Ch. 761..770

Chapter 761: Am I that Bored?

After breakfast, when Clarence was getting dressed, Stella opened the fridge, took out an herbal soup pack, and put it into her purse.

Then she suppressed the disgust and discomfort as she took an injection.

When Clarence came out, Stella was putting on her shoes at the porch.

Gazing at her, Clarence frowned a bit.

Stella met his eyes. "What's wrong?"

Clarence said, "Why do you look a bit paler than just now?"

She stroked her cheek subconsciously. "Really?"

As she spoke, she looked at Clarence in confusion. "Do you want to flirt with me again?"

Clarence knocked on her forehead. "Am I that bored?"

Of course. Stella changed her shoes. "I'm done. Let's go."

When she reached the door, Clarence pulled her to stop. "If you don't feel well, I'll take you to the hospital."

Stella was taken aback. Then she said, "I'm fine. Probably the light on the porch is too bright, so my face looks pale."

As she spoke, she checked the time. Dragging Clarence out, she urged, "We'll be late. Hurry."

Sherry would inspect the decoration at the film set, so she left home earlier than usual.

Clarence drove Stella to the studio.

Before she got down, Clarence could tell she looked much better than earlier, so he didn't insist. He said, "If you felt exhausted, just go home. My money is all yours. You don't need to work so hard."

Stella smiled. "I know."

She pulled the door open. Thinking for a few seconds, she looked back, approached Clarence, and pecked on his cheek. With a bright smile, she said, "Award for you."

Clarence raised his eyebrows, feeling a bit surprised about the kiss.

Stella got down and waved at him. "Bye. I'm going inside."

Clarence answered, "Okay."

Watching the black car go away, Stella withdrew her gaze and went into the studio.

Sitting in the office, she heated up the herbal soup. Looking at it, she couldn't drink at all. She felt sickened again.

She texted Archer asking him if her status was normal.

Soon, Archer called her back.

He asked, “Besides feeling sickened, do you have any other symptoms?"

After the injection, I always feel dizzy, but I'll recover in a few minutes.

It's normal. The injection could increase your pregnancy possibility, but it has some side effects. As I said, you will suffer in the procedure. Besides... it's just the beginning. In the future, you'll suffer more. It's just like your reaction to the herbal soup. Once you felt disgusted, you would find it more and more repulsive.

Stella was silent for a moment. "I see. I'll try my best to overcome the sickss."

Archer said, "How about this? I'll adjust the amount next time."

Stella refused affirmatively, “No, thanks. Don't change anything. I can accept it."

Archer knew why she was so determined, so he didn't insist on convincing her. "Probably, you'll get used to it when time goes by. Don't give you too much pressure or obsessed with when you'll be pregnant. Take it easy. Relax. Then the treatment would be easier, and you would have higher chance of pregnancy."

Stella smiled, "I got it. Thank you."

After hanging up the phone, she looked at the herbal soup. Supressing her sickness, she exhaled, raised her head, and gulped it down.

Soon, Sherry came back.

She had been busy for a whole morning, soaked in sweat. As soon as she came back, she lay on the sofa motionlessly.

Stella poured a glass of water for her. "How did it go?"

Sherry took a swig. Heaving a sigh, she said, "Almost done. It should be no problem for the shooting tomorrow."

Stella checked the time. "It's not noon yet. Would you like to take a rest here?"

Sherry didn't have other emergencies to deal with except inspecting the film set, so she nestled on the sofa and said, "Okay. I'll take a nap for half an hour. Please wake me up later." "No problem. Go ahead."

Sitting at the desk, Stella continued working on the design drafts on her computer.

A few minutes later, Sherry suddenly asked, "Stella, did you smell something weird in this room?"

Stella paused, looked back, and asked, "What smell?"

Sherry opened her eyes, sniffed hard, and thought carefully. "It seemed to be some kind of herbal soup."

Then she looked over at Stella. "Are you taking herbal soup?"

Stella smiled. She didn't want to hide it from Sherry to raise the suspicion, so she honestly said, "Yeah. I'm nursing my health now, so I'm taking herbal soup daily."

Sherry thought it was just for nursing her health, so she asked, "Does it work? I also felt a bit unwell recently. If it works, I'll also go to see the doctor."

Stella knew her discomfort must be from her miscarriage.

Thinking for a while, Stella answered, "It works well. I'll talk to my doctor. Tell me your symptoms, and I'll consult him. He will get the herbal soup for you according to your conditions."

Great. I'll give it to you now. I feel tired and sore all over recently. After the endorsement stuff is done, I'll take the herbal soup and back to be kicking again.

Shortly after, Stella received Sherry's message. She forwarded it to Archer.

A friend of mine felt not well recently. Can you get her some herbal soup, please?

Archer didn't reply. Stella guessed that he must be busy.

Sherry said, "Stella, where did you find the doctor? If it works for me, I want to get my mother some herbal soup as well. Her ankle was twisted before the Chinese New Year. Now, it hurts when never it rains." Stella put down her phone. "Well... he's my son's doctor."

Sherry asked tentatively, "Does he charge a lot?"

Stella smiled. "He's Darnell James's..."

She paused a bit.

She hadn't sorted out the complicated relations in the James family yet.

Stella continued, "He should be Elaine's cousin."

Earlier, when the team was in the lab, it was probably Darnell who had funded them.

Now, Clarence had moved them into the manor, so all the expense were paid by him. However, Stella felt embarrassed for keeping bothering Archer.

She thought for a moment and added, "Elaine told me that her cousin likes Winnie a lot."00

Chapter 762: You’ll Always be Respected

After Archer came out of the lab, he found about a dozen messages on his phone.

They were mostly pictures, in which showed some of Winnie's autographed photos as well as some exclusive merch from her studio. Archer was so confused, wondering what had happened.

He scrolled up and saw Stella's message.

Stella: Elaine said you are Winnie's fan. I've mailed these to you.

Then he saw a text that described Sherry's symptoms.

Archer wanted to call Stella, but he gave up and started typing.

Archer: Has your friend had a miscarriage before?

Stella didn't reply until quite a long while later.

Archer: Okay, I see. I've been quite busy recently. I'll mail her herbal soup together with yours in a few days.

Stella: Thanks a lot.

Stella: There's one more thing...

Archer: Yes?

Stella: My friend's mother is ill, too...

Archer realized that was why Stella had mailed him those Winnie's autographed photos.

However, he wasn't like Elaine. Those things were useless for him.

Stella: You can tell me how much you charge usually. I'll transfer the money to you. I felt so embarrassed to keep bothering you.

Archer: Please don't mention it.

Archer: I always have meals in Ms. James's house. She didn't charge me anything.

Archer: Just send me the symptoms of your friend's mother.

Although Archer refused, Stella still bought a lot of specialty from City N and mailed it to him.

On the other side, when Archer got downstairs, he asked Dolores, "Ms. James, I'm going back to the James' Mansion. Would you like to go with me?"

