Chapter 111
Chapter 111:
He’d never seen her like this before. Not when they were married. Not once. Back then, she was always modest. But this woman? Radiant, confident, sexy as hell? This was a version of Stella he had never met.
Stella had planned to turn and leave. She didn’t want to spare a glance at either of them—Marc or Haley. As far as she was concerned, they didn’t exist.
But Haley wasn’t going to let that happen.
The moment she laid eyes on Stella—and that dress—something in her twisted with jealousy.
She clutched her lambskin purse tight enough to wrinkle the leather, eyes scanning Stella from head to toe. Her voice came low and snide. “Marc, I never realized Ms. Russell had such a bold side. Is she dressed like that to meet William? Funny, she never wore anything like that for you.”
The words hit Marc like a slap.
His jaw clenched. His mind flashed with the image of Stella—his Stella—dressed like that, walking into William’s arms. His anger bubbled over.
He stormed out of the elevator and stood directly in Stella’s path, eyes narrowed, voice cold. “This is what you meant when you said you weren’t getting cozy with another man? You dress like this for him? What’d he give you—money? Gifts? Is that what it takes now?”
He didn’t even wait for her response before turning to Haley and adding, “You’re better than this, Haley. At least you’re not chasing men for handouts.”
Haley jumped on the opportunity, her tone dripping with condescension. “Clearly someone was raised without any manners. I suppose when you grow up without proper values, you end up selling yourself short.”
Stella let out a sharp, mocking laugh. “Oh? Wasn’t the slap last time loud enough for you to learn some respect?”
She stepped closer, eyes glittering like polished steel. Her red dress clung to her frame, accentuating every graceful line of her figure. She looked stunning—and deadly.
“You want to talk about money?” she said coolly. “Marc, you’re broke. Living off a woman. Can’t even afford your own patent fees. So now you’re upset because someone else treats me well? Buys me clothes? If it bothers you so much, why don’t you buy something for Haley?” She tilted her head, feigning curiosity. “Or is it that she’s not worth it—or just too proud to accept your handouts?”
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Her words hit like daggers. Marc froze. Haley gaped. Stella didn’t wait for a reply. She turned and walked away with confidence—back straight, heels sharp against the floor, every step dripping with poise. Marc watched her disappear, something hollow expanding in his chest. It hit him then. Stella really didn’t care about him anymore. Not even a little.
Haley stood frozen beside him, fuming.
Her fists clenched at her sides.
Why? Why was he still looking after Stella like that?
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