Chapter 1866

Before departing, Stella cast a lingering glance at Elizabeth.

Without the restraints of the bodyguards, Elizabeth crumbled to the floor.

Seemingly aware of Stella’s scrutiny, she raised her head and met Stella’s gaze with a defiant smile, a hint of provocation gleaming in her eyes.

After just a fleeting glance, Stella averted her gaze in disgust.

Matthew shot a brief glance at Elizabeth, withholding any words.

Wrapping his arm around Stella’s shoulders, he proceeded to depart without uttering a single word.

Kristian and Bella abruptly came to a halt.

“Stella…” Bella turned her gaze toward Stella, her voice tinged with weariness.

“Thank you for today.

I’m grateful you were here.

”

She understood that Matthew’s sudden arrival with his entourage was prompted by a message from Stella.

Then she extended her gratitude to Matthew.

“Thank you, Mr.

Clark.

”

Stella shook her head and replied, “It’s only natural for us to intervene.

I’m relieved you weren’t hurt.

”

Kristian also conveyed his appreciation, saying, “Thank you for safeguarding and looking after Bella.

I apologize for exposing you to our family troubles today.

Considering Bella’s current fragile state, I promise to treat both of you to dinner another time.

”

His demeanor was marked by gentleness and courtesy, and Stella harbored no ill will toward him.

She responded earnestly, “You’re welcome.

Now that the situation is resolved, we won’t intrude any further.

I’ll visit Bella later.

”

Stella and Matthew’s departure was swift.

After bidding farewell to Bella and Kristian, they embarked on their journey home.

Seated in the car, Stella couldn’t shake off the events that had unfolded moments earlier.

“I still can’t wrap my head around Elizabeth drugging Bella.

Despite everything, Bella is her own flesh and blood.

How could she commit such an act?” Stella voiced her disbelief.

Matthew remained silent, his lack of surprise palpable.

Stella recalled the cold gaze Elizabeth had cast upon her before leaving.

“And what’s worse, she showed no remorse.

It’s as if she didn’t even recognize the gravity of her actions.

How can someone be so callous?”

Matthew offered solace.

“There’s no need to dwell on the actions of such individuals.

It’s not worth our anger.

”

Stella let out a weary sigh.

“Honestly, I’m not even angry.

I just feel sorry for Bella.

It’s evident

how much she adores Elizabeth.

Despite her faults, Bella always stands by her side.

She’s always shielded Elizabeth, yet in return, Elizabeth conspired with outsiders to harm her.

”

Stella couldn’t fathom Elizabeth’s motives.

She yearned desperately to locate her birth mother, yet every lead proved fruitless.

Ironically, Elizabeth held a desire for the death of her own mother.

Noticing Stella’s despondency, Matthew reassured her, “Not everyone reciprocates kindness.

Some are driven solely by their own selfish desires.

It’s futile trying to comprehend such individuals.

”

Stella nodded, albeit slightly.

After a brief moment of comfort, Matthew changed the subject.