Ch. 231..240

Chapter 231: Money Is Everything

In the studio.

When Stella came into the studio, Channing was sorting the orders in the office while Sherry was nodding off at the front desk.

Sherry saw Stella and stood up, "Stella, you should be home to get more rest. Why do you come now?"

Stella came close to her, "The injury was no big deal and I have recovered for a while. It's boring to stay at home all day long."

Sherry yawned, "Well, you said you are going to Aqock. When will you leave?"

Stella replied, "I bought a flight ticket for tomorrow night."

How long are you going to stay there? Will you come back for the New Year's Day?

Stella smiled, "I'll stay there for two to three days at most. I'll be back."

Sherry nodded, "Great. I was considering that if you won't be back for the New Year's Day, Chan and I would come to see you at Aqock. I don't want to go home this year, otherwise, my parents would ask me about Liam and urge me to get married. It's really annoying."

Hearing that, Stella was in silence for a while before she said, "I ran into Daniel in the elevator on my way. He asked me to tell you that he is sorry about what happened that day."

Sherry waved her hand and said carelessly, "He made Chan his messenger too. But I don't care anymore. I'll try to avoid him."

As they were talking, Channing came out from the office and looked at his watch, "I'm gonna go out."

Stella nodded and asked in a casual way, "Where are you going?"

I have something to do. Be back soon.

Ok, go ahead.

After Channing left, Sherry whispered, "Is Channing seeing someone? He is kind of mysterious recently."

Stella shook her head, "I don't think so."

Sherry let out a sigh, "Look, those beloved handsome guys like Chan have so many suitors, but they have no desire to be in a relationship. On the contrary, we are desperate to fall in love even in dreams, but we can't meet the one. It's so unfair!"

Channing found the place according to the address given by the private detective. He waited there for ten minutes, but no soul showed up.

When he took out his phone to make a call, a few hooligans came behind him.

They were hired thugs in the casino where Jeffrey visited a lot. They noted Channing and provoked with foul language, "The son of the bedbug Jeffrey. I heard you have been admitted to the college. What's it going on now? You got money for college but can't pay your father's debt?"

Channing ignored them and looked away from them to leave. But they came closer and stopped him.

It's said that Jeffrey gave your sister to a rich man for millions. I guess she is no longer worth that much after being fucked for so many times, but....

Another man continued, "If you get your sister to please us, the debt will be cancelled. How's it?"

As soon as he finished, the rest of them burst into laughter.

With a loud thump, Channing punched the man in front of him and threw him against the wall violently.

Seeing what happened, the rest of the gang joined the fight.

The fierce fight went on for a while, and then the man, who insulted Stella and was beaten up by Channing first, spat out blood with cruelty and hatred in his eyes. He then took out a knife from his pocket and came towards Channing.

At the point when he was wielding the knife towards Channing's waist, his wrist was kicked heavily by someone and he was flung to a corner, screaming with pain.

Channing turned around to find the rest men behind him were all brought down.

At that moment, a black Rolls-Royce pulled over the lane entrance and then Clarence appeared in Channing's sight.

Channing frowned wondering why was he?

Clarence gave him a glance and then raised his hand slowly. Soon a man wearing glasses was thrown at Channing's feet.

The private detective worked for Channing.

The man pushed his broken glasses upward and then got on the ground at Channing's feet, "Sorry, sorry, young man. I didn't know who you are, so I cheated you out of money. It's all my fault. Here is your money and that given by them. I give it all to you. Please spare me ...."

The man took out a bank card from his bad with trembling hands and thrusted it into Channing's hand.

Channing pressed his thin lips and lowered to grab the man's tie, "You are playing me?"

I was blinded by money. I was wrong. I swear it won't happen again.

Channing's face was darkened with coldness, "You told me you got that man's information. Is that fake too?"

They asked me to say so and I had no choice. The photo you gave me was took years ago and the face in it is too blurry to be recognized. It's impossible to find him! "Who are they?"

The man answered, "I don't know. I just took their money and did as they told me. You know the rules of my profession. The employer would be angry if you ask ...." Channing threw him away and got up with a cold face.

Clarence raised his hand, "Handle him."

The detective and hooligans were taken away and everything was quiet again.

Clarence looked at Channing and spoke indifferently, "Don't be impulsive next time. You believe in everything people said just the same as your sister."

Channing was silent for a while and then asked, "How did you know it?"

In this world, Money is everything.

Channing, "...."

Clarence turned around as he said, "Get in the car. I take you home."

Channing stood there with hesitation for a while and finally decided to get in the car.

On their way, Nathan answered a phone call and then told Clarence, "Mr. Conrad, everything was settled."

Clarence uttered a sound with his eyes closed slightly, showing no emotions on his cold face.

A few minutes later, Channing opened his mouth, "Don't tell Stella about it."

Clarence opened his eyes slowly hearing his words.

Channing added, "She'll worry me if she knows it."

Since you know she'll be worried, why didn't you think about the consequence before you did it?

Channing frowned, "I didn't expect to encounter those guys."

You think it's an accident to see them?

Channing pressed his lips tightly in silence. It couldn't be a coincidence.

Clarence said flatly, "It's likely that you even don't know when they began to stalk you."

Channing couldn't figure out who bought the detective off or their purpose.

But his gut told him that the one behind it was the same person who had someone cause trouble at Stella's studio and set him up at his school gate.

Do you know who 'they' are?

Of course. Clarence looked at him, "I won't tell your sister about what happened today and will tell you what's going on, but you have to promise me something in return."

Chapter 232: I Have No Objection

When Channing was hack, Stella was laughing and chatting with Sherry. Her smile frozen immediately as she turned around to find his clothes were dirty and there were bruises on his face. She strode to him

and frowned, "Chan, what happened to you?"

Channing tilted his head, "Nothing. Only minor injuries. It doesn't matter."

It matters. You didn't look like this way when you left. Tell me the truth. Where have you been?

Sherry came to join Stella, "Right, Chan, what happened to you? Come on."

Stella's frown grew deeper and she felt something bad happened, "Did you ....'

Channing said in a calm voice, "I just had a fight with my classmates. It's not serious as you think."

Why did you fight with your classmates?

Channing seemed not want to talk about it, "Just a fight, no reasons."

