Chapter 47

Adrian Roland never expected to encounter Stella Valentine here.

He had originally come to accompany Lily Savigny in selecting an engagement ring. Ever since Luna was born, Lily had intensified her pressure for marriage, driving him to distraction.

After dropping her off, he immediately escaped.

Strangely, the man who once swore never to see Stella again now found himself thinking of her constantly. Perhaps it was because of Luna—or perhaps it was the lingering questions about that car accident.

"Adrian, we agreed this was a guys' night. Why did you bring little Stella along?"

The speaker was Lucas Sherwood, his college roommate. A group of old friends had gathered at the pool hall to catch up—none had anticipated Stella's appearance.

Lucas greeted her warmly. "Look how grown-up little Stella is! Last time I saw you, you were still in college."

Stella nodded politely. "Hello, Lucas."

"Adrian should've at least picked you up," Lucas teased.

Adrian frowned. "Cut the nonsense."

"So, are you two married now?" another classmate chimed in.

Stella replied calmly, "We're already divorced."

The air froze instantly.

Lucas gaped. "What? But you two were—"

"Let's not dwell on the past." Stella turned to Joy Fairsprene. "Let's go."

Joy whispered, "Just like that?"

"Yes. I need to visit my mother at the hospital."

Zachary Ellison remained rooted in place, suddenly speaking up. "Mr. Roland, care for a game?"

Everyone stiffened.

Adrian studied the unfamiliar man coldly. "Reason?"

"I'm pursuing Ms. Valentine." Zachary gestured toward Stella. "I heard she learned pool from you. Thought I'd see how good her teacher really is."

Joy scoffed. "Watch your mouth. What's wrong with being divorced?"

"Exactly!" Zachary snapped, an unusual edge in his voice.

Stella tugged his sleeve. "Let's go play board games."

"Sure." As Zachary turned to leave, Adrian's voice stopped him.

Gripping his cue, Adrian smirked. "Since Mr. Ellison insists, one game it is."

His burning gaze locked onto Stella. "What's wrong? Afraid to play? I did teach you every trick you know."

Stella smiled faintly. "And if I win?"

Tension crackled through the pool hall. The hostility between the two men thickened, while Stella stood between them, utterly composed.

The girl who once chased after Adrian Roland was long gone.