Ch. 171..180

Chapter 171: What Are You

As she spoke, Annie raised her hand. When she was about to slap Stella, her wrist was grabbed by the latter. Before she came back to her senses, she received a slap across her face violently. Annie widened her eyes in disbelief. She yelled in a harsh voice, "You hit me! How dare you hit me! Stella Radomil, you..."

Stella looked at her expressionless, "Or what? Should I ask you to sit down and have a cup of tea?"

Annie roared towards her men outside, "What are you waiting for? Are you blind?"

Upon hearing her roar, several men entered the studio immediately.

Annie pushed away Stella forcibly. With a fierce look, she yelled, "Smash it! Smash everything! Don't leave her anything!"

Stella, however, was extremely calm. She cast careless glances at those men who were ready to take the action, "I don't know if you are working for the Conrad family or the Perez family. As long as you have the balls to smash my studio, I wouldn't let go of you so easily. If anyone needs to be held responsible at that time, probably Annie Conrad wouldn't be punished, but none of you could escape."

Those men exchanged glances with each other. For a moment, they stood motionlessly and hesitated. They dared not to start any movement.

They were all working for the Conrad family, brought here by Annie. They listened to Joanna's orders, but they also knew that Stella was Clarence's ex-wife. Although the Conrad family didn't like her, Annie wasn't that important to the Conrad family, either.

In case they had taken the action and Stella went to the Conrad family to make a fuss, the Conrad family might not do anything to Annie, but instead, they would be punished for it.

Seeing that they were hesitant, Annie shouted herself hoarsely, "Do you really think she could do anything to you? She's a shameless bitch. Nobody in the Conrad family cares about her. Nobody cares if she's dead or alive. If you don't listen to me now, I'll tell Aunt Joanna right now. You all will suffer!"

Right then, a figure entered the studio.

Emmett took a glance at them and walked to Stella. He asked, "Stella, what's going on?"

Stella answered indifferently, "Nothing. Just a lunatic is making a scene here with her men."

Emmett looked over at Annie, frowning secretly. He realized that he must have seen the woman somewhere before.

After a moment, he asked, "Are you Miss Conrad?"

Annie glanced at him, looking quite ironic and disdainful, "What are you? Who do you think you are to speak to me?"

Then she turned to Stella and said disdainfully, "You never lack man, do you? Even calling you shameless is a compliment to you."

Emmett didn't take it seriously, but he looked colder, "My name is Emmett Carter, from Star Ferry Technology. Miss Conrad, it's alright if you disdain me. Please send my message to your father - I don't think Star Ferry Technology is qualified enough to cooperate with him. Please ask him to find others to work on those projects he discussed with me before."

Annie looked quite irritated, "What is Star Ferry Technology? Now you know it's not qualified, you'd better fuck off. Don't waste my time here."

Stella said, "Annie Conrad, you only have thirty seconds to get out from here."

Think you can threaten me, huh? Your backer is that bastard. He's not in City N now. What can you do to me?

Stella smiled faintly, "If not mistaken, I guess Justin has warned you to leave me in peace."

Upon hearing that, Annie gritted her teeth tightly, her eyes full of hatred.

She finally managed to find the chance that Clarence was out of City N, but someone from the damned Star Ferry Technology suddenly showed up and ruined her plan. Now, Stella even threatened her with Justin.

If Justin knew that she came to make trouble to Stella in secret, he would scold her again. At that time, Aunt Joanna would take his side as well.

However, Annie wasn't reluctant to just leave in this way.

Right then, Sherry came out of the office, "You can stay if you don't want to leave. Anyway, I've called the police. You can have some tea with them in the police station."

Annie sneered, "I won't let go of you so easily. Just wait and see!"

When Annie left with her men, the studio returned to peace.

Stella looked over at Emmett, "Sorry for bothering with such a farce."

Emmett shook his head, "I've heard that Miss Conrad is arrogant and unreasonable for a long time. Now I met her today, the rumor turns out to be real."

Sherry said, "She's just a madwoman, making trouble to everyone."

After a pause, she added, "Oh, you said you're cooperating with her father just now. Are you working with the Conrad family? If you called off your cooperation, would it be a loss for you?"

Emmett smiled, "No, not with the Conrad family. I won't suffer any loss to stop the cooperation with them. They should be worried about it."

Actually, anyone who knew the Conrad family would know that although Annie's surname was Conrad, her parents were not any member of the Conrad family.

Annie's father married into and live with the Perez family and inherited the family fortune. However, because he was good at doing business, the family suffered a lot of losses in the past few years. If it weren't that the Conrad family was their backer, the Perez family would have disappeared long ago. In recently, Clarence seemed to suppress the Perez family as well.

Annie's father had spent a lot of effort and contacted a lot of people in his network to obtain a chance to cooperate with Star Ferry Technology.

Emmett couldn't refuse for the sake of their mutual contact, so he had to agree.

Fortunately, after Annie made the scene, he got the chance to refuse them.

Sherry exhaled, "That's good, then."

As she spoke, she glanced at Stella secretly. Then she rapidly rolled her eyes, "Well... Stella, why don't you show Emmett around our studio? I'll go buy some coffee."

Stella understood immediately what she was planning to do. She pulled Sherry to stop and faintly smiled, "Sherry, no bother. Just order some takeouts."

Emmett also echoed, "I just happened to pass by, so I came to check on you girls. I'll leave pretty soon."

Upon hearing it, Sherry was anxious, "Why are you leaving so soon? Thanks for your help today. We should treat you for dinner."

Stella thought for a moment and echoed, "If you are not quite busy, why don't we have dinner together?"

No matter what, if Emmett hadn't shown up today, according to Annie's character, she would have made a farce. In that case, she would damage her studio. Even if the police arrived later, the damage couldn't be saved.

Besides, he canceled the cooperation, which would definitely cause a certain loss for him unlike what he said.

Since Stella also asked, Sherry made hay while the sun shined, "Yes. Yes. You should eat no matter how busy you are. You've come here already and helped us so much. We should thank you no matter what."

Upon hearing their words, Emmett didn't refuse anymore. He slightly nodded in agreement, "All right."0000

Chapter 172: Far More Superior than You

On the way back, sitting in the car, Annie couldn't suppress her anger. She dialed her mother's phone number and said impatiently, "Mom, just tell Dad, don't cooperate with that fucking Star Ferry Technology. Their boss is with that bitch!"

Her mother was taken aback, "Annie, what are you talking about?"

Annie looked quite annoyed, "That damned company is cooperating with us, isn't it? Ask them to fuck off."

On the other end of the line, Annie's father took over the phone, "Annie, what did you say? Which company are you talking about?"

Star Ferry Technology, said Annie with a disdainful sneer, "He knew that his company isn't qualified. Nowadays, so many junks want to cooperate with us. I must teach them a lesson!"

Annie's father frowned. He knew his daughter's character. His heart skipped a beat, "Annie, what have you done? Whom from Star Ferry Technology have you met?"

The person with the surname Cater or Kate. I don't remember. That kind of person doesn't deserve me to remember his name.

He frowned more deeply, "Is his name Emmett Carter?"

Annie answered carelessly, "It seems so. He looks decent but he's blind, unfortunately. He insisted defending that bitch."

Upon hearing it, her father almost stopped breathing, "Annie, you! What have you done outside? You'd better hurry up and apologize to Mr. Carter! Probably we can save the cooperation."

Annie raised her voice and yelled, "Why should I? Who is he? Does he deserve my apology? Isn't it just cooperation? It's fine if it stops. It wouldn't bring any impact on us. He has lost the qualification to work with Conrad Group. I bet he must regret it a lot!"