Stella didn't believe him and tried to say something, but Sherry stopped her, "It's fine. Fight is common between young men. You don't worry. He is a grownup and he knows what he is doing." Sherry touched Channing as she said, "Don't stand here. Go and have your injuries treated, or they will become inflamed."

Channing turned and entered the back staff room.

Sherry touch Stella with her elbow, "You are still worried?"

Stella shook her head, "I think Chan didn't tell the truth."

Channing was not an impulsive person who would fight with classmates out of small conflicts.

And when he left the studio, his expression showed that he was going to do something important.

Sherry explained, "Chan didn't tell you the truth because he don't want you to worry you. He come back safe and sound, so everything is alright."

Stella breathed a sigh of relief, "I hope so."

After a while, the staff room was opened.

Channing was sterilizing his wounds with a swab. He put down the sab when he saw Stella showed up at the door, "I really fine."

Stella came to sit beside the sofa and took a band-aid to cover his wound, "Fighting with classmates is big deal. Why don't you explain it?"

Channing pressed his lips in silence.

You do this once and once only.

Stella added, "I'll leave for Aqock tomorrow night. I'll be back in two or three days. You'd better find a new house and move out from Daniel's house."

Channing understood what Stella mean. He was quiet for a while and then said, "I don't think he did it on purpose."

Whatever. It is past and it's meaningless to keep talking about it. I simply think you should keep staying at his house and bothering him. What's more, as you can see, nothing happened to my place recently. Channing nodded, "I'll move tomorrow."

Stella got up, "Find a new house first. I'll transfer the money...."

Channing interrupted her and said in a serious voice, "I got money."

Stella smiled, "Fine, I'll leave it to you."

When she was about to leave, Channing asked abruptly, "How's it going between you and Emmett?"

You said you wanted to give it a try, so how's it going now?

Stella paused for a few seconds and then answered, "You are right. I don't like him, so it's meaningless to try it."

Then.... Channing touched his neck and looked away awkwardly, "Will you marry Clarence again?"

Stella seemed haven't expected that he would ask that suddenly. She stood there astonished for seconds and didn't know what to say. Looking at Stella's reaction, Channing coughed, "I feel that he is not as annoying as before. If you . ... still like him, I have no objection." Hearing that, Stella couldn't help laughing out loud, "Didn't you drive him away last time? Why do you change your mind?" Channing defended himself, "I didn't drive him away. I just asked him to have a good think and don't hurt your anymore ...."

Stella said, "Fine, don't bother it. There's no work in the studio today. Let's have a meal."

Stella stopped at the door and turned to Channing in a sudden, "Shall we invite Winnie to join us?"

Channing was confused for a second and then asked, "She is your friend. Why asking me?"

Stella tried to suppress her smile, "Nothing, I'm just asking. She has been hiding overseas because of your affair. I'm wondering if she comes back. I want to apologize and thank her in person. How do you think?"

.... Channing looked away from her face, cleared his throat, pressed his lips and then said, "You are right."

Then I'll ask if she is back.

Stella raised one of her eyebrows and then left the staff room.

She texted Winnie while walked away.

As a matter of fact, Winnie didn't go overseas. The evil and merciless capitalist Clarence only gave her two days off and then got her a tight schedule.

When she got Stella's message, she was shooting a commercial. To complete her lie, Winnie had no choice but tell Stella that she just got off the plane in Hawaii.

Stella texted, "Ok, see you when you are back."

Winnie agreed with tears in her eyes.

At 11:30 pm, the plane landed at the Aqock Airport on time.

The temperature of Aqock seemed always to be lower than that of City N. As soon as she got off the plane, Stella was met by freezing air.

She zipped her down jacket up to her chin and put on the hat. When she was about to walk into the hall, she saw a group of bodyguards walking out from the hall with a woman at the center. The woman was covered from toe to head. Even her eyes couldn't be seen.

They looked strange and nervous.

Stella got a hit when they passed by her.

Stella looked at the group in confusion.

A few minutes later, Stella walked out from the washing room. Before long, she heard a familiar female voice coming from a corner, "What the hell! Have you got everything arranged? How long are you going to keep me waiting?"

Miss Conrad, please be patient. We are doing this for your safety. If we don't be cautious, you'll be discovered.

Annie cursed, "It's all the bitch and the bastard's fault. I'll wait and see. I must give them a lesson!"

Stella stood there and gave a smile in silence.

It was surprising to meet Annie Conrad who became a fugitive at the airport.

No one knew it was fate or coincidence.

However, Annie Conrad still showed no regret even in such conditions.

At this moment, a bodyguard noticed Stella and asked in alert, "Who's there?"

#### Chapter 233: Come to Be Beaten up

Just as the bodyguards came toward Stella, Stella felt an arm was put round her waist.

In a second, a urinal came into Stella's sight.

Before she realized what happened, she heard foot steps coming outside the toilet.

Soon she was pulled into a cubicle.

The bodyguards entered the toilet and tried to open and check the cubicles one by one.

As Stella was alert to the noise outside, she widened her eyes wondering why Clarence was also here.

Noticing the bodyguards were coming closer to their cubicle, Clarence lowered his eyes looking at Stella's eyes and then tightened his hand around her waist, pulling her close to him. Clarence lowered his head and then bit her lips softly.

Stella struggled instinctively, but Clarence held her wrist and pressed her against the wood wall, creating a loud noise.

The cubicle's door rattled with shallow breathing.

The sound created a sensuality.

The bodyguards outside looked at each other and immediately understood what was happening in it.

One of the bodyguard whispered, "No more trouble. The car is coming. Let's go."

Soon their footsteps faded away.

After the toilet's door was closed, Clarence let go Stella and took a step backward, licking his lips insatiably.

Stella was outraged and began to hit Clarence with her bag as she scolded, "Asshole! Bastard!"

When she was calm down, Clarence held her wrist, "I helped you. You should be grateful!"

Stella shouted, "I didn't ask for it!"

She covered herself completely and hid half of her face with a hat, so they could barely recognize her.

If it were not for Clarence pulled her into the cubicle, they couldn't have suspected her.

Clarence said, "I told you Annie Conrad is a lunatic. If she discovered you this time, you think she'd let you go?"

