Cross My Tigress Face the Wrath [Stella] (Chapters 381 to 390)

Chapter 381

Finley strolled over to the liquor cabinet and poured himself a glass of red wine. Just as he took a sip, Ronald emerged from the lounge.

Finley couldn’t help but cough as Ronald shot him a disapproving glance. “What’s got into you? Seen a ghost or something?”

Finley patted his chest. “You, uh, you were fast.”

Ronald was left speechless.

Nearby, Idris was busy working on his laptop. He overheard Finley’s comment and quietly decided it was time to relocate to another lounge area.

He had figured it out by now – keeping his distance from someone like Finley was a smart move. Get too close, and you might end up in a messy situation.

As Idris moved away, Finley realized he might have spoken too hastily. “I didn’t mean – well, you know…”

He had heard some noises coming from the lounge earlier and had wisely decided to make himself scarce. But he’d barely had time to enjoy his wine before Ronald approached.

“Do we have any more of those ointment around for there?”

Finley was puzzled. “Huh?”

Ronald explained, “It’s a bit severe.”

The poor girl had been quite distressed during the examination, and he hadn’t anticipated causing such a fuss.

Finley’s eyes widened in realization. So that was what Ronald and Stella were up to in the lounge; he was checking on Stella’s injury.

What the…

Finley almost blurted out something else but caught Ronald’s warning glare and swallowed his words. He turned to the first-aid kit, found a couple more meds, and handed them to Ronald. “Use these with what I gave you before.”

Ronald took the meds and was about to leave when Finley couldn’t help himself. “I get you’re in a hurry, but…”

Ronald turned back with a frosty look, cutting him off.

Finley got the message and quickly shut his mouth. “What trying to say is, take it easy on her. Girls are delicate. At least wait until she fully recovers.”

Ronald gave Finley one last icy glance before exiting without another word.

Left alone, Finley raised his glass, finishing the wine in one gulp. He couldn’t help but chuckle to himself. “Xander thinks he can compete? Not a chance.”

Ronald had practically wrapped Stella in a bubble of protection. Xander wouldn’t stand a chance. Finley recalled the time Xander had tried to take Stella away, and Ronald had looked ready to tear Shawn apart.

……

Inside the lounge, Ronald gently coaxed Stella out from under the blankets.

She resisted, wriggling away. “No, I don’t want to…”

“It’s just for the injury. No need to be shy,” Ronald reassured her.

Stella was still hesitant. It was embarrassing enough to be injured there, and now he wanted to apply the ointment himself. She felt like she had no privacy left.

“I can do it myself.”

“You…”

“Please, I don’t want to.”

Her voice rose in desperation, loud enough that Finley, still savoring his wine outside, nearly dropped his glass.

……

After a couple of hours’ flight, Stella was fast asleep on the plane, exhausted. Thankfully, Ronald hadn’t disturbed her this time, only applying the ointment once more while she slumbered. Too tired to protest, she’d felt his gentle touch but couldn’t summon the energy to object.

Sir, it’s time to wake Ms. Quinn.

The plane had been on the ground for an hour, and noticing Stella still hadn’t emerged, Idris knew she was still sleeping. With their scheduled meeting approaching, they couldn’t afford any more delays.

Ronald glanced at his watch and nodded, rising to head back to the lounge where Stella was still asleep.

Chapter 382

Inside the room, Stella was still deep in slumber.

“Star, Star?”

Ronald called to her softly. Stella mumbled something incoherent, turned over, and seemed determined to keep sleeping. With a sigh, Ronald picked up her clothes and gently lifted her from the bed, trying to coax her into waking up.

Stella blinked groggily, her eyes barely open. “What’s going on? Are we there yet?”

Ronald chuckled, “Your phone’s been buzzing non-stop, and it’s time for us to get off the plane.”

As he spoke softly, he helped her into her clothes. The weather between Portis City and Cyris Isle was as different as night and day.

Stella was too drowsy to protest and allowed him to help her. By the time she was fully dressed, she had finally started to wake up properly.

Hearing her phone’s incessant buzzing, Stella answered without checking the caller ID. “Hello?”

“Star, it’s me.”

Tegan James’s voice came through the line, snapping Stella to full alertness. “Tegan? How did you get this number?” Tegan replied, “You gave it to me.”

“Oh, right.”

Since Ronald had changed her phone, Stella had been careful about who got her new number, hoping to cut off ties with the Larkin family.

“So, what’s up?”

“I arrived in Portis City about six hours ago.”

Stella raised an eyebrow. “And?”

“Mrs. Larkin has been camped outside, insisting on seeing me. She won’t leave.”

