Chapter 455

Stella Valentine's Oriental jewelry collection sparked a buying frenzy the moment it launched.

All two hundred limited-edition pieces sold out instantly. Countless disappointed customers lamented on social media. Scalpers quickly resold them at twenty times the original price, yet demand still outstripped supply.

Daily calls flooded in asking about restocks. The reputation of Shi's Jewelry soared overnight.

Seizing the momentum, Stella unveiled her second Oriental-inspired line. Unlike the first collection's minimalist elegance, this one featured vibrant "Four Noble Flowers" motifs, brilliantly capturing Eastern aesthetics.

At a time when Western jewelry favored exaggerated designs, her work stood apart. Each piece balanced artistry with wearability, ensuring the wearer became the center of attention.

To thank Editor Jessica Blanchet for her support, Stella innovated the sales model—tying purchase eligibility to magazine codes. Every issue carried an equal chance, guaranteeing fairness.

This sparked another frenzy. Magazine sales skyrocketed, with celebrities buying thousands of copies just for a chance. Jessica couldn't stop smiling, and Shi's Jewelry earned praise for its transparent system.

"No insider tricks, just pure luck" became the hottest topic.

Stella reserved several sets as gifts: the plum blossom design for Joy Fairsprene, the orchid for Penny Anderson, and bamboo for Jessica. The final chrysanthemum set was displayed in the company lobby as a signature masterpiece.

Within two weeks, the name "Star Designer" became renowned in jewelry circles. Everyone eagerly awaited her third collection.

"When's the next line coming?" Jessica pressed impatiently.

Stella, checking her son's homework, smiled. "Patience. I just got my driver's license and need to adjust to school runs. Luna and Celeste should start kindergarten soon—I have to arrange everything first."

......

Mornings in the children's room were always chaotic.

"Ethan, as the big brother, set an example," Stella said softly, drawing the curtains. Sunlight spilled over the three children's blankets.

Ethan scrambled up, dressed himself, then went to wake Luna. "Five more minutes," Luna mumbled into her pillow.

"Last time you said 'one more episode' and watched three," Ethan retorted mercilessly. Luna pouted but got up.

Meanwhile, Celeste clung to Stella's neck. "Mommy, I don’t want kindergarten. Can I stay home with you?"

"Little sleepyhead." Stella booped her nose and carried her to the bathroom. She was always gentler with her fragile youngest.

"But I want to play with Ethan and Luna!" Celeste puffed her cheeks like a pufferfish.

"Then you must go to school," Stella said, braiding her hair. "Otherwise, when they start elementary school, you'll still be in kindergarten and see them even less."

Luna immediately straightened up. "Mommy, I'll study hard!" She grabbed her toothbrush with newfound determination.

Watching them, Stella suddenly thought of Adrian Roland. Did he ever refuse to get up as a child? With his stubbornness, no one could’ve made him.

She shook her head, pushing the thought away. These hectic two weeks had left little room for memories of him.

Had his leg injury healed?

"Stella, breakfast is ready," Grace Laurent called, entering with two children. "Go eat—I'll handle them."

"It's fine, Mom. Almost done." Clutching a hair tie between her teeth, Stella struggled with Celeste's braids while squeezing toothpaste for Luna.

Ethan finished washing up and volunteered, "Grandma, help Mommy. I'll do Luna's hair. I watched Daddy do it—I know how."

"Adrian can style girls' hair?" Grace asked, surprised.