Cross My Tigress Face the Wrath [Stella] (Chapters 321 to 330)

Chapter 321

Suddenly, Ronald’s phone buzzed again.

Glancing at the number, he stopped teasing Stella and headed straight to the study.

Stella’s own phone rang shortly after; it was Susanna.

“Oh my, Star! I’ve got some juicy news for you.”

Stella replied, “What’s so juicy?”

Honestly, what could be juicier than spotting Blaise with a woman, pushing a stroller at the Cherry Galleria?

If there was one thing about Susanna, it was her knack for stumbling upon scandalous tidbits wherever she went.

Susanna continued, “I’ve got three hot topics for you: one about Yorick Quarry, one about Blaise, and one about Cloudia. Which one do you want first?”

Three of them?

Stella didn’t care. “You pick.”

After all, they were all equally intriguing.

Susanna started, “Imogen is on the hunt for a marriage partner for Yorick. She’s officially put the word out.”

Stella responded, “Ursula’s going to be fuming, isn’t she?”

Everyone knew about Ursula’s feelings for Yorick. If it was love, then why had she been dating several guys while abroad? If it wasn’t, why did she cling to him like glue whenever she was in Portis City?

Before Susanna could respond, Stella added, “With all the drama between him and Ursula, who in their right mind would consider marrying him now?”

Not to mention Yorick’s messy past engagement with her. After the scandal Stella herself had stirred up, any respectable family in Portis City would think twice before offering their daughter as a potential bride for Yorick.

Susanna chuckled. “Oh, but honey, the Quarrys are still the top brass in Portis City. Plenty of folks would jump at the chance.”

Stella sighed.

Right, she’d momentarily forgotten the stature of the Quarry family. Even though they’d suffered a blow by not partnering with Ronald, they were still a force to be reckoned with. A wounded lion is still a lion. And they’d managed to keep the news about their irreplaceable mineral under wraps. Most people just assumed the Quarrys wanted to distance Yorick from the Larkin family’s sickly reputation, hence the push for him to marry.

Stella suggested, “Should we leak this to Ursula? Let her know the truth?”

“I’ve already tipped off Vivian Warner,” Susanna revealed.

Vivian was Ursula’s best friend, and if Vivian knew, Ursula would find out soon enough. Those two were always scheming, each with more cunning ideas than the last.

Stella remarked, “If Vivian spills the beans, that friendship’s as fake as it gets.”

“Wasn’t it always? Vivian’s jealousy of Ursula is no secret, except to Ursula herself.

Stella chuckled, “True enough.”

Susanna moved on. “Now, about that baby… it’s practically confirmed that Blaise is the father.” Stella asked, “What’s your evidence?”

“The woman is the CFO of the Larkin Group,” Susanna revealed, her investigative prowess shining through.

Stella exclaimed, “Dipping into the company pool, huh?”

Susanna added, “Blaise was at the hospital with her for a whole week while she was giving birth.”

If the kids weren’t Blaise’s, that would be a shocker. “And get this, they’re twins – a boy and a girl.”

Stella couldn’t help but laugh. “At his age, he’s really going all out, isn’t he?”

Susanna agreed, “You said it. Your dear old dad’s still got it.”

Stella grimaced. “Ugh… imagine if Cloudia finds out. She’ll lose it.”

The CFO was a big deal, controlling the company’s finances. Cloudia had always felt secure because she believed Jaxon was Blaise’s sole heir, ensuring her position in the Larkin family.

But now? This changed everything.

Scandalous!

Susanna continued, “Oh, she’ll definitely explode.”

Stella asked, “And what about Cloudia? Is there more drama?”

Susanna laughed. “Oh, Lola just gave her a piece of her mind.”

“You were at the hospital again?”

“Nope, just got a call from doctor friend there. Apparently, Lola tore into Cloudia for not letting her see Jaxon.” Stella was intrigued, “Really?”

“Yeah, Lola caused quite the scene, accusing Cloudia’s adopted daughter of being loose, egging her on to steal her biological daughter’s fiancé, and even trying to pair her with her biological son. It got ugly.”

Chapter 322

Stella was left speechless.

Encouraging her adopted daughter to snatch her biological daughter’s fiancé? Pushing for her adopted daughter to get with her biological son?

What Cloudia had done to her before was practically this.

And then there was Jaxon. Ever since Ursula had fallen ill, Cloudia frequently wanted him around.

The whole family seemed to revolve around Ursula.

Susanna’s voice broke Stella’s train of thought. “I mean, it’s pretty obvious Jaxon hasn’t been visiting Lola and the kid much lately, especially now that he’s been injured so badly because of Ursula. And now, Lola is downright furious with him, not even give his mom a pleasant look. Just exploded.”

