Chapter 8

Stella Valentine's fingers tightened abruptly, pinning Lily Savigny against the cold wall. Her nails dug into Lily's neck, leaving angry red marks.

Lily's eyes widened in terror, her legs kicking uselessly in the air. "Have you lost your mind?! Adrian will be here any second!"

"Perfect." A cold smile curled Stella's lips. "Let him witness your last moments."

"Your son is still in my custody!"

"Then we'll descend into hell together." Stella's whisper was feather-light yet sent violent tremors through Lily's body.

Hurried footsteps echoed from the corridor's end.

As Adrian Roland turned the corner, Stella deliberately increased the pressure. Lily's face turned from red to ashen, her eyes rolling back.

"Stop!"

A brutal force flung Stella backward. Her spine collided with the hallway railing, sending searing pain radiating through her body.

Adrian cradled Lily protectively, his gaze at Stella filled with revulsion. "Tired of living?"

Stella gripped the railing to steady herself, rusted metal slicing her palm. Blood dripped from her fingertips.

"Yes. I'm tired of living." Her voice was barely audible. "That's why I fear nothing now."

Lily coughed violently in Adrian's arms, flashing Stella a triumphant smirk.

The absurdity struck Stella. Such clumsy theatrics, yet someone still bought the performance.

"We're filing for divorce. Now." Adrian's tone was glacial.

"Seven days." Stella raised her bloodied hand. "Not a day less."

"What gives you the right to threaten me?"

"Lily's secrets." Stella took two measured steps forward. "Shall I share them with the press? Would your wedding still proceed as planned?"

Adrian's pupils constricted.

"Relax. I only want seven nights." Stella's voice softened unexpectedly. "Watch the stars with me. Like... before."

Lily clutched Adrian's sleeve. "Don't listen to her!"

Stella chuckled. "Or should I call the Financial Weekly reporter now? They'd adore an exclusive about your fiancée."

Adrian's knuckles cracked under the strain of his clenched fist. Finally, he relented. "Seven days."

"Eight p.m. Our old spot." Stella turned toward the staircase, waving her crimson-stained hand without looking back. "Bring the telescope. Orion will be spectacular tonight."

Her footsteps faded as Lily's hysterical sobs erupted behind her.

Stella pulled out her phone. Tears splashed onto the screen as Ethan's photo appeared.

"Mommy's coming for you soon," she whispered.