Ch. 121..130

Chapter 121: No Reason to Reject it or Are You Unwilling to Reject it?

Atishoo-

Stella kept sneezing today. She rubbed her nose, picked up a glass of water aside to take a sip.

Sherry said with concerns, "Stella, the temperature is dropping recently. Put on more clothes. Don't get sick."

Stella nodded, "Okay. Please go on."

Where did I stop? Oh... I recalled it. Liam Keith has been fired by his company. His scandals were spread everywhere, so no company is willing to hire him now. Fortunately, I've moved to your place. He kept waiting for me downstairs of my apartment. I asked the property manager to call the police.

Sherry, you'd better hide from him recently. He has nothing now. It's possible that he would become extreme.

I know. Don't worry. Sherry took a bite on the cake and continued, "By the way, how's going with Mr. Conrad and you?"

Stella was choked up by the way how Sherry called Clarence.

She said, "Could you please not be so flexible? You always called him the wretched man not long ago."

Sherry smiled dearly, "I must know how to appreciate my benefactor. Mr. Conrad has helped me a lot. How can I still have the heart to curse him at his back? Besides, I don't think he was so wretched as we've imagined. He treats you not bad, Stella."

Stella kept silent.

Sherry continued, "Take Vivian Sean for example. We have misunderstood him. He has done those things all for you. Don't you feel quite touched? Besides, he..."

Upon hearing her words, Stella had goosebumps all over her body. Hurriedly, she interrupted Sherry, "Stop it, Sherry! Please stop talking about him!"

She couldn't meet Clarence every day. Since the incident happened that night, she could occasionally see him while having breakfast, but they didn't talk.

Stella was quite satisfied with their current status.

Sherry said, "All right."

However, she changed to another subject, "Stella, what are you planning to do about the charity banquet tomorrow night? The host is the Jason family, so Horace will attend it. He's engaged now. Would you feel awkward when meeting him?"

Nope. I've made it clear to him already.

She had told Horace what she thought clearly in the evening when they met in the Conrad's Mansion.

Horace wasn't the fact that Stella was worried about.

She was afraid that she might encounter some acquaintances in the charity banquet tomorrow evening.

She was fine with others. Anyway, it was getting cold. As long as she put on more clothes, nobody would look at her belly deliberately.

She was truly worried about Annie, the lunatic.

Annie was the kind of woman that even nobody provoked her on the street, she would pounce at someone and bite him or her.

Stella wasn't afraid of Annie. It was just that once Annie had known that she was pregnant, the whole Conrad family would know it.

However, Stanford had prepared it already. She must attend it.

After arriving home, Stella didn't go upstairs immediately. She heated a glass of milk and waited for Clarence when drinking it in the living room.

Clarence didn't show up until almost eleven o'clock at night.

Stella stood up, "Good evening, Mr. Conrad."

Clarence looked at her calmly, "Do I know you?"

The wretched man started being unreasonable again, didn't he?

She knew that he was mocking her for not speaking to him in the past few days. However, she wasn't the only one with the mouth. He didn't speak to her either, did he?

She whispered, "I want to talk to you, Mr. Conrad."

Clarence strode over to the sofa and sat down. His thin lips parted slightly, uttering two cold words, "Go ahead."

Although his attitude was way too bad, Stella was asking him for help, so she had to be humble, "I'm going to attend a charity banquet tomorrow night. Annie Conrad should attend it as well. Hence, Mr. Conrad could you please..."

Before she finished her words, Clarence interrupted her, "Since you know you'll meet Annie, why do you insist on going there?"

Stella explained patiently, "I'll attend it as the designer of SG Jewelry Magazine. It's my job. I don't have any reason to reject it."

Do you have no reason to reject it or are you unwilling to reject it? Clarence crossed his slender legs and said indifferently, "You must want to meet Horace Jason, don't you?"

Stella didn't want to argue with him on this matter. No matter what she said, he wouldn't listen. He would only judge based on his thoughts.

She twitched her lips, "Well, sorry for interrupting you, Mr. Conrad. Please ignore my request."

After finishing her words, Stella directly turned around and went upstairs.

Clarence gazed at her receding figure. He licked his lips but didn't utter a word.

He didn't think it was appropriate for her to attend such an occasion tomorrow.

Back to her room, Stella was lost in thought for a long time. Then she realized that she couldn't attend the charity banquet no matter what.

Even if there was a possibility of one in ten thousand only that she would be found pregnant, she didn't dare to bet on it.

Stella pulled out her cell phone and texted Stanford, telling him that she couldn't attend the banquet.

Since she couldn't attend it, her job would be transferred to Stanford.

After transferring her jobs to Stanford, Stella lay on the bed, looking at the calendar on the nightstand.

It had been a long after she came back to City N. The little fellow in her belly was growing up day by day.

She would give birth in less than four months.

Thinking of that, Stella became happier. She forgot about the wretched man and the argument with him tonight.

The next day, Stella was quite idle, so she went to check on Channing.

It was the weekend, and Channing wasn't at school. When Stella found him, he was working part-time in the cafe opposite the university.

Several girls were standing at the gate of the cafe. With blushed faces, they were excitedly discussing something. It seemed that they came here all for Channing. When Stella got closer, she heard what they were talking about.

I asked him for it yesterday but he didn't give it to me. Alas... I'm too embarrassed to ask him for it again. Who would like to go?

I won't go. I heard that the most beautiful girl in our major asked him for the WeChat ID but he didn't give it to her. How could he give it to me?

Gosh! If he has a girlfriend, his girlfriend must feel quite secured. Jesus! How I wish I were his girlfriend!

Oh, come on! Look at him. His girlfriend must be quite pretty as well.

Yeah. I guess she must be better-looking than the most beautiful girl in our major.

Upon hearing their discussions, Stella curled up her lips into a smile. She pushed the door of the cafe open and walked in.

In the cafe, customers were almost girls. From time to time, they looked over at the counter.

The owner of the cafe patted Channing on his shoulder with a big smile, "Chan, you are truly my lucky start. Since you started working for me, our sales have become much higher. What would you like to have for lunch? It's on me."

Channing was about to speak, and he saw Stella come in. He refused politely, "No, but thanks for your kindness."

After that, he walked to Stella, "Stella, why are you here?"

Stella said with a smile, "I'm here to check on you."ÛÛÛ

Chapter 122: Playful Wretched Man

The office of SG Jewelry Magazine.

As soon as the staff who was in charge of delivering the jewelry to the charity banquet was gone, Modesty showed up in a corner. She dialed a number, "They're on the way to there now."

A man's voice was heard on the end of the other line, "Got it."

Modesty added, "Remember what I've told you. You must deal with it before entering the jewelry exhibition hall. Otherwise, it's easy for them to find you."

After a moment of silence, the man on the other end of the line said, "Modesty, are you sure you're going to do it?"

His questions seemed to have triggered the switch in Modesty's heart. With an ironic smile, she said, "Do you think I want to do it truly? For the designer's contest three years ago, I put in all my effort, but I only got the second prize. I should be the one who's going to Paris originally, but it turned out that it was because she dumped it."

As she spoke, she inhaled, "I just want to make the woman who stands in my way disappear. What's so wrong with it? Only she will disappear that my dream and goals could come true. I don't want to lead the life that everyone disdains me any longer. Mr. Miller, will you help me?"

Modesty, once this is found out, please put all blame on me. I won't get you involved.

Modesty said, "Mr. Miller, just follow my instructions. You won't be found."

After hanging up the phone, Modesty clenched her fists tightly. Then she turned away.

This time, she definitely would make Stella get out of the design industry completely!