Her father said in anger, "Conrad Group? Does it have anything to do with you?"

When she was about to retort, Annie suddenly realized something, and her expression changed. She had almost forgotten that Conrad Group was managed by that bastard.

After a moment, she said, "So what? He's just a bastard. Sooner or later, Uncle Dempsey would drag him down and change to another successor."

Will you become the successor after Clarence Conrad is dragged down? Annie, think it over, the reason why your surname has been changed to Conrad because the Conrad family felt sorry for your aunt. In other words, you are nothing in the Conrad family. You even can't compare to that bastard in terms of the family status.

Bull crap! My surname is Conrad. I'm the daughter of the Conrad family. I'm far more superior than that bastard!

Annie, make an apology to Mr. Carter tomorrow.

Impossible! You can do it yourself.

After finishing her words, Annie hung up the phone directly.

She gritted her teeth tightly, her eyes full of hatred.

Annie smashed her cell phone in the car and yelled herself hoarsely, "You are all assholes! Assholes!"

In the restaurant.

When the dishes were served, Sherry glanced at her cell phone and coughed. Then she said seriously, "I'll answer a call outside. Please go ahead eating. Don't wait for me."

Stella looked over at her with warnings in her eyes.

Sherry immediately raised her phone and shaking the phone at Stella, on which the screen was blinking, "There's truly a call coming in."

After Sherry left, Emmett curled up his lips and looked over at Stella, "Are you usually quite busy in the studio?"

Stella slightly smiled and answered, "Not quite, but Sherry and I were the only two employees there and we were quite busy. After we hired another two employees, it got much better." Soon, Emmett started other subjects. The way he talked and behaved was quite gentlemanly and humorous.

Sine Sherry left, the faint awkwardness between them vanished.

They enjoyed chitchatting with each other a lot.

When Vincent came out from a box with his friends after dinner and was about to leave, he caught a glimpse of a familiar figure beside the window.

He stopped and raised his eyebrows. From afar, he pulled out his cell phone and took a photo.

He believed that it was time for Clarence to have a bit of a sense of crisis.

Otherwise, if he kept using his stubborn and awkward way, he wouldn't be able to win Stella's heart even in eight lives.

After sending the photo, Vincent put away his cell phone and left in satisfaction.

Sherry didn't go back until she wandered outside for almost twenty minutes. When she went back, she found that Emmett and Stella had a pleasant chat. Immediately, she felt that it was worth wandering in the cold wind for twenty minutes.

If they could be together in the future, Sherry believed that definitely she had made the largest contribution.

After dinner, Emmett suggested sending them back, but Stella refused.

She said, "We've troubled you a lot today. Our apartment isn't far away from here, we can go back on foot."

Emmett nodded slightly. After a thought, he said, "My friend will hold a concert this weekend. Do you girls have time? If yes..."

Before Stella answered, Sherry, took the initiative and answered, "Yes. We have. We do have time! We're worried about what we should do at weekend, right, Stella? Music can help us to relax and soothe our minds. Besides, it's your friend's concert, we should go there to support him or her."

Emmett said with a smile, "Then that's the deal. I'll come to pick you up at the weekend."

Sherry answered, "Sure. Of course. See you at weekend."

Watching Emmett leave, Stella exhaled. She looked over at Sherry.

The latter took a few steps back and said immediately, "Well. We've agreed just now. You can't go back to your words."

Stella retorted crossly, "I didn't say yes."

What's the difference? Emmett said he will come to pick us up. Do you have the heart to disappoint him?

Seeing that Stella was silent, Sherry took her arm and shook, playing at being cute, "All right, Stella? Please! I do really want to go. All the cells of my body have been attracted by the concert. If we won't go, I'll suffer from insomnia for many days."

She answered helplessly, "Okay. Okay. We'll go. We'll definitely go."

Sherry's eyes were lit up. Before she was overjoyed, Stella said, "I must make it clear - you can't make any excuse to let me stay with Emmett alone. I know you are trying to matchmake us, but..."

Before she finished her words, Sherry nodded continuously, "Don't worry. Don't worry. I won't do it again. Stella, have you considered him? Emmett is indeed a good man. If he has a crush on you, would you like to develop with him?"

Stella smiled, "How could your assumption be possible? As you said, he's handsome and successful. A lot of girls must have crushes on him. How could he like me?"

Sherry frowned, "Don't disdain yourself, Stella. You are quite competent. Besides, Clarence Conrad the wretched man also has regretted divorcing you, hasn't he?" Stella was speechless, wondering how Sherry jumped to such a horrible conclusion.

Chapter 173: She Just Wants to Revenge on Me

The airport, City N.

While pulling out his cell phone, Clarence walked out of the exit.

Nathan followed him. After receiving a call, he walked up and whispered, "Mr. Conrad, Miss Conrad went to Mrs. Conrad's studio tonight."

The man creased his good-looking brows. He asked in a cold tone, "What has she done?"

Miss Conrad took a few men from the Conrads' Mansion and wanted to make a scene, but...

Clarence paused and cast a glance at him, "Go on."

Nathan immediately continued, "Mr. Carter happened to show up and stopped Miss Conrad."

Clarence pressed his lips. When he was about to say something, a few messages popped up on his cell phone.

The latest one was sent to him by Vincent half an hour ago.

In the photo, Stella and Emmett were sitting in a restaurant, chatting and laughing as if there were nobody around.

Clarence tightened his grip on the cell phone, and his knuckles had gone pale.

Nathan tentatively called him, "Mr. Conrad?"

Clarence said in a cold tone, "Got back to the Conrads' Mansion."

On the way, Clarence kept staring out of the window. After a while, he asked, "How's your investigation going? Found anything?"

Nathan nodded and reported, "Although Mrs. Joanna has almost erased every evidence, I found the person who called the emergency call. According to her, Mrs. Conrad fell off the stairs in the shopping mall. When she saw the scene, only Mrs. Conrad was there alone. Hence, she didn't know if she missed the step and fell or was pushed down. However, Miss Conrad went abroad that evening after the incident happened to Mrs. Conrad. In my opinion..."

Clarence didn't speak. His handsome and cool features were covered with a murderous look.

Half an hour later, the black Rolls-Royce passed through the carved gate and was pulled over next to the garden.

When Dempsey heard that Clarence came back, a trace of unhappiness flashed through his face, "Why did he come back?"

Since Stella had the car accident and Dempsey failed to attain his hopes, he wasn't in the mood to maintain the thin family affection with Clarence anymore.

The most regretful thing that he had done this life was to take in Clarence after Justin had encountered the car accident, despite the objections from others.

Otherwise, he would have to put on so much effort to snatch Conrad Group back.

Dempsey took a deep breath. He walked out of the study with his walking stick.

As soon as he arrived at the door of the study, he saw several men come upstairs.

Seeing that, Dempsey frowned and looked at Clarence, "What are you doing?"

Clarence answered indifferently, "I'll get even with someone for the incident that happened three years ago."

Dempsey snapped, "Get even with someone? Haven't you done enough to make a farce recently? You said you'll marry the girl from the Steward family, and then you called it off. Now, you've made it so embarrassing. How could I explain it to the Steward family?"

Clarence remained expressionless, "Really? I thought you've been maintaining a pleasant relationship with the Steward family recently."

Since the truth was exposed, Dempsey didn't feel embarrassed at all. He stroked the top of the walking stick and said, "I'm trying to make it up for them on your behalf."

Clarence snorted and didn't buy it.

Right then, they heard Annie yell from upstairs, "What are you doing? I dare any of you to lay a finger on me! Believe it or not. I'll chop off your hand!"

