Cross My Tigress Face the Wrath [Stella] (Chapters 531 to 540) – Daisy Novels

Chapter 531

Susanna was in a pickle.

Hull, the stern-faced authority figure, was as unyielding as a rock, and Barnaby’s sharp tongue was annoying.

Feeling the heat of the moment, Stella flopped right down on the sofa, arms crossed. Susanna, clearly rattled, clung to Stella’s arm like a lifeline, her eyes wide with worry.

Arms crossed in an authoritative stance, Barnaby said, “Ms. Tucker, cuddling up to Princess Stella won’t help. The investigation will proceed as planned.”

Seeing Susanna being treated this way lit a fire under Stella. “You know Finley’s off in the Muliba Desert, right?” she retorted.

Barnaby’s eyes widened in shock. “What do you mean by that, Princess Stella?”

Stella smirked, “It means if you keep running that mouth of yours, I’ll have Ronald send you along with him.”

Barnaby gulped. The Muliba Desert was the last place he wanted to go.

Still anxious, Susanna felt a bit of relief seeing Stella hold her ground in this strange place.

“Star, you can’t leave me,” Susanna pleaded, her voice quivering with fear. She believed without Stella, she’d be helpless in this intimidating foreign land, where one wrong move could spell disaster.

Stella nodded, her voice soothing. “Don’t worry, Susanna. I’m not going anywhere.”

Barnaby attempted to regain control. “Princess Stella, Mr. Miguel insisted I escort you back. Perhaps you’d like to get in the car?”

Stella shook her head defiantly. “I’m not leaving.”

Barnaby sighed, “Staying here won’t help Ms. Tucker. You can’t take her with you.”

Susanna clung tighter to Stella, determined not to let go. If she couldn’t leave, then neither should Stella.

Seeing Susanna’s desperation, Barnaby tried again, “Ms. Tucker, let go of Princess Stella.”

“No way. Star, you’re not leaving,” Susanna insisted.

“Okay, okay. I’m not leaving,” Stella reassured her.

Barnaby was getting exasperated. “Mr. Miguel’s orders are clear. I have to take you back.”

The room was tense, with Susanna scared, Stella refusing to budge, and Barnaby insisting she leave. The situation was getting awkward. “I said I’m not leaving,” Stella declared, her voice firm.

Rubbing his temples frustratedly, Barnaby relented, “Fine, we’ll wait for Mr. Quinn to come and fetch you.”

He knew better than to force Stella. Ronald wouldn’t take kindly to anyone treating her harshly.

Barnaby trudged upstairs to report back to Hull.

Left alone, Susanna’s eyes were brimming with tears, half gratitude, half fear. “Star, you can’t leave me.”

Stella nodded. “I won’t. You’re stuck with me.”

“I love you so much for this. You’re all I’ve got now,” Susanna sniffled, wiping her eyes on Stella’s sleeve in a fit of emotion.

Stella, not bothered by the tears and sniffles, handed her a tissue. “Alright, stop crying already.”

Taking the tissue, Susanna dabbed at her eyes. “I didn’t mean to cause all this trouble. Those medicines looked so similar.”

Stella nodded, her voice filled with understanding. “I believe you.”

Susanna sighed, “You’re the only one who does. Last night, those people around him looked like they wanted to eat me alive.”

Barnaby’s words especially hit Susanna like a ton of bricks, making her feel completely trapped.

Chapter 532

Stella gently reassured Susanna. “It’s okay, Susie. Everything’s going to be fine.”

No matter what, if Hull refused to let her take Susanna today, Stella decided not to leave without her.

Upstairs, when Hull learned that Stella had decided to stay put because of Susanna, his expression darkened even further. He narrowed his eyes. “Call Mr. Quinn. Tell him to come and get her himself.”

Barnaby raised an eyebrow at the suggestion of having Ronald come over personally.

“If Mr. Quinn shows up, he’ll also take your girl away. You know that, right?”

Hull’s eyes widened in surprise. The mention of “your girl” made him pause. He shot an icy glare at Barnaby, though it seemed a bit less frosty than before.

Confused by Hull’s reaction, Barnaby asked, “Did I say something wrong?”

If Ronald came to fetch Stella, he would take Susanna along, too. Everyone knew how much Ronald doted on Stella. If she wanted the moon, he would probably find a way to bring back a piece of it. And she only wanted to take Susanna with her. Wouldn’t Ronald agree without a second thought?

Hull asked, “My girl?”

Barnaby stammered, “Uh, well, isn’t she?”