Susanna spoke animatedly. Even through the phone, Stella could practically feel her excitement. If you didn’t know better, you’d think it was Susanna’s archenemy who had taken a hit this time.

Stella said, “Things were already pretty tense before. Lola’s got quite a fiery temper.”

That period had been tough on Cloudia.Eventually, Jaxon stepped in to calm things down, managing to keep Lola quiet for a while. But now, with Jaxon injured because of Ursula and Lola depending on him, it’s no surprise she’s stirring things up again.

Susanna chuckled. “She’s definitely fiery. I’ll send you the video. Today, the Larkin family really outdid themselves. The Patels are definitely going to hear about it.”

“Send it to me first.”

“Alright.”

Just after hanging up the call, the maid knocked on the door and respectfully called out, “Miss.”

“What’s up?”

“Dr. Finley asked me to inform you to head to the boxing room immediately.”

Stella tilted her head. “What for?”

“He mentioned that Mr. Ronald is there as well.”

Stella raised an eyebrow. Ronald was there, but why was Finley calling for her?

“Alright, I’ll go check it out.”

Since Ronald was there, she decided to head over.

She got up and headed downstairs.

Mist Bay was massive, boasting all kinds of amenities. Stella walked through the glass corridor, past the billiard room, while snow continued to fall outside the glass.

From a distance, he could hear Finley’s voice echoing through the space.

“I can’t do it anymore. Are you trying to kill me or what?”

When Stella reached the doorway, she paused, taking in the scene. Ronald gestured with a flick of his hand, and two bodyguards stepped forward to lift to continue running laps.

Stella blinked, utterly baffled.

What’s going on?

Finley’s voice rang out. I’m telling you, Star won’t like you if you’re like this. You’re too harsh.”

Ronald sat comfortably in a chair, a cigar perched between his fingers. His half-open shirt gave him an austere, commanding air.

He took a slow puff from the cigar, his tone calm but authoritative. “Add ten more laps.”

Finley shouted in desperation, “Five laps are already killing me, and you want ten more? Are you even human?”

Stella glanced at the sweat-drenched Finley, who indeed seemed spent.

Idris, standing behind Ronald, was the first to notice Stella.

He leaned in and whispered, “Sir, Miss is here.”

Ronald turned at the mention and locked eyes with Stella at the door.

Ronald beckoned her over. “Star, come here.”

Upon hearing Stella’s arrival, Finley looked like he’d seen his savior. He swore that if he made it out alive today, he would never joke about Stella again. And he’d stay out of her business.

Ronald was just too terrifying.

What was Stella? She was his and only he could lecture her, protect her, or care for her.

Anyone else? Ronald would deal with them personally.

Stella walked over, and Ronald pulled her into his lap, handing his cigar to Idris.

“What’s Finley doing?” Stella asked.

Ronald replied, “Making sure he’s fit enough. A good doctor should have the stamina for at least ten surgeries.”

Stella was at a loss for words.

Was that really necessary?

“But he doesn’t need that kind of stamina right now, does he?”

Finley was her personal doctor now, not exactly performing ten surgeries a day.

Ronald said, “I’m doing it for his own good.”

Stella was left speechless.

Why did that sound so familiar?

Chapter 323

Finley was out of breath.

Even though he leaned heavily on the bodyguard, the whole experience was anything but pleasant. Especially since Ronald’s men were pretty skilled at what they did. While they were technically holding him up, Finley still had to put in some effort to keep his feet moving.

As soon as he saw Stella approaching, Finley shouted, “Star, you gotta talk some sense into him! Your brother’s got a vendetta or something!”

Stella just shrugged and said, “He says it’s for your own good.”

Hearing that, Finley was on the verge of panic.

“I don’t need him deciding what’s good for me!”

Seriously, if anyone wanted this kind of help, they could have it. He sure didn’t.

Ronald, with a firm grip, took Stella by the waist. “Why aren’t you wearing something warmer?”

The weather had been freezing lately. Snow hadn’t stopped falling for days.

Stella replied, “I’ve been indoors all day. It’s fine.”

She hadn’t stepped outside, and Ronald wasn’t about to let her, either.

Meanwhile, Finley was still running and still shouting.

Stella glanced at Ronald with concern. “Why’s he running, really?”

“For his own good,” Ronald repeated.

Stella blinked, unconvinced. She wasn’t buying that explanation.

At that moment, her phone rang. It was Susanna calling.

Stella gave Ronald a look. “It’s Susie. I’ll take this call.”

“Alright,” Ronald replied, releasing his hold on her waist.

Stella stepped away with her phone. As she did, Finley’s desperate voice grew louder. “Star, you can’t just leave me hanging!

“Don’t worry, Ronald won’t let you die.”

Hopefully, after today, Finley would think twice before running his mouth

Stella walked off with the phone.