Dempsey followed the voice and looked up. When he was about to say something, Clarence said in a cold tone, "If she didn't want to move, drag her downstairs."

Annie stiffed.

She had never expected that Clarence would come to get even with her so quickly.

She looked around the men who were surrounding her, realizing that Clarence wasn't kidding with her. Most probably, she would be dragged downstairs. However, she was still in the Conrads' Mansion, and both her uncle and aunt were there. She didn't think Clarence dared to do anything to her.

Biting her lower lip, Annie walked downstairs.

Seeing her come down, Dempsey withdrew his gaze and asked unhappily, "What the heck do you want?"

Clarence ignored him. His gaze passed him and fell on Annie.

Annie walked slowed to him and said with hesitation, "Clar... Clarence, did you want to see me?"

Must I repeat what you've done? Clarence said in an arctic cold tone, "Annie Conrad, I've warned you more than once, haven't I?"

But... Annie's face was full of grievance, "I went to find her just to ask why she had made Horace call off our engagement. I truly haven't done anything to her. Besides... another man was defending her. How could I have the chance to make a move?"

Dempsey understood what was going on. He turned to ask, "Annie, did you go to find Stella?"

Since it had come so far, Annie knew it would be useless for her to make any excuse. She could only put Stella on the blame, "I just went to ask her, but she directly slapped me... A man from nowhere helped her. She has hooked up with countless men. I don't think the baby earlier wasn't the child of our Conrad family at all..."

Dempsey didn't like Annie, but her surname was Conrad. Now she was slapped, and it was a disgrace for the Conrad family.

Hence, he decided to defend her.

Dempsey said in a deep voice, "Annie was the person getting bullied. Why didn't you go to get even with Stella but come here for Annie? Clarence, you..."

Clarence interrupted him, "As I said, I came here for the incident that happened three years ago."

Upon hearing it, Annie suddenly widened her eyes, feeling a chill rising from her spines.

Three years ago...

She wondered if Clarence had known the truth.

Before Dempsey spoke, Annie said in a harsh voice, "Stella told you, didn't she? Clarence, please don't believe her. The woman tried every possible means to marry into the Conrad family. It's one of her conspiracies. She did it on purpose. She aimed to revenge on me."

Clarence looked at her expressionlessly, “Tell me. Why would she want to revenge you?"

Annie was in a panic. For a moment, she couldn't figure out any proper excuse. In a hurry, she said, "Clarence, you know, she hates the Conrad family and all of us. Hence, she wanted to set me up. I'm truly innocent. I have nothing to do with that incident. It was her own fault. She had a fake pregnancy and she tried to set me up. I've done nothing."

Upon hearing it, Dempsey frowned deeply, "Annie, what have you done?"

Looking at the straw in front of her to save her life, Annie grabbed Dempsey's sleeve, "Uncle Dempsey, I've done nothing at all. Believe me. I truly haven't done anything. It's all that woman's fault. She hates the Conrad family and she wants to set me up.”

Clarence said indifferently, "You've overthought. Stella didn't tell me anything."☐☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 174: Can’t I Call You without Any Matter?

Upon hearing his words, Annie felt as if the blood in her body was frozen. She turned around stiffly. Seemingly she had lost her tongue, she couldn't utter a beep.

Right then, they heard Joanna's voice from the stairs, "It was an incident that happened three years ago. What's the meaning to mention it now?"

Annie nodded her head desperately.

Clarence cast a glance at Joanna, curling up his lips into a sneer, "I always believe an eye for an eye. Let alone three years ago, even it happened thirty years ago, I'll get even with the person one after another."

Joanna asked, "Do you have any evidence?"

Clarence smiled ironically. After a few seconds, he said, "All right."

He turned around and ordered his men, "From now on, if Annie Conrad steps out of the Conrads' Mansion, no matter where she's going, you can break her legs without telling me."

Annie widened her eyes in disbelief. She tried to struggle for the very last time, "Aunt Joanna, please..."

Clarence looked back at Joanna, "I'll go find the evidence for you. I won't let go of anyone involved."

Joanna's expression didn't change, but she gradually tightened her hands on the handrail on the stairs. Clarence withdrew his gaze and strode away.

When his figure disappeared, Dempsey paced the floor with the walking stick and sat down on the sofa. He said solemnly, "Annie, tell me honestly. What on earth happened?"

Nathan asked, "Mr. Conrad, it has been three years. Mrs. Joanna has already cleaned up the evidence. Probably we can't find anything..."

Clarence wasn't surprised. He said, "If you can't find the evidence three years ago, find the latest one."

Mr. Conrad, do you mean the car accident that happened to Mrs. Conrad?

From the beginning to the end, all of them could guess that it was Joanna who set Stella up, but the trouble was that they couldn't find any actual evidence. Clarence said, "Joanna's men shouldn't have all died. Keep on looking into the matter."

After a while, Clarence added, "Keep an eye on Annie Conrad. Probably the breakthrough to bring down Joanna is on her."

Nathan tentatively asked, "If Miss Conrad steps out of the Conrads' Mansion, shall we truly..."

Did I look as if I was kidding?

Nathan immediately said seriously, "Okay, Mr. Conrad."

Clarence pressed the window down. He asked irritably, "Has Emmett Carter always been with Stella recently?"

Well... I can look into this matter now.

Not necessary, said Clarence, "Go to her studio."

He coughed and reminded him, "But, Mr. Conrad, the studio should be closed now."

Clarence frowned, "Go to her apartment then."

If we just go there like this, Mrs. Conrad will be pissed...

Clarence looked quite annoyed, "What should I do then?"

Nathan thought for a moment and an idea enlightened him, "We can take the chance and ask if Mrs. Conrad has finished designing our jewelry."

She'll be pissed more if we push her.

Hence, this excuse wouldn't work either.

Nathan thought for a moment and said, "Mr. Conrad, would you like to meet Mrs. Conrad right now?"

Clarence looked up at him expressionlessly.

Nathan retreated for the sake of advancing, "I meant it's so late now, and probably Mrs. Conrad has gone to bed. Why don't we find a better excuse tomorrow..." Clarence didn't answer.

When Nathan thought that he finally could breathe a sigh of relief, Clarence said, "Give me your phone."

On the other side.

As soon as Stella finished her design draft, she noticed that her cell phone screen was blinking.

On the screen was an unknown number.

She moved her neck, stood up, and swiped to answer the call on the balcony for some fresh air.

Hello, who is that please?

It's me.

She kept silent for a moment.

Trying her best to suppress her thought of hanging up the phone directly, she played dumb, "I'm sorry but you must have dialed the wrong number. I don't know you..." "Stella, I dare you to hang in up."

Stella grinned her teeth, "Oh, it's you, Mr. Conrad. I don't think you have this number."

Clarence said, "You blocked my number. If I don't change a number to call you, would you have answered the call?"

She decided to block this number later as well.

Stella paused. Since the wretched man didn't speak, she asked, "Mr. Conrad, what's the matter?"

On the other end of the line, Clarence asked unhappily, "Can't I call you without any matter?"

That was a brilliant question.

She wondered why the wretched man was so confident to order her to do something and who he thought he was to ask her to do things obediently.

Stella inhaled to calm herself down. She said, "I'm pretty busy. Mr. Conrad, if you don't have anything, I'll..."

Clarence asked, "Has Annie gone to find you today?"

Yes, she has. I also slapped her across her face. Mr. Conrad, are you blaming me for that?

Clarence directly ignored her sarcasm and said indifferently, "She'll never be able to show up in front of you from now on."

Upon hearing it, Stella was startled. She asked tentatively, "Is she still alive?"

Do you want her alive?

Stella suddenly realized that Clarence sounded expressionless when speaking. He didn't answer her a question and nor did he sound kidding.