Stella sighed. Cloudia had heard about Tegan’s return to Portis City and was now staking out the Horner family home.

Her persistence for the sake of Ursula was unmatched. Even with all the drama Lola had caused over Ursula, Cloudia still thought of seeking out Tegan.

“Maybe you should go see her?” Stella advised. “Hmm?”

“Remember to give her a glimmer of hope.”

Tegan was taken aback.

Giving Ursula hope? Wouldn’t that just lead to more despair?

Before leaving Portis City, Tegan had reviewed Ursula’s medical reports. The prognosis was grim.

From her years of medical experience, Tegan knew Ursula’s body was failing rapidly, with a life expectancy of less than six months.

And that was with medical intervention. Without surgery, Ursula’s time was even shorter.

And now, without having undergone surgery or receiving proper medical care, what hope was there?

“You’re suggesting I cause her both physical and emotional pain.”

Hope might be the cruelest gift of all. Tegan suddenly grasped Stella’s intent.

“When someone sees no hope, they might choose to end things swiftly,” Stella explained.

“Got it.”

The idea was to prevent Ursula from finding an easy escape.

Years ago, Ursula had attempted to harm Stella in the most vicious ways possible.

Beyond the car accident, she had tried to interfere at the hospital. If Tegan and Susanna hadn’t acted quickly, Stella might not have survived.

Reflecting on it now, Tegan was relieved that they had managed to keep Stella safe.

Had something happened to Stella, with her status as the cherished daughter of the Lugar family, Mr. Quinn would have torn through Portis City in retribution.

“So, I’ll head to the Larkin family. Dinner together tonight?”

Stella glanced at Ronald and, feeling the discomfort in her body, replied, “Let’s do it tomorrow.”

She had no desire to go anywhere today, still feeling the lingering ache.

Tegan agreed, “Alright.”

After hanging up, Ronald scooped her up with a tender smile. “Such a good girl, thinking about your health first.”

“Well, when I’m in this much pain, going out is the last thing I want to do.”

Whether she was being good or not, the discomfort was very real.

Ronald didn’t say another word, simply carried her off the plane.

In the past, Stella might have insisted on walking herself, but today she didn’t. She meekly nestled her face against Ronald’s chest, content to be cared for.

Chapter 383

Cloudia had been waiting outside the Horner residence.

She had come here the moment she heard Tegan returned home two hours ago, determined to wait as long as it took.

Whether it was because of the Larkin family’s recent misfortunes or some other reason, she couldn’t even get past the front gate.

The doorman had been firm, insisting she leave, saying Tegan wouldn’t see her. But leaving wasn’t an option. The thought of Ursula’s suffering weighed heavily on her heart, urging her to persist.

Finally, Tegan emerged.

Cloudia rushed forward, her voice trembling with desperation, “Ms. James, please, I beg you, help my daughter.”

Tegan crossed her arms, her expression indifferent as she asked. “Which daughter are you talking about?”

Cloudia’s face froze at her question, her voice caught in her throat. “My… my adopted daughter, Ursula.”

“Oh, adopted daughter, huh? The way you were acting, I thought it was your own flesh and blood, Stella, who was in trouble.”

Cloudia was momentarily speechless at the mention of Stella, her lips twitching as she struggled to respond. “Could you at least come by the Larkin’s place, please?”

Tegan shrugged, “Alright, but let me be clear, I wasn’t planning on making this trip. It was your actual daughter who called me, asking me to check in.”

“You say Star called you? Asked you to see Ursula?” Cloudia was astonished, disbelief etched on her face.

Stella, being kind to Ursula? It seemed impossible. She could hardly believe that Stella would want anything but Ursula’s decease.

“Ms. James, you must have misheard. Star would never…”

“Are you implying I can’t hear straight? If that’s the case, how can you trust me to check on Ursula?”

“I…” Cloudia hesitated, then relented. “Thank you then.”

Tegan’s disdain grew as she watched Cloudia’s reluctance at the mention of Stella. She scoffed, “Save your gratitude, and maybe start appreciating your own daughter more.”

Cloudia went silent, feeling her chest tighten with frustration at Tegan’s words, a surge of anger barely contained.

Stella was the last person she wanted to think about right now. The Larkin family’s downfall was Stella’s doing. What good could possibly come from remembering her?

But at the moment, Ursula’s situation was pressing. She had to stay calm. “You’re right, Ms. James.”

Tegan’s smirk widened, and she turned to head to her car.

Cloudia hurried after her. “Ms. James, I drove here myself.”