Ronald took the cigar Idris handed him and added casually, “Five more laps for him.”

Finley, panting, shouted back, “Ronald, you’re a real piece of work! I’m doing this for you, you know!”

Idris raised an eyebrow, silently thinking to himself, that Finley’s mouth was definitely asking for trouble today.

Stella answered Susanna’s call.

“Hey, Susie.

Susanna’s voice came through, excited and a bit breathless. “Star, there’s a fight going on! You gotta hear this…”

There was a sharp smack over the line, followed by Sirena’s angry shout. “Who are you calling a homewrecker? I’m gonna tear you apart today!”

“Yeah, I’m talking about you! Jaxon’s got a kid now. You’re trying to play stepmom?”

Cloudia’s voice cut in, trying to mediate. “Everyone just stop it. Lola, shut your mouth.”

“Shut my mouth? No wonder you’ve been blocking my marriage to Jaxon, even ignoring your own grandson. Didn’t know you had someone better in mind!”

Cloudia was at a loss for words.

“The Patel family princess, huh? Blind or just into taken men?”

Sirena yelled back, “That’s it, I’m done with you!”

Even just listening, Stella could tell things were in complete chaos on the other end of the line.

Susanna’s gleeful voice chimed back in, full of mischief. “Star, you catching all this? Need me to get closer for a better listen?”

Stella couldn’t help but smile. “I thought you weren’t going to the hospital today. What changed?”

Susanna laughed, “I heard there’d be some drama, and I had to see for myself. My back’s killing me from the fall, came to get it checked out, and bam, ran into Sirena! As soon as I saw her, I knew there’d be fireworks, so I dragged myself here despite the pain.”

Stella sighed. Typical Susanna, always drawn to where the gossip burned hottest.

Still, thanks to her, Stella could get a glimpse of the unfolding drama without lifting a finger. Susanna clicked her tongue dramatically. “Oh boy, it’s getting ugly. I’ll send you a video.”

“Great.”

She realized she hadn’t even had the chance to view the earlier clip Susanna had sent.

After hanging up, she opened the first video. It was filmed in the corridor outside Jaxon’s hospital room. In the clip, Cloudia was blocking Lola from going in.

Things escalated quickly.

Lola’s voice rang out, dripping with sarcasm. “The Larkin family really hit the jackpot marrying someone like you, huh? Can’t tell family from strangers, and now you’re favoring the foster daughter?”

Chapter 324

“Are you seriously encouraging your adopted daughter to steal your biological daughter’s fiancé? What’s next? Are you planning to match your biological son with your adopted daughter too?”

Cloudia was so furious she was ready to slap Lola. But Lola wasn’t one to back down easily. She grabbed Cloudia’s wrist and pushed her away.

“What’s the matter? Feeling embarrassed and angry now, Mrs. Larkin? How can you be so disgusting?”

Cloudia shot back, “What did you just say? You think I’m disgusting?”

“Yeah, I do. Aren’t you? Or are you planning to have your adopted daughter keep your husband company too? That way, your whole family could be tied together, right?”

Stella was at a loss for words.

Wow. Lola’s fighting spirit had really amped up. She had never been one to back down, even against Cloudia’s money, and now she was downright fearless.

Soon after, a new video from Susanna came through.

Stella clicked on it, and the video showed a chaotic scene with Lola and Sirena getting into a scuffle.

Cloudia tried to help Sirena, but Lola effortlessly tossed her aside, leaving her struggling on the ground.

Susanna’s call came in.

“Did you see that?”

Stella replied, “Yeah, I saw it.”

Susanna added, “After today, the Patel family will probably be furious with Jaxon too. This counts as a marriage scam, you know.”

Stella nodded. “With the kid involved, it definitely counts as a scam.”

“Oh, and by the way, once Cloudia cools down, she’ll dig up those photos of Mr. Larkin with that woman at Cherry Galleria.”

Stella’s lips twitched. That was fast. “You’re not giving them any breathing room, are you?”

Susanna chuckled. “Well, I’m not sure who I’m doing this for. Guess I’m playing favorites here, helping your real mom.” Stella sighed.

Was this really helping? It felt more like stirring the pot, but she couldn’t deny she enjoyed the chaos.

“Right, right, we need to correct our mistakes and know who to favor,” Stella said with a hint of schadenfreude, making her way toward the main building.

Suddenly, a shadow flitted across the snow-covered ground under the lights.

Stella’s heart skipped a beat, and instincts kicked in.

Before she could fully process it, a cold gust of wind brushed past her from behind.

Stella reacted swiftly. She hurled her phone backward.

The shadow dodged, then lunged toward her.

She evaded, but her opponent was fast, closing in on her with every step. Alarmed, she found herself forced into a fight. She urgently shouted, “Help! Somebody!”