Holding the baby, Dolores shook her head, "No, thanks."

Archer knew she was taking care of the baby, so he didn't insist and drove away.

Meanwhile, in the ancestral hall of the James.

Hilbert stood in front and bowed at Bancroft's portrait. Then he turned around to Elaine and said, "Elaine, come over."

Elaine went there obediently.

Hilbert said while pressing on the walking stick. "Elaine, Grandfather Bancroft loved you the most before. He also decided on the engagement of Darnell and you. Now your engagement has been dissolved, he must be disappointed. You should bow at him and apologize."

Elaine bowed at Bancroft's memorial tablet.

Inwardly, she prayed that Bancroft could bless her for finding her beloved man who could actually make her happy.

Right then, Hilbert looked out of the ancestral hall and said, "Darnell, here you came."

Darnell answered with a "hm".

Hilbert said, "Since you're here, make a prayer as well. So many things have happened to our James family recently. The ancestral hall was almost ruined. All our late ancestors should have been bothered." Caesar set fire to burn down the ancestral hall, but the situation was within control immediately, so it didn't cause much harm to the building.

The James family also had renovated the burned part.

Darnell walked closer, bowed slightly, and started to pray.

Elaine was standing next to her father, observing Darnell from the side.

She had always feared Darnell long since. Earlier, she finally got used to him a bit when getting along with him. However, Caesar's words made her more afraid of Darnell. However, she didn't fear that Darnell would do anything to her, but she was worried about Hilbert and her father.

It was a weird feeling.

Finished with the thing, Darnell turned around. Hilbert said, "I know you were unwilling to engage with Elaine. Now the engagement has been dissolved. You won't be bothered." Upon hearing it, Darnell looked at Elaine, and the latter lowered her head and grabbed Franklin's arm.

Darnell said, "Elaine is just a little girl. This engagement was unfair to her."

What he said implied that he had took all the blame on behalf of Bancroft and himself, which made Hilbert quite satisfied.

Hilbert's solemn face softened. He said politely, "It's just that Elaine isn't so lucky. Your grandfather shall be disappointed."

Darnell looked at him. Instead of beating around the bush, he said directly, "Please don't worry. No matter what will be changed in the James family, you'll always be respected." After that, Darnell nodded at Hilbert and turned away.

Hilbert frowned and heaved a sigh, looking worried.

Elaine stepped forward to help him up. "Great-grandpa, what did he mean by that?"

Hilbert answered, "He meant no matter what he would do to manage the James family, as long as I'm alive, he won't do anything to our family."

Elaine asked, "Isn't it good? Great-grandpa, why.."

Franklin chimed in, "But if your great-grandfather passes away, his promise won't work anymore."

Elaine said affirmatively, "Great-grandpa, you'll live to a hundred years old. Why are you so worried?"

Hilbert smiled. Patting on the back of her hand, he said, "Elaine, I'm ninety-eight now. Do you mean I only have two years left?"

Elaine realized that she had said something wrong. In a haste, she stuttered, "No no... Forget what I said. Great-grandpa will live to two hundred years old!"

Hilbert chuckled, "Okay. I'll listen to you, Elaine. I'll live to two hundred."

Franklin stood aside to look at Elaine, smiling and shaking his head.

He said, "Let's go."

As soon as Darnell had walked out of the ancestral hall, Archer approached him. "I saw Grandpa Hilbert in there. Did you talk about your wedding with Elaine?"

Darnell cast him a glance. The latter looked solemn immediately. "All right. I won't ask again."

Darnell asked, "How's the treatment going?"

There's no big effect on this stage. I can tell you the patient is much better than earlier. After a pause, Archer added, "However..."

Archer said, "I talked to Stella. The umbilical cord blood is a method. I gave her some medicine to nurse her health."

Darnell looked over at him. "I'm not Clarence. Why are you telling me this?"

Archer answered, "Because Stella asked me not to tell Clarence, but I'm keeping too much secrets for others. You know I don't like taking any responsibility. Either you or Clarence must protect me." Darnell was speechless.

He said, "Get out of here."☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 763: You All Take Me as a Kid

Archer left instantly.

Darnell turned around. When he was about to leave, he saw Elaine watching him while hiding behind a pillar not far away. When meeting his gaze, she shrank back to the pillar.

He looked over at her and asked flatly, "What are you doing there?"

A few seconds later, Elaine walked out slowly and said in a low voice, "Uncle..."

Darnell put a hand in his pocket and asked calmly, "What can I do for you?"

Elaine stood in front of him, clenching her hands. She said with a nod, "I need to apologize to you."

Elaine answered, "I made mistakes before. I was too willful. Please don't take my words seriously. If... If you are outraged, please vent your anger on me. Don't vent it on Great-grandpa and my father."

After a long while, Darnell chuckled and asked, "Do you think I'm mad because you refused to marry me?"

Elaine pouted and clenched her fingers. "Not all because of that... I also said a lot of harsh words to you."

She believed that she had gone too far.

She sounded as if Darnell had an evil intention on her.

He was unwilling to marry her.

She couldn't help blaming this engagement that shouldn't have existed.

Seeing that Elaine bent down her head lower and lower, Darnell said, "Forget it. You are just a kid. Now that we're no longer engaged, just move on and drop those trifles."

For some reason, Elaine felt that Darnell was more tender than earlier when he used to talk to her.

She felt that he was coaxing her like coaxing a kid.

She retorted in a low voice, "I'm twenty already. You all take me as a kid. I'm old enough to get married already."

He reminded her, "You should go home."

Elaine agreed obediently. After she turned around and took a few steps, she turned back. Her pretty eyes twinkled when she looked at Darnell. "You've agreed then. You can't get angry for the bygones. Nor can you blame my great-grandpa and father. Liar liar, pants on fire!"

Darnell looked at him in silence expressionlessly.

Probably he had never heard of such a threat before, so he felt ridiculous and amused.

Seeing that he was silent, Elaine became uneasy. She wondered if he was still upset about her.

Holding her breath, she reached out and raised her hand to him. "Let's make a pinky swear?"

Darnell's eyebrows twitched a bit. Looking at her puppy eyes, he pursed his thin lips.

A moment later, he reached out and looked away, playing such a boring game with her.

Elaine raised her head immediately. She couldn't care much and hooked his finger, muttering, "Pinky swear. Keep your swear. Liar liar, pants on fire."

After that, Elaine withdrew her fingers in satisfaction. "Done!"

She looked up at Darnell's expressionless face and stopped smiling. She flinched in a lingering fear.

Darnell put down his hand and looked into her eyes. He said, "Elaine James, anyone aged above ten wouldn't have done such a childish thing." Elaine was speechless.

She stammered, "I... I don't care... You've made a promise. You can't go back to your word."

When she almost finished speaking, Elaine faintly felt that he would regret it the next second. In a hurry, she trotted away.

While trotting, she kept looking back from time to time.

As expected, she fell into a pile of fallen leaves in the yard as she didn't watch the road. She was buried by them immediately.