“No thanks, the Larkin family has a sketchy track record with mechanics. I’ll stick with my own wheels,” Tegan replied, a thinly veiled reference to the crash that had been pinned on Ursula.

Even with all the evidence pointing to Ursula, the Larkin family had chosen to believe in her innocence.

Tegan drove off without another word, leaving Cloudia standing there, her body tense with frustration and her anger towards Stella simmering just beneath the surface.

With a final exasperated breath, she jumped into her car, determined to keep pace with Tegan.

Meanwhile, Stella had already been carried into Ronald’s car when Tegan called her. “Honestly, this feels like a waste of time.”

“Oh?”

Tegan continued, “The Larkin family dotes on her so much, that Ursula would never leave them willingly.”

Stella remained silent.

“Plus, you should’ve seen Mrs. Larkin’s face. What kind of spell has Ursula cast over her?”

Tegan had clearly noticed Cloudia’s deep-seated bias against Stella during their encounter.

Stella sighed, “Whatever spell it is, just make sure you give them hope.”

Chapter 384

“What happens after I do that?” Tegan was curious about how Stella planned to deal with Ursula.

Stella said, “Well, of course, we hammer out some terms.”

Tegan was surprised. Terms?

“Asking for money?”

Stella uttered, “Come on, you’re not running a charity here. You make demands, and you make them sky-high.”

“But the Larkin family doesn’t have that kind of money right now, do they?”

Tegan’d heard about the mess the Larkin family was in. It was all a big jumble of chaos. In a word, no one living in the Larkin family mansion could cough up half a million just like that.

Stella said, “I know.”

“Huh? Then why…”

“Precisely because they’re broke, you push them to make outrageous offers.”

Realization dawned on Tegan.

Oh… So that was it. Pushing them over the edge, huh? To give them a glimmer of hope, only to shove them into the abyss.

“Did you pick up this trick from Susie? Only Susanna would delight in such mischief.”

Not only would she enjoy the spectacle, but she could also come up with all sorts of devilish schemes.

Stella uttered, “Just go on, do your thing.”

“Alright, I’ll go. I’ll go full throttle at every turn.”

Tegan hung up the phone.

As for Ursula, never mind her feud with Stella – it wasn’t like she and Tegan were on good terms either.

Back when Ursula wasn’t sure about Yorick’s feelings, she cast a wide net. And when someone like her casts a wide net, she doesn’t waste it on the unworthy.

Naturally, Uriah Horner was caught in that net too, leading to a grudge against Tegan.

There were so many debutantes in Portis City who’d love to crash her, but thanks to the Larkin family’s protection, no one could touch her.

But now? She fell right into Stella’s hands and even had to come begging to Tegan.

……

Meanwhile, Ronald looked down at Stella, taking in her triumphant expression. “Feeling pleased, are we?”

“Of course, you wouldn’t get it.”

Ursula getting her comeuppance brought joy to countless people in Portis City, not just her.

Ronald chuckled softly. “Why not just shoot her at once? Why the hassle?”

Stella shot him a look. “With her health right now, would it even make a difference?”

Sending her a death sentence by shooting would be a waste of ammunition.

Ronald gently ruffled her soft hair, letting her do as she pleased.

After all, as she said, the state the Larkin family was in didn’t really require any intervention. They were already falling apart, each person living in their own torment. Whether they intervened or not, it hardly mattered.

Suddenly, Stella wrapped her arms around Ronald’s. “Do you think I’m being bad?”

Ronald raised an eyebrow. “Why do you ask?”

“Back in Ferrowland, I wasn’t like this.”

Ronald nodded. Indeed, back when she was with him, she was carefree, kind-hearted, and pure.

But ever since the Quinn family’s troubles, and Xander forced her to leave Ferrowland, she’d changed. The innocence was gone, replaced by a fierce determination to hold grudges.

Ronald affectionately pinched her little nose. “You’re doing just fine.”

Instantly, Stella felt warmth bubbling inside her.

She recalled snippets of her time with the Larkin family.

“Why’d you go quiet, hmm?

Stella replied, “Just thinking, no matter how I am, in your eyes, I’m always okay.”

Ronald hummed in agreement.

Stella beamed, wrapping her arms around Ronald’s neck and planting a quick kiss on his cheek.

Chapter 385

This was what it truly meant to love someone, to care for someone, to cherish someone. It didn’t matter what they became.

Just as Stella was about to settle back into her seat, Ronald pulled her in for a deeper kiss.

Stella was taken aback. Turns out, you can’t just mess with a lion.

In the front, Idris wisely raised the divider. Stella squirmed in Ronald’s embrace, feeling a wave of fear wash over her.

