Chapter 162

The name "Lily Savigny" pierced Stella's heart like a thorn.

Her fists clenched until nails dug into her palms. "Does she have to drive Grandpa Edward to his grave?"

Benjamin trembled with rage. "She's doing this deliberately! The master said he'd never let that woman step foot in the Roland mansion as long as he draws breath! Even through the phone, I could hear her venomous words. If I could reach her, I'd tear that vile mouth apart!"

The elderly man's eyes reddened. "First she harmed little Luna, now she's after the master. Young master, how can you marry such a viper?"

Adrian remained silent for a long moment. "Let's see Grandpa first."

"Young master!" Benjamin grabbed his sleeve. "Stella's been so good to you, the children are so well-behaved—why must you insist on..."

"I have to marry her."

Stella didn't wait to hear more. She turned and entered the house.

She nearly collided with the family physician exiting the bedroom. The man eyed her warily. "And you are?"

"Here to see Grandpa Edward."

"The master's condition is critical. Only family may see him."

"I'm Adrian's..."

The doctor's expression darkened as he blocked the doorway. "You're the woman who called and upset him earlier?"

"I..."

Benjamin hurried over to explain. "Dr. Sun, this is the young mistress the master always speaks of!"

The physician paled. "My apologies, Mrs. Roland, I..."

"Call me Miss Valentine," she interrupted. "Adrian and I are already..."

"Is that Stella?" A weak voice called from inside.

Benjamin immediately opened the door. "Master, Stella's come to see you!"

The elderly man on the bed looked ashen, yet struggled to extend a trembling hand. "Come..."

Stella grasped the skeletal fingers, their icy touch sending a tremor through her.

"Just... seeing you makes me happy," Grandpa Edward managed a frail smile. "Where's that worthless grandson of mine? Make him come apologize!"

Adrian stood silently at the bedside.

"On your knees!" The old man suddenly grew agitated. "Unless Stella forgives you, I'll..."

"Grandpa," Adrian's Adam's apple bobbed. "I must marry Lily."

"You disgrace!" The old man hurled his cane with surprising force.

The wooden rod struck Adrian's forehead, leaving an angry welt.

Suddenly, Grandpa Edward began gasping violently, his face turning ghostly white.

"Call an ambulance!" Stella shouted.

Adrian snapped from his daze and bolted outside.

Under the hospital corridor's sterile lights, Stella finally spoke. "Is she truly worth it?"

"...Yes."

"Even if it kills Grandpa?"

"I have no choice."

Stella let out a bitter laugh. "Adrian Roland, I've done all I can for you."

She turned toward the ICU without a backward glance.