Darnell watched the scene while standing motionlessly, rubbing between his eyebrows.

Fortunately, there were many leaves. Elaine didn't hurt. She instantly got up and ran away faster.

In the evening, when Stella and Sherry came out of the studio, they saw a man who had waited outside.

Sherry said, "I'm truly sorry. I was quite busy today. Have you been waiting for a long time?"

Brandon smiled. "Not really. I've just arrived."

As he spoke, he looked at Stella and nodded at her to greet her.

Since Brandon and Sherry had started dating, he would come to pick her up every day in the past few days. They would have dinner together before he sent her home. They were indeed like a couple in love.

Stella smiled and said, "I'll not be holding you guys up. Bye."

Sherry waved at her. "Be careful on the way home. Message me when you arrive."

Sure. Have fun.

Sherry and Brandon turned away.

Watching their backs, Stella heaved a sigh.

The gap between them was so big that it could let another person stand in between.

She could tell they hadn't made any progress yet.

Probably, Sherry was right. She was still in love with someone, so she could never open up her heart to another man.

Stella shook her head, withdrew her gaze, and walked to her apartment.

On the way, she recalled that she would make soup for Clarence. Hence, she went to the supermarket to buy a lot of ingredients.

After arriving home, she rinsed the ribs and boiled them on the stove.

Then she put the rest ingredients back in the fridge.

Clarence almost saw the box of medicine yesterday. Since she told him it was the seafood inside, she bought another box of seafood in the supermarket to avoid being exposed. It was put in front of the medicine box to hide it.

After that, the water on the stove was boiled.

Stella turned off the gas, poured out the water from the stove, and cooked the ribs.

She picked up her phone and called Clarence.

He didn't answer until the beeping had lasted for a while.

When Stella wanted to speak, she recalled what happened before. She asked him to confirm, "Are you in a meeting?"

Clarence chuckled on the other end of the line. "I've just come out of the meeting room."

Stella breathed a sigh of relief. That was fine then.

She asked, "I've prepared dinner. When will you come back?"

Clarence answered, "I'll stay in the office a bit longer. Don't wait for me."

Stella checked the time. It was already half-past eight.

She said, "Okay. I see."

After hanging up the phone, she pulled out the draft book while sitting on the sofa.

She wasn't hungry yet, so she decided to have dinner later.

When she picked up her pen, she heard someone knocking on the door.

But the knocks were not on her door.

However, except for her apartment and Sherry's, there were only two empty apartments bought by Clarence.

She wondered who was knocking.0000

Chapter 764: This Is My Boyfriend

Stella put down her pen and the draft book, walking to the door.

She didn't see anyone on the monitor.

Stella pushed the door open and looked around. When she was about to close the door, she heard a man's hoarse voice. "Hi, Ms. Radomil."

Stella followed the voice, only to see a familiar figure in front of the elevator.

She was taken aback. "Daniel?"

The man walked to her with a pale face. His tall and sturdy figure was staggering a bit.

Daniel forced a smile and asked, "Isn't Sherry home?"

Stella parted her lips. Looking at him, she couldn't utter any word. She moved aside and said, "Come in, please."

Daniel said, "No, thanks. I can't be out for a long time. If Sherry isn't home, I'll come back another day."

As he spoke, he paused a bit. He wanted to tell Stella something, but he believed it would be better to personally explain the matter to Sherry. Stella asked, "Are you al right?"

Daniel shook his head. "I'm fine. Sorry for making you all worry about me in the past few weeks, Ms. Radomil."

As long as you are safe and sound...

Stella wanted to ask him more questions, but she could tell Daniel was too fragile to hang on as if he would collapse tp the floor the next second.

Stella looked at his arm, on which there was a medical tape.

He should have run out of the hospital.

Stella said, "Shall I send you to the hospital?"

Daniel said, "Don't bother, please. I'll take a cab."

As he spoke, he turned around and walked into the elevator.

Stella couldn't stop him. She hurriedly went to the living room to get her phone and trotted to the porch to change her shoes. Then she recalled the soup, so she returned to turn off the gas.

Meanwhile, downstairs.

Sherry and Brandon came back after dinner.

Sherry paused her pace. "I'm going up now. Bye."

Wait, Sherry, Brandon stopped her with a smile, "I've sent you back so many times. Why don't you invite me for a cup of tea upstairs?"

Upon hearing it, Sherry was taken aback.

Brandon probably could tell that she was unwilling. He added, "Or, next time. I'll give you some time to get prepared."

Sherry breathed a sigh of relief. "Okay."

Fortunately, Brandon made an excuse for her. Otherwise, she wouldn't know how to respond to him.

She waved at him. "Then... See you tomorrow."

Sherry smiled and turned away.

However, after she had just taken a few steps, her wrist was grabbed.

The next second, she was in an embrace.

Before she reacted, Brandon said in her ear, "I believe we should have a bit of progress so far. Can you accept what I'm doing?"

Sherry subconsciously wanted to push him away. However, upon hearing his words, she put down her hands.

They were dating now, so this should be natural.

However, right then, Brandon was pulled away by someone forcibly. Then a punch was thrown onto his face.

Brandon covered his face, stepping back.

Sherry exclaimed and stopped the man who was going to continue hitting him.

Before she spoke, Daniel dragged her to his back and whispered, "Don't be afraid. I'm here."

Sherry became more confused in a trance.

After seeing Brandon was injured, she soon reacted. She shook off Daniel's hand, trotted to help Brandon up, and asked with a frown, "Are you OK?" Brandon wiped off the blood from his mouth corner, looked up at Daniel, and then at Sherry. "Is he your friend? He seems to have misunderstood something." Sherry inhaled. "I'm so sorry..."

It's alright. I did it too abruptly as I didn't ask your permission first.

Daniel walked up. "Sherry..."

Sherry turned around expressionlessly. "I see you are back."

Daniel's lips parted. When he was about to speak, Sherry explained, "Please allow me to introduce. This is my boyfriend, Brandon Chang. I don't know what you're thinking, but you hit him. You should apologize."

Daniel's brows furrowed. He asked, stressing each syllable, "Your boyfriend?"

His pale face looked paler under the dim light of the street lamps.

As he spoke, it seemed that his strength had come to the extreme. His body shook.

Seeing that, Sherry subconsciously wanted to help him up. However, Brandon grabbed her hand. He reached out the other hand to Daniel. "Nice to meet you. How may I address you, please?" Daniel looked at him in silence.

Right then, Stella rushed out of the apartment building. Seeing the scene, she could tell what had happened earlier.

She helped Daniel up and said to Brandon, "I'm sorry. He has just come out of the hospital and doesn't feel well. I'll send him back now."

Upon hearing it, Brandon withdrew his hand and smiled politely. "Okay."

Stella checked on Sherry, and the latter came back to her senses. She said to Brandon, "Let's go to the pharmacy to deal with your injury." Brandon nodded, following Sherry to leave.

