Chapter 1835

Each time she saw Bella, a familiar sensation convinced her of a possible parent-child connection.

Unfortunately, reality had other plans.

Matthew stroked her back and whispered, “It’s my fault.

I should have confirmed everything before getting your hopes up.

If I hadn’t, you wouldn’t be this upset now.

”

Stella looked up at his weary face and shook her head.

“It’s not your fault.

I just wanted it too much,” she murmured.

She lowered her gaze and clasped Matthew’s hand.

“Don’t stress about it.

It’s been a long time, and even my grandfather has forgotten the details.

Finding someone who disappeared so many years ago is never easy.

We need to be patient.

”

Her words were as much for herself as they were for Matthew.

Matthew looked at her.

Under his gaze, Stella forced a smile and added, “And I’ve also gained a lot.

After all, my skill has been recognized by Bella and I’ve got the opportunity to learn from her.

It’s not all a loss.

”

Matthew could tell she was just putting on a brave face.

The more she spoke, the more he sympathized with her plight.

He held Stella’s hand reassuringly and said, “Don’t be discouraged.

As long as we keep following the clues, we will find your mother as soon as possible.

”

“Okay,” Stella replied softly, her voice barely above a whisper, indicating her dwindling hope.

Matthew comforted her and shifted the conversation.

“Do you remember any conversations

when you were with Haley? Did she mention anyone, like a boyfriend?”

He had revisited the circumstances of Haley’s death several times and something about it seemed off.

To uncover the truth, finding this mysterious man could be the key breakthrough.

Stella thought for a moment before responding, “I haven’t heard her mention any man.

I didn’t feel inclined to get close to her; she was always on guard with me and never shared much about her personal life.

I’m just relieved that my mother isn’t her.

.

”

Her gaze then shifted toward Matthew with a hint of curiosity.

Matthew seldom brought up Haley.

Why was he discussing her so earnestly today?

“Was there anything wrong with her?” Stella frowned.

She had witnessed Haley’s death; there shouldn’t have been any doubts.

“Nothing specific.

I just thought there was something odd about her death at the time, so I asked,” Matthew replied casually, trying to prevent Stella from worrying further.

He embraced her gently and comforted, “I’ll look into it later.

Don’t think too much about it now.

It’s late; try to get some sleep.

”

In Matthew’s arms, Stella felt a profound sense of security.

A wave of sleepiness gradually washed over her, and she nestled into a comfortable position, closed her eyes, and slowly drifted off to sleep.

Matthew turned to gaze at her peaceful face, but his mind was still preoccupied with the day’s events.