Stella didn't want to waste her time for bullshit with him. As she was about to push him away and leave, she heard two men were talking outside.

Soon Stella heard their belts were untied.

At that moment, she imagined to kill Clarence tens of thousands of times.

But surprisingly, she didn't hear the peeing sound as she expected because Clarence took her into his arms and covered her ears with her hat.

It seemed like all sounds outside were isolated.

She only felt Clarence's heart beating strongly.

Clarence lowered his eyes to look at Stella's eyes, raised his eyebrows and then lowered his head slowly.

When he was about to kiss her, Stella slapped him in his face.

Clarence, "...."

Stella ignored him and leaned on the door the listen to the noise outside. When she was sure that there was no one outside, she opened the door, covering her face with the hat, and left quickly. Clarence touched his lips with his tongue and followed up.

As soon as Stella walked out the airport, she was held by the waist and taken into a black car.

In the car, Nathan was surprised to see Stella. He was astonished for a while before he opened his mouth, "Mrs. ... Ms. Radomil....”

Stella smiled at him, looking extremely embarrassed.

Clarence came to the other door, got in the car and then ordered in a cold voice, "Drive."

Ten minutes later, Stella couldn't stand the suffocating silence anymore, so she asked tentatively, "Why is Mr. Conrad here?"

Clarence didn't lift his eyelids, "Come to be beaten up."

A wretched and vindictive man.

Not to be outdone, Stella talked back, "Mr. Conrad did hooliganism, so what I did was self-defense."

Clarence looked out the window quietly, ignoring her.

Stella glanced him secretly wondering if he was angry.

He took the advantage of her so many times and he even took her into the male toilet. But she only gave him a slap. She was nice enough.

Nathan didn't understand why they quarreled again. He coughed trying to distract, "Mr. Conrad, I found out that the Steward family plans to send Miss Conrad to City F by boat first and then send her to Canada

by private plane."

Hearing the news, Stella kept silent for a while and then asked, "Has she left?"

Not yet. Something is wrong with the ship. They can't leave until 10 pm tomorrow.

Stella understood easily why was the boat broken.

Thinking of that, she glanced at Clarence again.

In the dim light, Stella saw a few red finger marks on the wretched man's face.

Stella widened her eyes in shock. She didn't think she slapped him so hard.

Why did it look so serious? It made Stella feel guilty.

Before long, the car stopped in front of a hotel.

It was the hotel where Clarence stayed when he came to Aqock last time.

Getting off the car, Stella took out her luggage and spoke to Nathan, "I don't enter the hotel. You ....'

Nathan said in a serious voice, "Ms. Radomil, there is no other hotel available in the neighborhood."

Stella pointed to a hotel not far away, "I see one."

Nathan continued with his lie, "It's the tourist season now as the New Year's Day is around the corner, so those hotels are full."

Stella sighed in silence. Fine, working for someone else was not easy, especially working for Clarence. It was even difficult to survive as Clarence's employee.

Stella snapped her gaze back and then passed by the wretched man to enter the hotel.

Clarence gave a casual glance at Nathan, raised his eyebrows slightly and then followed Stella.

Nathan breathed a sigh of relief, thinking it was really difficult as an assistant.

Stella stood in front of the front desk and passed her ID card to the staff, "A single room, thank you."

The manager of the hotel was talking with the staff, so he took over Stella's ID card. He wanted to ask Stella for more information, but he was shocked to find Clarence behind Stella. As he was about to greet Clarence, the latter tilted his head signaling to the manager that he should finish his work first.

The manager looked back and forth from Clarence to Stella with a blank face. At the end, he turned to Nathan for help, and the latter nodded at him.

The manager understood immediately and made an "ok" gesture to Clarence secretly.

Subsequently, he said to Stella in a serious voice, "Lady, there is no single room available, so can we arrange a suite for you with the same charge for a single room?"

Stella rubbed her temples. She noticed what they did behind her.☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 233: Come to Be Beaten up

"

11

Before she realized what happened, she heard foot steps coming outside the toilet.

Soon she was pulled into a cubicle.

The bodyguards entered the toilet and tried to open and check the cubicles one by one.

As Stella was alert to the noise outside, she widened her eyes wondering why Clarence was also here.

Noticing the bodyguards were coming closer to their cubicle, Clarence lowered his eyes looking at Stella's eyes and then tightened his hand around her waist, pulling her close to him. Clarence lowered his head and then bit her lips softly.

Stella struggled instinctively, but Clarence held her wrist and pressed her against the wood wall, creating a loud noise.

The cubicle's door rattled with shallow breathing.

The sound created a sensuality.

The bodyguards outside looked at each other and immediately understood what was happening in it.

One of the bodyguard whispered, No more trouble. The car is coming. Let's go."""

Stella didn't want to waste her time for bullshit with him. As she was about to push him away and leave, she heard two men were talking outside. Soon Stella heard their belts were untied.

In the car, Nathan was surprised to see Stella. He was astonished for a while before he opened his mouth, "Mrs. ... Ms. Radomil ...."

Nathan didn't understand why they quarreled again. He coughed trying to distract, "Mr. Conrad, I found out that the Steward family plans to send Miss Conrad to City F by boat first and then send her to Canada by private plane."

Getting off the car, Stella took out her luggage and spoke to Nathan, "I don't enter the hotel. You...."

Stella rubbed her temples. She noticed what they did behind her. ☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 234: The Wretched Man Pushed His Luck

Stella answered, "Fine, whatever."

Then she added, "Please give me a room with tight security. If anyone tries to break in my room, I'll call the police."

The manager, "...."

He gave another secret glance at Clarence. After got Clarence's agreement, he booked a room for Stella and said, "Lady, I'll take you to your room."

Stella smiled, "Don't bother. I got someone to lead the way."

She turned round and walked towards to elevator as soon as she finished.

Clarence put his hands in his pockets and followed Stella slowly.

After entering the elevator, Clarence pressed the button for the top floor.

Nathan didn't come with them, so they were alone in the elevator.

Stella stood at one side in silence, looking around.

Clarence glanced at her and moved his long legs forward. He opened his mouth trying to say something, but Stella stepped backward immediately. She leaned close against the wall with her hands crossed in front of her chest, "Mr. Conrad, please behave yourself. There is a camera here."