“Let’s not do it today.”

If they kept with it, she worried he might lose control.

Her fear was evident to him, and Ronald chuckled softly as he released her. “I wouldn’t dream of eating you up right now.”

Stella’s mind buzzed, and her cheeks flushed a bright red.

With his forehead against hers, he asked, “Were you thinking about the Larkin family?”

Stella replied, “Not intentionally.”

That crowd didn’t deserve the effort of intentional thought. But the past few years had left some scars, memories that lingered.

“Ronald, will you always be on my side?” she asked.

“On your side?”

“Yeah, like if I did something to hurt Yvonne, would you still stand by me?”

Ronald’s grip tightened at her words, understanding the reason behind her question.

The Larkins had always favored their adopted daughter. And in the Quinn family, wasn’t Stella in the same position as Ursula?

Ronald withdrew a little, putting some space between them, and playfully flicked her forehead. Stella winced, rubbing the spot. “Ouch.”

Her eyes were wide and innocent, like a doe’s, making Ronald’s heart skip a beat as he thought, “Little enchantress. How could any man resist such gaze?”

“Do you really think the Quinn family is blind and incapable of raising you to be like Ursula?”

Stella paused.

He was right.

Thinking back, Ronald and their mother had never shown favoritism between her and Yvonne. They were truly doted on, but when wrong, they were equally reprimanded. Even with all the love and care, real mistakes were never swept under the rug.

Stella understood now. She hugged Ronald’s lean waist, snuggling into him. “Why are people so different?”

The Larkins had almost unconditionally supported Ursula these past two years.

Those who knew called it love because Ursula was their adopted daughter. Others might have thought Ursula had some hold over them.

……

Meanwhile, Tegan arrived at the Larkin household.

Lola was lounging in the living room, munching on peanuts like she owned the place, much to Cloudia’s annoyance.

A stranger had suddenly appeared in her home, trying to overshadow her role as the lady of the house. How could she not be upset?

Knowing that Ursula’s condition had worsened since she was hit by Lola, Cloudia felt even more exasperated.

Seeing the peanut shells scattered everywhere, if not for Tegan’s presence, Cloudia would have given Lola a piece of her mind.

“Ms. James, this way please,” Cloudia said, tearing her gaze away from Lola.

If she looked any longer, she might actually explode. She hurried to lead Tegan to Ursula’s room. But just as they reached the stairs, Lola, who had been pretending not to see them, spoke up, “So, are you having the doctor see your son first or the adopted daughter?”

Clearly, Lola knew Cloudia had brought a doctor.

Who would’ve thought she would still care about Ursula at this point?

Cloudia was left speechless. She glared at Lola upon hearing it. “Dr. James is a specialist in obstetrics.”

Lola smirked. “Oh, so you’ve already found an excuse to see the adopted daughter first, huh? Tsk, tsk.” “You…”

Cloudia was fuming. Facing Lola, nothing she said seemed right.

If she didn’t agree with Lola, she’d get mocked. If she did, she’d still get mocked. In Lola’s eyes, everything Cloudia did or said was wrong.

“You’re quite the mother, aren’t you? Ignoring your own son’s plight to fuss over the adopted daughter. If she were decent, I wouldn’t say anything, but you’ve seen her attitude.”

Cloudia snapped, “Shut up, will you?”

Her breath came in short, angry bursts.

Lola didn’t relent. “Why should I? Everyone knows Ursula is the most prestigious adopted daughter in Portis City. Anyone who doesn’t know might think she’s your love child, the way you fuss over her.”

Cloudia felt faint with fury.

Lola crossed her arms, unfazed. “Anyway, if you don’t let the doctor see Jaxon first, I’ll keep stirring things up. Let’s see how long Ursula can endure.”

“You… The misfortune of this family, truly. If I’d known…”

Cloudia stopped herself from finishing the thought.

But Lola knew her mind. “What? Regret not getting rid of me earlier? No surprise there. Ursula turned out the way she did because of how you raised her. You used the same tactics on your own daughter, and you still see no problem. Then again, what would someone like you know about familial love?”

Chapter 386

Cloudia was trembling with anger.

“Have you said enough? If you have, then just shut up.”

Lola chimed in, “Go see Jaxon first.”

She was adamant. Even though Jaxon was a piece of work, her son was still his flesh and blood.

If he couldn’t work anymore, who would provide for her son?

Cloudia was so mad she felt dizzy, but in the end, there was no choice but to have Tegan take a look at Jaxon’s injury.

They were basically blacklisted by the hospital, and no doctor dared to make a house call.