After a while, she said calmly, "I just hope that she could get the consequences of the things that she has done."

Clarence said, "She will."

Looking in distance, Stella didn't speak anymore.

After a few seconds, Clarence asked again, "Do you have any other things to talk about?"

He asked so naturally as if she was calling him to harass him.

When she was about to speak, Clarence added, "Leave Emmett Carter alone."

He sounded like giving her a command. Stella immediately refused, "Why? I won't."

His tone became gentler, "Why not?"

Why should I leave him alone?

I don't like it.

I see. That's your problem, then. It has nothing to do with me.

After finishing her words, Stella directly hung up the phone without waiting for his response.

She wondered what was wrong with the wretched man.

In the black Rolls-Royce, Nathan could feel the temperature dropping in the car compartment. He reached out tentatively several times, trying to get his phone back, but his hand paused in mid-air. The desire to survive deterred him.

If not mistaken, he guessed that Mrs. Conrad would block this phone number as well.

However, as a qualified and excellent assistant, he had more than two or three cell phones.

Clarence tossed the cell phone back to him with a cold face, "Go home."

Nathan said, "Okay, Mr. Conrad."

Clarence turned on the light in the living room, which was quiet.

He realized that the ungrateful woman didn't leave any belongings here.

Back to his room, Clarence walked into the cloakroom. He loosened his necktie when catching a glimpse of the dresses and accessories that had never been touched.

A few seconds later, the man curled up his lips.00000

Chapter 175: I Can Also Refuse to Answer

At noon the next day, when Stella had just finished lunch and was about to walk into her office, a call from an unknown number came in.

Due to the experience last night, she stared at the cell phone and didn't answer it until she hesitated for a moment.

Pinching her cell phone, she didn't speak first. She had planned to hang up the phone immediately as soon as she heard the wretched man's voice. She wouldn't give him any chance to threaten her. Much to her surprise, a strange man's voice rang out at the end of the line, "Hello, Ms. Radomil. I'm from the moving company. Are you home right now? We've arrived downstairs of your apartment." Stella was quite confused, "The moving company? I'm not moving anywhere."

May I confirm with you, please? Are you Ms. Stella Radomil?

Stella frowned, "Who hired you?"

I'm sorry, Ms. Radomil. I can only see your name, address, and contact number here.

Stella inhaled deeply, "Please wait for a moment. I'll go back right now."

After hanging up the phone, Stella put away it and walked out of the office.

Seeing that, Sherry asked, "Stella, where are you going?"

A moving company called me and said they've arrived downstairs of my apartment. I need to go back.

What? I'll go with you then.

Stella said, "No, thanks, Sherry. I can go back myself."

A female employee applied for a day off. The other girl went out for lunch. If she left, Sherry was the only one in the studio. Sherry thought for a moment and handed her car key to Stella, "All right. Go check what's going on. If you need any help, call me." "Sure."

Their apartment was quite close to the studio, so Stella arrived there after driving for a few minutes.

She pulled the door of the car open, starting at the truck with the logo of the moving company.

Obviously, the staff saw her. Immediately, he came over, "Ms. Radomil, right?"

The man asked his coworkers to pull over a big paper box with a trolley, "Ms. Radomil, please sign here. We'll help you carry it upstairs." Stella asked, "Do you have a cutter? May I use it please?"

Sure. Here you are.

Stella cut open the scotch tape that sealed the box. Seeing that there were all clothes in there instead of anything creepy, she breathed a sigh of relief secretly.

She said, "I'm sorry, but those are not my things. Could you please send them back to where they came from?"

The staff of the moving company obviously had never expected that it would end up like this. He was in a dilemma, "Ms. Radomil, this is an order directly sent down from the company. I was told that I must send it to you in person. If we sent it back, we would get fired."

His coworker echoed, "Ms. Radomil, please. This is my first day onboard. My younger sister is still at school. I can't lose my job."

Stella's temples popped. According to the threatening method, she realized that it was from the wretched man.

After a moment of silence, she said, "Please help me carry it upstairs."

Thank you, Ms. Radomil.

Ms. Radomil, it's so nice of you!

After Stella went back to the studio, Sherry noticed that she was quite depressed and spiritless. She asked, "Stella, what happened?"

Stella shook her head helplessly, forcing a smile. She gave back the car key to Sherry, "I'll continue with the design draft."

Sitting a the desk, Stella cheered herself up. She told herself not to be defeated by the difficult so easily. She knew that the wretched man had done so to deliberately trouble her, aiming to let her beg him. Hence, she decided to ignore it completely.

Much to Stella's surprise, the wretched man did it continuously in the following days - she kept receiving a big box each day.

Shortly after, the apartment that was suitable for her and Sherry and looked quite empty was fully occupied.

Sherry skillfully opened one box and pulled out a ruby necklace from the box. Instantly, her eyes were lit up, "Holy shit! I've seen this necklace in a photography exhibition. It's said that it costs tens of millions. How could it be stuffed in such a box? Is Clarence Conrad is out of his mind or am I nuts?"

Stella nestled on the sofa. She looked up and took a glance. The necklace looked familiar to her.

She recalled that one year, Nathan said a client company gave them as a gift, so he gave it to her as her birthday gift.

The next second, Sherry kept pulling out a lot of treasures from the box, "These earrings... And this one... this one... Whoa... This is a set, a limited edition of an overseas luxury brand." Stella looked at those paper boxes in a daze.

Except for the dresses, most of the jewelry in the boxes was given to her by Nathan. He said either they were gifts from the clients' companies or they were benefits from Conrad Group... She didn't expect that each of them was priceless.

If she had known that and taken some with her, she wouldn't be so bothered when Clarence asked her to return the money she had borrowed from him.

Sherry sat next to her, heaving a sigh, "I never expected that the wretched man is so generous. He's given you so many priceless gifts."

Stella thought for a while. She picked up her cell phone and stood up, "Sherry, I'll make a call."

Sherry was eating a strawberry, "Go ahead."

Stella walked to the balcony and looked up Clarence's number in the block list. She tabbed the number to call him.

In a few seconds, the call was connected.

Clarence's indifferent voice was heard, "Speak."

Stella said, "Mr. Conrad, please don't send things over to me anymore. I don't need them."

At the other end of the line, Clarence paused and asked, "Don't you need them?"

Before she could finish her words, Clarence said, "Stella, you've overthought. I didn't give them to you as gifts. Those are the belongings that you've left in Starry Lake Mansion and didn't take it along with you. Stella was speechless.

He continued, "Since you don't have time to come over and take them away, is there anything wrong that I hired the moving company to send them to you?"

Stella couldn't find her tongue for a while and uttered a few words, "Nothing wrong."

Clarence said, "That's good then. There is still half of them left in the closet."

Wait, Mr. Conrad, Stella immediately said, "Mr. Conrad, I don't need them. Could you please give them to someone else or deal with them?”

It's your own problem. It has nothing to do with me.

Sure enough, the wretched man was quite petty. He retorted her with the lines that she said to him earlier.

When Stella was about to smash her cell phone, Clarence said slowly, "It's not difficult to resolve the problem actually. As long as you can be my date and attend an event with me this weekend." Stella sneered. She knew that the wretched man had planned something.

She said, "Mr. Conrad, I have an appointment this weekend already."

With whom?

A friend of mine.

Which one?

Stella gripped the handrail of the window on the balcony tightly, "Mr. Conrad, I don't need to report my schedule to you."

Clarence said, "I didn't ask you to. I'm just asking you."

I see. I can also refuse to answer.

Chapter 176: It Would Be Counterproductive If He Continued

After hanging up the phone, Stella exhaled and went back to the living room.

