Chapter 2046

Lucia, perceptive to the undercurrent of tension, could tell there was more to the story, though she wasn’t privy to the details.

Considering both Stella and Lindsay were part of the Clark family, she felt a compelling urge to mend fences.

She interjected smoothly, “Lindsay woke up early to prepare all this, knowing you and your mom would be here.

”

Stella said curtly, “Thanks, Lindsay.

”

But she quickly shifted her attention to Clint and Waldo.

“Hey, you must be starving by now.

It’s about noon.

Let’s not keep lunch waiting, shall we?”

Lindsay’s smile wavered, struggling to be genuine as she sensed Stella’s disinterest and Bella’s restrained reaction.

The men around them remained unaware of the underlying tension, their focus elsewhere.

Waldo turned to Clint and said, “My stomach’s starting to rumble.

Since we’re all here, let’s make this a big family meal.

”

Clint agreed with a nod.

They all made their way to the dining room.

Waldo and Lucia walked side by side, while Clint chatted warmly with Bella, filling the space with a cozy feeling.

Stella stayed close to Bella, and Matthew kept a careful watch over her.

The family buzzed with smiles and laughter, though Lindsay felt a growing sense of isolation.

She stayed still, her teeth clenched, watching their backs with a creeping sense of uncertainty about her place in the group.

Inside the dining room, the ta

ble was filled with tempting dishes, each one clearly chosen with Bella’s health and preferences in mind.

It was obvious that a lot of thought had gone into the meal.

A servant placed a plate in front of Stella, and as she noticed a piece of fish, a wave of nausea suddenly hit her.

Stella fought to suppress the nausea rising within her.

Waldo turned to Bella with a smile and said, “This fish is the chef’s special.

It’s perfect for your recovery.

”

Bella smiled and said, “Looks so fresh! The chef really did a great job.

”

Clint said, “Definitely.

The ingredients and the cooking are first- rate.

”

While everyone praised the fish, Stella couldn’t manage to eat it.

She attempted to take a bite, but as she brought it to her lips, she gripped her chest and nearly gagged.

Sitting beside her, Bella noticed Stella’s extreme reaction and expressed her concern, saying, “Hey, are you okay? Are you feeling iu?”

Matthew also became anxious.

“Are you feeling sick, or is the fish not to your Liking?”

“I’m fine,” Stella replied as she tried to push her plate away.

Just then, a bowl of rich meat soup was set before her.