Chapter 141
Chapter 141:
Stella couldn’t help but laugh, immediately catching the concern in her friend’s voice. “It’s fine, I promise. The gallery’s legit, and the painting really is a gift—for you.”
But Sharon didn’t look convinced. Her eyes narrowed suspiciously, and she leaned in closer. “Alright, spill it. Something’s not adding up. What aren’t you telling me, huh?”
Stella sighed in defeat. “Alright,” she said with a sigh, “I wasn’t trying to keep secrets, but… I’m Stellarion. I painted that, so yeah—it’s free.”
Sharon froze. “Wait… what?” She stared at Stella like the latter had just grown wings. “You’re joking. You’re Stellarion? As in the art-world genius? The mysterious painter no one’s ever seen, whose works are practically legend?”
Sharon could hardly believe it.
The artist she and her grandfather admired was her best friend all along. Wow, Stella did a great job keeping it a secret.
Meanwhile, Lottie had already finished wrapping the painting, handing it over with both hands. The two finally stepped out of the gallery.
As they stepped out of the gallery, Sharon was still in awe. “Stel, I seriously thought you were broke after the whole Marc mess, but nope—you’re loaded! A single painting of yours sells for millions! How did you keep this a secret for so long?”
Stella laughed as Sharon hugged her excitedly, both of them totally unaware that someone had been listening just around the corner.
In a shadowed alley nearby, William had stopped in his tracks. He hadn’t meant to eavesdrop—but hearing the name “Stellarion” fall from Sharon’s lips caught his attention. And then came the rest.
He knew the name well. Stellarion’s work had made waves in the art world—abstract and powerful. He’d tried more than once to purchase a piece, but they were always sold out before he could get a word in.
Stella… was Stellarion?
He had known her for over six months, and she still managed to keep that a secret?
Stay tuned
He chuckled softly to himself.
She was full of surprises.
Stella and Sharon, oblivious to William’s presence, continued chatting as they walked out arm in arm.
Sharon’s bodyguard opened the car door, and she slid into the backseat, lowering the window to wave. “Call me later, Stel! See ya!”
Stella nodded with a smile, watching Sharon’s car disappear down the road before crossing the street.
But as she reached the middle of the crosswalk, a loud roar shattered the calm. VROOOOM.
A motorcycle shot out from the corner, speeding straight toward her.
.
.
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