Sherry asked, "How did it go? What did the wretched man say?"

Stella nestled on the sofa and said in depression, "He asked me to be his date and attend an event with him this weekend."

But don't you have...

That's why I said no.

Sherry thought for a moment and approached her, "Stella, have you noticed that Clarence Conrad is quite abnormal recently?"

Stella sneered, "He's not only abnormal but also he wanted to torture me more."

Do you think he's torturing you?

Stella looked quite exhausted. She answered in a weak tone, "Or what?"

Sherry concluded, "Don't you think what he has done recently was like an elementary school student who doesn't know how to express his love? He always tries silly ways to attract the attention of the girl he has a crush on."

After a moment of silence, she raised her hand and covered Sherry's forehead. Then she covered her own with the other hand. Frowning, she said, "You are not on fever."

Come on. Sherry pulled her hand away, "I'm serious. Hasn't the wretched man admitted that he likes you before? I believe this is quite possible."

Stella nestled back on the sofa again. She said in a flat tone, "For a man like him, nothing is different if he truly likes me. It could be ignored and has no actual meaning at all." Sherry sighed. Her words did make sense.

After a while, Sherry took the garbage sacks and went out to toss them.

In five minutes, she ran back excitedly, "Stella! Oh, my gosh! Stella!"

Stella asked, "What's the matter?"

Remember the mixed-raced handsome guy we saw the other night? I saw him again just now. Guess what? He's our new neighbor next door.

He has been moved in for a few days already. It's time to say hi, Sherry said while trotting towards the bathroom, "Wait! I need to have my hair washed. I'll put on the makeup. I must be decent to meet him." Seeing that, Stella smiled, "I bought a cake this afternoon and it's in the fridge. Take it along with you."

you, Stella!

Bothered by the call with Clarence just now, Stella was not in the mood to continue drawing her draft. She changed her outfit, ready to go downstairs for jogging.

When she went out, she said to Sherry, "Sherry, I'm going out. Do you need anything?"

Some midnight snacks probably. I didn't have enough for dinner.

Upon hearing that the door was closed, Sherry checked the time - it was almost half-past nine. She sped up washing her hair.

If she went over too late, she might interrupt the man from going to bed.

After dried her hair, Sherry put on delicate makeup and found her best-looking dress. She fetched the cake from the fridge and knocked on the neighbor's door.

In about two minutes, the door was finally opened.

Sherry put on a proper smile, "Hello, sir. Nice to meet you. I'm..."

The man cast a glance at the cake in her hand, reaching out to close the door, "No, thanks."

Sherry immediately reached out to stop the door from being close. Retaining a smile, she said, "Sir, I'm your neighbor next door. I heard that you've just moved in, so I came to say hi." The man released the doorknob, "I'm sorry."

Sherry straightened her dress and kept a decent image in his presence, "It's alright. This cake is a gift for you."

I don't have a sweet tooth. Thank you, though.

OK. Sherry could only withdraw her hand. She said, "By the way, I'm Sherry Perry. I shared the apartment with my friend. How may I address you, please?"

The man answered flatly, "Daniel."

All right... I'll go back then. Since we are neighbors, if you need any help in the future, please feel free to let me know. Don't hesitate. A near neighbor is better than a distant cousin, right? The man slightly smiled at her and closed the door.

Sherry was standing at the door. Staring at the cake in her hands, she couldn't help but curl her lips.

In half an hour, Stella came back with barbecued skewers, only to find that Sherry was sitting on the sofa and eating the cake.

Stella changed into her slippers and asked, "Wasn't he home?"

He was. Sherry heaved a sigh in depression, "He thought I was a saleswoman first, almost shut me out of his door. Then I told him that I'm his neighbor and he could come to me if he needs anything. As the result, he smiled extremely perfunctorily and directly shut the door."

As she spoke, Sherry put down the cake. Soon, she became excited again, "No way! I can't give up like this! He's so handsome, so he should be quite bad-tempered. I must move him with my kindness. Isn't it shown on TV - as long as I'm kind enough, the handsome guy will like me?"

She put the barbecued skewers in front of Sherry and said with a smile, "Go ahead and eat them. I'll take a shower."

Clarence pinched his cell phone, frowning deeply.

After a moment, he raised his head and said coldly, "Check Emmett Carter's schedule this weekend."

After ten minutes, Nathan knocked on the door of the CEO's office, "Mr. Conrad, Mr. Carter doesn't work this Saturday. As for his private schedule, I haven't found it yet..." Clarence slightly pressed his lips, leaning against the back of his chair. He looked quite aloof, "Stella will be dating him this weekend."

Nathan asked tentatively, "Mr. Conrad, why are you so certain?"

My intuition told me.

Sometimes, a man's intuition could be so reasonable, couldn't it?

Clarence stood up, "Go ask around about Emmett Carter's plan."

Okay, Mr. Conrad. After a pause, Nathan continued, "What about the clothes in Starry Lake Mansion? Shall I continue sending them to Mrs. Conrad?" "Forget it."

If he continued doing so, it would be counterproductive.

Saturday.

After receiving Emmett's call, Stella said to Sherry, "Let's go. He's arrived."

Sherry looked back, frowning, "Are you wearing this?"

Stella looked down - she was wearing the outfit she usually did, "What's wrong?"

No way! You're going to... Sherry suddenly was enlightened by an idea. She changed her wording, "We're going to the concert. How can you dress so casually? You don't show your respect to the musicians.' Stella was speechless.

Sherry pushed her back to her room and found the dresses that she shopped with Stella a few days ago. She picked up a black woolen dress that could show Stella's curves and get her a camel coat, "Put them on. Then put some makeup."

I have put makeup...

It's too light. Do it seriously. Respect the musician!

Stella tried to refuse, "Emmett has arrived downstairs. It's no appropriate to make him wait for us."

What's wrong about it? A beauty always needs time to prepare before showing up. I'm sure he's quite happy to wait for you.

Stella choked up.0000000000

Chapter 177: Take a Brave Step

Downstairs of the apartment, Emmett was answering a phone call while standing beside his car.

After a while, Sherry's voice was heard behind her back, "Hi, Emmett."

He said to the person on the other of the line in a low voice, "Okay, I got to go."

Emmett put away his cell phone and turned around. When seeing Stella, his gaze slightly paused.

Noticing that, Sherry raised her eyebrows. Finally, her goal was achieved.

Stella smiled apologetically at him, "I'm sorry for keeping you wait."

Upon hearing it, Emmett returned to his senses, "Nothing... I've just arrived not long ago..."

Sherry held back her laughter and said, "Okay. Let's go. The concert is about to start."

Emmett nodded, "Okay. Please get in the car."

On the way to the concert, Sherry kept activating the atmosphere by talking with Emmett. Stella pressed the window down a bit, enjoying the fresh air outside.

It was a nice day today. The sun was shining. Different from the previous days when the temperature dropped, it was warmer.

Seeing that Stella focused on something else, Sherry approached Emmett and whispered, "Emmett, may I ask you a question, please?"

Emmett answered, "Of course. Go ahead, please?"

Sherry asked, "Have you had a girlfriend in the past few years?"

Emmett probably didn't expect that she would ask him such a question. After being startled for a moment, he answered, "No, I haven't." "Why not?"

In the rearview mirror, Emmett cast a glance at the girl who was lying prone beside the window. He smiled faintly, "I haven't met a suitable one, I guess."

Sherry asked with implication, "Is it because you haven't met a suitable one or you have already had a crush on someone?"

Emmett didn't answer this time. He didn't know how to answer such a question.