Watching them leave, Daniel wanted to follow, but Stella stopped him.

Don't, Daniel.

He turned to look at Stella and asked slowly, "Sherry said he was her boyfriend."

Stella nodded. "I'll drive you back to the hospital. I can tell you whatever you want on the way."

In the car, Stella told Daniel that Sherry had a miscarriage and what had happened recently.

Thinking for a moment, Stella said, "As I told you before, you must figure out if you like Sherry for real or just because of that baby."

Daniel was silent. For a moment, he hadn't been able to digest all the information.

Stella added, "Sherry thought you wanted to be with her because of the baby. However, you should know what exactly she wants. She wants a long-term partner, not a boyfriend who knows would break up with her one day. Besides, if her parents know it, they won't agree."

After a long while, Daniel said hoarsely, "But... I didn't have a chance to tell her about my opinions. If it's because of what she has seen in my house, I can explain to her. It was because..."

Stella said, "I know. Emmett also talked with Sherry about that matter. However, it's not the crux of the problem."

It was just a blasting fuse.☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 765: Only One Person Can Do It

After some time, Stella received a call from Emmett.

Emmett said, "Stella, Daniel has escaped from the hospital. Did he go to look for Sherry?"

Stella turned her head and glanced at the person beside her. She didn't know whether he had fainted or he was asleep. She lowered her voice, "I am now bringing him to the hospital. We're on the way." Emmett, who was on the other side of the phone, let out a sigh of relief, "Sorry for the inconvenience. I will wait for the two of you at the door."

After twenty minutes, the car stopped at the entrance of the hospital.

Emmett quickly walked forward and pulled the door open. The doctors and nurses, who were waiting at the side, hurriedly followed him and carried Daniel out of the car. They ran as they pushed him into the hospital.

Stella got out of the car. When she saw the scene, she couldn't help but to frown.

It seemed that Daniel's injuries were more serious than she had expected.

Emmett took a few steps forward and realized that Stella was still there. He turned back and walked towards Stella, "Stella, thank you."

Stella shook her head, "It is fine. I..."

She initially wanted to ask Emmett what was going on, but she was quite worried about Daniel. She said, "Let's go in and take a look at the situation first."

When they went in, Daniel had already been sent to the emergency room.

While they stood in the corridor, Emmett spoke first, "We found him yesterday. He was badly injured. Today, I left the hospital to deal with something. When I returned, he was already gone. I thought that there was a great possibility that he went to look for Sherry."

Stella nodded gently, "Yes."

Then, Sherry...

Stella said, "When Daniel came, she was with her boyfriend."

After Emmett listened to her, he already knew what had happened. Stella didn't even need to explain it.

He sighed silently, "Daniel once had a very good friend. His name is Alfie. A few years ago, when they were racing, the brakes of Alfie's car malfunctioned and his car plunged into a valley. Daniel brought people to search the valley for three days and three nights. Finally, they found Alfie's body."

"Alfie has an older sister. Her name is Amanda. She loved her little brother very much. After Alfie died, she always felt that his death was caused by Daniel and held a grudge against him. After Daniel had been involved in that accident, Amanda received the news about him. Then, she kept on looking for clues and tracked his whereabouts.

Amanda was a medical student. After she graduated, she didn't work in a hospital. Instead, she wandered around various underground locations where there were all sorts of people. She had lots of connections and thus received a great deal of information. After Daniel escaped and was free from Lyndon's control, he met Amanda."""

Stella had the same experience.

The situation was similar to the time when she asked Adolph Miller to help her to search for Jeffrey Radomil.

They had the same purpose.

Emmett continued to speak, "While Amanda was treating Daniel's old injuries, she injected sedatives into him every day and continuously hurt him, leaving new wounds on him. She repeatedly tortured him day after day." Emmett said, "However, it was fortunate that we had the chance to save Daniel because of this. Otherwise..."

His words sent a chill down her spine.

She asked, "Then, where is Amanda now?"

When we brought Daniel to the hospital, she escaped.

Does she also have a lot of friends...in City N?

Emmett said, "Even if she has friends in City N, it shouldn't be a lot. Moreover, the fact that she successfully hid Daniel under our noses for such a long time proves that someone is helping her in City N." Stella opened her mouth, but she didn't know what to say for a moment.

City N...

Stella looked at Emmett's facial expression. She had a bad hunch, "You mean that..."

Emmett said, "There's only one person in City N who could do all these secretly without being noticed."

Stella slightly pursed her lips. She almost immediately rebutted, "It is impossible."

Emmett softened his facial expression, "Stella, I don't mean that. It is just that I cannot think of another person who can do it since the situation is so special now."

Even if you cannot think of another person, you cannot make a guess without evidence. It can't be Clarence. He has no reason to do it. Stella said, "Moreover, when Daniel was missing, Clarence and I were not in the country. I knew exactly the people who he contacted every day."

At that time, Daniel was taken away by Lyndon Steward. Daniel was held captive by Amanda only after Daniel arrived in City N. Stella, don't you think that the location is too suspicious? I conducted an investigation. That was the first time Amanda came to City N. It is impossible that she...

All right, Emmett. Stella interrupted him, "I know what you want to say, but I can guarantee that Clarence is definitely not involved in this matter."

Emmett paused for a while and said, "I will investigate this matter further. When I find Amanda, we will know everything..."

It is unexpected that Mr. Carter has the hobby of talking ill of people behind their backs.

An emotionless voice interjected.

Hearing this, Emmett's face twitched a little. He looked at the person who walked towards them.

Emmett said, "If my guess is wrong, I apologize to Mr. Conrad in advance. But if what I have said is true, what is Mr. Conrad going to do?"

Clarence approached them with his long legs. He stopped beside Stella and looked at Emmett. He spoke with a calm voice, "This is not the first time Mr. Carter has slandered me. Instead of asking me what I am going to do, why don't you think about how you should keep your reputation after being exposed?"

After Clarence mentioned the matter, Emmett froze. He seemed embarrassed and awkward.

At that moment, Stella's phone rang.

The phone call was from Sherry. It was likely that she wanted to ask about Daniel's condition.

Stella was afraid the two of them would fight after she went and answered the phone.

It was a good thing that Emmett probably couldn't stay there any longer. He said to Stella, "Stella, I will return to the company first. If Daniel wakes up, please let me know."

Stella agreed, "Okay."

Soon, Emmett left hurriedly.

After he left, Stella answered the phone, "Sherry."

Sherry, who was on the other side of the phone, asked, "Stella, how is the situation...at your side?"

Stella turned around and took a look at the situation. She said softly, "Daniel is still in the emergency room."

She paused for a while and said, "How is the situation at your side?"

Sherry said, "I have just sent Brandon away. Although he didn't say anything, I feel that..."

Sherry was stressed out. She didn't know how to explain the situation.

Stella said, "Don't be anxious. You should calm down first. If there are any matters, we will talk about them tomorrow."