Channing poured a glass of milk to Stella. Sitting opposite, he asked, "Why do you have time to come over?"

Stella held the glass and took a sip. Then she answered, "It's weekend today. I don't need to work." Channing was silent for a moment. Then he said, "Sherry told me that you're going to attend a charity banquet."

Stella was silent for a moment.

She didn't expect that Sherry would tell Channing so soon.

She smiled awkwardly, "Well, some accident happened. I can't go now."

Is Clarence Conrad attending it? You don't want to see him, right?

Stella said, "What are you talking about? It has nothing to do with him. I just..."

She didn't know how to explain to him. Hurriedly, she wanted to change the subject. She glanced at the girls who were peeping at their table, "I see so many girls have crushes on you. Don't you like anyone?" Channing answered indifferently, "I don't plan to have a girlfriend."

Why not? Your age is just the right one to fall in love with. It's a pity if you don't have a girlfriend.

Why didn't you fall in love with anyone at that time?

This kid poked at her sore spot.

She didn't answer him until a long while later, "I was busy working part-time to get my tuition fee and living allowance. Besides... although I didn't have a boyfriend, I had a crush on a boy. It also felt quite good.' "Hasn't he engaged to another woman? You didn't end up being together. What's so good about it?"

Stella shushed, drinking the milk.

A few minutes later, Channing asked, "Do you... want to find that man?"

Stella didn't get what he meant, "Who?"

Channing pressed his lips, "The man on the photos."

Channing looked away, leaned against the chair, and said in a relaxed tone, "You don't need to worry how I would feel. I don't care at all. Anyway, you've said that we have the same mother. As the father, it doesn't matter who he is."

Jeffrey was dead anyway.

Stella laughed, "Chan, it's not because of you. It's just... the world is so huge, and I might not be able to find him. Besides, if I've found him, what if he has passed away already? Or, probably he has remarried and got a new family. What's the use of finding him?"

Channing said seriously, "If I were you, I would find him no matter if he has a new family or not. I'd ask him why he has dumped us. Even if to stand in front of his tombstone, I must get an answer." Stella lowered her head and didn't speak.

She didn't want to follow up on this matter because she was also afraid.

She was afraid that the answer she got wouldn't be the one she expected.

Seeing that she was silent, Channing continued, "That's just my thoughts. I want you to know that you don't need to change your mind because of me. I'm not a kid any longer."

Stella said with a smile, "I know. I'll think it over."

Channing still wanted to keep chatting with her, but there were way too many customers and the owner couldn't handle them all. Hence, Channing was called over for help.

He stood up and said, "I'll go back to my work then."

All right. Go ahead. I'm going home now.

After Channing left, Stella finished the milk in her glass. She turned around and found it was already dark outside.

When she was about to leave the cafe, a girl was encouraged by her companions and walked over. She asked tentatively in a low voice, "Excuse me, Missy. Are you Channing's girlfriend?" Stella curled up her lips into a smile, "No, I'm not."

I'm his older sister. I'm twenty-five.

The girl's eyes were lit up instantly, "Nice to meet you, Missy. You are so pretty and your skin is so good. You don't look in your twenties at all."

Other girls also approached and surrounded Stella, "Oh, Missy, it turns out you are Channing's older sister. You are so good-looking. We thought you were his girlfriend just now." "Missy, your family genes are super. You are gorgeous and Channing is handsome. How I envy you!"

Stella walked out of the cafe, and her mood got better.

She wished that she were only a teenager. At least, she didn't need to be afraid of anything. She could do whatever she wanted and dared to restart her life.

Stella didn't hail a taxi. She was walking on the street. It would be boring for her to go home anyway.

Unconsciously, she arrived at the building where the charity banquet was held.

Her end-products would be in the auction of such a big charity jewelry banquet, which was a rare chance and honor for a new designer.

Since she couldn't attend it, she believed that it was also not bad for her to feel it downstairs.

When Stella found a convenience store and sat down, she received a call from Sherry, "Hi, Stella. Have you gone to the charity banquet yet?"

No, I haven't. Stella paused. She sensed that Sherry didn't sound like asking her a question only. She asked, "What's wrong?"

Oh, ha-ha... Nothing. Nothing wrong. I'm just checking on you casually. It's good that you didn't go. Where are you now? Shall I go to find you?

Through the window of the convenience store, Stella looked over at the hotel across the street, "I just came back from Chan's university. I'm downstairs of the hotel. I just want to sit here for a while and then go back later."

The hotel? Which hotel? The one where the banquet is held?

Sherry was speechless. She looked at her laptop, on which there were photos sent over by her cameraman friend. She got a migraine.

On the photos, she could see the backs of a woman's and Clarence's attending the banquet, arm-in-arm.

She wanted to correct her comments on Clarence - Clarence was indeed a wretched man, a playful wretched man who had a lot of affairs.000000☐☐

Chapter 123: Pretty Good at Acting

The charity banquet.

Since Clarence and Phoebe showed up, the whole banquet was blanked with a weird silence.

All of the attendees had known that the Jason family only had an empty shell left. This charity banquet was held because the Jason family wanted to help Dempsey connect to their network. Although the Jason family was declining, they still had accumulated lots of contacts and got a certain reputation.

Besides, a lot of people wanted to get in touch with the Conrad family. They also knew that on the surface, Dempsey was the master of the Conrad family, but Clarence had the final say. However, since the Conrad family had decided the marriage for convenience for the Jason family, the situation was changed a bit.

They also couldn't understand why Clarence went out of town for a hotel resort project at the critical moment. He presented Conrad Group to the covetous Dempsey without any guard.

The situation was changed, but nobody dared to look down upon Clarence's competence and means. Hence, the attendees aimed to know the exact situation in the name of attending this charity banquet. Much to their surprise, Clarence attended the banquet with the daughter from the Steward family.

Hence, the situation was quite obvious.

After all, no matter how many contacts Jason Group had, it only had an empty shell left. It could never compare to Steward Group that was wealthy and powerful.

After a moment of silence, the attendees started to discuss in low voices.

Everyone had their thoughts. The only one who was happy for Phoebe was Rebecca.

Watching the scene, George looked quite annoyed, but he couldn't blow up.

When Phoebe came over with Clarence arm-in-arm to greet him, Clarence only slightly nodded at him. George had been used to Clarence's arrogance and pride, so he didn't care much about it.

He said, "Mr. Conrad, it's a great honor for you to attend the banquet held by your Jason Group."

Clarence said indifferently, "Mr. Jason, let's not beat around the bush. You should know why I came here."

George had experienced ups and downs, so he wasn't troubled at all. He just avoided the key point and answered calmly, "Mr. Conrad, what are you talking about? It's a charity banquet tonight, so everyone came here for charity certainly. Besides that, I don't think there's any other reason for you to come here, Mr. Conrad."

Clarence curled his thin lips and didn't speak.

Right then, Phoebe said with a smile, "Uncle Jason, I agree with you. We are all here for the charity auction tonight."

Right then, some other guests came over to greet George.

Phoebe added, "Uncle Jason, we'll not hold up you for so long then."

After leaving George, Clarence withdrew his hand from Phoebe's arms. Then he grabbed a glass of champagne and commented flatly, "You are pretty good at acting."

Phoebe didn't answer. She picked up a glass of champagne as well and clinked with his glass. Then she approached him and whispered in his ears, "The show has just begun. Look. All of them were gazing at us. It proves that our plan tonight is quite successful."

Clarence tilted his head to avoid her, curling up his lips into a sneer.

As soon as Phoebe finished speaking, Rebecca came over with her big belly. She called, "Hey, Phoebe."