In fact, he had a crush on Stella since they were in college. However, all of them said Horace and she was a perfect match, and they loved each other. Emmett always thought that they would get married. Hence, he had never imagined proposing to Stella. However, unexpectedly, he heard that Horace engaged Annie.

During the past few years, he didn't have any news about Stella.

The reason that he attended the classmate reunion because he wanted to meet her again.

Seeing that he was silent, Sherry confirmed her guess. She encouraged him, "Emmett, if you like someone, you should grasp the chance and make the step forward bravely."

After a hesitation, Emmett said, "But I don't know if she has a crush on me."

He was afraid that once he confessed his love to her, they might probably not be able to remain friends.

Sherry said, "Anyway, she doesn't have a boyfriend. Just try it."

He looked back at Sherry in confusion.

Probably he didn't expect that she would have figured it out.

Sherry raised her chin at him and cast a secret glance at Stella. Then she whispered to him in a voice that only they both could hear, "Don't worry. I'll help you."

Emmett thought for a while and nodded in agreement, "Okay. Thanks."

There was a traffic jam on the way. When they arrived at the concert hall, it was already dark outside.

Seeing so many people, Sherry exclaimed, "Emmett, is your friend quite famous?"

Emmett answered with a smile, "Yes, he is. He has won several internal music prizes."

When Emmett was parking his car, Sherry poked Stella with her elbow, "Stella, have you heard my conversation with Emmett just now in the car?"

Stella was puzzled, "What? What did you guys talk about?"

In the car, she had been lost in thought, so she didn't hear what they talked about.

With a mysterious smile, Sherry said, "Nothing."

Shortly after, Emmett came over after parking the car, "Let's go in."

After entering the hall, Sherry deliberately took one step back, letting Emmett and Stella walk side-by-side in front. In that case, when they would take seats later, the two would sit next to each other. The seats offered by Emmett's friend were quite good, in the front rows. They could see the stage quite clearly.

They arrived a bit late. As soon as they took a seat, the concert started.

When Sherry was delighted that her plan was successful again. Stella whispered to her, "Sherry, look up." "Uh... What?"

Sherry looked up subconsciously, only to see Daniel on the stage.

She widened her eyes, "How could it be him?"

Emmett heard their discussion. He asked in a low voice, "Do you know him?"

Stella was sitting in the middle. She answered, "He lives next door to us. He has just moved in not long ago."

After a pause, she asked, "You said that you have a friend who stays in our community. Did you refer to him?"

Emmett nodded, "But I didn't expect that it would be so coincidental. He's your neighbor next door."

Beside them, Sherry was already stunned. She deeply believed that the romance between a slum girl and a musical talent had started.

As the melody was played, the whole concern hall quieted down.

Sherry fully concentrated on the stage without a blink.

In around half an hour, she suddenly felt that someone knocked on her shoulder. She moved a bit, ignoring the person.

However, the person didn't stop at all. Her shoulder was knocked on again.

Sherry felt so bothered. She turned around and was about to scold the person, only to find an expressionless face. Sherry choked up.

Clarence raised his finger at her, slightly tilting his head.

Sherry understood that he wanted to exchange the seat with her.

She hesitated without moving.

It was so hard for her to finally make the two enjoy the music concert and sit together. It was a good chance for them to progress their relationship.

If Clarence made trouble, all her effort would be...

Clarence pressed his thin lips, warnings increasing in his eyes.

Sherry instantly felt a chill rising from her back. Immediately, she stood up and exchanged the seat with him.

She inwardly comforted herself - she could have more chances to matchmake them, but she only had only one life.

Stella had been staring at the stage. She hadn't noticed what was going on next to her.

Suddenly, she felt that someone gripped her right hand.

Stella was taken aback for a moment. Sherry sometimes would pull her hands or took her arm.

However, she felt too intimate right now.

It didn't seem to be done by Sherry.

When Stella felt weird, the fingers of the hand has slotted between her fingers, clenching her palm slightly.

Stella turned around, only to find a different person was sitting next to her.

She choked up.

The man met her eyes, raising his eyebrows.

He looked as if he was challenging her.

She suppressed the fury that surged in her heart, trying to pull out her hand. However, the wretched man didn't seem to grip her tightly, but she couldn't break free at all.

Probably she moved too violently, Emmett looked over at her, "Stella, anything wrong?"

Stella immediately turned around and hid the hand that Clarence was holding behind her back. She put on an awkward smile, “Nothing. I just don't feel very well. Let's keep watching."☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 178: You Cared about Mrs. Conrad Occasionally

Emmett frowned, "Do you want to go to the hospital?"

No, thanks. It's my old disease. I'll be fine soon.

Although she said so, Emmett was still a bit worried, "Are you sure?"

Stella nodded, "Yes."

Emmett pressed his lips, "All right. If you still don't feel well later, do let me know. We shall go to the hospital for a checkup."

Fortunately, the light above the audience seats was quite dim, so Emmett didn't see anything wrong.

After Emmett withdrew his gaze, Stella turned to look at Clarence and frowned deeply. She said with her lips, "Let go!"

Clarence pretended that he didn't see it. Instead, he looked at the stage.

Stella inhaled deeply. Raising her foot, she stomped on his foot rudely.

She was wearing high heels today, so it might hurt a lot.

Sure enough, she heard the man groan next to her.

However, even so, he still didn't release his grip on her hand.

This was the very first time that he was so shameless in Stella's presence. She went furious.

When she was about to give him the second stomp, Clarence immediately let go of her hand.

Stella sneered. He deserved it.

After such a ridiculous event, Stella wasn't in the mood to continue enjoying the concert. When Daniel went off the stage to change his costume and get ready for the next program, she turned around and whispered, "Emmett, I'm sorry. I have something urgent to deal with. I have to go now."

After that, Stella stood up to leave.

Emmett immediately followed her, "Please let me give you a ride."

When he passed by the seat, he surprisingly found that Clarence had taken Sherry's seat. He looked expressionless.

Being polite, Emmett slightly nodded at him as the greeting.

Seeing that they were gone one after another, Clarence licked his thin lips. He looked down at his palm on which Stella's temperature still remained. He also stood up and followed them. Sherry sat on the seat and looked towards the exit, and then at the stage. In the end, she stomped and chased them out.

In the corridor, Emmett asked, "Stella, are you still not well?"

Stella stopped, turned around, and shook her head, "No. It's just something urgent happened."

Where are you going? Let me ride you home.

Nothing. Please don't bother, Emmett. I can go there myself. You should go back to the concert.

Emmett smiled, "I also want to get some fresh air and have a walk outside. Let me walk you to the entrance."

Upon hearing it, Stella couldn't insist on refusing him. They walked towards the entrance together.

After a while, Emmett said, "Stella, if you are free tomorrow evening, may I invite you for a dinner?"

Stella thought for a moment. She felt quite embarrassed about her sudden leave today, "Yes, I'm free. But it should be on me. I'm sorry for what happened today." "It's alright. Please don't take it so seriously."

Stella said with a smile, "Okay. I'll tell Sherry about it after going home. We'll see you tomorrow then."

Stella, wait, Emmett suddenly said, "I just want to have dinner with you alone tomorrow. Could you please not tell Sherry?"

Stella was slightly taken aback.

Studying her expression carefully, Emmett asked tentatively, "Does it work?"

While Stella didn't know what to answer, they heard a man's cold voice behind their backs, "No, it doesn't."

Emmett looked back, "Mr. Conrad?"

Clarence walked to Stella and stood next to her. He looked over at Emmett, "She's occupied tomorrow." Stella asked, "Am I?"

Clarence pressed his thin lips as if he was quite happy about her response.

He cast her a glance, "I said you are occupied and I have the final say."

