Chapter 15

The aroma of Martha's chicken wonton soup still lingered in the air.

The interrogation lights at the police station were blinding.

Stella Valentine squinted, suddenly remembering the kind smile Martha had given her the last time they met.

"Miss Valentine, the evidence is irrefutable. Do you have anything to say in your defense?"

She shook her head lightly. "Lily Savigny testified?"

"Yes."

"And the physical evidence?"

"The rooftop only had footprints from the three of you."

Stella suddenly smiled. "If I confess, how long will my sentence be?"

"Death penalty."

"Will it hurt?"

"Lethal injection is painless."

She nodded. "Good."

The officer slid a confession form toward her. "Sign here."

"Can I have three more days?"

"Why?"

"I might... be pregnant."

Three days later, in the hospital corridor.

A female officer handed her a glass of water. "Drink something."

Stella shook her head. "It'll hurt."

"Stomach problems?"

"Stage four lung cancer." The doctor approached with test results. "Congratulations, you're pregnant."

Her head snapped up. Trembling fingers took the report.

"But you only have nine months left to live."

Stella gently traced the paper with her fingertips, smiling softly. "This is good."

The officer hesitated. "Pregnant women can receive medical parole..."

"No need." She carefully folded the report. "This is enough."

At the end of the hallway, a familiar little boy came running.

"Auntie! Mommy says thank you for the money!"

She knelt down. "Auntie won't be coming anymore."

"Did Auntie get better?"

"...Yes."

The boy began singing cheerfully, his voice clear and bright.

Tears suddenly streamed down Stella's face.

"Don't cry, Auntie. I'll miss you."

A phone rang abruptly.

"Miss Valentine, Mr. Roland has scheduled your divorce proceedings for today."