Hi, Rebecca.

Rebecca looked over at Clarence and slightly curled her lips. Immediately, she withdrew her gaze and chatted with Phoebe.

Rebecca didn't know what exactly the Conrad and the Jason families were planning. She was only considerate to her friend.

Although she didn't like Clarence, she had to admit that he was a capable man and also he had an influential position in Conrad Group that couldn't be shaken at all.

Besides, he was the man that Phoebe had been having a crush on.

Rebecca said, "Phoebe, I like the necklace sent over from SG Jewelry Magazine a lot. But..."

Phoebe certainly knew what she hesitated about. Rebecca didn't have much money to afford it.

With a smile, Phoebe said, "Rebecca, if you like it, I can give it as a gift for you."

No, thank you, Phoebe. I just want to tell you that I like it. Anyway, the charity banquet tonight is held by our Jason family. I can't be so willful to get anything I like. The necklace is quite well-designed. If you like it as well, just go ahead and get it.

Right then, the lights were dimmed. The host stood on the stage and officially started the charity auction.

Downstairs of the hotel, Stella sneezed in the wind. When she was fumbling for the tissue in her bag, she saw a jewelry box.

She realized that she had forgotten one thing.

Although she couldn't attend the charity banquet, she had promised the client to deliver the jewelry, so she must keep her words.

Stella folded her clothes, walking towards the hotel.

After walking out of the elevator, Stella asked a waiter, "Excuse me. Could you please call Miss Phoebe Steward out for me? I have something to give to her."

The waiter took a glance at the door behind him, knowing that all attendees today were either wealthy or noble, so he didn't dare to delay, "Okay, Miss. A moment please." The auction was half done. The waiter found Phoebe in the dimmed hall and informed her about Stella.

Upon hearing it, Phoebe cast a glance at the man next to her. He was looking at the stage indifferently and didn't pay attention to her.

Phoebe whispered to the waiter. Then she said to Clarence softly, "Clarence, someone wants to see me outside. Please excuse me for a moment."

Clarence didn't look back and hummed.

Outside the banquet hall.

Stella didn't wait for a long time. She saw Phoebe come over.

Good evening, Miss Steward.

Phoebe smiled, walking to her, "Stella, you've come here. Why didn't you go in?"

Stella said, "Miss Steward, I'm sorry but I have something urgent to deal with."

As she spoke, she pulled out the jewelry box from her bag, "Sorry for keeping you wait for so long."

Phoebe reached out and took it over, "It's alright."

Stella said, "Okay, Miss Steward. I'II...”

It's soon the turn of the jewelry of SG Jewelry Magazine for the auction. Ms. Radomil, I heard that you also have a piece of designed jewelry participated. Don't you go in and watch? Stella was silent for a moment. With a faint smile, she said, "No, thanks."

She turned around and walked for a few steps. Then she heard crick-cracks of the high-heels.

Annie's voice rang out, "Phoebe, I've been looking for you for a long time. Why did you come out?"

Phoebe smiled at her, "I came out to get the wedding gift for you."

Upon hearing it, Stella paused her pace.

It turned out Annie was the close friend that Phoebe mentioned, wasn't she?

Annie stood in front of Phoebe, "What is it?"

I went to SG Jewelry Magazine and find a designer to make you a necklace particularly. Phoebe opened the box, "Do you like it? It's designed by Ms. Radomil, the designer for the 'Puppy ' Series. I recalled that you like..."

While Phoebe was speaking, Annie happened to raise her head and look over at the figure not far away from them. She recognized Stella.

Before Phoebe finished her words, Annie immediately grabbed the jewelry box and smashed it to Stella's feet, "Stella Radomil, how shameless you are! How dare you come here and pester him!"☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 124: She Deserved It No Matter What

Stella looked at the jewelry box that fell next to her feet - the necklace in it had broken into two pieces, scattering on the ground.

It wasn't until now did Phoebe came back to her senses. In a hurry, she said, "Annie, what are you doing..."

Annie said, "Phoebe, this woman faked her pregnancy to force my cousin Clarence to marry her. Then she tried every possible mean to hit on Horace."

Ms. Radomil isn't such a person. Annie, did you misunderstand something?

Annie laughed out ironically. She stared at Stella and said, "You are so good at pretending. With your skin, others don't know what kind of person you are." "Well..."

Stella slowly turned around and looked at Annie calmly, "What kind of person am I?"

Don't you know yourself? After you divorced Clarence, you pestered Horace. Now Horace has engaged to me, you are still pestering him. You can't live without men, can you? Stella slightly smiled and said, "If I did keep pestering Horace, do you think you still could get engaged?"

Annie gritted her teeth fiercely, "You finally admit it!"

What can't I admit? You're always afraid that Horace would be snatched by me one day, aren't you? Since you are so fearful, why don't I just make your wish come true?

Annie raised her hand and wanted to slap her, but she was stopped by Phoebe, "Annie, don't be reckless."

Annie had already lost her mind right now, "Since she could say such shameless words, no matter what happens, she deserves it!"

Phoebe frowned, "It's such a big occasion today. Horace and his parents are also there. If you made a scene, it would be bad for you." Upon hearing it, Annie calmed down a lot. She wasn't afraid of what Phoebe had said. It was just because Clarence was also in the hall.

If he knew that she slapped Stella, he definitely would give her a hard time.

Annie drew her hand. She cast a glance at Stella's belly, an idea coming up to her.

Right then, there was a mess in the banquet hall. One subordinate came over and whispered to Phoebe in her ear. Her face slightly changed. When she turned around and was about to go back, she looked over at Stella, "Ms. Radomil, probably you should come with me. Something went wrong with the auction item from SG Jewelry Magazine."

After they all left the scene, a figure walked out of the corner. The person stood motionlessly for a moment, looking over at the broken necklace. After a few seconds of thought, the person picked it up, put it in the pocket, and turned away.

The charity auction.

Pieces of jewelry of SG Jewelry Magazine were exhibited according to the sequences. When it was the turn of Stella's design, not only Stanford looked surprised, but also Modesty walked up. She said in confusion, "Isn't it the necklace I designed particularly for Miss Steward..."

Although she didn't speak loudly, her words raised a huge uproar in the quiet banquet hall.

All the attendees started to discuss in low voices, "What's SG Jewelry Magazine doing? How could they present the customized necklace in an auction?"

Wait... Isn't it supposed to be Ms. Radomil's design? How come? What on earth happened?

Ms. Radomil? Is she the designer who was the mistress of a rich man? I went to the new product launch event of SG Jewelry Magazine last time. She's indeed quite beautiful. It's not bad to have such a plaything.

Right after the person finished speaking, he felt a cold and sharp gaze. When he turned around, he couldn't find anything.

Upon hearing those discussions, Stanford was the most troubled one.

Before the jewelry was delivered, he had checked and confirmed it a few times. There were no problems at all.

He found Modesty and asked with a frown, "What happened?"

Modesty shook her head, "I don't know either. But, I found my designed necklace was gone. Miss Steward didn't inform me that she has taken it. Mr. Leif, I've seen Ms. Radomil's end product earlier. It shouldn't be her."

Stanford didn't expect that she would explain for Stella, so he fell into the silence for a moment.

Frankly speaking, Modesty was the biggest suspect for this incident.

Stanford looked over at Modesty thoughtfully. The latter looked quite easy, not guilty at all.

He said, "Modesty, let's go to explain to Jason Group together. We should try our best to limit the influence of this event."

When Stella and Phoebe walked into the banquet hall, the host had announced that the auction was paused. Everyone was talking about this incident.