Seeing her call for help, the person initially seemed to want to toy with her, but then quickly subdued her. Her slender wrist was twisted behind her back, and a warm palm clamped over her mouth, silencing her. Meanwhile, Ronald was leisurely enjoying a cigar, watching Finley work himself into exhaustion. Suddenly, he thought he heard Stella’s voice. In an instant, he sprang to his feet, striding quickly outside. Idris noticed the urgency in his movements, paused for only a second, then followed without hesitation.

Stella struggled.

But the man easily restrained her.

“Star,” he whispered in her ear, a voice she hadn’t heard in years, yet one that was bone-deep familiar.

Stella’s breath hitched. Her pupils contracted as anger, fear, and a myriad of complicated emotions flashed across her eyes.

She fought harder, her desperation rising.

But in his arms, she was like a lamb caught in the grip of a predator, so helpless.

“Mmm, mmm…

Stella tried to speak, but his and over her mouth muffled her words.

Nearby, there were sounds of people approaching.

Stella lifted her eyes and saw Ronald from around the corner.

As their gazes locked, Stella’s struggles intensified.

Chapter 325

Just then, the man chuckled softly. “Star, you’re still as disobedient as ever.”

And with that, he delivered a swift karate chop to the back of her neck.

Stella’s struggles ceased instantly, her vision fading into darkness as her strength drained away, leaving her completely limp.

Amidst the haze, she vaguely heard Ronald’s furious shout, “Xander Schultz, how dare you!”

Xander spoke something into his walkie-talkie, and immediately, there was a loud ‘bang.’

The glass shattered on cue. The entire Mist Bay erupted into a cacophony of gunfire.

Ronald, seething with anger, drew his gun in one swift motion, leveling it directly at Xander, who had Stella slung over his arm like a rag doll.

“Put her down,” he commanded sternly.

But Xander didn’t flinch. Instead, he shifted Stella’s unconscious body in front of him like a shield. “Go ahead. Let’s see what’s tougher, your bullet or her body?”

A dangerous glint flickered in Ronald’s eyes, his calm exterior barely masking the storm of fury roiling beneath.

Xander’s smug grin widened as he noticed the veins bulging on Ronald’s clenched hand. “What’s the matter? Forget that your old man promised her to me? I’m just here to collect my fiancée. What’s wrong with that?”

“Let her go,” Ronald gritted out, each word a testament to his anger.

Idris had his gun trained on Xander too, glancing at Ronald for direction.

Ronald, typically a sharpshooter, was stalled at the precipice of Stella’s life-or-death situation, his icy gaze like shards of glass.

Outside, chaos intensified.

Xander shot Ronald a mischievous smirk before tossing a smoke bomb. In the ensuing ‘boom,’ he whisked Stella away.

Ronald and Idris pursued them, but in the fog, they couldn’t risk firing blindly.

And then a helicopter’s drone hovered over Mist Bay.

Ronald’s fury reached its peak.

Harvey, the head of Mist Bay’s security, approached Ronald anxiously. “Sir.”

Ronald kicked him hard.

“You didn’t notice a thing?”

Harvey, who’d always been Ronald’s trusted aide in Ferrowland, was caught off guard by Xander’s stealthy infiltration.

Even Idris was taken aback. No one had expected Xander to show up in Portis City, let alone pull off such a brazen stunt. Ronald’s kick was no light tap – Harvey struggled to get back on his feet. He wanted to explain, but Idris shot him a warning glance.

With Stella in Xander’s clutches, excuses only dig his grave deeper.

Ronald closed his eyes, his fury simmering just beneath the surface. His voice was cold and dangerous. “Get moving. Fix

Idris nodded. “On it.”

Idris hurried off, with Harvey scrambling to make amends.

Outside, gunfire roared as Mist Bay’s security team clashed with Xander’s men.

About ten minutes later, silence fell.

Idris returned. “Sir, it’s all set. Xander’s men have been wiped out. Not one left standing.”

Ronald immediately went after Xander.

Stella couldn’t remain in his clutches, not after he witnessed Xander’s years of greed towards her. A cold glint flickered in Ronald’s eyes at the thought.

Stella was roused by the sound of helicopter rotors. She awoke groggily, realizing she was onboard a helicopter.

She lay haphazardly on the floor, with Xander sitting a short distance away. He lounged carelessly, legs crossed, sipping a glass of red wine while a doctor tended to the wound on his shoulder.

The pristine bandage was stained with alarming patches of red.

Noticing Stella was awake, Xander flashed a mischievous smile. “Impressive stamina, waking up in just half an hour.” The drone of the rotors made Stella’s head throb, but anger slowly filled her gaze as she looked at Xander. “Where are you taking me?” she demanded.