The guy backing Stella had really cornered the Larkin family this time, blocking every possible escape. The company was at a standstill, and even basic medical care at home was out of reach.

Tegan examined the wound. “This is badly infected. It needs hospital treatment as soon as possible.”

Cloudia and Lola both fell silent at the mention of the hospital.

“Can you prescribe some medication?” Cloudia asked cautiously, worried about offending the only doctor who had been willing to visit the Larkin family.

Tegan shook her head, “I can’t.”

“You’re a doctor, how can you not prescribe medication?” Lola was getting desperate.

Tegan remained firm, “I just can’t.”

Cloudia pleaded, “Ms. James, we’re really out of options here.”

Tegan cut her off. “Let’s go check on Ursula now.”

If Stella hadn’t called in a favor, Tegan wouldn’t have been here at all. She had no patience left for this.

She had seen firsthand how awful Jaxon was. After all the times he tried to off Stella on Ursula’s account, Tegan wouldn’t

have helped him even if she could. He deserved to have his hand irreparably damaged.

“Okay,” Cloudia relented, afraid to push Tegan any further, and led her to Ursula’s room.

Lola looked at Jaxon, “If it weren’t for me sticking up for you, she’d only care about that adopted daughter.”

“Shut up!” Jaxon snapped, his temper flaring at Lola.

The past few days had been chaotic with both Lola and Cloudia at each other’s throats, and Ursula even hit Ursula. “First it was Stella causing chaos, and now it’s you. Can anyone get peace around here?” Jaxon yelled, his breathing heavy with frustration

Lola’s lips twitched. “What the hell? Can’t you tell what’s good or bad? How am I the one causing the chaos? Wait, you’re still siding with Ursula?”

Her temper flared again. Ignoring Jaxon’s injuries, she slapped him across the face. “You idiot! Are you blind?”

Jaxon’s face burned where she hit him, and he glared at her. “Are you insane?”

Lola snarled, “Yeah, I am insane. Stella was driven crazy just like that, wasn’t she? You bastard…”

Lola exploded with anger.

Since she moved in, Ursula had caused so much trouble, yet no one ever questioned if Ursula was in the wrong, it was always her fault.

Overcome with rage, Lola started to trash the room.

“I’m not as a pushover as Stella, taking your crap and then moving out to get away from you,” she shouted as she destroyed everything in sight. “I’m not leaving. You think you can just let Ursula run wild? Well, I can cause chaos too, and believe me, it won’t be me suffering.”

Jaxon was on the brink of losing it.

“Are you done being a lunatic? Who really dares to bully some shrew like you? Who even could?”

The notion that Stella was some kind of pushover was laughable. If she were, his hand wouldn’t be mangled, and Yorick wouldn’t be covered in bruises.

This bunch of goddamn women, always playing the victim, it was infuriating.

……

Meanwhile, back at Mist Bay, Ronald had gone off to study with Idris.

When she entered her room, Stella noticed the security had all been replaced, and more personnel had been added. Everything broken before had been restored.

The household staff respectfully took Stella’s things to her room. Just as she lay down, there was a knock at the door. A maid opened it, exchanged a few words, and then turned to Stella. “Mr. Quinn has arranged for a female doctor to check on you.”

Stella was taken aback. A check-up? More like an examination of that specific area.

Thinking about it made Stella uncomfortable. “No, that’s not necessary.”

The maid insisted, “The doctor said it’s necessary to evaluate your actual condition, per Mr. Quinn’s orders.”

Stella hesitated, “Really, it’s fine.”

Even though it was a female doctor, the thought was still embarrassing.

The maid had no choice but to explain to the doctor. No one could make Stella do anything she didn’t want to.

But soon enough, Ronald entered the room. He gently coaxed Stella out from under the covers. “Come on, be good. We need the doctor to take a look, okay?”

Stella protested, “I don’t too.

Ronald sighed, ling her hair softly. “How about you close your eyes and don’t look at the doctor?”

Stella was puzzled. What did he mean?

Ronald explained, “You can stay under the blanket, and the doctor will just take a quick look.”

Chapter 387

Stella was reluctant.

Ronald tried every trick in the book, and finally, after ten minutes of persuasion, Stella agreed to let the doctor take a quick look. And by quick, she meant just a glance.

But even that brief glance was enough for the seasoned doctor to understand her condition.

The doctor prescribed some medication for Stella – both pills and ointment.

Stella didn’t put up any more resistance as Ronald applied the ointment and handed her a pill to swallow.

“Ugh, il tastes awful.”

Ronald popped a piece of candy into her mouth. “Better now?”

Stella nodded. “You’re busy, you should get going.”

