

Elizabeth wore a frown while they continued to talk.

After a while, seizing an opportunity, she said, “Mom, it’s bedtime.

”

Noticing the late hour, Stella bid Bella farewell and took her leave.

Elizabeth assisted Bella to her room for some rest.

As she did, her gaze fell on some documents on the table.

Curiously, she inquired, “What’s this?”

Bella glanced at the papers and replied, “Stella just brought these over.

”

A look of satisfaction crossed Bella’s face.

“It’s been a long time since I’ve encountered someone as talented and hardworking.

I believe she can really help Prosperity Group make inroads into the Dorburn market with these designs.

”

Her tone was filled with admiration for Stella, which did not sit well with Elizabeth.

This wasn’t the first time Bella had spoken so highly of Stella.

Having lived with Bella since childhood, Elizabeth had never received such praise herself.

The thought that Bella might find out Stella was also her daughter and place more and more importance on her-to the point where Elizabeth might be overshadowed—filled her with dread.

Elizabeth masked her resentment, cautioning, “Let’s not jump to conclusions.

Being capable doesn’t necessarily mean one has good character.

”

Just then, Bella’s phone rang.

It was Margery Sanchez.

Bella, distracted, didn’t catch the flicker of resentment in Elizabeth’s eyes.

Elizabeth saw the caller ID, but Bella had already moved away to answer the call.

Elizabeth strained to overhear the conversation, catching snippets about “evening dress” and “Stella.

” However, she couldn’t make out the details.

After Bella ended the call, she immediately asked, “What did Margery want at this hour?”

Margery was a client who had placed a deposit for one of Stella’s designs.

Bella explained, “She needs to attend a banquet earlier than planned and wants her evening dress by this week.

I’ll ask Stella to expedite it.

”

Elizabeth, quick to devise a plan, raised her hand to interject, “It’s too late now.

Everyone at Prosperity Group has already left for the day.

Even if you contact Stella, nothing can be started until tomorrow.

I’ll make sure to speak to her in person at the office.

”

Bella paused to consider Elizabeth’s suggestion and realized it made sense.

She said earnestly, “Our reputation is at stake.

Make sure you talk to Stella first thing when you get to Prosperity Group tomorrow.

It’s crucial.

”

“I’m not that unreliable,” Elizabeth replied dismissively, despite Bella’s emphasis on the urgency.