Xander replied, “Why don’t you guess, my fiancée?”

“Fiancée, my ass,” Stella snapped.

Xander’s words ignited her fury. The helicopter’s small space made it easy for her to scramble to her feet and lunge at him, aiming a kick at Xander.

Xander raised an eyebrow. Before he could respond, a bodyguard restrained Stella.

“Let go, let me go, “Stella struggled.

But her slender limbs were no match for these muscular bodyguards. Xander watched her futile struggles with mild amusement.

Chapter 326

Xander chuckled, his tone dripping with mockery. “So after Yvonne Quinn took you away for training a month, this is all you’ve got to show for it?”

He handed his glass of red wine to the doctor who had just finished bandaging him up. With a languid ease, he buttoned up his black shirt, his perfectly styled hair giving him the look of a charming boy next door.

But Stella knew better. Beneath that polished exterior, he was rotten to the core.

He settled next to her. Or do you think you’re so important to Ronald that he will always be there to protect you? Seething, Stella shot him a glare, wishing she could do more than just roll her eyes.

He was her curse.

Years ago, his sister had forced her away from Ronald, and now here he was, whisking her away again.

Xander watched her reaction, amusement dancing on his lips. “After all this time, it seems little Star hasn’t grown up.” “Don’t you dare use that vile mouth to say my name,” Stella snapped, her voice dripping with disdain.

Originally, the Schultz family and the Quinn family shared a deep bond. But after her father’s death, the Schultzes turned on them, kicking them while they were down. Stella hadn’t always disliked Xander, but now her loathing for him knew no bounds.

Xander rose and crouched beside her. Suddenly, the plane jolted, and he nearly fell against her. Stella quickly moved out of the way, but the motion made him wince, his injured hand hitting the floor with a painful thud.

“What the hell’s going on?” he demanded.

The pilot, one of his bodyguards, called back, “Mr. Quinn has caught up with us.”

A smile tugged at Xander’s lips as he glanced at Stella. “What’s his deal? Chasing after a girl he practically raised?”

The bodyguard had stopped restraining Stella, which gave her the perfect opportunity. Furious, she stood up and slapped Xander across the face.

“What business is it yours? Worry about your own damn self.”

Xander’s expression darkened. He grabbed her slender wrist, “You know, with a wrist this delicate, it wouldn’t take much to break it.”

Years on the run had only stoked Stella’s anger. Thanks to the Schultz family’s meddling, she had been separated from Ronald for too long. Seeing Xander only brought all of that pent-up fury to the surface.

Instead of fear, she felt defiance. Without hesitation, she sank her teeth into Xander’s hand, the metallic taste of blood filling her mouth within seconds.

“Ah…” Xander grunted, pain etched across his face.

He clamped his other hand around her jaw, his grip harsh and unyielding.

The pain made Stella release her bite. The moment their eyes met, her eyes glistened with tears, watery and resembling an angry little kitten.

Xander sneered, “You bite me till I’m bleeding, and you’re the one crying?”

In response, Stella spat the blood onto his face. “Disgusting. You can have it back.”

Xander’s teeth ground together in frustration. Before he could retort, the pilot’s voice cut in again, “Mr. Schultz, they’re closing in on us.”

“Shake them off,” Xander ordered, flinging Stella aside. “Tell Ronald if he keeps up this chase, I’ll take Stella with me and jump from this helicopter.”

Stella was stunned into silence.

The bodyguards exchanged uneasy glances. Was Mr. Schultz truly insane, threatening such a reckless move?

Xander turned to Stella, a wicked grin spreading across his face. “Tell me, Star, fancy going down in history with me?”

She was livid, “I’d rather haunt your ancestors.”

Xander tutted. “Such a dirty mouth. I preferred you back in Ferrowland. What kind of trash talk have you picked up these past years?”

He leaned in close, his thumb grazing her pale lips. But before he could continue his taunt, Stella clamped her teeth down on his thumb.

The bodyguards watched in stunned silence. This wasn’t just any hostage, this was a firebrand ready to strike back at any moment. And yet, despite her defiance, Mr. Schultz hadn’t snapped her neck in retaliation.

Xander gently tousled her hair. “Star, let go. Be a good girl.”

His calm tone only fueled her stubbornness, and she bit down even harder.

Chapter 327

The Lugar family and the Schultz family were locked in a bitter rivalry, a feud so deep it felt like it could tear the very sky apart.

Stella’s feelings toward Xander were more than resentment; they were a storm of betrayal and anger. Once, Xander had been Ronald’s brother, someone Ronald trusted implicitly. Stella, too, had seen him as family, even as his sister Regina Schultz pretended to be her close friend while secretly scheming.