The rumor that she was a mistress of a rich man was talked about again. Some of them even said that her designs were all plagiarized, so it was her karma that such an incident happened this time. Some of them said the reason why SG Jewelry Magazine backed her up several times was that she had affairs with some senior executives.

Those people said quite affirmatively as if they truly had the evidence.

Annie stood aside with her arms across her chest. She said sarcastically, "What can't she do? She always takes others as her own. This is not the first time."

Phoebe said in a low voice, "Annie, stop saying that. The truth of the matter hasn't been found out. Don't slander others."

She knows herself if it's a slander or truth.

Stella wasn't in the mood to argue with Annie meaninglessly. She found a coworker from SG Jewelry Magazine in the crowd and asked, "Where is Mr. Leif?" "Hi, Ms. Radomil?" The coworker looked quite surprised when seeing her. Then immediately, he answered, "I saw Mr. Leif and Modesty go to talk to Mr. Jason." Stella asked, "Where were they heading to?"

The VIP lounge.

Stella nodded at him for appreciation. She turned around and said to Phoebe, "Miss Steward, I'm sorry. Please excuse me."

Phoebe said, "Let me go with you."

Stella was about to refuse, but she added, "After all, the incident has something to do with me as well."

In the VIP lounge, George also heard a lot of rumors about Stella. He looked obviously angry, "What are you doing? How come you've sent such a designer's product for auction? And even such an incident happened!"

Stanford said, "Mr. Jason, I'm quite sorry for what happened. But, you've misunderstood our designer. The rumors are not real. Besides, the jewelry for auction was indeed designed by her. There should be some mistakes in between..."

I don't care. You've ruined my charity banquet. I've asked my men to take down her jewelry. You'd better give us a clarification for this event later. Stanford frowned, "Mr. Jason if you've put down all her jewelry in this way without any explanation, you would make others misunderstand her..." George interrupted him coldly, "It's none of my business."

Chapter 125: I’m Not Interested in Dealing With Such Matter

Right after George finished speaking, he was about to leave, but the door of the VIP lounge was opened.

Clarence stood at the door. He said expressionlessly, "Since such an incident happened, as the organizer, Jason Group should take its responsibility. Mr. Jason, are you sure you won't take care of it and leave this way?"

Seeing him, George looked more annoyed, "Mr. Conrad, since you said so, are you going to take care of it?"

Mr. Jason, you misunderstood. I just passed here by.

Among all people at the scene, only Stanford knew that he wasn't just passing here by.

Stanford coughed. He walked up and said, "Mr. Jason, I can guarantee that before the jewelry was sent here there were no problems at all. Our employees were watching them on the way and didn't leave them. Mr. Jason, could you please request the hotel to give us the surveillance?"

George said impatiently, "Do you want me to leave so many of my guests in the hall just for such a woman with a bad reputation?"

This time, before Stanford spoke, Clarence said expressionlessly, "Mr. Jason, you must not know yet - your son, Horace Jason, almost ruined his engagement to the Conrad family because of this woman with a bad reputation."

George's expression was stiffened. He wasn't in the mood to beat around the bush with Clarence, "What did you say?"

In the corner, Modesty's faint smile was also stiffened. She looked up in disbelief.

How come Stella knew the son from the Jason family?

Right then, there were a few knocks on the door.

George tidied himself up and inhaled deeply, "Enter."

Stella and Phoebe showed up one after another.

Although Phoebe and Rebecca were friends, the Jason and the Steward families did not cooperate in business. Besides, Phoebe attended the banquet with Clarence, which ruined all the Jason and Conrad families' plans.

Seeing that she followed Clarence in as if she wanted to make trouble on purpose, George wasn't quite polite to her. He asked rudely, "What are you doing here?"

Phoebe sensed the unhappiness in his tone and didn't care. She said in a gentle voice, "Uncle Jason, please allow me to introduce her. This is Ms. Radomil, the designer from SG Jewelry Magazine." Due to the rumors outside, George didn't have a good impression of Stella. Plus, Clarence said something just now, which reminded him that Annie made a fuss before.

He thought that Annie had made trouble out of nothing and beat the air that time. Much to his surprise, Horace did admit the existence of that woman. Just now, Clarence confirmed and let him know who she

was.

When George looked over at Stella, his eyes were filled with disgust.

Stella said politely, "Good evening, Mr. Jason. I'm here for the auction..."

Not necessarily. I've made up my mind on this matter. No matter what explanation you would have it's your own business. It has nothing to do with me and this charity banquet.

After finishing his words, he didn't pause any longer, striding away.

Stella exhaled in silence. When she looked up, she found a pair of black deep eyes were gazing at her coldly.

She was choked up.

Why was he here as well?

She indeed promised that she wouldn't come here, but such an incident happened unexpectedly.

Seeing that, Phoebe walked up and took Clarence's arm. With a smile, she said, "By the way, Ms. Radomil. I forgot to make the introduction. This is my fiance, the CEO of Conrad Group."

As she spoke, she looked over at Clarence, "Clarence, this is the designer of SG Jewelry Magazine. I like her designs very much."

Clarence didn't change his expression. He uttered a word from his thin lips coldly, "?"

Phoebe continued and said to Stella, "Ms. Radomil, please don't worry. We'll help you look into the matter for sure and prove your innocence."

Stella twitched her mouth corners. Suddenly she couldn't utter a word at all.

The word "fiance" was like a heavy stone that was smashed into her heart, making her short of breath for a moment.

Before Stella answered, Clarence said coldly, "I'm not interested to deal with such a matter."

After that, he withdrew his arm from Phoebe's grip and walked away directly.

Phoebe looked at his receding figure and smiled, "Please don't mind him, Ms. Radomil. He's always like this."

Stanford, who had witnessed all the dramatic scenes, rushed over and interrupted their conversation, "Excuse me, Miss Steward. I'm sorry for dragging you into the mere this time. We'll surely give you a satisfying explanation."

It's alright. I believe in Ms. Radomil and SG Jewelry Magazine.

Thank you for your trust, Miss Steward. We'll get it done as soon as possible.

Phoebe nodded with a smile. Before leaving, she cast a glance at Modesty, who kept silent all the time, "Ms. Parker, thank you, as well.”

Modesty was cued unexpectedly. For a moment, she panicked. After a few seconds, she answered, "Miss Steward, you are welcome. That's what I'm supposed to do."

After Phoebe was gone, Stanford said, "Stella, now Jason Group isn't willing to let us make the explanation in public. But we still have one way - as long as your end product could be found before the auction was over, it still could make difference."

Stella came back to her senses, "Thank you, Mr. Leif. I'm sorry for the trouble."

I'm also responsible for this incident. I should have come here to deliver the jewelry in person. Otherwise, this shouldn't have happened. Time is up. Let's go to the monitoring room...

I don't think it's necessary, Stella said calmly, "I've asked the staff when I was on the way here. There were only three items left for the auction tonight. I don't think the time will be enough for us to reach the monitoring room."

Stanford frowned slightly. That was true.

Although the auction was paused just now, they had spent a lot of time in the VIP lounge. Since Mr. Jason left just now, the auction had continued.

They couldn't have enough time at all.

Stella added, "Just let it be."

She didn't want to pull SG Jewelry Magazine into trouble because of herself. The only way for her to do now was to leave SG Jewelry Magazine so that they could push all responsibilities on her. Anyway, she was too exhausted. She didn't have any strength to fight back.

Ms. Radomil, why don't you find Cla...

Stella faintly smiled, "Mr. Leif, I'm taking off now."

Out of the lounge, Stella exhaled. When she was about to leave, Horace walked to her.

Stella, follow me, please.