Sherry was silent for a few seconds and said, "Then, what has happened to...him?"

Stella relayed the things that Emmett had told her to Sherry.

Of course, she didn't tell Sherry about Emmett's speculation.

After a long time, Sherry said, "Stella, send me the address of the hospital."-------------

Chapter 766: In This Field, You Are the Expert

Stella responded, "Okay."

Just when she was about to hang up, she felt that someone was holding her other hand and gently squeezing her palm.

Stella lowered her head and saw Clarence who sat on the bench in the corridor. While he was holding her hand, he seemed to be thinking about something.

As she was putting her phone away, she asked, "What's wrong?"

Clarence said with a disappointed tone of voice, "You are not wearing your ring again."

Stella murmured, "I am afraid that I might lose it."

If you lose it, I will buy you another ring. If you lose one hundred rings, I will buy you one hundred back.

You used this ring to propose to me. The meaning of this ring is different...

Then, I will propose to you whenever I buy a ring for you.

That's not really necessary. Stella thought.

Clarence slightly increased his strength to pull her down so that she could sit beside him.

He said, "Someone will think that he still has a chance because you don't wear your ring. He hasn't given up to this day."

Stella knew the person he referred to was Emmett. She smiled, "Okay. I will wear it from tomorrow onwards."

Clarence slightly raised his brows, "You are so obedient?"

...Fine, forget what I said

The corners of Clarence's mouth quirked up. He interlocked their fingers, "After we go back, I will help you to wear it."

Stella leaned her head on his shoulder, "How did you know that I am here?"

There is nothing that I don't know.

Stella didn't bother to reply to his words. She only let out a sigh, "Actually, I think that Daniel quite likes Sherry. Otherwise, he would not run out to find Sherry as soon as he woke up in the hospital. If...he initially was not taken away by Lyndon, things would be great. The subsequent incidents also would not happen. He and Sherry would...."

Clarence said calmly, "Have you ever thought that, he wouldn't have figured out what he really wanted if he hadn't been taken away by Lyndon?"

Stella paused for a moment. That made so much sense.

Daniel had been in many life-and-death situations for these few months.

Thus, he probably had seen clearly about his inner desires, and knew who the most important person in his life was.

So, he went to find Sherry as soon as he woke up.

However, he didn't expect that Sherry had experienced a lot of things when he was not present.

As a result, she could not consider their relationship as carelessly as she did before.

Moreover, the two of them had never actually established a relationship.

They came together only because of the child.

In Sherry's opinion, if the child was not there to form a link between the two of them, they would naturally go their separate ways.

The two of them missed out the time when they cared about each other the most.

Stella let out a long sigh and didn't know what to say.

Clarence comforted her, "Don't think too much. If he cannot let go of her, he will find a way to get her back on his own." Stella thought about it and said seriously, "Your words are also right. In this field, you are the expert."

Ouch, harsh.

She couldn't help smiling, "I have cooked rib soup for you. You can drink it after we go back."

Clarence didn't express his opinion, "The method of pestering the girl to go out with you has been proven to be effective."

Soon, Sherry arrived in the hospital.

It seemed that she had run to the hospital. She was gasping for air while she stood in the corridor, "Stella, Mr. Conrad... Hasn't he come out yet?"

Stella stood up. Before she could answer Sherry's question, the door of the emergency room was opened.

A doctor came out of the room, took off his mask and said, "The patient's injuries are very serious. As his family members, all of you should keep an eye on him. He cannot run out of the hospital like that again. Otherwise, we cannot save him even if he has ten lives."

Stella said, "We understand. Thank you."

The doctor said, "All right. All of you can go to the ward and see him. Remember to prevent him from moving excessively before he fully recovers from his injuries."

Sherry was still gasping for air. She felt that she was still in a daze.

She remembered something, Daniel was still fine when she saw him downstairs. At worst, he was shaky on his feet and looked slightly unwell. Why did his condition suddenly become so serious? When Sherry was lost in thought, Stella walked towards her to support her body, "Sherry, let's go."

On the way to the ward, Sherry's legs felt a little limp. She didn't know whether it was due to she ran too fast just now or the fear surging in her heart.

If it weren't for Stella supporting her, she might collapse to the floor

When arriving at the door of the ward, they could see Daniel clearly through the glass window. He was lying in the bed.

After she looked at him, Sherry couldn't help but to find her eyes tingling. She choked up and slowly walked into the ward.

Just when Stella was about to follow her and walk forward, Clarence pulled her. He gave her a knowing look. She immediately understood his intentions.

Stella retreated and closed the door gently.

Stella said, "We leave...just like that?"

Clarence said, "Oh, you still need to send a message to Emmett."

Sherry walked to the hospital bed. After she stood for a long time, she slowly sat down.

Sherry took out her phone and hesitated for a while. She decided to make things clear to Brandon.

After all, he got punched for no reason.

Sherry dialed his number, "Have you... reached home?"

Brandon said, "I have. What's wrong?"

Erm, the doctor said that your wound cannot come into contact with water. I am really sorry for what happened tonight... Brandon gave a chuckle, "It is just a small wound. Not a big deal."

While she was holding the phone, Sherry wanted to say something, but she suddenly didn't know how to mention the matter. After a moment of silence, Brandon said, "The man we met today is not just your friend, isn't he?"

Sherry didn't say anything and seemed to have silently admitted to it.

Brandon said, "Actually, I can see that he really cares about you. Is he your ex-boyfriend? Or is he...your suitor?"

He is neither of them. I...don't know how to explain this.

Brandon said, "Well then, you don't need to say anything. I understand. However, it seems that he doesn't know that we are in a relationship."

Sherry acknowledged his words and said, "He just came back from...a very far place. I will explain it to him clearly."

Brandon asked, "Are you with him now?"

Yes. However, he just came out of the emergency room and is still unconscious. I am not really alone with him. My friends will come here later. After I explain it to him clearly, I will go home. "Okay. That's good. Do you need me to pick you up?"

Sherry immediately said, "No. There is no need for that. I can go back on my own. You should rest early."

Brandon said, "Alright. If something happens, call me."

After she hung up, Sherry leaned back on the sofa and let out a long sigh.

What is this all about?

When she was staring at the ceiling with a dazed look on her face, the person, who was lying on the bed, seemed to have moved a little bit.00

Chapter 767: Wait Until He Is Better

Sherry waited in the ward all night. When she got tired, she got up and walked around for a while. If she was tired from walking, she would nestle on the sofa, looking out the window. In the small hours, it began to drizzle.

She listened to the rain and gradually fell asleep against the sofa.

When she woke up again, it was nearly dawn.

She rubbed her eyes and was ready to stand up and stretch herself when she noticed she was covered by a coat.

Instantly, she looked to the bed but did not see Daniel.

Remembering what the doctor said last night, she got shocked and immediately rushed out.

Out of the ward, she was about to go to the doctor when she saw two familiar figures in the corridor. So she slowed down and finally stopped.