Stella had been living in Portis City for several years, but the desire to see Xander pay for his betrayal never left her. Now, she finally had her chance.

Xander’s patience was waning as Stella continued biting him. “Star, let go,” he said, a hint of frustration in his voice. When she refused to release him, Xander gripped her jaw, forcing Stella to relinquish her hold with a wince of pain. “Send me back,” she demanded through clenched teeth.

Xander raised a brow. “I risked my neck to get you out of there, and you think that’s an option, my dear fiancée?”

With that, Stella spat a mouthful of blood at his face.

Wiping his face with a sigh, Xander remarked, “You’ve grown up, and with it, grown feistier. What happened to the sweet girl who used to follow Ronald around, calling him brother with that syrupy voice?”

Back in Ferrowland, she had been so obedient, so docile.

Now, she was like a wildcat.

Meanwhile, Idris relayed the latest intel to Ronald.

“Sir, Xander says if you keep pursuing, he’ll jump out of a plane with Ms. Stella as a last resort.”

Ronald’s eyes narrowed, his presence exuding a chilling aura.

“Find out what he wants.”

Idris nodded. “Yes, sir.”

Over in Mist Bay, Susanna was on the phone with Stella when the call was abruptly interrupted by alarming noises. Ignoring the pain in her backside, she rushed to Mist Bay, too wary to involve the police. She knew the people around Stella were not to be trifled with and feared that calling the cops might land Stella in more trouble.

Anxious but determined, she arrived just in time to witness Hull’s ruthless side firsthand. Smoke curled from the barrel of his gun, and even Finley, the usually carefree playboy, wore a steely edge as he holstered his weapon.

“Idris has been contacted,” Finley said, his usual flippancy gone. “They’ve got enough people; we don’t need to be there.”

Hull slid his gun back into its holster and turned, spotting Susanna staring at him from the car. Despite her fear, she couldn’t bring herself to speak. Blood stained the snow-covered ground, the crimson stark against the white, adding a chilling edge to the scene.

Finley noticed Susanna and sauntered over. “What brings you here? Didn’t get his pants the first time, so you’re back for another shot?”

Susanna was speechless, caught completely off guard.

Hearing Finley’s words, Hull stepped forward and slapped him on the back of the head.

“It seems Mr. Quinn was soft on you earlier, letting you off without making you run with a weighted pack.”

“You… you’re such a schemer.”

Those ten or so laps had nearly cost him his life. Weighted pack? Might as well just hand over his life to him. Hull turned to Susanna and asked, “What are you doing here?”

“I came to find Star. Is she okay?” Susanna mustered the courage to ask, her voice trembling.

Hull replied, “You won’t be seeing her for a while.”

“What? Why?”

“Her fiancé came to take her.”

Susanna was bewildered.

Fiancé? Stella had always been fond of Ronald, the man who raised her. So who was this fiancé? And was he the reason Mist Bay was in such chaos?

Hull lit a cigarette and took a drag, “Think you can head back home?”

Susanna nodded. “I can.”

“Good. This isn’t a place you should be.”

“But is Star in danger?” Susanna pressed, her concern evident.

She actually had a fiancé? So what was Yorick supposed to be, then?

It turned out Stella knew more big shots than just Ronald. Anyone who could turn Mist Bay into this mess was definitely not a simple character.

Hull exhaled a cloud of smoke, his gaze distant. “There shouldn’t be any danger, at most she’ll have to suffer a bit.”

That Xander was a piece of work.

Now that the truth between Stella and Ronald was out, there was no telling what he’d do next.

Chapter 328

Xander showing up in Portis City at this particular time likely meant he’d already caught wind of Stella being with Ronald.

Susanna’s eyes welled up with tears the moment she heard that Stella might be in trouble.

“What are we going to do? Mr. Quinn can bring her back, right? There’s nothing Mr. Quinn can’t do, right?”

But Stella’s temperament was far from smooth. She was headstrong, and Susanna genuinely feared that Stella’s blunt, straightforward nature might end up costing her.

Hull wasn’t in the mood to deal with Susanna, so he turned on his heel and walked away.

Finley watched Susanna standing there in the chilly breeze, looking utterly miserable and scratched his head.

“She doesn’t need you worrying about her. That girl knows how to charm people. Her fiancé wouldn’t dare do anything to her.”

Talking about Xander, though, that guy was truly shameless. It was just a casual remark from the elders, yet he took it to heart and went around Ferrowland proclaiming Stella as his fiancée.

For the past couple of years, he’d been on a relentless mission to find Stella, using the “fiancée” card at every turn. Ronald sent quite a few people out, practically ready to wipe Xander off the map, but Xander was a slippery one. It seemed like he lived to defy Ronald and didn’t care about the Schultz family or his sister Regina.

No matter what threats you threw at him, none of it fazed him.