Horace pulled her hand and strode over to the banquet hall.

Stella said, "Horace..."

When they arrived at the banquet hall, the auction happened to end.

Horace said, "Stella, wait for me here."

After that, he walked onto the stage. He took the microphone from the host and said, “I'm sorry. I'm afraid I need to you take up a little bit of your time."

The attendees, who were about to leave the hall, stopped and looked back at him.

Horace continued, "Just now, the auction had to be paused because of our Jason Group's mistake. It also harmed the designer of SG Jewelry Magazine. I want to clarify this incident particularly."

Chapter 126: Clarence Should Get Married Soon

As soon as the incident happened, Horace went to find the employees of SG Jewelry Magazine and confirmed with them that there were no problems with the jewelry when they delivered them here. Then he directly requested the hotel for the surveillance.

However, the person who set up Stella was fully prepared. The other party knew that there was surveillance in the hotel, so before entering the area covered by the monitor, they disguised themselves as the employees of Jason Group and requested to enter the exhibition hall for the final confirmation. Since they had arrived at the hotel, the employees of SG Jewelry Magazine didn't suspect and let them in. That was when the other party secretly changed Stella's end product.

The other party must have guessed that they had everything in control. However, since they had done something, there would always be a trace.

The surveillance showed that one man passed the jewelry to another man, who wasn't shown on the monitor. However, it was obvious that Stella was set up.

After informing the attendees about what he had seen on the surveillance, Horace added, "Besides, Ms. Radomil is a friend of mine for a long time. She's not that kind of person in those rumors. For those who slandered Ms. Radomil and spread the rumors, Jason Group will pursue legal responsibility on them."

The attendees never expected that the incident would turn to be that way.

Nobody expected that an unknown designer from SG Jewelry Magazine would be a friend of the son of the Jason family.

In the crowd, with a livid face, George rushed away in anger.

The farce finally ended.

Horace walked to Stella, "Stella, let me drive you home."

Stella parted her lips. She said, "Horace, you don't have to do that for me."

Horace said, "In the past, I didn't protect you well, so I've lost you forever. Now, I'm just doing something that I can."

Stella didn't know what to speak. Suddenly, she recalled something and looked around, "Where's Annie Conrad?"

Theoretically, since Horace was making the clarification for her, Annie shouldn't be so quiet.

My men are watching her now. Please don't worry. She won't make trouble for you again, said Horace, "Let's go. Let me walk you out."

Stella nodded. In such a situation, she couldn't go out alone.

She followed Horace to turned away, completely ignoring the indifferent gaze on her from the corner.

After they were gone, Phoebe said, "I didn't expect that Ms. Radomil knew Horace Jason. I asked her to design a wedding gift for Annie. What a coincidence!"

Clarence cast her a glance expressionlessly.

With a smile, Phoebe met his eyes, "What's wrong?"

You are far better at acting than I've imagined.

Phoebe paused a bit and knew that he was referring to what had happened in the lounge. She curled up her lips into a smile and said, “Of course, I need to be professional when acting. If it's too fake, others would find the truth out."

Clarence snorted and didn't comment.

Phoebe added, "Clarence, I wasn't acting only. What I said was serious. Please consider our marriage."

Clarence raised his head and gulped down the champagne in the flute of his hand. Then he put the flute aside, "The show is over. I'm leaving."

Looking at his receding figure, Phoebe gradually put away her smile.

In a lounge, Annie was making a scene by smashing the door.

You assholes! How dare you lock me up here! Believe it or not! I'll kill you. Let me out. Hurry up!

She kept yelling such things for twenty minutes. Someone answered outside, "Miss Conrad, Mr. Jason asked us to do so. After he has time, he will come to pick you up. Please wait for a moment." "Let me out now! Do you hear me? If my aunt knows that you've locked me up here, you all will be doomed!"

Right then, Phoebe appeared at the door. She said to the men who were guarding the door and said, "Everything is over. Just let her out."

The two men exchanged glances with each other and didn't answer.

Phoebe added, "Horace Jason has left. If you don't believe me, you can call him to ask."

The two men didn't dare to suspect. Hurriedly, they opened the door.

Annie came out. When she was about to blow up, Phoebe stopped her, "They just listened to Horace Jason's order. What's the use if you vent your anger on them?"

As she spoke, she looked back at the two men, "You can leave now."

Thanks, Miss Steward.

Thank you, Miss Steward.

The two rushed away.

Annie stomped in anger, "What about me? You just let them go so easily!"

Phoebe said, "I didn't mean to let go of them easily, but you must know why you've locked up by Horace in here. You should know your target. Don't waste your time."

My target? What target?

Phoebe answered indifferently, "I don't know either. Since Horace locked you up here, there must be something that he didn't want you to see."

Upon hearing it, Annie instantly understood. Deep hatred surged into her brain. She gritted her teeth fiercely, "It must be because of Stella Radomil again! All because of that bitch! Whenever she showed up, Horace only cared about her. I'll never let her go!"

When Stella and Horace arrived downstairs, Sherry happened to arrive.

Stella, are you...

Stella hinted at her to hold on for a moment. Then she said to Horace, "You can stop here now. Thank you for what you've done for me today."

Horace pressed his lips, "Stella, you never have to mention that to me."

After finishing his words, he nodded at Sherry and turned away.

There was still a mess upstairs for him to deal with.

Looking at Horace's receding figure, Sherry couldn't help being confused. She asked in a soft and excited tone, "What happened? Why are you with Horace?" "Something happened on the charity banquet..." Since it was quite complicated, Stella couldn't tell her clearly right away, "I can tell you the details later."

Sherry nodded, "After you went upstairs, have you met Clarence Conrad?"

Upon hearing it, Stella was taken aback and answered, "Yes, I have."

Then, did he...

Sherry wanted to ask her if she had seen Clarence being with another woman. However, if she didn't see the woman, Sherry's question might break her heart again.

Stella didn't notice that she wanted to say something but stopped. With a smile, she said, "By the way, I got gossip to share with you. Clarence Conrad should get married soon." Sherry was shocked, "That soon!"

Probably. You also know his fiancee. Stella paused before continuing, "It's Miss Steward, who asked me to design a necklace for her friend."

In the photos that Sherry received earlier, she only saw the woman's back, so Sherry couldn't recognize her. Upon hearing Stella's words, she was agape, "No way! How could this be possible?" Sherry suddenly was enlightened of something. She asked, "Then, Annie Conrad is the best friend of hers who will get married soon, isn't she?"☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 127: The Most Important Things Are Honesty and Responsibility

Stella put away her smile, nodding slightly.

Sherry couldn't help cursing inwardly. She asked in a gentle tone, "Have you given her that necklace?"

Yep. Annie tossed it away.

Sherry heaved a sigh, "Forget it. Just let it be. Anyway, you've got the design payment. It's their own business how to deal with it."

Although her words made sense, Sherry knew that each designed product was unique containing a designer's effort. Stella was definitely upset when seeing her designed end product be smashed and tossed in her presence.

Stella said, "Let's go home."

As soon as she finished speaking, Sherry saw Clarence walk out of the hotel. He was expressionless, emanating a cold aura. He strode over to a Rolls-Royce parked at the roadside. He didn't spare any glance at them.

Nathan, who followed him, cast a hesitant glance at Stella. He wasn't sure if he should invite Stella to get into the car, so he could only nod at her and drove the car away hurriedly. Sherry said, "What is wrong with the wretched man again? It's his fault that he's so playful with women. How could he be so arrogant? I have mistaken him as a good man. Phew!" Stella faintly smiled, "Let's go."