Emmett was facing her and said, "Sherry, you are awake."

Sherry stared at the back of Daniel wearing a hospital gown and got stunned for a few seconds before returning to her senses. "Well, yes."

Daniel said to Emmett, "I am fine here. You send her back."

Emmett nodded and said, "Okay."

Daniel turned around and went back to his ward with an infusion rack.

He did not give her even one glance.

With the door of his ward closed, she finally came back to her senses. She wanted to say something and went forward. But Emmett suddenly said, "Sherry, I will send you home."

But I... she said..

The doctor said Daniel needed more rest. So wait until he is better, he said.

Hearing this, she could only swallow back the words that she wanted to say.

He dropped her at her apartment building and then left.

She walked inside listlessly, and when she passed a breakfast store, she bought some breakfast.

While waiting for the owner to pack her food, a man came out from inside and left holding an umbrella.

She stared at that umbrella.

It looked similar to the one that Daniel once told her. Back then, when the supermarket downstairs was having a sale, he lied to her that his mother had left him an umbrella like this. "Here you are, Miss," the owner handed over the breakfast.

After hearing the owner's voice, she quickly retrieved her thoughts and took it. "Thank you."

She carried the breakfast upstairs. In a daze, she entered her passwords wrong several times.

All of a sudden, she did not want to go in. So she squatted at the door and began to eat the potato pancakes she just bought.

Soon the next door opened.

Stella came over and asked, "Sherry, what are you doing squatting here?"

Hearing her voice, Sherry could no longer hold her feelings and said, "I forgot the passwords and could not enter..."

When she said the last few words, she began to sob with tears in her eyes.

Stella turned around to enter the passwords with slightly pursed lips.

After the door opened, she held Sherry up and said, "Go in."

Sherry bit into the potato pancake with tears falling. "Stella, have you eaten your breakfast? If you haven't, I will buy one for you downstairs..."

Stella smiled and replied, "Yes, I have."

After helping Sherry to the sofa, Stella walked to the kitchen and poured a glass of milk for her.

She sat next to Sherry and asked in a light voice, "Did you talk it through with Daniel?"

Sherry shook her head. "He was unconscious for a night. I fell asleep later and I did not know when he woke up. And when I woke up, he was talking to Emmett. I wanted to talk to him but he ignored me." Stella patted her shoulder and said, "Then wait a little longer and also give him some time to accept these things."

Sherry looked to her and asked, "Did you tell him about the child?"

Yes. I told him on the way to the hospital, Stella replied.

Well, how did he say about it then? Sherry asked.

He said that he never had a chance to tell you clearly about his thoughts. He thought you misunderstood him because of what you saw that day at his house, Stella said.

Hearing this, Sherry was silent for a few seconds before saying, "I know well about his thoughts. I had known it long ago..."

So even if she had a baby, she never thought that she would have a solid future with him.

More than that, she never dreamed that she would be capable of making such a playboy like him love her and build a family with her.

Stella did not tell her what Clarence said to her last night.

Sherry was now with Brandon. If Stella said those words to her, it would only make her sadder.

People needed to feel things in a relationship on their own. Outsiders wouldn't be able to help much.

What happened between two lovers should not and could not be intervened.

After finish eating the potato pancake, Sherry calmed herself down and said, "Stella, I will go take a shower and then head to the studio."

Stella said, "The shooting is in the afternoon, so you can first take some rest."

No. There are still a lot of preparations to do. Since we have been working for so long, we must not delay. Sherry added, "Don't worry. My sleep quality is quite good. When I was in the hospital, I had enough sleep."

While saying that, she went into the bathroom.

Stella let out a breath and got back to her house next door.

Just as she opened the door, Clarence's voice came, "Did you finish talking?"

She pouted her lips and sat next to him with head on his shoulder. "We did not have much of a conversation. I don't know how to comfort her anymore..."

Comforting won't help much. As long as she does not regret her choice, it is the best, he said.

She stared at the carpet in silence.

Yes. Who knew what the future would be like?

Maybe Brandon was the one who was most suitable for Sherry to go through the rest of her life.

Clarence held her hand before his eyes and looked at the ring she was wearing, feeling satisfied.

He tilted his head and kissed her brow. "When will you go to the studio?"

She replied, "Maybe later. Sherry is not yet prepared."

She then added, "Oh yes. We have a shooting today, so I may get home a little late."

He said, "I got it."

She thought about it and added, "After you let Winnie terminate the contract with Conrad Group, did you just disregard her like this?"

He slightly raised his eyes, "Who said I disregarded her? Didn't I offer her a better choice?"

She got speechless for a moment.

Then she asked incredulously, "You mean endorsing my jewelry brand, huh?"

Isn't it good for her? He said slowly, "Hasn't she invested? When she gets dividends, she should send me a thank-you letter."

She got stunned slightly and then asked, "You didn't foresee that we would ask her to do the endorsement, did you?"

He replied, "Isn't this something in your plan? Any brand that wants to expand its consumer base will look for the right spokesperson. Winnie has several high luxury global endorsements. Once she becomes your spokesperson, your brand popularity and influence will soar."

But when we approached her for the endorsement, we had not thought of this... she said.☐☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 768: Can She Take Back Her Words?

Stella said, "But when we approached her for the endorsement, we had not thought of this..."

He replied, "I know. But now that she is already your spokesperson, marketing is necessary. After all, the spokesperson and the brand promote each other." She did not really understand but felt that he had a point.

Well, it's better that she focused on designing only. As for operation, promotion, marketing and business tactics, there were what Clarence was good at. She got up and said, "Well, I will go get changed. You don't need to wait for me. Just leave first."

He said, "Remember to send me the location of your shooting site. If I finish my work early, I will come to pick you up."

She smiled, "Okay."

When she finished changing her clothes and came out, he had already left.

She walked to the kitchen, opened the fridge and took out the syringes and herb soup from a box.

At this time, she heard the sound of door opening.

She hurriedly turned around. After finishing the injection, she quickly threw the waste into the trash can.

Sherry's voice came from outside, "Stella, what are you doing?"

Hearing that it was her, Stella let out a sigh of relief and walked out. "It's nothing. I'm just cleaning up the trash in the kitchen. Are you done?" Sherry replied, "Yes. Let's go."

After arriving at the studio, Sherry spent the whole morning making preparations.

She could not handle the shooting on her own, so she recruited two assistants to help her with the job.

It was still drizzling outside. Luckily, they only needed to do indoor shooting. Otherwise, the shooting would have to be postponed.

Donald did not come to the studio in the morning. He slept until noon and then went directly to the shooting site after getting up.

After having lunch, Stella and Sherry set off together with a few staff.

On the way, Sherry received a call and suddenly became anxious.

Sherry frowned as she held her phone. "A male model we booked had a small car accident and was sent to the hospital. He definitely can't come to the shooting later." "Can you still contact other models?" Stella asked.

I will try.

But after making several phone calls, she did not find a suitable person.

It was raining outside and there was only an hour left before the shooting.