Stella snorted. Then she curled up a smile at Emmett, "Okay, Emmett. I accepted it."

Emmett hadn't returned to his senses yet. Then he nodded, "Good. I'll go pick you up tomorrow."

Stella smiled, "All right. I'm taking off now. See you tomorrow."

After finishing her words, Stella strode away.

When Clarence was about to chase after her, his arm was pulled. His face became colder, "Let go."

Emmett asked, "Mr. Conrad, may I ask what you are doing now?"

Why not? Mr. Conrad, I'm sure that you can tell I'm pursuing Stella now. If you are chasing after her, we can have a fair competition. Mr. Conrad, but please don't always be so aggressive. Please respect her. Clarence withdrew his gaze and looked over at Emmett. Suddenly, he sorted, "Said who I'm chasing after her?"

Emmett asked, "Mr. Conrad, could you explain reasonably about what you are doing?"

Of course, Clarence said slowly, "Just a kindly reminder, Mr. Carter. Stella is my wife. Please leave her alone." Right then, they heard a whisper chime in, "Your ex-wife."

When he looked over, Sherry immediately looked away. She pretended that nothing had happened.

She couldn't have the heart to see the couple she match-made break up.

Upon hearing it, Emmett smiled, "I see."

Clarence looked at him again, "Mr. Carter, now you've known my relationship with her. Would you still keep pestering her?"

Emmett said, "I've heard that you had a wife, Mr. Conrad, and you didn't like her at all. Have you regretted divorcing her? Well, Mr. Conrad, now you are the one who kept pestering her."

Clarence pulled his face longer and longer, staring daggers at Emmett.

Emmett continued, "Mr. Conrad, I do appreciate that you've told me this. Now I fully understand what Stella has been through. I'll treat her much better in the future to make up for the harm she received in the past."

After finishing his words, Emmett nodded at Clarence as a farewell and turned away.

Seeing that, Sherry trotted to follow him.

She was afraid if she continued staying here, Clarence the wretched man might kill her and made her corpse vanish.

After they were gone, Nathan walked in and said, "Mr. Conrad, Mrs. Conrad went that way."

Clarence asked indifferently, "Do you also think that Stella has only received harm during the three-year marriage with me?"

Nathan realized that the answer to this question mattered in his life.

If he gave a wrong answer, he might be doomed.

After thinking quickly for a few seconds, he said with hesitation, "Mr. Conrad, although you had misunderstood Mrs. Conrad before, you cared about her occasionally." "For example?"

Nathan kept silent.

He couldn't find any example to support his words.

Mr. Conrad could never speak nicely.

Although he had changed a lot, it was not difficult to tell that how many heartbreaking words he had said to Mrs. Conrad during those three years.

Anyone who heard those words that Nathan had heard would crazily curse Mr. Conrad, let alone those words when Mr. Conrad spoke when he was with Mrs. Conrad alone.

Seeing that Nathan kept silent, Clarence tightened his chin, lifted his foot, and walked out.0000☐☐☐☐

Chapter 179: Has Anyone Said You Are Shameless

Out of the concert hall, Stella didn't want to go home. She kept walking forward along the street.

After walking for a while, she saw a small amusement park in front.

Toddlers aged two or three were running and jumping there with simple and bright smiles.

Stella gradually paused and stopped next to the amusement park, curling up her lips.

A few minutes later, she heard a man's indifferent voice next to her, "What's so fun of it?"

Stella withdrew her gaze as well as her smile.

She said flatly, "Mr. Conrad, you'll never know what I'm watching."

With a hand in his trousers pocket, Clarence retorted, "How do you know I don't?"

Mr. Conrad, if you do it, you won't stand here and make sarcastic remarks.

She was not in the mood to argue with him, so she turned around and walked away.

Much to her surprise, Clarence followed her.

He did the same thing when they were in Aqock.

The longer Stella walked, the more annoyed she got. Suddenly, she paused her pace, turned around, and looked at him coldly.

Clarence also paused. Gazing at her with his black eyes, he slightly raised his eyebrows, "What's up?"

Mr. Conrad, what are you doing? Why are you following me all the way?

As far as she knew about the wretched man, Stella had predicted he must reply something like "is this road in your name? Why can't I walk here?" Much to her surprise, Clarence answered indifferently, "You so pretty. I'm afraid that someone who has evil intentions will approach you."

She kept silent for at least half a minute.

She had never expected that she could receive other things than bark from a dog one day.

Wasn't he was the person with the evil intentions?

For a moment, Stella lost her tongue. She kept walking.

In a few minutes, Clarence's voice sounded out behind her back, "Stella, you blushed just now. Were you shy?"

No!

She was frightened.

Clarence asked again, "Why did you blush then?"

I feel hot.

You don't dress much. How can you feel hot?

Stella ignored him.

Clarence continued, "You dressed up and put up makeup for dating Emmett Carter, didn't you?"

Stella still ignored him.

Emmett Carter is chasing after you. Have you discovered it?

Stella inhaled, "Mr. Conrad, what on earth do you want to tell me?"

Don't say yes to him.

Why not? As she spoke, Stella asked in amusement, "Is it because you don't like it, Mr. Conrad? What a boring and lame excuse!"

Clarence gazed at her without a blink. After a few seconds, he answered, "Nope."

Mr. Conrad, then you don't have...

Because I like you.

Stella answered extremely calmly, "I see."

Clarence pressed his lips and repeated, "Don't say yes to him."

Upon hearing it, Stella chuckled, "Mr. Conrad, who do you think you are that I will obey you? I know you like me, but what's so happy about it? Or do you expect me to get some firework to celebrate it?" "If doing so could delight you, I won't object it."

She had almost forgotten how sharp-tongued the wretched man was.

When she was about to leave, Clarence said in a steady tone, "I'm quite sorry about what has happened in the past."

This was the first time that Stella heard him speak in such a tone and make an apology. Judging from his attitude, she could tell that he was quite sincere.

At least he didn't say "it could be my fault" again.

However, she didn't understand.

Stella said in a flat tone, "Mr. Conrad, please don't mention it. I'm just a scheming woman who tries every means to achieve my goals. I don't deserve your apology at all."

Clarence said unhappily, "Whether you deserve it or not, I have the final say."

The wretched man was still so shameless even when apologizing.

Stella truly wasn't in the mood to be tangled with him. She said, "All right. Mr. Conrad, no matter what your purpose is to apologize to me, I accept it. Anyway, we don't need to keep in touch. Mr. Conrad, could you please don't ever come to..."

Before she could finish her words, she suddenly saw black. The next second, she felt a kiss from the cold thin lips, making her swallow her unfinished words back.

Stella was startled. When she returned to her senses, she pushed him away with reddish eyes, "Clarence Conrad, are you nuts?"

Clarence licked his thin lips in dissatisfaction. He answered calmly, "You've said you accepted my apology."

So you ignored other words, didn't you?

Yeah. I don't want to hear other words.

Stella believed that the wretched man wasn't in his right state of mind. She wasn't in the mood to waste her time with him. She directly turned around and hailed a taxi on the roadside.

Clarence stood next to her calmly. He looked at the cars on the road in the distance, "It should be quite difficult to get a cab now. How about I give you a ride home?"

Stella clenched her fists tightly, ignoring him.

Clarence continued, "If you are angry about it, you can kiss me in return. I don't care. I'm not so petty as you."

Since she failed to hail a taxi, Stella could only keep walking forward. However, the high heels on her feet were new, which kept rubbing her feet. She was irritated. Hence, she directly took off the shoes and smashed them onto the man behind her, "Stop stalking me!"