Back to Starry Lake Mansion, Stella was walking upstairs. The servant whispered to her, "Mrs. Conrad, did you fight with Mr. Conrad again? Just now, he came back home with a long face as if he was quite angry."

No worries. He's always like this.

The servant left after exchanged a few words with her.

Walking into her room, Stella took out her suitcase from the cabinet and roughly put all her clothes in it. Then she pulled the suitcase out of her room.

When she walked out of the room, she saw Clarence lean against the door with both his hands in the trousers pockets. He stared at her expressionlessly, "Where are you going?"

Stella answered, "Mr. Conrad, you are getting married. I don't have any reason to continue staying here."

Clarence suddenly sneered, "You've listened to one sentence from her and you believed her. I've said a lot of words to you but you don't care at all. Stella, it's just your excuse, isn't it?"

Mr. Conrad, if you are delighted to think this way, please go ahead.

Stella wasn't in the mood to talk nonsense with him. Directly, she dragged the suitcase forward.

When she reached the stairs, she stopped.

She acted way too recklessly.

Not far away from her, Clarence didn't move a bit. He looked at her calmly.

There was fury suppressed in Stella's heart for some reason. Now he seemed to compete with her in silence. She thought for a moment and walked downstairs, "Excuse me, Alisa. Could you please help me take the luggage downstairs?"

Alisa was about to say yes, but she saw Clarence appear on the top of the stairs with a cold look.

She was enlightened. With one hand covering her waist, she said, "Alas... Mrs. Conrad, I've got a strong pain in my back recently. I can't lift anything heavy."

After that, she escaped from the scene.

Then she decided to give up her belongings.

She turned around and took a step. While walking, she heard Clarence's voice from her back, "You should know the consequences after leaving here."

Clarence walked downstairs slowly, sitting on the sofa.

Stella looked at him, "Mr. Conrad, are you threatening me?"

If you are delighted to think this way, please go ahead.

She wondered the wretched man might have something wrong mentally.

Stella pressed her lips and tried to reason with him, "Mr. Conrad, Miss Steward shouldn't know my relationship with you. She also doesn't know we're staying in the same house right now. If she knew it..." Clarence looked up at her, "If she knew it, what would happen?"

Stella was interrupted by him. For a moment, she forgot what she was about to talk to him.

Clarence added, "Stella, I believe you should explain why you showed up there. You shouldn't have questioned me about whom I'm going to marry."

Stella denied that she was questioning him.

It was him who obviously wanted to have two men at the same time.

Stella inhaled deeply, "Mr. Conrad, I didn't mean to show up there. Miss Steward is my client. I went there to send her the end product. Later, because of the incident in the auction, I needed to explain it to Mr. Jason."

Did he listen to your explanation?

Well... No, he didn't.

Was your explanation useful?

No, it wasn't either.

Clarence looked over at her coldly, "Then, tell me. What were you doing there?"

Stella quieted down for a moment and said, "Mr. Conrad, something happened to my design. As the designer, I should be responsible for it. It's not that I didn't need to explain because it was not useful."

I didn't see how responsible you were. I just saw that Horace Jason was against his father because of you.

Clarence's tone was indifferent as if he was quite happy to see what had happened.

Stella didn't speak. She knew how stressful Horace would be when he clarified for her in public.

Clarence added, "Stella, Horace Jason has the engagement with the Conrad family already. Now the Jason family knows your existence and has witnessed that Horace Jason could do anything for you. Do you think they would pretend that nothing has happened and not deal with you?"

Stella didn't understand it, "What do you mean?"

I mean your enemies are not only the Conrad family but also the Jason family. As long as you walk out of this door, I have nothing to do with what you'll end up with.

Stella was silent for a few seconds. She chuckled, "Oh, right. Mr. Conrad, you're not interested in dealing with such a matter, anyway."

Clarence licked his thin lips, his black eyes gazing at her without a blink.

He had never been in a mood to explain anything. He didn't care how others would misunderstand him. However, he suddenly wanted to dig out the ungrateful woman's heart and see if she still had her conscience. Clarence said, "If I don't deal with things for you, do you think you can still stand here speaking to me?"

Stella smiled at him perfunctorily. She wasn't in the mood to continue speaking to him. She said, "No matter what, Mr. Conrad, since you've engaged with Miss Steward, you'd better find a chance and make everything clear to her. In a married, the most important is honesty and responsibility."

Clarence cast her a glance, "Do you mean that I wasn't honest enough to you and I didn't take my responsibility in the past?"

He had admitted it himself.

Well, Mr. Conrad, I just think since you're getting married to Miss Steward, you shouldn't have hidden anything from her. Otherwise... "Stella, are you jealous?"

Clarence stood up and approached her step by step, "You kept talking about Phoebe Steward and marriage. Aren't you jealous?"

Stella couldn't help taking steps back. With a blushed face, she denied, "No, I'm not! Mr. Conrad, I just think your behaviors are way too shameless!"

While she was stepping back, she bumped into something. When she was about to fall, she grabbed the shirt in front of her in a panic.

Chapter 128: One Could Not Get Dizzy with Success

Phoebe took over the jewelry box that was handed to her. She opened it and took a casual glance. Then she put it aside.

She asked flatly, "Has Modesty Parker seen you?"

No. We took it after she tossed it into the garbage can and left.

Phoebe smiled, "She's good to play such a rick, but what a pity. She seems not to know Stella's real identity. Otherwise, she wouldn't have failed her plan."

If Stella were just a designer of SG Jewelry Magazine, no matter how many good words Stanford would put on for her today, it would be useless. Her reputation would be ruined and she would be forced to quit this industry.

However, Horace backed her up. Besides...

Phoebe's eyes turned colder. If she didn't get it wrong, Clarence went to the VIP lounge also because of this matter.

Soon, the black car arrived at the villa of the Steward family.

Phoebe got off with the jewelry box in her hands. When she was about to go upstairs, she was stopped in the living room, "Phoebe, wait."

She looked back at the mid-aged man not far away from her, "Dad, haven't you gone to bed yet?"

Charles Steward nodded, "Come over. I want to ask you something."

Phoebe sat on the sofa. When Charles looked at her, her hands that were holding the jewelry box were stiffened. She secretly put the box behind her back. With a relaxed smile, she asked, "Dad, what's up?" "I heard that you attended the charity banquet with Clarence Conrad tonight?"

She didn't deny it, "Yes, I did."

Charles said, "Phoebe, I don't want you to be dragged into the mere between the Conrad and Jason families. Clarence Conrad is a scheming man. You..."

Dad, Phoebe interrupted him, "Although I don't know Clarence not much, he could make the whole Conrad family afraid of him all by himself, he should have his means. Besides, I'll marry someone eventually. I believe that if I married Clarence, it would only be beneficial but not harmful for our Steward Group."

Charles continued after a moment of silence, "Phoebe, I don't want you to sacrifice your happiness because of it."

Dad, I like Clarence. I'm willing to marry him, said Phoebe, "In fact, I've been liking him for a long time. If it weren't for what happened three years ago... I believe we have got married already." "But, as far as I know, he seems to be still entangled with his ex-wife."

Phoebe didn't care, "That woman married him for money. How could she leave him so easily? Dad, please no worries. I can deal with this matter."

Charles didn't speak anymore. He just said, "I'll go to the Conrad family's house and talk to them about it. Go to bed early."

After that, he stood up and couldn't help coughing fiercely.

Phoebe walked up and patted him on the back, "Dad, shall I call the doctor to come over?"

No, thanks. It's my old illness. It's getting cold nowadays and it broke up. Not a big deal.