Susanna sighed. “But Star and Mr. Quinn already…”

“Girl, worry about yourself. Hull’s the type to hold a grudge. You pantsed him, and you can bet he’ll settle that score one day.”

Susanna’s eyes widened, and she instinctively shrank back.

Hull, who had been walking away, suddenly turned and stormed back toward Finley, grabbing him by the collar and dragging him off like he was ready to make him pay for that loose tongue.

Meanwhile, Xander was negotiating on the other side, demanding something from Ronald.

Stella infuriated, aimed a kick at him. “Xander, you bastard! I’ll end you!”

But he caught her ankle with ease, pulling her into his lap with a sly grin. “Are you throwing yourself at me? Did you do the same with Yorick in Portis City? He didn’t seem to fall for your tricks.”

Already seething, Stella raised her hand to slap Xander across the face.

Xander effortlessly caught her wrist. “Star, are you really that eager to hit me?”

“You’re a backstabbing jerk, and I’d love nothing more than to tear you apart.”

She vividly remembered how Xander had turned on Ronald back in the and the memory still fueled her anger.

Xander chuckled. “Why don’t you guess how much you matter Ronald? Think he’d give me what I want because of you?”

Before he could finish, Xander let out a pained grunt.

Stella was no delicate flower; she bit down hard on his neck, right where it hurt the most, twisting his face in agony.

This little spitfire had learned to fight dirty in Portis City-no finesse, just straight-up brawling.

“Let go, or I’ll snap your neck,” he growled, the teasing entirely gone, replaced by a cold, deadly threat.

Stella wasn’t backing down. She bit harder, and Xander’s face turned livid. He yanked her by the scruff of her neck. “You crazy woman…”

The nearby doctor and bodyguards were alarmed, seeing blood trickling down Xander’s neck. The doctor rushed to tend to Xander.

Stella’s lips were stained with blood, giving her the appearance of an avenging angel.

He glared at Stella. “Do you really want me dead?”

She used to call him “brother” in such a sweet voice, but now all he saw were her sharp, venomous fangs.

Stella spat back, “You’re a born villain, just breathing pollutes the air.”

Her words stung, cutting deep.

Xander held it in, but he couldn’t help himself in the end.

He pulled out a gun and pointed it at Stella. “Do you really think I won’t shoot you right now?”

“Go ahead. Aim right here. You think I’m scared?”

Xander was taken aback.

When had this girl grown a backbone? She used to cower at the slightest threat, barely daring to breathe. And now, she was ready to face him head-on?

Chapter 329

Xander had been trying to shake off Ronald’s pursuit all day. By the time he finally made it back to Southvale, Patrina, he was practically running on fumes.

As soon as he stepped inside, he tossed his jacket toward Stella.

“Put this on,” he said gruffly.

She had been wearing her pajamas when they left, and after all the chaos, her clothes were a mess.

Stella shot him a fierce glare, and Xander huffed. “Who are you giving attitude to? Let me tell you, I’m not Ronald. I’m not going to pamper you. Put it on, now.”

Before he could blink, Stella threw the jacket back at him, hitting him square in the face. Enveloped in darkness for a brief moment, Xander yanked the jacket off, his irritation boiling over.

“Seriously, with that attitude, I can’t believe you managed to survive in Portis City without getting scammed,” he muttered. “Most people would know when to lie low.”

Stella snapped back, “Why do you care if I got scammed or not? Just give me my phone.”

The entire journey, she’d been itching to call Ronald, but she didn’t have her phone.

Xander’s expression turned grim. “You’re asking me for a phone?”

“Who else am I supposed to ask?” Stella retorted, clearly annoyed.

Xander asked, “Did you even bring a phone?”

Stella’s mind flashed to the moment she’d thrown her phone behind her during the escape. Her face fell. She hadn’t brought it with her after all.

“Realized it now, have you?” Xander said with a smirk.

Stella shot back, “Why didn’t you pick it up for me?”

Xander was incredulous. “Are you seriously asking me that? I was barely a step ahead of Ronald. You think I had time to fetch your phone? Has Ronald turned you into a spoiled princess all these years?”

“Yeah, a spoiled princess. If you don’t like it, feel free to return me back, ” Stella challenged, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

Xander was momentarily speechless. Not a chance.

“Fine, whatever,” Stella said rolling her eyes, her frustration palpable.

Xander knew Ronald had indulged her far too much.

I’m warning you, Xander growled, “Don’t try any funny business. I’ve got years of pent-up frustration, and you do not want to be on the receiving end.”

With that, Xander turned on his heel, leaving Stella behind. He’d spent five days on the road to get her out of there, barely catching an hour’s sleep a day. Now that they were back in Patrina, he was desperate for some rest.

