Chapter 270

Adrian Roland had planned to decline the TV station's invitation.

The African gemstone partnership was at a critical stage, but this sponsorship event was unavoidable. Maintaining a polished business image was essential, and his unmarried status had always been a vulnerability in negotiations.

Luna had been unusually clingy these past few days, and Ethan kept insisting on coming along. In the end, Adrian found himself carrying his daughter in one arm while leading his son into the studio with the other.

The entire studio fell into stunned silence.

On stage, Stella Valentine stood under the spotlight, a "No.1" badge pinned to her dress.

A dating show?

Stella's back burned under the weight of a predator's gaze.

"Mr. Roland, your seat is here," a hostess guided him respectfully.

The eight-figure sponsorship had secured him a front-row VIP seat. Yet his eyes remained fixed on the stage.

"Mommy!" Luna waved excitedly.

Stella wished the floor would swallow her whole.

"Brother, what's Mommy doing?" Luna tilted her head.

Ethan scratched his hair. "I think..."

Adrian settled his son into the seat and murmured, "This is Mommy's job."

The host announced the Q&A segment.

Victor Valence kept throwing pointed glances at Stella, but she ignored him.

"I'd like to ask Dr. Charles about pediatric liver transplants..."

The audience erupted in murmurs.

Medical questions on a dating show?

Dr. Charles adjusted his glasses. "For hereditary liver conditions, a living related donor yields the best results. Does the child have any siblings?"

"...No."

"Postoperative quality of life may be affected," the doctor said gently. "We can discuss this in detail after the show."

The host awkwardly changed topics. "Ms. Valentine, don't you have any personal questions?"

"No need."

When it was Wendy Evans' turn, she stared straight at Victor. "Mr. Valence, what's your ideal type?"

Victor smirked and pointed at Stella. "Someone like her."

"But she has children!"

"I don't care." Victor lifted his chin defiantly. "I'll raise her kids as my own."

Wendy's face darkened. "Raising another man's children?"

"None of your damn business." Victor scowled. "Her husband's been dead for three years—"

Ethan suddenly tugged Adrian's sleeve. "Daddy, why did that uncle say you're dead?"

Adrian's lips curled into a cold smile as he stood with Luna in his arms and walked toward the stage.

A staff member hurried after him. "Mr. Roland, how can we assist you?"

"Proving I'm still alive."

He locked eyes with Victor. "My children don't need your concern."

Wendy gasped. "Those are really your children, Ms. Valentine?"

"I'm their father."

Adrian returned to his seat with calm dignity, leaving the studio in stunned silence.

The host forced a smile. "Now, please keep your lights on for your preferred matches..."

Victor kept only Stella's light on, his gaze challenging.

Two pairs of sharp eyes clashed midair, sparks flying.

Under the spotlight, Stella stood frozen, her palms damp with sweat.