When Phoebe was about to say something else, she saw the fire burn on his neck.

Noticing her gaze, Charles pulled up his collar, "I'm alright. Go to bed."

After Phoebe went upstairs, Charles was about to leave, but he saw the jewelry box on the sofa.

He picked it up and wanted to take it to Phoebe upstairs, but accidentally, he opened it. A necklace dropped.

Charles caught the necklace. When seeing the pendant, he was in a daze.

As soon as she arrived in her room, Phoebe found that she had forgotten the necklace downstairs. When she returned, she saw the scene. She walked up and whispered, "Dad?"

Charles came back to his senses, "Did you buy this?"

For some reason, Phoebe was quite nervous. She nodded, "I asked a designer to customize it for me. Dad, is there anything wrong?"

Charles faintly smiled, "No. This designer seems to be quite professional to mix the pocket watch with the necklace. It must be a gifted designer." Charles put the necklace back in the box and handed it to Phoebe. Then he walked back to his room.

Looking at his receding figure, Phoebe exhaled.

Starry Lake Mansion.

As soon as she grabbed Clarence's shirt, Stella regretted it. They were in a fierce fight last second, but now she had lost all her temperament.

She was about to step back, but Clarence wrapped her waist with his hands, raising his eyebrows slightly.

His expression looked as if he knew she had done it purposely.

Stella inhaled deeply to calm herself down, "Mr. Conrad, please allow me to remind you once again - what you are doing now is unfair to your fiance, Miss Steward!" "Why do you believe in her words so much?"

You didn't deny, did you?

In your opinion, does no denial mean the admission?

Stella was choked up by the wretched man's logic. She grinned her teeth, "Yep!"

Clarence said, "What a pity! I have different thoughts on that."

Stella, I have my plans. Besides, the world doesn't only contain black and white.

Mr. Conrad, what high-sounding words! Is this why you are having two women at the same time?

Clarence released her and said indifferently, "You haven't remarried me. Why do I have two women at the same time?"

Stella realized that she couldn't win against him in this argument. The wretched man harassed her with his actions from time to time, but he refused to admit it.

She said, "No matter what, Mr. Conrad, I appreciate your help on me in the past few days. Later, I'll figure out the way to deal with things. Please don't worry..." Clarence looked at her and said expressionlessly, "Stella, you think I'm discussing this matter with you, don't you?"

In an instant, Stella felt a bit chilled.

That was the truth. He wasn't discussing this matter with her.

Whether she could go out of the door didn't depend on how bold she was. Instead, it depended on if Clarence was willing to let her leave.

Although she was staying here in the name of being protected, she was also jailed here.

Hence, one could not get dizzy with success.

She just felt a bit of kindness, but she forgot that the kindness was just a cover of something that might harm her.

Stella pressed her lips and didn't speak. She turned around and walked upstairs. Then she dragged her suitcase back to her room.

Until he heard her close the door, Clarence reached out and pressed his temples. He dialed a number, "Found anything?"

Yes, Mr. Conrad. The man who appeared in the surveillance video is named Adolph Miller. He...

Since Nathan stopped, Clarence urged him impatiently, "Go on."

Nathan immediately continued, "He's a usurer. Jeffrey Radomil had borrowed a lot of money from him. Besides, three years ago, he united with Jeffrey Radomil and sent Mrs. Conrad to Twilight Club." Clarence said, "He has no reason to set up Stella. Find him first."

He should have noticed that we're looking into him, so he ran away in advance.

Adolph was a gangster always hanging out in the underground and he was a fierce man. Unless he was willing to show up, it would be quite difficult for them to find him.

Clarence said, "Spare the news - anyone who could find him would get an award of a million."☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 129: I Believe What I’ve Seen Personally

Stella walked back to her room and opened the suitcase, putting her belongings back.

Done that, she lay down on the bed helplessly.

She hadn't done anything today, but she was extremely exhausted.

When she was looking out of the window in a daze, her phone rang.

Stella sat up and looked around in her room. Then she saw her phone on the desk.

It was a call from Phoebe.

Hello, Ms. Radomil. I want to apologize to you on Annie's behalf. She was spoiled since her childhood. Please don't take it to your heart.

Stella said calmly, "It's alright."

After a pause, Phoebe said, "Although it sounds a bit abrupt, I'm quite curious, wondering if what Annie said was real. Please don't misunderstand. I didn't mean anything else. I just want to know your relationship with Clarence."

I'm his ex-wife.

It turns out to be like this... I'm sorry. I didn't know about your relationship before. Please excuse my offense.

Miss Steward, please don't mention it. I've already divorced him. I didn't expect that you are his fiancee either. I should apologize for that.

Phoebe smiled, "Yeah. I've been liking him for a long time. We were supposed to get married, but unfortunately..."

She didn't finish her words. Instead, she said, "Before I met you in person, I heard a lot of comments about you from Annie, so I had misunderstood you a lot. But now, it's quite different. I'm so glad to have a friend like you. I believe that you are absolutely not the kind of person that Annie has thought."

Stella said, "In fact, Annie Conrad wasn't wrong. I'm not a good person anyway. I forced Clarence Conrad to marry me."

Phoebe said, "I still prefer to believe what I've seen personally."

Stella slightly smiled and said, "Thank you, Miss Steward."

I've said that I'll treat you for dinner after the end product is done. Now I believe I have more reason to invite you as an apology. When will you be free, Ms. Radomil?

After hanging up the phone, Stella lay on the bed, feeling more bored.

If she had known that Phoebe was Clarence's fiancee earlier, she'd rather refuse to make such money instead of taking this order.

She felt so annoyed.

Stella pressed her head into the pillow. How she wished to smash the wretched man to death! If it weren't because of him, she wouldn't have stuck in such a dilemma.

If she couldn't handle it well, she would be called the mistress between Phoebe and Clarence.

She wished him to go to hell.

The more she thought about it, the angrier Stella was. She got up and opened the draft book. After a few quick brushes on one page, she stood up and walked out of her bedroom with sticky tape. She taped the paper on Clarence's bedroom door.

After venting her anger slightly in that way, she finally calmed herself down.

However, in the latter half of the night, she still couldn't fall asleep.

No wonder Clarence didn't care about the baby in her belly at all. He would soon marry Phoebe. When they had their baby, the baby must be born noble.

Thinking that she would give birth in a few months, Stella wondered what she should do.

Clarence was so powerful, and the Conrad family kept an eye on her as well. She couldn't manage to escape at all.

However, if Clarence and Phoebe married before the baby's birth, it might be an opportunity for Stella.

On the second day, when Clarence opened his bedroom door, he saw a piece of paper floating down next to his feet.

He bent down one knee and picked it up. When seeing what was on it, he sneered.

Looking up at the door of Stella's bedroom, he licked his thin lips. Then he took the paper back to his room and came out soon, taping it on her bedroom door.

Stella didn't get up until noon because of her insomnia last night. She felt quite weak.

When she pushed the door open and yawned, the paper that was supposed to be taped on Clarence's bedroom door was taped on hers.

Stella rubbed her eyes and found that there were extra brushes on the turtle on the paper. It had long hair and her name "Stella" was written in the center.

What was wrong with the wretched man?

Stella sobered up instantly in anger. Subconsciously, she wanted to fight back, but when she picked up her pen, she found it way too childish. Even an elementary student would disdain to do so. Like rolling Clarence, she violently rolled the paper and tossed it into the garbage can.

After lunch, as soon as Stella arrived at SG Jewelry Magazine, Stanford asked her to go to his office. And so was Modesty.