He had promised to stay only a couple of days before heading back to Ferrowland, so he needed to get everything sorted out quickly.

And then there was Susanna. Out of the blue, she decided to go to Ferrowland, and from what Stella gathered over the phone, she felt a bit uneasy about it.

“Take a nap; you didn’t seem to get much sleep on the plane.”

Stella murmured, “Okay.”

She wasn’t sure if it was the injury or something else, but she felt incredibly sleepy.

After tucking her in, Ronald left the room.

…

At the Larkin household.

Tegan, having examined Ursula, bluntly declared, “Her condition has worsened beyond my help.”

Cloudia and Ursula exchanged a shocked look. Their eyes mirrored the same sorrow, but Ursula held an additional layer of fear – the fear of death.

“Mom.”

The word came out choked with pain and emotion.

Cloudia’s heart clenched. “Dr. James, is there really nothing else you can do?”

Despite knowing Ursula might have framed Stella by using underhanded tactics just as she did to Lola, Cloudia was willing to do anything to save her.

Tegan remained silent, so Cloudia pressed on, “You’re a brilliant young doctor, a specialist in your field. Everyone says you can snatch people back from the brink of death. There must be something you can do, right?”

Ursula added, “Please, Dr. James, you have to help me. I don’t want to die.”

Having finally seen a doctor after being discharged, Ursula pinned all her hopes on Tegan.

She had momentarily forgotten that Tegan and Stella were close friends and the things she had done to Stella…… the very things that were now coming back to haunt her.

Tegan sighed, “There is something, but it comes with a hefty price.”

“What’s the price?

“For such severe cases with multiple cancers, there’s a miracle drug that can rapidly eliminate various cancers in the body. But it’s incredibly expensive, which is why it’s not on the market.”

Cloudia went silent. She was about to speak, but Ursula beat her to it. “How expensive? No matter the cost, I’ll buy it.”

She wanted to live, desperately so. Hearing Tegan mention the high cost, she didn’t think twice about the price; she was sure the Larkin family would find a way to save her.

Tegan observed Ursula’s desperate desire to live, mixed with an undeniable greed in her eyes. Frowning, she turned to Cloudia.

Cloudia echoed, “What is this drug? No matter the cost, we’ll buy it.”

Really?

Tegan rolled her eyes internally. Was this really an adopted daughter? She was being treated like a treasured daughter, a beloved ancestor.

Given the state the Larkin family was in, they were promising to buy no matter the cost. Who gave them the nerve to blow their horn like that?

Did they desire to buy it?

Fine, then…

Tegan, with a straight face, replied, “The drug costs half a million per pill. You need to take one every day for a week initially, and then one per month for two years.”

Cloudia exclaimed, “Half a million per pill?” Her eyes immediately were wide open.

Seven pills initially, then one every month? This wasn’t a small amount.

Tegan nodded. “Yes, five hundred thousand a pill.”

Both Cloudia and Ursula were in disbelief. Even for them, who had lived comfortably all these years, the figure was a shock.

Half a million per pill, a week of pills would cost 3.5 million, and then half a million each month thereafter? Even for the Larkin family, this was an astronomical price for medication.

Cloudia took a shaky breath and looked at Tegan. “Is the drug really that expensive?”

Tegan nodded.  Yes!, because it’s so expensive, it hasn’t been released to the market. But hospitals can usually arrange to procure it if needed.

However, the supply is limited, and half a million is a conservative estimate. It could be much higher if it changes hands a few times.”

Chapter 388

Cloudia was left speechless.

Five hundred thousand seemed like a lot already, and now they were talking about something even higher.

Cloudia exchanged a glance with Ursula, whose eyes were filled with a desperate plea for survival.

Unable to bear it, Cloudia averted her gaze and looked at Tegan, almost choking on her words. “Is there any other way?”

It was clear that coming up with over three million all at once was an enormous strain for her. Especially considering that Blaise was having issues on his end, and asking him for help right now might be a shot in the dark.

Thinking of Blaise and that woman he’d had twins with – a boy and a girl – Cloudia felt a deep, burning anger in her chest.

Tegan replied, “Right now, this is the only option. But given her condition, it would be best to sort it out within a week, or even the medication won’t be able to save her.”

With that, Tegan left, not bothering to say anything more.

She hadn’t lied. Based on the medical information she had, this medication did exist. And due to its exorbitant price, it hadn’t been widely released. This was a tangible hope given to them.

But whether they could grab onto this hope was entirely up to them.