They lived under the same roof without help or staff around. How much more could they be alone together? Wasn’t she his girl, then?

Barnaby thought he might have misunderstood, but Hull didn’t correct him.

Barnaby scratched his head awkwardly. “So should I call Mr. Quinn?” Whatever Hull was thinking, calling Ronald to resolve this seemed the right move. Otherwise, things could get awkward if Stella insisted on staying.

Hull nodded. “Go ahead.”

“So, should he take one or both?” Barnaby asked, still a bit confused.

He hadn’t fully grasped Hull’s earlier statement.

Hull looked at him with an expression that suggested Barnaby was missing the obvious.

“Does it make sense for Mr. Quinn to come to take two?” Hull replied, raising an eyebrow.

Barnaby smirked, “Right, so just one.”

That meant Hull wasn’t allowing Susanna to be taken away. If he were, Ronald wouldn’t need to come all the way here.

Downstairs, Stella received Ronald’s call. His calm and gentle voice came through. “Did you pick up Susanna?”

It was clear from Ronald’s tone that he wasn’t yet aware of what was going on with Hull.

Stella replied, “I’ve seen her but haven’t been able to take her yet.”

“What happened?” Ronald asked, his voice becoming slightly more serious.

Stella explained, “They’re saying Susie’s connected to Black Gate and won’t let her leave.”

“If they don’t let me take Susie, I’m not leaving either. I’ll camp out here if I have to,” Stella said defiantly.

After that, there was a noticeable chill in Ronald’s voice.

Hearing this, Susanna was touched. Stella really was her shining star, always standing up for her, just like back in Portis City.

Stella continued, firm in her resolve, “If Susie can’t leave, neither will 1.”

She spoke with determination, remembering how Susanna always had her back against the Larkin family, even when Susanna didn’t know about Ronald’s influence and thought she was on her own. Susanna even begged her mom Lacey to help her out.

Hearing Stella’s passionate words, Ronald offered a reassuring promise. “I’m on my way. Hang in there.”

Chapter 533

Stella hung up Ronald’s call with a sigh, turning her attention back to Susanna, who was clinging to her like a lifeline. “It will be fine,” Stella assured her gently.

“Star, thank you.” Susanna’s voice trembled as she spoke, overwhelmed with emotion.

Life had thrown a lot at Susanna lately. She felt her whole world was spinning out of control, but Stella’s unwavering support kept her grounded. Even though she was far from home in Portis City, Stella’s presence had been a beacon of hope, helping Susanna hold it together.

“Come on. Don’t mention it,” Stella replied, brushing off the gratitude.

“I need your help with something else,” Susanna said.

“Is it about finding your mom?” Stella guessed.

Susanna nodded. “Yeah, and Tania too.”

Those people took Tania. Susanna was worried about her safety.

Stella replied, “We’re doing everything we can, but there’s still no news.”

Back in Portis City, Stella had already put people on the task of finding Susanna’s mother, but days had passed without any news. Whoever Susanna’s mother had crossed must be some bad character. If necessary, she might need to pull some strings through Ronald.

Susanna was about to thank her again when Barnaby came down the stairs. “Ms. Tucker, my boss wants to see you.”

Susanna instinctively stepped closer to Stella, her grip tightening. The mention of Hull made her uneasy.

“I’m not going up there,” she protested, her voice tinged with defiance. Stella could hear the fear in her voice. Hull had really put a scare into her.

“Ms. Tucker,” Barnaby repeated, trying to maintain his composure.

“I’m serious. I don’t know how to cook or do first aid. I told you to get someone else to take care of Mr. Miguel,” Susanna insisted, her frustration bubbling. “You guys insisted I do it, and now you’re accusing me of trying to harm him. How does that make any sense?”

Her voice cracked with frustration. She couldn’t believe they were being so unreasonable. She was no chef, and they were the ones who had forced her into this situation.

Stella turned to Barnaby. “Why does Hull want to see Susie? And don’t try to scare her.”

Unlike Susanna, Stella wasn’t intimidated by Hull or the others.

Barnaby seemed a bit flustered at Stella’s challenge. “Look, I was in a bad mood last night and took it out on you. Don’t hold it against my boss.”

Susanna was bewildered. “What do you mean?”

Barnaby sighed. “My boss has been good to you. Don’t let last night’s misunderstanding change that.”

Good to her? Was he serious? Hull had been anything but kind!

Stella raised an eyebrow. “Really?”

Susanna couldn’t believe her ears. Hull had been harsh and frightening. She only wanted to leave with Stella.