It was just too late.

When Stella was racking her brain, Sherry looked to her with an expectant face.

Stella got confused.

Sherry added, "In fact, the model just need to make a few poses together with our spokesperson. He does not need to be very professional. Looking handsome and having a fine a body shape are all we need.

She knew what Sherry meant.

Sherry continued, "Just think about it. Our jewelry is not only for female customers. Menswear is also a huge market. Although we have not explored this part yet, we can make some preparations. What if it leads to a good result? What do you think?"

Stella was silent for a while before saying, "I don't know if he has a class this afternoon."

Sherry immediately picked up her phone and said, "I'll call him!"

After calling Channing, she said with sparkled eyes, "Channing said he's available this afternoon and he'll come over!"

While saying this, she sent the address to him.

Stella said, "Maybe you should also tell Winnie about it."

Oh yes. I will call her and ask her where she is now.

After saying that, she dialed Winnie's number.

Winnie asked, "Have you arrived already? We'll be there after one more red light."

Sherry said, "We are almost there. And I have something to tell you..."

The male model who was supposed to work with you today had a small car accident on his way here. So he could not make it. We then decided to get another male model. I wonder if you have some requirements for your working partners. It doesn't matter. You can say your requirements and we will try our best to meet your needs.

Winnie chuckled, "It's no big deal. I don't have requirements for this. It's not like making a movie."

Back then when she made movies or TV dramas, her working team would filter out some stars that had bad reputation or terrible records.

Since this was a female jewelry ad, there would only be a few shots of male models, so it did not matter who the male model was.

Sherry said, "Okay. As long as you don't mind, we will choose from what we have. Well, I tried my best, but those male models could not come over. So I got... Channing."

Could she take back her words?

Sherry coughed and said, "All right, we've arrived. Let's talk about it later."

...Okay, Winnie sighed.

After hanging up the phone, she wound down the car window to get some fresh air.

Her assistant asked, "Winnie, what's the matter? Did something go wrong with the shooting?"

She shook her head. "No. Everything is fine."

In fact, the choice Sherry and Stella made was reasonable. Channing was Stella's brother and was in the entertainment industry. So it was more than normal to let him help when they could not find a suitable person.

The problem lied in her. She did not adjust herself properly.

A few raindrops fell on her face, making her more sober suddenly.

She wound up the car window, patted her face and calmed down.

Well, it was just work. Thinking too much about it was just making things difficult for her.

Soon the car arrived at the shooting site.

She got out of the car and found Sherry, Stella and the others were there too.

After they walked in together, Donald walked over with a pose and asked, "I heard that your male model will not come. What do you think of me?"

Winnie, Sherry and Stella all fell into silence.

This cheesy man.

Sherry's mouth twitched as she was busy with the camera equipment. "No need. We have already got another model."

He did not believe her words. "Who is it? Who else will have such a great charm as me? I tell you, if I take part in the shooting, your sales will definitely double..." Winnie could not stand him and said, "I am going to do makeup."

Sherry chimed in, "I have left something in the car and I need to fetch it."

Stella took out her phone, "I will call Channing and ask him where he is."

Donald shouted, "Hey, how can you do this to me?"

In the shooting studio, a group of staff tried so hard to hold back their laughter.

He grunted and decided to ignore them. Then he found a sofa and sat down leisurely.☐☐☐☐☐☐

Chapter 769: You Have Good Family Genes

Thirty minutes later, Channing arrived.

Stella took him to another dressing room and handed him the suit prepared for the shooting. "Try it on first. If it does not fit, you can use a clip."

Well, she called out to him, "have you talked to your company about this? Do they agree?"

They are happy to increase my exposure, not to mention that...

Not to mention that the spokesperson was Winnie.

How could JH Film Company not agree?

She asked, "What?"

He replied, "It's nothing."

After saying that, he took the suit and went to get dressed.

She sat in a chair and got a magazine to read.

Soon he came out after changing his clothes.

He said, "It's a bit loose."

She looked to him and slightly raised her delicate eyebrows.

He was thinner than the male model. The clothes were a little loose for him. But he had broad shoulders and long legs, thus looking more like a noble young master that was quite cool. She put the magazine down and said, "I think it's not bad. What's the problem except for the size?"

He replied, "Not bad."

Well, so be it. She picked up a tie and said, "Come and sit down. I will tie it for you."

He walked to her and sat in the chair.

She put the tie around his neck and tied it in a familiar way with her head down.

While tying, she suddenly landed her eyes on his face.

Back then they found a pile of photos from Jeffery's house. But in those photos, William's face was all ruined.

William, who survived from that explosion, completely changed his face and came back as a new person.

Although Lyndon wore the same face as the original William, he acted so differently and was a disgusting presence to all.

So she never felt that Channing looked like him.

But the last time when she was in London, William gave her a photo album.

There were many pictures of him as a child and his mother.

Maybe because Channing grew up a lot in the last year, or because he wore a suit now, she suddenly felt that he looked almost exactly the same as William when he was young. Noticing her pause, he asked, "What's wrong?"

She retrieved her thoughts and replied, "Nothing."

After tying his tie, she said, "I am going to see if Winnie has finished her makeup. I will let the makeup artist give you a little touch-up and fix your hair."

When she arrived next door, Winnie had already finished with her makeup and was doing her hair.

The make-up artist asked, "Has the male model arrived yet? I will be ready within twenty minutes."

She replied, "Yes. He has finished changing his clothes."

The make-up artist asked, "Does he need much make-up?"

No. His skin is almost flawless, so he needs no fountain. You just help him with his eyebrows and his hair, she replied.

Well then, ask him to come over. I will ask my assistant to do it for him. I will watch on the side to make sure there will be no mistakes. In this way, we will be faster, the make-up artist said. Winnie didn't say anything.

Stella agreed and she called Channing over.

When the make-up artist saw him, her eyes lit up. "Where did you find such a handsome model?"

Stella smiled, "He is my little brother. I got him to help us for today."

The artist said enviously, "Your family has good genes. You are beautiful and he is handsome. So your parents must be good-looking."

Hearing this, Channing paused for a moment without speaking.

Stella stayed silent as well.

Winnie coughed and said to her assistant behind her, "Fiona, get me a cup of warm water."

When her assistant left with the cup, the make-up artist realized with hindsight that she might have said something wrong.

Stella said, "Go help him with his hair."

The artist nodded and asked her assistant to go over.

Not long after, Stella's phone rang. It was Sherry calling to ask her about the situation here.

Stella said to Channing and Winnie, "I will go over and talk to Sherry first. When you are done, come directly."

Winnie nodded her head and said, "Okay."

After Stella left, the dressing room fell into an inexplicable silence.

Since the make-up artist had said something wrong, she dared not to speak now.

Her assistant was concentrating on doing Channing's hair, feeling the odd atmosphere and not knowing what to say.

But soon Winnie's assistant came over with a cup of water.

She handed the cup to Winnie and said, "Here you are, Winnie."