Left alone in the room, Ursula clutched Cloudia’s hand. “Mom, you’ll save me, right? You will save me, won’t you?” Cloudia stuttered, “I…”

“Mom, I don’t want to die. I really don’t want to die.”

“But…”

They didn’t have that kind of money. Even combining what she and Jaxon had, they could barely scrape together over one million.

Ursula didn’t have much money herself, Cloudia knew that well.

Shares? With the company in its current state, they were practically useless. Blaise was entirely focused on that woman and their two children. Asking him for money was out of the question.

And even if they managed to solve the three million problem, they’d still need several hundred thousand each month thereafter.

“But Mom, I really don’t want to die. I’m begging you.”

Seeing Cloudia’s hesitation, Ursula grew frantic.

Sure enough, when she began to cry, Cloudia’s heart softened. She continually reassured her, “I will find a way, we will find a way. Don’t worry.”

There was a chance at life. How could she bear to let the daughter she’d raised with such love die? She couldn’t do it.

But they still needed over two million, and then half a million every month. This wasn’t just a small sum – where could she find that kind of money? And there was only a week to figure it out.

Cloudia felt the anxiety gnawing at her insides.

……

Tegan left the Larkin family home and immediately called Stella. When the line connected, Stella’s sleepy voice came through. “Tegan.”

“Are you napping?”

“Yeah, just catching some Z’s. It’s snowing outside again, perfect weather for a nap.”

Maybe it was the weather, but Stella had always loved sleeping during snowy days.

Tegan said, “I’ve just left the Larkin mansion.”

“So, how did it go?” Stella’s voice became more alert. She had to admit, she had a weakness for gossip.

Tegan replied, “As you suggested, I dangled a hope before them with an impossible price tag.”

Stella asked, “How impossible?”

“Not too bad, just over three million.”

Stella was at a loss for words.

Over three million was a colossal amount for the Larkin family, she reckoned. Especially in terms of liquid cash. Despite years of collaboration with the Quarry family, Blaise had only ever managed to catch the crumbs. The lion’s share had always been locked down tight by the Quarry family.

“Maybe not much for you, but for the Larkin family, it’s a death sentence,” Tegan said, “When I was there, I saw a woman causing quite the ruckus. She must be involved with Jaxon because she was making the Larkin house anything but peaceful.”

“That’s Jaxon’s woman, she even had a son with him.”

“Oh, I see.” Tegan had only been away from Portis City for a short while, and yet so much drama awaited her.

“If that’s the case, then this hope with a price tag is something Ursula will never be able to reach. No matter how strong childhood bonds are, once there’s a woman child in the picture, Jaxon’s heart has to split a bit.”

Stella responded, “That’s not necessarily true for the Larkin family.

“Even better, if Jaxon’s heart can’t be divided between Ursula, then, that woman will surely find all sorts of ways to extract from him.

Stella agreed, That’s true.”

Women, when it came to their children, would do just about anything.

Chapter 389

As Ronald stepped into the room, his eyes landed on Stella, who was engrossed in a phone call. Her leg was peeking out from under the quilt, a clear sign that the moment he left, she had kicked the covers off again.

Without a word, Ronald walked up and tucked the covers around her.

Stella glanced up, smiling playfully. “I’ll talk to you later,” she said into the phone before hanging up.

“The Larkins causing trouble again?” Ronald asked, amusement dancing in his eyes.

“Yeah,” Stella replied with a grin. “Tegan sold them some ridiculously overpriced medication, and now they’re probably in chaos.”

Without Lola, they’d be running around like headless chickens worrying about money. With Lola, they’d be scrambling over who got the money.

Basically, the whole Larkin family was in a delightful uproar.

Ronald, his large hand cradling the back of Stella’s head, pressed his forehead against hers. “You’re still too kind-hearted, Star.”

In his opinion, the Larkins deserved nothing less than a good reckoning. But since they were Stella’s blood relatives, he refrained from taking drastic action without her go-ahead. Still, knowing the Larkins were trapped in their own mess brought a similar satisfaction.

Stella shrugged, “With Ursula’s health as it is, I didn’t even need to lift a finger.”

If Tegan hadn’t mentioned Ursula’s deteriorating health, Stella might have intervened herself. But knowing the truth, she figured there was no need to take any action.

“True, no need to dirty your hands,” Ronald agreed.

“Exactly,” Stella nodded.

Watching her lovable face, Ronald couldn’t resist leaning in for a quick kiss. “How’s that ointment working? Feeling better?”

“What are you up to?

“Relax, nothing at all.”

The doctor had advised that Stella needed to rest and fully recover before doing anything strenuous.

Still skeptical, Stella held onto Ronald’s shirt. “Swear it.”