Clarence grabbed her hat to take her close to him, "If I really want to do something to you, you think you can threat me with the camera?"

Mr. Conrad, please mind your language. Don't show any disrespect for the law. Whatever you are saying is recorded by the camera.

Clarence burst into laugh, "Stella, it's a pity that you didn't study law."

It proves that an excellent person could stand out in any industry.

If you participate in the talk show, you'll definitely be the champion. Stella, "...."

It sounded a good idea.

Clarence let her go and then said flatly, "What are you doing here?"

There is no rule indicating that Mr. Conrad could come but I couldn't.

Clarence said, "I come for business."

I.... Come for a trip.

Stella coughed, touching her nose, and didn't finish her sentence.

At this moment, the elevator opened.

Walking out of the elevator, Stella walked ahead in silence.

Stella took a few steps when she heard the wretched man's voice, "Wrong direction. This way."

Stella took a deep breath, stopped for a few seconds and then turned around quickly.

When she found the correspondent room with the key card, she opened it immediately and slammed the door.

She finished a series of actions without any letup as if someone would force entry to her room.

Clarence stood in front of her room and licked his thin lips.

Soon, Nathan and the manager came, and the latter opened the room next door.

After they entered the room, Clarence said emotionlessly, "Stella would come to the Anqiao Street this time. Take care of it."

Nathan asked tentatively, "Now that Mrs. Conrad is here, Mr. Conrad doesn't want to tell her the truth?"

Clarence answered, "At this point, it does no good to tell her. Women are always emotional which gets a lot of trouble."

Once Stella knew the existence of the child, she wouldn't help but visiting him often.

The Conrad family would have doubts if she visited frequently.

Clarence only hoped that the bad news would come late this time.

When Nathan left, Clarence stood in front of the French window and called Dolores.

When Dolores knew that the kid would be given away, she let out a quiet sigh, "Clare, you'd better let Stella meet him. After all, he is her son. Don't worry. I'll take care of everything." Clarence agreed after a few seconds, "Fine."

He hung up, threw the phone on the sofa and then walked into the bathroom.

The doorbell rang when he came out from the bathroom.

He put down the towel in his hand and walked slowly to the door. He opened the door but to find it was Stella.

Stella was surprised to see Clarence in such conditions too.

She didn't expect that the wretched man finished shower so early. The bathrobe was tied around his waist loosely as if it would open in any seconds.

Stella's eyelids throbbed in a sudden. She looked away unconsciously, avoiding to look at him.

Noticing her subtle body language, Clarence curved his mouth, crossing his hands in front of his chest to lean against the door frame, and then opened his mouth casually, "I don't think there is any noise disturbing you this time."

Stella looked up and stared at him, "Mr. Conrad is a thief crying 'Stop thief'?"

Even if I am a thief, I am a heart stealer.

She almost threw up what she ate last night.

Shouldn't the wretched man feel embarrassed saying that?

Before Stella answered, Clarence held her wrist and pulled her into his room.

Clare....

Clarence interrupted her, "You come to catch up with me at the door?"

As he finished, he came to the liquor cabinet. He took a bottle of Whiskey and two glasses and then came to sit on the sofa.

Stella followed up after hesitation and said sincerely, "Mr. Conrad, I apologize for my rudeness earlier."

Clarence crossed his long legs and asked slowly, "Earlier?"

Stella took a slight breath and explained, "In the toilet, I shouldn't have slapped you so hard."

She finished but again murmured, "But it was you that pulled me there, and it was the male toilet."

Clarence placed his arms horizontally on the back of the sofa and laughed, "You think I have any other choice under that circumstance?"

There was a female toilet. Why didn't you take me into it?

.... Clarence rubbed his nose, "Stella, if I took you into the female toilet, I would have been a true pervert."

You are.

Clarence looked up slowly at her, "So you come again to scold me because you didn't vent your anger with the slap?"

Not exactly.

Stella took out her hand behind her back and handed an ice pack to Clarence, "Here, I got it from the staff."

Clarence didn't take it but asked, "What's it?"

Clarence answered, "Put it on your face and you'll recover tomorrow."

She only slapped him slightly as a warn, but she didn't expect there would be marks left on his face.

Understanding what Stella meant, Clarence leaned backward and said slowly in a low voice, "You should be responsible for what you have done."

The wretched man pushed his luck.

Stella threw the ice pack into his arms, "Take it or throw it."

Stella turned round to leave, but Clarence grasped her wrist and pulled her down.

Stella was off-guard and fell into his embrace directly.

All of a sudden, she felt the scene was somehow familiar to her.

Clarence interrupted her thought by putting back the ice pack into her hand, "You started this, you'll finish it. Don't leave it half way."

Stella clapped his hand around her waist heavily, "Let go."

Clarence raised his eyebrows and raised his hands in the air, showing that he wouldn't touch her again.000000

Chapter 235: I Am Not Falling for It Twice

Stella got up from Clarence's legs and then bent over placing softly the ice pack on his face on which the finger marks still could be seen.

Clarence laid his hands on his knees with fingers knocking on knees and gazed at Stella with his black eyes in silence.

Stella was disturbed by his stare, so she reminded, "Mr. Conrad, could you please close your eyes?"

You looked at me secretly in the car for a long time, but I didn't ask you to close your eyes.

An annoying wretched man.

Stella increased her strength deliberately putting the ice pack on his face tightly.

Clarence's expression changed slightly, but Stella withdrew her hand quickly right before he was going to get mad, "I think it's enough. It's late. Mr. Conrad should have an early night. I gotta go." Stella turned around but her wrist was held by Clarence again.

Clarence showed annoyed, "Leaving so soon?"

Or I should stay for midnight snack?

Good idea. Clarence agreed and then took out his phone from the sofa. As he was dialing, Stella stopped him in a hurry, "I was kidding, I was kidding!"

The wretched man never acted like a normal people.

Clarence pushed the glass on the table towards Stella, "Have a drink?"

Stella laughed with a sneer, "Mr. Conrad think I would fall for it twice?"

I didn't know you are a light drinker.

Stella ignored him and got rid of his grasp, "I have to get up early tomorrow morning. Mr. Conrad, enjoy yourself."