With the conversation, the atmosphere in the dressing room was no longer so weird.

Winnie took a sip of the water and asked slowly, "Have you started school yet?"

Channing replied softly, "Yes."

Don't you have classes this afternoon? she asked.

No, he replied.

She got silent. Well, since she started the conversation, she had to find a way to keep it going.

While trying to stay calm, she said, "That's good. Thank god that you came. Otherwise, we would not be able to shoot today."

He stared in a certain direction with his lips pursed in silence.

She rarely saw him like this. But she could guess the reason. When she was about to say something to divert his attention, he suddenly got up and said, "I will go to the bathroom." After he went out, the make-up artist breathed a sigh and asked tentatively, "Did I just say something wrong?"

It's not a big deal. It's not your problem... Winnie paused and then added, "Am I almost done?"

Yes, right away. The artist sped up to do her hair.

The moment her hair was done, Winnie stood up and quickly stepped out of the dressing room.

She looked around the corridor and found Channing behind the door of the escape corridor as expected.

Seeing her, he tried to hide the cigarette in his hand.

She looked around and found nobody around, so she closed the door and walked to him. "Your sister is here. Aren't you afraid that she will find out?"

She knew what he meant. He thought Stella would not find out.

She was silent for two seconds before saying, "Are you... Was it because of what the make-up artist said just now? She did not mean to say it and she feels sorry." He replied, "No."

Then why...

He looked at her and said in a quiet voice, "Whether bringing it up or not, some things will always be there and will never change. Am I right?"

She opened her mouth but was at a loss for words.

After a while, she said, "But you should know that you don't have to bear the consequences for others' doings."☐☐☐

Chapter 770: Made Her Heart Pound Faster

Channing stared at Winnie with his lips slightly moved in silence.

She also looked up with a steady gaze.

She simply wanted him to know that in this world, he was always him and should not be bound by something unworthy.

After a few seconds of silence, the lights in the hallway dimmed.

He suddenly asked in a low voice, "What about you?"

She was stunned for a while. "Me...What?"

Will you reject me because of those consequences that I should not bear? he asked.

In the dark, she did not know what to say with her mouth half-open.

Was he setting her up?

Whatever answer she gave him would be a wrong one.

Whether she would reject him or not had nothing to do with this matter.

Well... How did they jump to this topic all of a sudden?

How come he suddenly asked such a question?

Within a few seconds, she had lots of thoughts on her mind. And she had never been like this, not knowing what to say.

With this sound, the light in the hallway lit again.

He saw fluster and bewilderment on her face.

She quickly withdrew her gaze and said, "It's been a while, so we... We should go back."

Just as she turned around, he said, "I still have the smell of smoke on me."

She turned around and asked, "Then you..."

He said, "Can you help me with it?"

She got confused, "How?"

He walked forward and took her wrist, hugging her gently.

He said, "Your perfume should cover the smell of smoke."

He just hugged her gently and gave her enough space to step back.

But this only made her heart pound faster.

The light became dim again.

She even heard her heartbeat.

She whispered, "Did you stay downstairs all night that night?"

He remained silent for a few seconds but did not deny it.

She asked, "Why?"

I feared that Chassell would come to you again. He paused before adding, "Do you still want to ask me why I'm worried about that?"

The answer was clear enough.

She did not speak.

After a long while, she said, "Channing Radomil, I haven't thought..."

This was the first time she called him by his name so formally.

He took a step back and said lightly, "We have to work later. So let's keep it cool."

She swallowed back her words.

He had a good point.

If things became awkward between them, later they would not be able to work smoothly.

And it might be awkward when they met in the future.

She suddenly understood why he had never expressed his feelings clearly.

He must have long expected that she would never say yes.

After leaving the escape corridor, she still had to change her clothes. So he said, "I will go over first." She replied, "Well, okay."

In the shooting studio, Sherry was chatting with Stella. When she saw Channing coming, her eyes lit up. She said, "Chan, how did you become more handsome than before? You are better-looking every day!"

She nudged Stella with her elbow and asked, "Did you notice it, Stella?"

Stella smiled, "Yes."

Sherry could not help but take some pictures for him. "With your handsome face, you can beat most of the stars in the entertainment industry. Your company definitely hit the jackpot by signing you!" While saying this, she smelled a faint perfume on him, so she asked in surprise, "Chan, you used perfume, huh?"

He replied, "Maybe I got it from the dressing room."

She gave a suspicious look and raised her eyebrows towards Stella, feeling something unusual.

Stella pulled her over and said, "Well, stop it. Take some good pictures for him."

Sherry said, "Yes. Chan, stand well and let me take some more pictures so that we can put them up in our studio. I believe it can attract a lot more customers in the future."

In the previous variety show recording, he had already taken publicity photos, so he was not unfamiliar with this kind of shooting.

Soon Sherry took a lot of pictures.

While taking pictures, she said, "Stella, listen to me. We should hurry up on designing clothes for men. A day late means a big loss." Stella giggled, "Okay. I got it."

She had not thought of designing men's clothes but now it was time to put it on the agenda.

After Channing finished taking the photos, Winnie also came out after getting changed.

She was wearing a custom-made dress, accessorized with a tiara, earrings, and necklaces and so on which were all Stella's works. When she walked over, the light and shadow in the shooting studio seemed to move with her.

Channing looked at her with a slight smile.

Sherry said, "You are just so beautiful! I knew we chose the right person!"

Winnie smiled and accidentally met Channing's eyes. But she quickly looked away and pretended to be calm, saying, "Let's get started."

Sherry said, "Okay. Come on, guys!"

When they were shooting, Stella just waited on the side.

What are you doing here silently? Donald suddenly walked over and asked.

She breathed a sigh and withdrew her eyes. "It's nothing. What's wrong?"

He said, "Since the things were all done, when could I get my dinner? Tell me and I can empty my stomach in advance."

Then she said, "Give me some time. The outdoor scenes have not been shot yet. We have been busy recently."

He asked, "What has Clarence been doing recently?"

He is at Steward Group. What do you want from him?

He was at a loss for words.

After he helped Vincent to have the child taken from City N to Riverside City, Clarence ignored him.

Well, he had to find a chance to explain to Clarence.

It turned out that his choice back then was right.

Clarence should thank him. However, he chose to ignore him, which was just so unreasonable.

She paused before asking, "Are you still in contact with Vincent?"

He wanted to say something but fell into silence.

Then he whispered to defend himself, "I can't lie, can I?"

Just speak the truth. I won't do anything. She said, "Is he in City N?"

He replied, "Yes. And he is looking into something and can't show up for now. If you want to say something to him, I can help you with it."

She thought about it, "I have nothing to say to him. As for what happened between him and Clarence... Well, just wait until another time." Although Vincent stayed by Clarence's side and helped him all these years, he indeed deceived Clarence with his own purpose for over a decade.☐☐☐☐☐☐☐☐¶¶¶¶¶¶¶¶