Chapter 1983

The night before they were set to leave for Dorburn, Kristian asked Stella to invite Matthew over for dinner.

As they ate, Kristian’s eyes shifted thoughtfully; he then set down his utensils and turned to Bella.

He said with regret, “I have an errand in Lyllmann tomorrow, so I won’t be able to go with you to Dorburn.

”

Then he took Bella’s hand gently.

Bella was caught off guard by his sudden affection.

Ever since she saw that photo in Kristian’s wallet, she had felt an inexplicable fear of him.

Instinctively, she wanted to withdraw her hand, but afraid of arousing suspicion, she forced an awkward smile.

Kristian, seemingly oblivious, asked guiltily, “You don’t blame me for not coming with you, do you? After all, this is our first time taking Stella back to Dorburn.

”

His gaze bored into Bella’s, seemingly filled with deep affection, yet Bella couldn’t shake the unease creeping up her spine.

“Of course not.

I’m not unreasonable.

” Bella collected herself, gently withdrawing her hand from Kristian’s grasp.

“Just handle your business, and whenever you’re free, join us in Dorburn.

”

Kristian smiled warmly and turned to apologize to Stella.

“I meant to accompany you on your first trip to Dorburn, but it seems fate had other plans.

”

Stella was taken aback.

She had assumed he was only playing nice for Bella’s sake, not expecting him to acknowledge her.

Keeping her composure, she replied, “It’s alright.

Mom and I… We can go back together.

We just need to handle the studio’s affairs, and we’ll take good care of ourselves.

”

Kristian sighed.

“It’s just bad timing.

There’s a problem with my cooperation project with the Prosperity Group, and I need Matthew to stay behind and handle it.

Otherwise, I would have felt better with him accompanying you.

”

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Matthew, lost in thought, remained silent.

Kristian continued, “But don’t worry.

I’ve arranged a private plane to take you back.

Someone will be waiting when you arrive.

You won’t need to worry about a thing.

”

He smiled faintly, a hint of cruelty in his eyes.

They wouldn’t return this time.

Stella instinctively refused, “You don’t have to…”

But Kristian was insistent, not allowing them to decline.

“I’m concerned about regular flights and their passengers.

Private planes are safer, so trust me on this.

”

He seemed completely committed to their well-being, leaving no room for refusal.

Before Stella could say more, Matthew subtly held her hand under the table.

Matthew looked at Stella warmly.

“Since Kristian has everything arranged, let’s accept his kindness.

”