Chapter 158

[ 490 words ]

This was a testament to Stella’s will to survive.

Whenever Ronald interrogated her, she’d snap instantly, refusing to believe he wasn’t aware that there was absolutely no connection between her and Jeremy.

Seeing her panic, Ronald couldn’t help but tighten his grip around her waist.

“Ronald, you don’t believe me?” Stella asked.

“Of course, I believe you.”

He had always believed in his Star.

As for Jeremy…

Ronald’s gaze drifted to the trash can briefly, a clear chill passing through his eyes.

Hearing his affirmation, Stella felt a tad more at ease.

Finally, Ronald let her go.

“Why are you here now?” Stella inquired.

“Just thought I’d drop by,” Ronald said.

Stella thought to herself, given his busy schedule, this casual visit must have everyone else on edge.

Ronald didn’t mention he knew about Cloudia passing out and Jaxon showing up. The Larkin family clearly didn’t see his Star as one of their own. He wouldn’t put it past them to even consider taking her life over their adopted daughter.

Ronald spent the afternoon in Stella’s office while she held two meetings. Everyone in the studio treated her with utmost respect.

Upon returning to her office, Stella was met with Ronald’s deep, indulgent gaze.

All the authority she had during the meetings dissipated, her hands fidgeting as she approached him. “Why are you looking at me like that?”

Ronald effortlessly pulled her onto his lap.

Stella tensed up immediately.

It seemed like he hadn’t fully grasped the fact that she had grown up.

This wasn’t good.

Playing with her slender, cold hands, Ronald remarked, “Star, you’ve really grown up.”

Her authoritative demeanor earlier reminded him of her childhood. She was utterly spoiled by him, always leading the other kids in their games.

As Ronald recalled her feisty little self, his fondness for her deepened. His comment about her growing up made Stella mutter, “Then why are you still holding me like this?” “Hmm? Don’t you like it, Star?”

His question caught Stella off guard, leaving her wondering if she could admit her feelings.

Could he hold her like this forever if she confessed her liking?

Seeing Stella’s hesitation, Ronald squeezed her hand, “Don’t like it?”

Stella was in turmoil.

“Can I say I like it?”

She couldn’t bear to meet Ronald’s gaze, turning her face away as she spoke.

Her feelings for Ronald hadn’t always been pure. Sibling affection and romantic affection were different.

The mere thought of crossing the boundary into romantic territory was enough to stop Stella in her tracks, fearing the consequences if Ronald didn’t reciprocate her feelings.

Lost in her thoughts, Stella failed to notice the softening in Ronald’s demeanor at her admission. He chuckled softly, his long fingers toying with her hair. “I’ve asked our chef to prepare hot wings for you tonight.”

The mention of the food instantly perked Stella up.

“You do?”

“Absolutely.”

Back when Ronald wasn’t around, she and Susanna would indulge in them at least once a week. But Ronald had put a stop to it upon his arrival. Now that he was finally giving in, Stella’s excitement nearly drove her to plant a kiss on him.

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