Stanford said, "About the incident that happened last night at the charity banquet, we're looking into it. However, the impact of this incident was too big and you both are involved. I want to know your opinions." Modesty said firstly, "I didn't take good care of my client's design. I must take the major responsibility."

Stanford didn't answer her. He looked over at Stella, "What about you, Ms. Radomil?"

Well, since the other party could take away Modesty's necklace designed for Miss Steward, know which one of the three auction items from SG Jewelry Magazine was mine, and exchange it, I believe it was done by an insider.

Stanford nodded in agreement, "I agreed. But there are too many employees in our company. It's quite difficult to investigate. I guess it will take a long time."

Stella said, "Thanks, Mr. Leif, but I don't want to continue looking into this matter."

Why not?

Upon hearing it, not only Stanford felt surprised, but also Modesty looked over at her.

With a smile, Stella said, "The person who set me up aimed to see my embarrassment on the charity banquet. However, she never expected that Horace Jason would help me declare the matter. She doesn't know the relationship between Horace and me, nor does she know if she has exposed any other flaws besides the surveillance. She must be in a panic now. If I keep on looking into the matter, she probably would use different means to make her innocent. If I don't look into it, she couldn't do anything. However, she would be in a panic every day and lead an uneasy life."

As she spoke, she looked over at Modesty who lowered her head. With a brighter smile, she asked, "What do you think, Ms. Parker?"

Modesty heard Stella calling her, and her heart skipped a beat. She tried her best to maintain calm, "I... How do I know? But, if I were you, I would definitely keep on looking into it."

Stella said, "Someone told me yesterday that the world doesn't only contain black and white. I also want to take the chance to see besides black and white, what else colors this world has." Upon hearing her words, Modesty clenched her hands tightly.

She was almost certain that Stella had known what she had done. The purpose why Stella said those words was to warn her that she had caught on her. Hence, Modesty couldn't do anything against Stella at all.0000

Chapter 130: She Must Escape

Out of Stanford's office, Sherry pulled Stella into the lounge.

Sherry said, "I heard what happened last night. Mr. Leif said he's investigating. I don't think it's necessary. How could it be so coincident? I'm hundred per cent certain that it was done by Modesty Parker. There shouldn't be any other one."

Stella faintly smiled, "Sherry, calm down. Even we both know it was done by her, we don't have the evidence yet. She may retort and say that we are framing her. It's not worth it."

Do you just let go of her so easily?

Of course not.

Stella was certain that it was done by Modesty because she had personally seen Modesty toss Phoebe's customized necklace into the garbage can. She told others that it was missing.

Modesty couldn't ignore the detail. Hence, without Horace's clarification last night, Stella's reputation would be ruined and people would disdain her. For SG Jewelry Magazine, there would also be a lot of rumors and they couldn't handle them alone. How could the company have the energy to help her look into the matter? They would probably distinguish with her clearly because of the rumors. In that case, even if Stella knew that Modesty had done it, nobody would believe her. They would only think that she slandered others to make herself innocent.

As for Stella, except that she had personally seen Modesty toss the necklace away, she had no other evidence to support her.

She had to admit that Modesty's trick was risky but once it succeeded, Modesty would definitely achieve her goals.

Stella believed what she had said in Stanford's office should be enough to make Modesty not dare to make a second move.

After cursing Modesty emotionally for a while, Sherry asked, "But I'm quite curious who helped her. How could her plan be carried on so smoothly? She's quite capable."

Stella shook her head.

Sherry said, "Why don't we ask Horace for the surveillance video? Once we've found the person who helped her, we could have the evidence."

Forget it. Just let it be. Let nature take its course.

Stella believed that she had troubled Horace too much already.

Sherry knew what was in her mind. Heaving a sigh, she changed the subject. Looking at her belly, she said solemnly, "Dear baby, your mission in the future is to protect your mother. Don't let her be bullied by others, especially your asshole father."

As she spoke, she looked up at Stella, "When will you give birth?"

In fourteen weeks.

Sherry did quick math and her eyes were lit up, "Only less than four months!"

Stella nodded. The day was approaching soon.

However, she felt more and more uneasy.

Stella said, "Sherry, I must escape from here."

Sherry didn't understand, "Escape? Where are you going?"

I don't know. Stella looked out of the window, "I always felt that if I continued staying here, it would be a problem if my baby would be born safe and sound. I kept being worried what if the Conrad family would find it out."

Sherry frowned and said, "No matter what, Clarence Conrad is the baby's father. Doesn't he care about the baby at all?"

I insisted on keeping the baby. For him, it's not important. He wouldn't take care of it.

The wretched man is way too heartless. He'll have his karma for sure!

Stella withdrew her gaze and said determinedly, "Hence, I must escape from here. I need to go to a place where neither Clarence Conrad nor the Conrad family could find me."

The chance was in front of her, so she must prepare everything ahead. She couldn't afford to fail.

The Conrads' Mansion.

Joanna was enjoying the high tea in the garden. Annie walked over and whispered, "Hi, Aunt Joanna."

Joanna cast her a glance, putting down the tea cup, "What's up?"

Annie bit her lower lip, "Aunt Joanna, you should have heard what happened last night."

Joanna smiled ironically. What happened at the charity banquet last night had been spread all around City N. Dempsey was quite furious about it.

Yes, I have. Just go straight to the point.

Annie parted her lips, but she looked around at the servants hesitantly.

Joanna said flatly, "You all may leave."

The servants answered and left.

Annie whispered, "Aunt Joanna, I want Stella Radomil to disappear forever. What should I do?"

Do you want the baby in her belly to disappear only? Or do you want her to disappear together with the baby?

Annie gritted her teeth, "Together with the baby."

Joanna smiled, "Annie, if something happens to her all of a sudden, you'll be suspected. You..."

That's why I came to you, Aunt Joanna. I think you must have a good way. If it weren't that Clarence always protects her, I would have killed her long ago.

Aren't you afraid that Clarence would get even with you after knowing the truth in the future?

Upon hearing it, Annie looked a bit panicked. She couldn't quite understand what Joanna meant.

She knew that Joanna didn't like Stella as well, so she came to ask Joanna for help.

Joanna said, "How about this, Annie? I can help you, but I have a condition."

Go to tell your uncle about Stella's pregnancy.

Annie looked panicked instantly, "No way. Clarence has warned me that if I told others about it, he wouldn't let me go."

Joanna's expression returned to indifference, "Since you are so afraid of him, I can't help you."

But, Aunt Joanna...

Annie, if you don't admit it at all, who would know it's you who exposed it? No matter how unrestrained Clarence is, he couldn't do anything to you in the presence of me and your uncle, could he? After hesitating for a while, Annie said, "But, if Uncle Dempsey knew it, he would let Stella Radomil give birth to the baby. If we did so, wouldn't we help that bitch?"

Joanna answered, "Your uncle wanted her to give birth, but Clarence doesn't want the baby. What it would end up to then?"

Before Annie could figure it out, Joanna added, "Probably you even don't need to do it yourself. Stella and the baby in her belly would disappear in this world silently." Annie looked more horrified, "Would Clarence do it?"

Joanna smiled and said disdainfully, "For a person like him, who wants to keep the power in his hands, he could do anything."

Upon hearing it, Annie bit her lower lips and didn't speak. However, she had other thoughts in her mind.

Since Clarence was willing to keep the baby until now, it meant probably he was the father of the baby. In that case, if Clarence would still get rid of the baby. Annie shivered. She didn't have the guts to bet on herself.

In Annie's opinion, she shouldn't directly tell her uncle about this matter, but she must let him know.

After a thought, Annie had a target.

Back to her room, she dialed Rebecca's number.☐☐☐☐