Chapter 2004

Bella looked up at her and asked, “Why have we been staying here all these days? Is something going on? Does it have anything to do with Kristian?”

Bella finally voiced the question that had been weighing on her mind.

Since moving into this villa, she had sensed that something was amiss.

The constant presence of so many guards only seemed to confirm her suspicions.

She pondered for a while and tentatively speculated that it might be because of something Kristian had done, though she wasn’t certain.

Therefore, she decided to summon Stella and inquire about it.

Stella knew she couldn’t conceal the truth indefinitely, and Bella would inevitably question it sooner or later.

However, she didn’t want Bella to become too anxious about the situation.

“Yeah, something’s come up.

But don’t stress about it,” Stella said gently.

“Matthew’s on top of things.

Once it’s sorted, we’ll head back home.

”

Bella pursed her lips.

Stella’s evasive gaze made her strongly believe it must be related to Kristian.

She clasped Stella’s hand and earnestly requested, “Please let Matthew know that if Kristian is at fault, he can handle the situation as he sees fit.

There’s no need to show mercy because of me.

”

Stella’s chest constricted when she heard that.

Stella interpreted Bella’s words as a sign that she still held some level of concern or care for Kristian.

She couldn’t fathom the conse

quences if Bella were to discover that she had been deceived all these years.

Stella wished for Bella to stay here, in this villa forever.

That way, she would never have to face the painful reality.

Seeing Stella was silent, Bella asked, “Did you hear what I said?”

Stella snapped back to reality and replied in a flat tone, “Yeah.

I’ll pass on your message to him.

”

In the evening, at RK Bar’s secluded room, Emil grinned as he toasted.

“Congratulations, Kristian.

Your dream has come true.

”

Kristian lifted his glass to meet Emil’s.

“Thank you for your support, Emil.

This happiness is ours to share!”

The two enjoyed their time, sipping drinks and engaging in conversation.

Around others, Kristian often showed signs of grief over the loss of his wife and daughter, but tonight, no such sorrow was apparent.

Setting his glass down, Kristian got to the point.

“Our joint project should wrap up in about a week.

When it does, let’s get the movie released and the money will be laundered.

”

Emil chuckled, his admiration clear.

“You’ve got guts, Kristian, and you’re sharp too.

Working with someone as astute as you is genuinely rewarding.

I’m looking forward to more collaborations.

”

Everyone enjoys a good compliment, especially when feeling self- satisfied.

Pleased by Emil’s words and slightly tipsy, Kristian embraced him and called him “buddy.

”

His speech slightly slurred, Kristian continued, “You’re too modest.

We’re buddies, aren’t we? From now on, what’s mine is yours too.

”