As soon as she finished, she walked toward the door.

Watching her leaving, Clarence took a glass of Whiskey and leaned back against the sofa, giving a slight smile with his thin lips.

When Stella came back to her own room, she found Sherry texted her asking if she arrived at Aqock. Interrupted by what happened at the airport, she completely forgot to inform Sherry that she had arrived safely.

Stella called Sherry. They chatted for a while but Sherry discovered Stella clamped up often while talking, so she asked tentatively, "You met Clarence there again?" Stella, "...."

How could she make a correct guess so easily?

Sherry had been used to the sudden appearance of Clarence.

She asked, "What's the wretched man's excuse this time?"

Stella shook her head, "He didn't follow me here this time."

She paused for a while and then continued, "I met Annie." Sherry was shocked to hear that, "Why was she there?"

When Stella came to visit Cameron together with Emmett, Stella heard Annie's parents talking that Annie was put under house arrest in the Conrad's Mansion.

In addition, Nathan told her that Clarence already knew they lost their first kid because of Annie.

Perhaps the Conrad's family and the Perez family were afraid that Clarence would get to Annie, so they tried every effort to send her away.

But unexpectedly, Stella met Annie at Aqock coincidently.

It might be fate.

The reason why Clarence came to Aqock was probably that he knew Annie was going to leave.

Sherry asked, "What does the wretched man want to do with Annie?"

I didn't ask him.

Whatever, Annie deserves whatever punishment for what she had done. Sherry left the upsetting topic and distracted Stella from it, "Where are you going to sleep tonight. Your aunt's home?" Stella answered, "It's late, so I booked a room."

They chatted for a while and then hung up.

Stella took her clean clothes into the bathroom to take a shower. After the shower, she was drying her hair when she discovered a minor wound on her lip. It was scarred.

She came close to the mirror to check it but to find there was a bite mark beside the wound.

Crap. She easily figured out when did she get these marks.

Stella thought she should have slapped the wretched man with greater strength.

Next morning, when Stella went downstairs after breakfast to take a taxi to Anqiao Street, she found Nathan was waiting with a smile at the gate.

Clarence, the wretched man, was sitting in the black Maserati behind.

Nathan lied in a serious tone, "Ms. Radomil, it's the morning rush hour and it's difficult to get a taxi. We are going to the same place as you do, so we can give you a ride." Stella played dumb, "You are going to the airport too? Don't you have business to do? Why do you leave so early?"

Nathan, "...."

At this moment, Clarence rolled down the window, giving her an emotionless glance, and said, "Get in the car."

Stella curved her lips, thinking they have the same destination and the wretched man must mock her in front of Ms. Anderson if she take a taxi.

Thinking of that, she opened the door and got in the car.

Seeing what happened, Nathen took a breath of relief. Only Mr. Conrad could handle it at such key moment.

On the way, Stella placed her head close to the window viewing the scenery outside.

Compared to City N, Aqock was a small city, but it showed unique beauty in each season. In the winter, the snow covering the trees were blown into the air occasionally, falling in flakes.

In a small city like Aqock, there was no morning rush hour as Nathan said. Before long, the car drove into the Anqiao Street.

The creek flowing through the street was frozen. Most of the people in the neighborhood had moved away and the gate of the ancestral hall was left open. The entire street was quiet, not as noisy as it was when she moved here.

She concentrated on the street view for a while and then turned to ask, "Mr. Conrad, when will the street be dismantled?"

This May.

Stella had thought that it would be dismantled right after the New Year's Day, but now there was a few months left.

It was good news. When there was less work at her studio, she could take Sherry and Chan here to have a tour.

Soon, the car stopped in front of Dolores' house.

When Stella walked to the door, she found Clarence stood beside the car as if he didn't attempt to come into the house.

Stella was surprised and asked unconsciously, "Mr. Conrad doesn't come in?"

Clarence answered flatly, "You come first."

Stella pondered for a while and then took a step forward, but soon she turned around walking toward Clarence and asked tentatively, "Did you get Ms. Anderson angry, so you don't dare to come in?" Clarence, "...."

He looked down at her, "I don't have the gift of the gab as you do." ☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 236: His Respond Was Slow

Stella thought she was truly someone with a mental problem.

It was not her first time here, what was there to be shy about?

That wretched man said it as if it was her first time meeting her in-law...

Stella felt uncomfortable thinking about this.

She let out a cough, stopped talking, climbed the steps and knocked on the door.

The door was opened from inside a few seconds later, it was Dolores.

Stella smiled, "Ms. Anderson."

Dolores, "Stella, you are here, come on in."

Stella handed over the bags in her hand, "Ms. Anderson, here are some nutritious products I bought from City N, try it on..."

You can get this anywhere, there is no need to bring from City N.

Evelyn said from inside, "Dolores, your daughter in law is the best, your son had never brought you anything every time he visited." Stella, "..."

What Evelyn said was exactly what she was thinking just now.

It was fine if she was alone, but she was with Clarence now so it sounded odd.

Dolores smiled and took over the bags, "Come on in."

Stella followed behind Dolores. She wanted to greet Evelyn who was sitting by the table in the yard, but a baby cradle caught her attention. Stella stopped and stunned.

Dolores noticed her response, she put the bags on the table and said casually, "Stella, come have a look at Evelyn's grandson."

Evelyn said, "Yes, my daughter in law gave birth to the second child, she was busy so I'm helping her out. Sigh, I'm supposed to relax at such an age, but..."

Stella approached while Evelyn was speaking.

The infant in the cradle slept soundly holding his fists.

Stella stared at the baby and stretched her arms out unconsciously but stopped in the middle.

When she was about to pull back her arms, the baby opened his hand and grabbed tightly on one of her fingers. He made a baby sound and continued sleeping, he was not awake. Sweetness and warmth filled Stella's heart out of a sudden as if her heart melted. She didn't want to pull back her hand, afraid that she might disturb the baby's sleep.

Dolores and Evelyn looked at each other and Evelyn coughed. "Stella, don't stand there, come sit down."

Stella sat down next to Evelyn with her hand in the cradle and looked at Evelyn, "Ms. Beckham, what's his name?"

Ah... Evelyn threw a glance at Dolores for help, "His name..."

