Chapter 338

The phrase "a golden house for a cherished beauty" lingered on Stella Valentine's tongue.

Her fingers unconsciously traced the jade bracelet on her wrist. The ancient tale carried an ominous weight she couldn't shake.

Alexander Heilbronn remained oblivious to her unease, eagerly pressing, "Well? Will you sign?"

Adrian Roland tapped the table lightly. "I was the impatient one before. Now it's your turn to be restless?"

"Ah, I just want to experience a grand romance..."

"Never had one?"

"A few. But they only wanted my gemstones." Alexander sighed dramatically. "A lasting love like yours and Stella's is rare. Teach me—how does one win a woman like her?"

Adrian glanced back at Stella, clearing his throat. "...Relentless pursuit."

"What?"

"No shame. No retreat."

Alexander's eyes widened. "That simple?"

"Of course not." Adrian's voice lowered. "Memorize her habits. Carry her favorite snacks. Sneak her out for dates when her parents aren't looking."

"Sounds easy enough."

"The crucial part—" Adrian's gaze darkened. "Believe her unconditionally. Even if you see or hear otherwise, if she denies it, you deny it too."

Alexander thumped his chest. "Consider it done!"

The pen glided across the contract. Both copies were secured.

Alexander suddenly turned serious. "Shipping costs are on you."

"Understood."

"I fly home tomorrow." He winked at Stella. "Can't wait to see what masterpieces you'll create with these raw stones."

"Not staying longer?"

"No." His grin turned teasing. "Watching you two is giving me ideas. Time to find my own leading lady."

Stella stood by the floor-to-ceiling window, her shadow stretching long in the sunlight.

She observed the men's animated discussion. Only when the contracts were signed did her tension ease slightly.

One matter settled. Now for the next...

"Penny for your thoughts?"

Adrian's voice, warm and familiar, brushed her ear.

She shook her head. "Everything finalized?"

"Thanks to you." His gaze burned. "This deal wouldn't have happened without you."

"Wendy Evans could've—"

"Alexander would've seen through her." Adrian stepped closer. "Know why?"

"Why?"

His breath tickled her earlobe. "Because only you were acting. Not me."

...

Dusk settled as guests departed.

Adrian never released her hand, his touch a steady comfort. When the last visitor left, only swaying lanterns illuminated the courtyard.

Benjamin Langley approached with juice glasses. "The master and children have retired."

"Thank you." Adrian accepted the drinks. "Stella and I are stepping out."

"This late?"

"Yes."

Understanding dawned on Benjamin's face. "Go on then! Young love shouldn't keep office hours."

A silver Lexus waited silently in the garage.

Stella blinked at the understated vehicle. "Where's your Porsche?"

"Flooded." Adrian opened her door. "That storm four years ago submerged the entire underground lot."

"All those cars—"

"Mr. Xavier said they were totaled." He turned the ignition. "Probably rusting in some junkyard now."

"Mr. Xavier?" Her brow furrowed. "You and Mr. Alistair both mention him."

"Yes. He saved both our lives."

The words pricked like a needle.

Why would a butler hold such significance for the Roland brothers?

The car sliced through the night as briny sea air seeped through the vents.

"We're here." Adrian parked smoothly. "Go ahead. I'll join you shortly."

Stella understood his tact.

Some conversations required privacy.

The villa's doorbell chimed sharply in the silent darkness.