Chapter 1854

Relieved that Bella seemed fine, Stella explained, “An assistant from my studio introduced her to me.

The lady served as her mentor.

Without her assistance, I wouldn’t have completed Margery’s dress on time.

”

Grateful for Alissa’s support, Stella added, “She’s incredibly skilled…”

Bella examined the embroidered pattern, but this time, her mind remained blank, devoid of the previous elusive images.

The two continued talking about work, with Bella mostly updating Stella on the studio.

Time passed quickly, and before they knew it, evening had set in.

Suddenly, Stella’s phone rang, displaying Matthew’s name.

She hesitated, unsure whether to answer.

“Matthew?” Bella asked with a smile, noticing Stella’s dilemma.

She hadn’t realized how late it had become until the call interrupted them.

The sky outside was already darkening.

“Go ahead and answer,” Bella suggested, turning her attention back to the documents in her hands.

Stella quickly answered the call, covering the phone with her hand as she spoke in a low voice.

“What’s up?”

“It’s late.

Let me come and get you,” Matthew’s voice suggested over the Line.

Stella agreed with a simple “Okay” before ending the call.

She turned to Bella with an awkward smile.

“He’s on his way to pick me up.

”

Bella nodded understandingly, acknowledging the hour.

“It’s indeed late.

Let’s call it a day.

Since Matthew is fetching you, I won’t detain you for dinner.

”

Stella blushed slightly and said shyly, “Then I’ll take my leave.

”

Rising from her seat, she bid Bella farewell.

“Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need anything.

”

Bella nodded in agreement.

“Of course.

”

Then she got up and saw Stella off.

They exited the room just as Elizabeth returned.

Elizabeth’s discontent was evident in her Catching sight of Stella.

“Why are you still here?” tone as she questioned, Three hours had passed, and Stella was only just preparing to depart.

Elizabeth harbored a deep dislike for Stella; she believed that every visit from Stella caused Bella to act strangely.

Furious with Stella’s lingering presence, Elizabeth seethed with frustration.

Yet, Stella remained indifferent to Elizabeth’s hostility, her focus drawn to the middle-aged man standing behind her.

It was the first time Stella had encountered him, and their eyes met briefly.

While Stella quietly observed the newcomer, Kristian, too, regarded her with interest.

Bella’s surprise at seeing Kristian was evident.

“What brings you here?”