Dolores said, "Evelyn is still thinking about it, we've been trying to come out with a good name this few days but bore no fruit. Why don't you name him?" Stella stunned. "Me?"

Evelyn added, "Yes, Stella, you are well educated, give him a name."

Stella thought it was the parents who were supposed to name the child, she had no such right.

Dolores seemed to notice her concern and added, "We haven't been able to think of one, you can suggest one as a reference to the parents."

Evelyn continued, "Yes, yes, Dolores was right, Stella, please help me out, please."

Stella didn't reject anymore and nodded, "I'll think of one then."

Both Dolores and Evelyn let out a sigh of relief after she agreed to it. Dolores then said, "Stella, what do you want for lunch? Let me cook for you." Stella, "Anything will do."

Then she added with a lower voice, "The picky one is yet to come in."

Dolores saw Clarence when she opened the door just now, "Ignore him, he'll eat whatever you like."

Her words made Stella blushed and she cried, "Ms. Anderson."

Dolores smiled and stopped teasing her.

Presently, the door was opened and Clarence walked in.

It's about time for me to go to the market, Dolores said.

Evelyn too stood up immediately and said, "I'll go with you."

She reminded them as she walked away, "Stella, Clarence, there are diapers in the house, check if he'd pooed or peed if he cries, if not then he's hungry. A 50 ml milk will do, remember to use warm water when mixing the formula..."

Evelyn said in a rush, she didn't wait for replies from Clarence and Stella and disappeared with Dolores.

They were not worried about leaving the baby to Clarence and her?

While Stella was still wondering, the baby woke up. His lips were pouted and were about to cry.

Stella followed the sights of the baby's and saw a stern face.

She then reminded him, "Mr. Conrad, you startled him."

Clarence turned to her, "Why can't it be you that startled him?"

He was soundly asleep with me beside and woke up right away after you arrived.

His response is slow.

EL

You were slow!

Stella decided to ignore the wretched man and began playing with the pouty baby with some toys.

His pouted face turned into laughter after a short while.

Clarence's lips lifted seeing that.

Stella played with the baby for a while and then saw his little face turned red with his fists clenched like he was trying to do something.

While Stella was in puzzlement, a foul smell hit her nose suddenly.

Clarence smelled it too and frowned.

Stella asked, "Did he..."

Clarence's face changed and ready to leave, but Stella stopped him and said, "I don't know how."

Do you think I know how?

Stella looked at him and put on a sincere smile, "Isn't Mr. Conrad knows it all? High capabilities."

Clarence threw her a glance slightly annoyed.

Stella carried the baby out of the cradle and brought him into the house. She grabbed tightly on Clarence's sleeves while they were walking to ensure that he didn't escape.

Stella began to untie his diaper after putting him on the sofa. She couldn't see any trash bin around hence, handed it over to the man behind her.000000☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 238: I just want To Be Alone Now

Dolores and Evelyn were out for the entire afternoon.

With constant practice and learning, Stella was now capable enough to take care of a baby.

Baby slept most of the time and played while awake. She let Clarence prepare the formula when it was time to feed.

Although that wretched man seemed cold with stiffened face, he didn't reject it.

The afternoon sunlight fell onto his face, Stella had a sudden feeling that they were a family of three, everything felt so natural to her...

Noticing her stare, Clarence asked, "What happened?"

Stella bit her lips and stood up, "Take care of the child, I need a minute."

She then walked out from the yard without waiting for Clarence's response.

After a few minutes walked, she arrived at the pond where Clarence and she took a boat tour last time.

She sat down under a tree and looked far away, sunken into deep thoughts.

Footsteps were heard from behind after a while, a tall figure stood beside her.

Stella took a deep breath, "Why are you here? Didn't you have a baby to take care of?"

He's asleep, there's nothing to be taken care of, he can't run away. Clarence stared at her from the side. "If I'm not here, you will be the one who runs away." Stella lowered her eyes, "I just need some fresh air."

She then looked at Clarence, "Mr. Conrad, can you please leave me alone, I don't want to see you now."

Clarence replied coldly, "Since when have you wanted to see me?"

Stella, ".

." He was right.

But she felt annoyed now and even more annoyed looking at him.

Stella said sternly, "I'm serious. I just want to be alone now."

At this moment, the small boat parked beside the pond asked if they wanted to go onboard.

Stella replied and stepped down, she turned to Clarence, "Don't follow me, take it as a charity act."

The boat went away slowly after Stella boarded. Clarence looked away once Stella disappeared from his sight.

Nathan appeared out of nowhere and asked, "Mr. Conrad, should I follow?"

No, Clarence replied.

He knew what she was thinking about.

Clarence turned to Nathan, "Didn't I ask you to stay inside? What are you doing here?"

Ms. Anderson and Ms. Beckham are back, Nathan said.

Nathan answered a call after that, "Mr. Conrad, everything is well arranged, shall we stick to the plan?"

Clarence looked far to the pond and said slowly, "Let them do it, I'm not going."

Yes. Nathan left.

The reason Mr. Conrad came back to City N was to get rid of Annie himself.

He didn't expect to see Mrs. Conrad here.

It seemed like he changed his mind.

Stella looked in a direction far away without purpose on the pond.

If her baby was still alive, it would be three or four months old by now.

He would be like Evelyn's grandson, lying in the cradle, smiled whenever he saw her and cried whenever Clarence appeared.

Stella wrapped her knees in her arms, deep in thoughts.

After a long while, the sun was setting, with the night falling, the cold breeze became stronger.

Stella shivered in cold for a few times and told the boatman, "Please go back."

Aye! The boatman began chatting with her. "Lady, this is your second visit here, right?"

Stella nodded, "I boarded your boat last time too."

Yeah, you looked familiar, I remembered you came with your husband a few months ago. I recommended him some nice tourist spots around too, how was it? Not bad huh? Our temple of love here is magical, spouse or couple that visited stay together eternally.

Stella stunned and was in puzzlement.

That was why Clarence travelled so far for dinner last time, this was the reason?

The sun had completely set when the boat parked.

Stella was distracted when getting down the boat, her foot landed in the air but someone grabbed her before she fell.

She stood up straight and asked after a few seconds of silence. "You were waiting?"

