Chapter 1819

Bella’s expression grew stern upon hearing the entire story.

After a brief pause, she concluded to Stella, “This was Elizabeth’s fault.

”

“Mom!” Elizabeth gasped, unable to hide her shock.

Stella too seemed taken aback by Bella’s sudden decisiveness.

Elizabeth was left speechless, her questions stifled by Bella’s piercing gaze.

Bella approached Stella, nodding slightly.

“I had Elizabeth come here on my behalf since I’ve been unwell.

It’s my fault she faltered.

”

“Why are you speaking so humbly to Stella?” Elizabeth snapped, visibly upset.

“Enough! No more talking,” Bella interjected, halting her.

Elizabeth pressed her lips together, forcefully holding back her words.

Turning to Stella, Bella resumed, saying, “I apologize for Elizabeth’s actions.

Please, forgive her for my sake.

”

This time, Elizabeth held her tongue, though her glare at Stella was intense.

Stella chose to disregard Elizabeth’s stare.

She had invited Bella to dispel any misconceptions.

Now that Bella had understood the truth, Stella wanted to avoid further awkwardness.

Moreover, she had another more significant reason for inviting Bella.

Seizing the moment, Stella assured her, “Now that everything’s clear, let’s put this behind us.

I respect your effort to make amends.

”

Yet, Elizabeth couldn’t contain her frustration.

“I did nothing wrong.

It doesn’t matter whether she forgives me or not,” she blurted out.

Bella frowned, a silent warning to Elizabeth, who clenched her jaw and fell silent.

Stella couldn’t help but feel envious.

Bella always stood up for Elizabeth, ready to apologize on her behalf.

Once she regained her composure, Stella addressed Bella, saying, “There’s something else I need to discuss with you.

”

Aware of the attention they were attracting, Stella hesitated briefly before turning to Bella.

“Do you have a moment? Maybe we could step outside and have a talk in private?” she suggested.

Bella, unsure of what Stella intended to discuss, simply nodded her agreement.

As Stella led Bella away, Rylie intervened, calling out urgently, “Mrs, Clark!”

Stella paused to look back at her.

Rylie, her expression tense, implored, “Please don’t go.

We haven’t finished our conversation…”

Her voice faded into uncertainty.