He captured her warm hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. “I swear.”

……

Meanwhile, in Ferrowland, Susanna stepped off the plane, her hands free of luggage, with Tania by her side. As they walked towards the exit, Tania’s eyes darted around, ever watchful.

Susanna leaned in, whispering, “We’re in Ferrowland. Why are you still on high alert?”

From the moment Tania had picked her up in Portis City, Susanna had noticed her heightened vigilance, like they were about to encounter some danger.

Tania replied, “We need to get to the estate quickly.”

“And then what? Are you planning to keep me locked up inside?”

Judging by Tania’s serious demeanor, that seemed entirely possible. Sure enough, Tania nodded. “Your mom instructed us to keep you at Crimson Estate until we get her call.”

Susanna’s lips twitched with discomfort. Something was definitely amiss.

“What’s going on with my mom?”

Tania glanced around, “Let’s move.”

The bustling airport wasn’t the place for explanations. Tania, with one hand gripping a bag and the other steering Susanna, hastened their pace.

Yet, the very thing Tania feared came to pass.

As they passed by a restroom, two men with their caps pulled low over their eyes locked onto them with menacing stares.

Tania’s instincts kicked in immediately. She met their gaze, her breath catching.

“Run,” she commanded, shoving Susanna ahead.

Susanna stumbled, her mind racing with questions about her mother’s predicament, barely catching herself from hitting the ground.

Chapter 390

As soon as Tania shouted “Run”, Susanna was thrown into a whirlwind of confusion. Regaining her balance, she took off without a second thought.

Tania, seeing Susanna nearly face-plant into the pavement, felt a rush of concern. But before she could step forward to help, Susanna was already on her feet, sprinting away like a gust of wind had swept her off.

Tania was momentarily speechless.

“There they are, grab them!” shouted two men who had recognized Tania and Susanna, immediately starting to chase after them.

Tania kicked off her low-heeled shoes and dashed in the direction Susanna had gone.

Earlier, Lacey had assured her over the phone that once they reached Ferrowland, Susanna would be safe. Tania had her doubts even when they were on the plane, and clearly, this was why.

“Stop! Stop right there!” echoed the angry shouts behind her. Tania ran like the wind, bumping into a few people along the way.

But as she glanced ahead, Susanna was nowhere in sight.

Tania was left with a sinking feeling in her stomach. Turns out the one who should have been worried was herself.

Susanna was running as if possessed, and after a long sprint, she finally looked back, breathless.

To her shock, there was nothing behind her but leisurely moving travelers exiting the airport. Tania was gone! “Huh?”

Why had Tania yelled at her to run in the first place?

Susanna hadn’t even seen the two men Tania had spotted. Tania’s shout had triggered a primal sense of danger in her, and she’d bolted instinctively, like a racehorse out of the gate.

What now… she fumbled for her phone to call Tania, only to her rushing towards herself, with two men in black hats pursuing her closely.

Wait, it wasn’t just two, it was a whole crew of shady figures following! Were they all after her?

Susanna’s eyes widened in panic.

What on earth had her mom gotten them into?

Tania spotted Susanna standing frozen and barked, “RUN!!!”

Susanna was startled by the urgency in her voice, her legs moving before her brain could catch up, and off she went, zipping away.

Despite her short legs, Susanna had always ranked in the top five during school track meets. And today, with adrenaline pumping, she was faster than ever.

Bursting out of the airport, she saw a black SUV idling, its door slowly closing. Susanna didn’t think twice, dashed like a rabbit, and vaulted inside.

Hull, engrossed in a phone call, suddenly felt a rush of wind and a weight against his leg. The car door was sealed shut at the same moment.

Raising an eyebrow, Hull glanced down, seeing a small figure curled beneath him, breathing heavily.

Hull squinted slightly. “Miss.”

Susanna’s heart skipped a beat. She crouched on the floor, head tucked down, eyes closed, oblivious to the weight pressing on her back.

At the sound of the familiar yet distant voice, she trembled slightly. Slowly, she lifted her head and peeked through the gap between Hull’s long legs, meeting his gaze.

Their eyes locked, and Hull’s sharp expression softened with a playful glint.

“Ms. Tucker, what is this?”

Only then did Susanna realize how awkward her position was. She had scrambled into the vehicle in a blind panic and somehow ended up hiding under Hull’s legs.

Oh, dear God, how did she end up in this predicament? She hadn’t even planned on confronting him about that stolen kiss.

Forcing a dry, awkward smile, Susanna managed to greet him, “Hello, Mr. Hull.”

Outwardly she smiled, but inside, she was cringing hard.

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