Yes, just in case if you jump into the pond, I'll be nearby for rescue.

Stella clenched her teeth, refrained herself from stepping on his foot and walked away without turning back.

Clarence followed and asked, "Do you feel better?"

My mood is ruined seeing you.

Try to control then or shut your eyes.

Stella thought she had a rather strong lung to be able to talk to someone like him and still breathing.

When they arrived at the entrance to Ms. Anderson's house, Clarence pulled her hand, "Let's go somewhere."

Stella stopped and said, "The love temple?"

Sure if you want to.

Stella gritted her teeth, "I don't want to!"

Clarence smiled and pushed her into the black Maybach that parked on the side.

The car stopped in front of the pier twenty minutes later.

A cruise departed slowly from the pier.

Stella turned and looked at Clarence in puzzlement.

Clarence held the steering wheel single-handedly with his finger knocking on it lightly, "Annie is on that cruise."

Okay, Stella answered after a while.

Clarence stared at the cruise and said, "Stella, I'll make them pay for everything they owed you."

Stella was calm, "Even so, the ending remained the same."

No one knows the ending until the last minute.

Stella turned her head, there was hidden meaning behind those words.

But it seemed like he had no intention of telling her.

Clarence looked away after the cruise went far, he then restarted the car engine.

Stella leaned on the window on the way back, dazing at the lights outside.

After countless sighs, she found the car stopped at the old street near the love temple.

She widened her eyes in disbelief and immediately turned to the wretched man beside, "You..."

Don't you wish to come? Clarence said casually.

Chapter 239: Do You Think This Is Proper?

Stella was in deep regret now; she regretted blurted out love temple earlier.

Clarence parked the car and said, "Let's get down."

Stella could only accept her faith now.

Clarence ordered the snacks that Stella ate during their previous visit at the snack street and led her to a table to sit down.

Stella was quite surprised that he remembered every single snack she ate last time.

But she was pregnant back then and was able to eat much more than now.

When she wanted to say something, Clarence looked at her and asked, "Not enough?"

... Enough. It was weird, this was the second time she visited here, everything was different yet familiar.

Stella realized her worries earlier were useless as they had almost finished all the snacks.

Clarence's was picky when it came to food but he never wasted any food.

Perhaps it was related to his upbringing background.

Stella asked after dinner, "Mr. Conrad, is it time to go back?"

Clarence stood up and replied, "Walking after the meal is good for digestion."

And then he headed towards the love temple and Stella was forced to follow.

It was winter school holiday now, a lot of young couples could be seen on the street, it was much more crowded than the last time there were here. Stella was lost in the crowd after a few steps.

While she wondered if she should find a place to rest, someone held her hand.

She looked up and saw the wretched man that disappeared in the crowd just now came back.

Stella tried pulling her hand out from his, but his grab only tightened each time she pulled, he even locked her fingers with his.

Clarence had a very reasonable excuse, "It's too crowded, I don't want to lose you."

He ignored her rejection and walked forward holding her.

Stella kept struggling to get loose and didn't notice a little girl crossed in front of her, she would knock on her if Clarence hadn't blocked her with his hand.

It was too crowded, hence, Stella gave up struggling.

There were like a lovely couple in the middle of the crowd.

They finally arrived at the temple. Stella didn't expect that Clarence would lead her straight to the queue to get the writing plate.

She remained calm and rational, "Mr. Conrad, do you think this is proper?"

Yes, I do.

Well, I don't!

Clarence remained calm, "It's your problem then."

Stella was tired and bored with this game, she tried pulling out her hand again but two men approached them, one holding a camera in hand.

Hi, we work at the love temple, are you a couple?

Clarence replied affirmatively, "We are husband and wife."

They explained immediately, "Sir, Madame, we can see that you are a lovely couple and look good together, could you please let us take a photo and display it here at the temple for promotional use? If you agree, you can skip the queue and get the plate directly, in addition, you'll receive a small gift from us too."

Stella didn't understand in which way did they looked like a lovely couple.

But the man beside him answered. "Sure."

Stella turned to look at him with her eyes widened in disbelief.

Didn't he hate taking pictures? Even his picture couldn't be found on The Conrad Group's website or Finance Times.

The staff then invited, "Please follow us."

No, I...

Clarence whispered, "Don't you want to skip the queue, be still."

Stella, "?" Was this because of the queue?! That wretched man was full of nonsense.

The staff led them to the riverside full of lights, "Alright, sir and madam, just act naturally like before, chit-chatting like usual."

Stella's face had unwillingness written all over, she didn't do as they asked.

Clarence lowered his head and said, "If you don't keep still, I will kiss you now in front of everyone."

... Stella defended, "If you want to be slapped in front of everyone, go ahead."

Clarence turned his head to one side and rubbed lightly on her cheek using his lips.

Stella's body frozen, she didn't see that coming.

Compared to kissing her directly in the public, this action was much more... seductive.

Clarence was contented with her reaction and he smiled.

In the meantime, the staff approached, "Alright, we've got what we want, thank you so much and please follow me this way."

Stella was still stunned but her body was dragged forward by the wretched man.

The staff then handed them a plate in the backyard of the love temple, "Please write your names on this plate and hang it at the tree with lights beside the river." Clarence took it, picked up the brush on the table to write their names on the plate.

Stella witnessed the whole thing, she opened her mouth but changed her mind as she knew it would be useless. She then rubbed her nose and looked away. After Clarence finished writing their names, the staff asked, "Please leave us your address, we will send the gift over tomorrow."

While Clarence was writing them the address, Stella approached the photographer and asked, "Could you please give me another plate? I haven't written mine." Photographer was puzzled.

One is enough to write both names, why would she ask one for each?

Clarence said casually, "Ignore her."

Mr. Conrad, that was not very nice of you. How could you ignore me when I've done my part? It's not too much to ask for another one, right? Stella said. "Whose name would you like to write?"

Of course me and Emmett.

Clarence's face stiffened and looked at her coldly.

The staff exchanged a glance and fled the scene. They had the address anyway.

Stella teased, "Is Mr. Conrad angry?"

Jealous.

