Chapter 45

Lily Savigny clutched Adrian Roland's sleeve desperately, tears welling in her eyes. "Adrian, are you just going to stand there and let her slander me like this?"

Joy Fairsprene let out a cold laugh, stepping closer. "Miss Savigny, if you're truly innocent, why refuse to check the medical records at the hospital?"

"Enough!" Adrian's voice cut through the tension like a blade.

Joy stomped her foot in frustration. "Adrian, you used to be so sharp. How did this fake, scheming woman manage to fool you? A simple hospital visit would clear everything up!"

Adrian's jaw tightened. After a long silence, he finally spoke. "I believe her."

"You believe her?" Joy's eyes widened in disbelief. "Have you lost your mind?"

His gaze turned icy. "Miss Fairsprene, out of respect for our families' friendship, I'll let this go today. But my patience has limits."

"I'm the one going too far? When she's the one who—"

"Joy," Stella Valentine gently pulled her back. "Stop. This is getting ugly."

Only then did Joy notice the heavy silence in the jewelry store. The staff huddled in corners, too afraid to speak, while curious onlookers gathered outside.

She scoffed. "Fine. I'll back off for Stella's sake. Miss Savigny, you'd better watch yourself. Adrian, don't come crying to me when she can't give you children!"

Joy grabbed Stella's hand and stormed out, not stopping until they were sure no one followed.

"I can't believe this!" She kicked the ground angrily. "Since when did Adrian become so blind?"

Stella gave a bitter smile. "Who knows?"

"Forget him! Come on, I'm taking you to meet some friends. Guaranteed to cheer you up!"

Before Stella could refuse, Joy shoved her into the car. "Stella, you've been trapped in that miserable marriage for years. It's time to let loose."

As the scenery blurred past the window, Stella smoothed her wind-tossed hair.

Six years. Six long years confined in that cold mansion. Cooking elaborate meals only to throw them away at midnight.

With so little time left, why not indulge for once?

She pulled out her phone and texted Mr. Alistair: [Taking the day off today.]

[Alright. Stay safe.]

[You know where I am?]

[Yes.]

Her pulse quickened. [Are you following me?]

[No.]

[Then how do you know?]

[Because I know you. And I know Joy.]

She glanced at Joy, who was animatedly chatting on the phone, her face full of life.

Another message came through: [Have fun. Call me when you're done.]

Those simple words carried warmth, reminding her of his low, tender voice—like a whisper in her ear.

"Stella, we're shopping first! That ring deserves a killer outfit!"

Stella hesitated. "That's not necessary..."

"Absolutely necessary! Today, you're going to stun everyone!"

Joy dragged her into a boutique, determined to pick the perfect dress.

Stella chose a navy blue dress with a delicate silver belt that accentuated her slender waist, making her skin glow like porcelain.

"You have excellent taste!" The salesgirl gasped. "This looks incredible on you!"

Stella barely recognized herself in the mirror. After six years without shopping, the once-avid fashionista had nearly forgotten this feeling.

"This floral sundress would also look lovely..." The clerk held up another option.

Stella's smile faltered. "No, thank you. Just this one."

Joy paid without hesitation, then whisked her off for makeup. "Just light touches. You're stunning with minimal makeup."

Confused but compliant, Stella let them soften her pallid complexion.

Joy brought her to a board game café where a group of young people were laughing over a game.

"Ahem!" Joy cleared her throat dramatically. "The queen has arrived. Where's my welcome party?"

The guys didn't even look up. "Find a seat. Where's the beauty you promised?"

Joy yanked one boy's ear. "Open your damn eyes!"

Wincing in pain, the guy froze when he saw Stella. "Holy..."