After a long, hot shower, Xander collapsed into bed, his exhaustion catching up with him. But just as he was about to drift off, a loud explosion shook the entire house.

His instincts kicked in. In an instant, he was out of bed and by the window. Down in the yard, Stella stood with a mischievous grin, while the house staff scrambled to put out a fire.

The Butler rushed over to him, casting a reproachful glance at Stella. “Mr. Schultz.”

That look told Xander everything he needed to know. He turned to Stella, eyes narrowing. “Was this your doing?”

The kitchen was a mess, likely the result of a gas leak. Stella looked like the cat that got the cream.

“I didn’t mean to, really. I just wanted to cook some pasta for my fiancé,” she said, emphasizing the word ‘fiancé.’

The butler looked like he wanted to be anywhere but there.

Xander was livid, his rage simmering beneath the surface. He grits his teeth and points a finger at Stella. “Do you really have a death wish?”

Bandages were still wrapped around Xander’s neck, his shoulder, and his hand.

As Stella’s eyes darted around, inspecting him, Xander’s frustration flared. He snapped, “What are you looking at?”

“Just figuring out the best place to bite,” Stella said, baring her teeth.

Xander’s fury reached its peak. He dropped whatever he was holding and lunged at her, his patience finally snapping. “Do you want me to strangle you? he growled, grabbing her by the neck.

But before he could do anything more, Stella sank her teeth into his wrist.

Chapter 330

“Ow, Stella, what are you, a dog?” Xander yelped, caught off guard as Stella actually bit him.

He’d been wary the whole way back, knowing she might take a nip at him. But this time, Stella had been planning it for a while and managed to bite off a piece of flesh.

When she spit the mouthful onto the grass, the butler just stood there, speechless. Xander glanced from the bloody mess on the ground to his bleeding wrist, utterly stunned.

“Stella,” he fumed, “I’m gonna knock every single one of your teeth out.”

If he didn’t make her regret that bite, he’d feel less of a man. Just then, his phone buzzed, interrupting his thoughts. It was Ronald.

On their way back, to avoid Ronald’s tracking, they’d turned off anything with a signal, including their phones. That had been the only reason they managed to escape.

The moment he switched the phone on, Ronald was calling. Xander thought about how much Ronald cared for Stella and all their intimacy in Portis City. His anger flared up again, like a lion whose pride had been threatened.

He shot Stella a glare before answering, “Hey, Ronald, have you thought things over? Is your sister really worth it?”

“If she loses even a hair, Xander, I’ll make sure Regina pays,” Ronald warned.

Xander was at a loss for words. He wasn’t sure about her hair, but he was definitely missing some skin here.

“Threaten me with Regina?” Xander scoffed. “Listen, Ronald, Regina has no hold over me now.”

Stella raised an eyebrow at Xander. What was he talking about? That was his own sister. Seemed like there were more than just one crazy family around here.

“My patience is wearing thin, Bro Ronald. For old times’ sake, cut me some slack,” Xander pushed. “You’ve been on my tail for two years, making my life hell. If you keep this up, I’ll deal with Stella right now.”

As Xander’s frustration grew, he became almost frantic.

Stella watched him, slightly bewildered. Had Ronald’s relentless pursuit driven him mad? Why was he even bringing up their past bond now? Did he really think they still had any bond left?

Ronald’s voice came through, low and dangerous. “You wouldn’t dare.”

“Listen, Ronald, I’ve got nothing to lose,” Xander shot back before hanging up abruptly.

He tossed his phone onto the lawn, lit a cigarette, and took a deep drag. His eyes still carried that wild look when he turned back to Stella.

She just stared at him, dumbfounded.

“What? Are you scared?” he taunted.

Scared? Not really. She couldn’t help but feel a bit sorry for Xander. His brother had driven him to such madness.

“Talk.”

“About what?”

“Tell me if you’re scared of me.”

“Terrified, absolutely petrified,” Stella said, hoping it might somehow boost his ego.

But then Xander laughed, a sound that matched his twisted expression. Given the past two years with Ronald, maybe he had every right to be a bit unhinged.

Stella sighed. “I still don’t get why you two are at each other’s throats.”

They’d grown up together, after all. He knew Ronald’s stubborn nature well.

“And as far as I remember, you and Regina were never that close.”

So why did he help Regina take away her mom and Yvonne, just so Regina could force her to leave?

Xander’s eyes narrowed at the mention of Regina. His expression turned icy. “You’re clueless, and so is Ronald. He’s driving me nuts.”

Stella blinked, confused. Was he overreacting, or had she touched a nerve?

Xander turned away, clearly done with the conversation.

“You better me back home,” Stella called after him.

“Not a chance.”

She clenched her jaw. Fine! they’d see how that decision worked out for him.

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