He was indeed the master of ending a conversation.☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 240: You’re Cuter

Clarence looked at her for an instant with his black eyes. Then, after a while, he said suddenly, "They have already left. If you still want to buy it, I can accompany you to queue up to buy it." "... No need. I'm just kidding."

She just wanted to make the wretched man angry, so that he would throw down Yue Lao Plate and leave.

She didn't expect him to be so unusual, making her embarrassed.

Clarence smiled without her noticing, and then took her hand again and slowly walked forward with her.

When Clarence hung Yue Lao Plate by the river, Stella looked around to hide her nervousness and embarrassment.

As soon as Yue Lao Plate was hung by Clarence, Stella said, "It's getting late. I have to go now. Take your time to stroll around."

After saying that, she strode forward and left in a hurry.

After they left Yue Lao Temple, Stella felt that the air was much fresher without the crowd. She let out a long breath and took out her mobile phone. Just as she wanted to take a taxi back, her wrist was held by Clarence, "Come here."

Stella pouted. She didn't expect the wretched man to be able to follow her as she had run so fast.

They spent a lot of time at Yue Lao Temple. When they got back to Anqiao Street, it was already ten o'clock at night.

Normally Dolores should have already gone to bed at this time.

But at this moment, the lights in the courtyard were still on. They could hear the sound of a baby crying coming from inside the house.

Stella heard the crying sound and hurriedly ran in.

In the courtyard, Dolores was holding the baby and coaxing him gently.

Stella asked, "Ms. Anderson, what's wrong with him?"

Dolores said, "Don't worry. It's normal for children to be like this at night. He is just fussy. He will be fine once he falls asleep."

Stella held out her hand, "Let me hug him."

Dolores handed the baby into Stella's arms.

After Stella had coaxed him for a while, the baby no longer cried so loud. However, he was still sobbing.

While hugging the baby, Stella asked, "Where's Ms. Beckham?"

Dolores immediately said, "Ms. Beckham caught a cold when she went out this afternoon and was afraid of infecting the baby, so she asked me to help her to put him to sleep."

Stella did not suspect Dolores's words at all.

Ms. Anderson had always had a good relationship with Ms. Beckham. The two of them did not have many relatives to talk with. They had become almost like siblings and it was normal for them to help each other.

Stella nodded. She thought that the baby might be crying so hard after realizing his grandmother was not with him.

After hugging him for a while, Stella noticed that the baby's round eyes kept looking at the side, and his little hands were waving at somebody.

She looked in the direction in which he was looking at. Then, she licked her lips and took a step forward, "Mr. Conrad, do you want to hug him?" Clarence frowned. He displayed an expression as if he was very reluctant to do so.

Stella said, "Why don't you just hug him for a while. Look how cute he is."

Clarence gently raised his eyelids and said unhurriedly, "You're cuter."

Her face instantly turned red. She was very nervous as if her whole body was on fire.

Not far away, Dolores coughed and found an excuse to go back to her room.

When Stella saw this, he really wanted to find a crack in the ground and vanish from it.

When he saw Clarence's hand reaching out, he immediately took several steps back and said warily, "What are you doing?"

Clarence raised his eyebrows, "Don't you want me to hug him?"

It was after a long time that Stella spoke, "Oh."

The wretched man had interrupted her thoughts.

Stella carefully placed the baby in his arms and said softly, "You should hold his head with this hand, and hold his buttock with this hand.”

Stella paused and saw Clarence's posture in holding the baby was indeed quite standard. The posture was not as awkward as when he was changing his diapers. She then looked at him suspiciously, "How does Mr. Conrad know this, have you hugged a baby before?"

Clarence looked at her calmly, "Didn't you say I know everything?"

She really had said such words before.

Stella coughed, "Then you hug him for a little longer. I will bring the things in."

After saying that, she hurriedly moved the things in the courtyard into the room.

Not long after, Clarence walked into the room with the baby in his arms. His face looked gloomy.

Stella hurriedly looked at the baby in his arms and saw that the baby's tightly clenched fists were slowly loosening. He was smiling again and he was waving his little hands happily.

He looked like he had pooped again.

Stella held back her laughter and said in a serious manner, "Mr. Conrad, it seems like he quite likes you."

After she said that, Stella hastily took the baby out of Clarence's arms and went to find Dolores before Clarence got angry.

In the bathroom, Dolores had already prepared the bath water for the baby. When she saw Stella running over, she knew what had happened without having to ask them.

She picked the baby up and wiped his buttock before putting him in the bathtub.

It seemed like the baby like to bathe very much. He was moving his arms and legs happily in the water.

Stella squatted next to him, holding a towel and gently giving him a bath. Then, she looked around and saw that there were many things needed by the baby. She couldn't help but say, "Ms. Beckham is too thoughtful as she brought all these things here."

Dolores laughed and explained, "It's normal. A baby needs a lot of things. It will be not good if the baby lacks anything."

Stella remembered that she had bought the baby products when she was pregnant. She nodded and said after a few seconds, "How is Ms. Beckham's illness? Is it serious?"

Dolores responded quickly, "It's not very serious. She was just blown by the cold wind. She will be fine after resting for two days."

While they were talking, they had already finished helping the baby to take bath.

After helping the baby to wear his clothes, Dolores thought for a while and said, "Stella, how about letting him sleep with you today?" Stella was stunned, "Me?"

The baby was not shy. You have been taking him around all day. Therefore, he shouldn't be so fussy if he sleeps with you at night. Stella hesitated for a moment and said, I've never tried to put a baby to sleep at night. I'm afraid that I can't take care of him..." Dolores said, "It's okay. You will never know whether you can do it if you never try it."

As she was saying the words, she put the baby in Stella's arms, "You hug him first. I will ask Clarence to put the cot in your room."

Stella opened her mouth and wanted to say something, but the baby in her arms seemed to know her. The baby grabbed the buttons on Stella's shirt with his little hand. He was smiling.

Stella also smiled after a while.

She thought that it shouldn't be a problem to take care of him at night as he had taken care of him well during the day.

Stella carried the baby and walked around downstairs for a while. She coaxed him until he almost fell asleep before she went upstairs.

The cot had been put in the same room she had stayed in before. There were milk powder, thermos, as well as a bunch of things she might use at night on the table.

However, apart from the things, there was an unexpected man in the room.