Chapter 471

The aroma of coffee filled the study. Stella Valentine rubbed her sore wrist. The final flourish on the wedding ring design glowed on her computer screen. She clicked save, then opened the quarterly financial report.

Outside, the night was ink-black. Only the study light remained on. Tomorrow was the group meeting—every figure had to be perfect.

A knock shattered the silence.

"Stella, still awake?" Grace Laurent's voice floated through the door.

"Come in, Mom." Stella didn't look up from her spreadsheets.

Grace entered with a steaming glass of milk. Seeing the empty coffee cup, she frowned. "Coffee hurts your stomach. Drink this instead."

"Thanks." The warmth seeped into Stella's fingers, easing her tension. Just then, the report loaded—a beautiful upward curve.

Grace peered over her shoulder. Her voice cracked. "These numbers... just like when your father started the company."

Stella looked up to see her mother wiping tears. The milk's steam blurred her own vision. Her throat tightened.

"I told you I could do it," she said lightly.

Grace turned, eyes red. "All those people said you shouldn't take over... Let them choke on their words now."

Stella set down the glass and grasped her mother's trembling hand. "Dad's watching. He'd be proud."

"Silly girl." Grace cupped Stella's gaunt face. "You've always been our pride—with or without the company. Look how thin you've gotten."

"I inherited your good genes." Stella winked.

Grace sighed. "I just worry. It's late—you should rest."

"Almost done." Stella gestured to the screen. "This project is crucial."

"If only I could help..." Guilt laced Grace's voice.

Pattering feet interrupted them.

Luna Roland burst in clutching a doll, tear-streaks on her cheeks. "Mommy! I had a bad dream!"

Stella opened her arms. "I'm here, sweetheart."

"A monster... in my dream..." Luna hiccuped.

Grace smoothed her granddaughter's hair. "Let Grandma tuck you in. Preschool tomorrow."

Luna suddenly went still, tiny fists gripping Stella's sleeve.

"What is it?" Stella whispered.

The child looked up, eyes glistening. "Mommy... I miss Daddy. Could Daddy beat the monster?"

The words struck like a dull blade. Stella held her tighter, the weight in her chest crushing.