Clarence caught the shoes thrown onto his face, frowning, "Stella, it's only seven degrees today."

I don't give a fuck even it's minus seven degrees. It's none of your business if I freeze to death.

Stella was burning with anger all over. She didn't feel cold at all and nor could she find any place to vent her anger.

After she had taken a few more steps, a hand suddenly was wrapped around her waist. The next second, she was lifted.

Stella looked at him expressionlessly, "Mr. Conrad, has anyone remark that you are quite cheeky?"

Clarence answered, "You are the first one."

That's truly my pleasure.

You may get more fireworks.

Stella sneered. After a moment of silence, she continued, "Mr. Conrad, I don't know what's in your mind, but I can ensure you that I will never like you, never ever." Clarence's expression didn't change at all, "Don't jump to the conclusion so fast."

Stella said, "Mr. Conrad, just think about it. How much you hated, disgusted, and disdained me before we divorced, you can understand what I feel about you." Clarence said, "It's different."

Even if I did so... you were still having sex with me on my bed.

This was the very first time that Stella felt such a strong migraine.

She didn't want to retort him at all.

Clarence continued, "Besides, even if I have treated you in that way, I still like you now. Probably you'll also like me in the future. Who can predict it?" Stella asked calmly, "Clarence Conrad, can you make the baby come back to life?"

She laughed, "Since you can't do it, who do you think you are to be so certain?" The baby was a deep gap between them, which could never be overcome.☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 180: He Seemed to Not Give up No Matter What

In five minutes, Nathan pulled over the car next to them. He got off and pulled the rear door open.

Clarence put Stella in and walked to the other side to get in the car.

When Nathan was about to enter the address information in GPS, he recalled the lesson lat time. He coughed to clear his throat and asked, "Ms. Radomil, where are you going?"

Stella told him an address in a flat tone. Then she leaned against the back of the seat and huddled up in the corner, closing her eyes.

Shortly after, she felt a coat was put on her body.

She didn't move, and nor did she want to speak to him. She slightly tilted her body, turning her back to him.

Clarence said, "Drive."

On the way back, it was quiet in the car. Clarence thought that Stella seemed to have fallen asleep for real.

He turned around and looked at her in silence, recalling the question she asked him just now.

Although the little thing's status was far better than before, nobody could guarantee if there would be any accident in the future.

He decided to wait a bit longer. If the little thing was fine, he would send the baby to her. Anyway, she didn't have to know anything about it now.

As if she had felt his gaze, the woman who seemed to have fallen asleep reached out her hand under the coat and lifted it to cover her head. Clarence watched her do it silently.

He pressed his lips and withdrew his gaze.

In half an hour, the car was parked downstairs of Stella's apartment.

Nathan had to speak to break the lifeless atmosphere in the car, "Excuse me, Ms. Radomil. We've arrived."

The woman under the coat moved a bit. She pushed the coat away and sat up. She said in an indifferent tone, "Thank you."

Stella pulled the door open. When she was about to get off, she heard Clarence's voice behind her, "You are not allowed to go tomorrow."

Upon hearing his tone, Stella was angry again, "I am going!"

After that, she smashed the door close and left without looking back.

Looking at her receding figure, Clarence gritted his teeth in anger.

Sherry had been waiting at home for a long while but Stella still hadn't come back. She dialed Stella's phone number but couldn't reach her. She panicked. When she was about to go out and look for her, the door was opened.

Sherry walked up, "Stella, where have you been? Where are your shoes?"

Stella shook her head, "They were not cozy. I tossed them away."

Did you come back on barefoot? It's snowing outside. Stella, you...

It's alright. I just walked from the entrance to the elevator. I came back by car, said Stella, "Sherry, I'll go take a shower."

Sherry nodded, "Okay. Okay. Please go ahead. I'll make some soup for you."

While making the soup, Sherry heard a few knocks on the door. She turned down the gas and trotted to open the door. Daniel was standing there.

Sherry was taken aback for a moment. She leaned against the door and greeted him, "Hello! Nice to see you again!"

Daniel slightly nodded. Then he said, "Emmett told me you are his friends."

Ah... Yes! We are quite close, said Sherry, "How did you get to know him?"

Australia.

Sherry thought for a moment and understood. He should mean that when Emmett was studying in Australia, they got to know each other.

Sherry kept smiling. Suddenly she recalled something and put down her hand, "Would you like to come in?"

No, thanks Daniel glanced through the living room. After a pause, he asked, "Last time you said that you're sharing the apartment with your friend, right?"

Yes. Hasn't Emmett mentioned about her to you?

Yes, he has.

That was why he came here to check on her.

It seemed that she was home, though.

Daniel was about to withdraw his gaze. When he was leaving, he saw a woman entering the living room while drying her hair with a towel.

She asked, "Sherry, who are you..."

Before finishing her words, Stella looked over and saw Daniel standing at the door.

Sherry said, "Stella, this is Emmett's friend, our new neighbor. You should have met each other before."

Stella greeted Daniel politely, "Hi there."

Daniel curled up his lips, nodding at her in response.

He said, "It's getting quite late now. I won't hold you up for so long. See you girls around."

Well... Sherry asked, "How about let's have dinner tomorrow?"

Daniel thought for a moment and nodded in agreement, "I'd love to."

After getting back to his apartment, Daniel was sitting on the sofa, knocking his knee with the cell phone.

It turned out that woman was Clarence Conrad's ex-wife.

She was indeed pretty.

However, if Clarence had called off his engagement with the Steward family just because of this woman, it was quite confusing. Daniel didn't think it was something that Clarence could have done.

Shortly after, his cell phone started ringing.

It was a call from Emmett.

Emmett said, "It'll be Phoebe Steward's birthday party next Wednesday. I've arranged everything well."

Got it. Daniel asked, "You insisted that I must come back and do it on your behalf. Is it because of Clarence Conrad's ex-wife?"

Emmett said in a cold tone, "She has a name."

OK. I'm sorry. I forgot to ask her just now. After a pause, Daniel continued, "If he knew that you are so close to Clarence Conrad's ex-wife, he shouldn't be happy about it." "I'll let him know."

Whatever. I don't care. If things go smoothly, he will come back soon.

After closing the door, Sherry said excitedly, "Stella, I asked him out for dinner and he said yes. Will you join us?"

Stella smiled and walked to the kitchen to turn off the gas, "No, thanks. I've invited Emmett for dinner tomorrow."

Upon hearing it, Sherry trotted to her directly and leaned to her. She said, "That's awesome. He's finally become smarter. It seems what I've told him in the car enlightened him." Stella looked back at her, "What have you told him?"

What? Sherry let out a hollow laugh, trying to slip by, "Well, just a casual chat. What else could we talk about? Hmm... I'm taking a shower, too. Go to bed early after drinking the soup. It's quite cold now. Sleep tight and you'll be in good shape tomorrow."

After finishing her words, she trotted away.

Stella withdrew her gaze. With a faint smile, she poured the soup out from the pot.

Lying on the bed at night, Stella couldn't fall asleep at all. As soon as she closed her eyes, what Clarence said today was reechoed in her ears.

She could never understand why Clarence would have suddenly changed so much. He didn't give up, no matter she scolded him or how much she tried to send him away.

It seemed that he had changed to an entirely different person.

In the past, as much as she knew about the wretched man, how could he allow her to challenge his dignity and rock bottom again and again?

Besides, she could sense that he wouldn't give up no matter what.

Stella wondered what on earth he wanted from her.

The more she thought about it, the more annoyed she was. Since she couldn't sleep at all, she sat up and opened the draft book at the desk. When she turned to the page that was torn off, looking at the uneven traces, she felt more annoyed.☐☐☐☐☐