Chapter 185

Adrian's gaze pinned Stella like a nail.

"Money means nothing to me now."

Stella frowned slightly. "What do you mean, Mr. Roland?"

"Little Star," his voice was low, "do you truly want me to save this company?"

Sophia suddenly rushed forward. "Adrian, this company carries your parents' legacy! You and Lily are about to marry—"

"I won't marry Lily Savigny." His icy tone cut her off. "Unless she donates a lung to Stella, this company's fate means nothing to me."

Sophia paled. "You'd disregard your parents' dying wish?"

"If not for their legacy," Adrian sneered, "this company would've ceased to exist long ago."

Sophia staggered back.

"One more thing," Adrian stepped closer, "justice is coming."

"What do you mean?"

"Exactly what I said." His eyes turned sharp. "My parents' car accident. Martha's death. Luna's poisoning. Ethan nearly dying—"

Sophia's lips trembled. "Evidence—"

"The evidence is complete." Adrian turned to leave.

Lily tried to follow, but Sophia snapped, "He's been investigating us all along!"

"Mom, what do we do now?"

Sophia's eyes darkened. "We take the final step."

......

In the hallway, Jason approached. "Mr. Roland."

"Let's go."

Jason glanced behind them. "Ms. Valentine is coming out."

Adrian closed his eyes wearily. "Waiting for her to curse me?"

"Felix has news."

Adrian's eyes flew open.

"Talcum powder was found in Mr. Valentine's car." Jason lowered his voice. "We've identified the brake failure cause."

Adrian clenched his fists.

Three lives destroyed by mere powder.

"Have him expedite the forensic report."

Stella's voice came from behind. "Adrian."

Jason discreetly withdrew.

"You found those two cars?" She wore a floral sundress, her dark hair cascading over her shoulders—just as he remembered.

Adrian's gaze softened.

Just wait a little longer, Little Star.

"We did," he said.

"Who helped you?"

"A very capable man."

Stella exhaled in relief. "You met with him?"

"No."

Her tense shoulders relaxed slightly.

"About Ethan and Luna—"

"Little Star," Adrian interrupted, "I won't marry Lily."

"That's your private matter."

"Can't we even be friends?"

Stella gave a bitter smile. "Not hating you doesn't mean forgiving you."

Adrian's eyes dimmed.

"If you need help with the accident investigation, just ask," she added.

"It'll all be handled." He forced a smile. "I've met someone."

Stella visibly relaxed. "Treat her well."

"Don't you want to know who?"

"It doesn't matter." Her voice was soft. "Mr. Edward Roland—"

"I'll visit the family estate this weekend." Adrian studied her. "Spend more time with the children."

"You'll have your own children someday."

"Yeah."

Silence stretched between them.

"Wishing you happiness," Stella finally said.

Adrian smiled. "You too, Little Star. Forget everything here. Live well."