“I’m not going up there,” she repeated stubbornly, drawing strength from Stella’s presence.

Barnaby seemed to think her defiance was paper-thin. “Fine, but don’t blame me if my boss loses interest in talking about your mom’s whereabouts.”

Susanna’s eyes widened. “What?”

“Your mom,” Barnaby said, watching her reaction closely.

Susanna’s resolve crumbled. “Fine, I’ll go.”

The thought of news about her mother was too significant to ignore. Stella gave her an encouraging nod.

As Susanna reached the staircase, Ronald strode in from outside.

His sudden arrival caught Stella and Barnaby off guard.

“Where’s Hull?” Ronald demanded, his presence commanding attention.

“In his room, weak and resting,” Barnaby replied quickly, glancing at Susanna.

Susanna averted her eyes, feeling a mix of guilt and anxiety.

Stella stood up from the couch, her posture defiant. “If Susie isn’t going anywhere, neither am I.”

Susanna looked at Stella with tears brimming in her eyes. “Star…” Stella gave her a reassuring look, silently telling her to hold her ground. They were in this together, come what may.

Chapter 534

Men’s minds work differently from women’s. Hull suspected Susanna of being related to Black Gate. If he told Ronald his thoughts, Ronald might join him too. Without Ronald’s help, saving Susanna from Hull’s clutches would be like chasing a rainbow.

Seeing Ronald lost in thought, Stella sidled up to him and tugged at

his sleeve with puppy-dog eyes. “Hey, Ron…”

She looked so determined yet adorably soft.

Barnaby sighed, rubbing his forehead. Oh boy, Boss’s gonna lose his girl this time.

Ronald gave Stella’s head a gentle ruffle. “I’ll go have a word with Hull.”

Stella nodded sweetly. “Okay,” she chirped, but added, “I’m taking Susie with me no matter what.”

Barnaby shook his head in disbelief. What kind of bond did they share, to stick together through thick and thin?

Ronald headed off, with Barnaby trailing behind, leaving Stella and Susanna alone.

Susanna clung to Stella’s arm, her wide eyes full of fear, as if Stella might vanish if she let go.

Stella looked right into Susanna’s bright eyes. “Don’t worry. I’m not leaving you behind.”

“Okay.” Susanna nodded emphatically.

Just then, her phone rang.

“I need to take this,” she said, stepping aside.

“Sure,” Stella replied.

Whoever was on the other end must have had some juicy news because Susanna suddenly gasped, “Are you serious? Kicked out for real? And Jaxon did it? And Cloudia agreed? I thought she protected Ursula so fiercely as if she were her own. Now she’s just letting her go?”

The questions came fast and furious, with Susanna’s voice rising in disbelief with each one.

Stella instinctively glanced over at her friend, thinking to herself, Susanna’s such a gossip hound, isn’t she? Even during all this drama, she couldn’t resist a good story.

Seeing Susanna’s engrossed face, the fear she had earlier seemed to have vanished completely. There was something about gossip that was like a balm for her soul.

Susanna caught Stella’s eye and exclaimed, “Thane wants his illegitimate son to join Quarry Group? Then what happens to Yorick?” Stella’s jaw dropped. First, it was the Larkin family drama. Then, it

was the Quarry family. Susanna never missed a beat.

Susanna continued, “Yeah, but isn’t Quarry Group a sinking ship now? Why fight over it?”

“What? They’re at each other’s throats? That’s brutal!”

Stella’s eyes widened.

With each passing second, Susanna’s excitement grew, and the fear she had felt earlier was completely forgotten.

Is this what they call distraction therapy? If so, it sure seemed effective…

“Imogen’s in the hospital again? And Frost isn’t doing anything? Yorick’s as good as done for.”

Stella could only shake her head. Imogen’s hospitalization meant Thane was serious about putting Hogan in charge of Quarry Group. Images of Hogan in the boxing ring on the cruise ship flashed through Stella’s mind. His sharp and dangerous eyes were like a hawk surveying the desert.

Compared to Hogan, Yorick was definitely a greenhouse flower. If Thane really intended to bring Hogan into Quarry Corp, Yorick’s future looked bleak.

To be fair, Yorick was a genius at managing the company in some ways. Under his leadership, Quarry Corp had seen some growth.

But alas! Even if Quarry Corp was a shadow of its former self, it still represented a lot of Yorick’s hard work, which is now about to be taken away.

Though he kind of deserved it. His self-serving antics over the past couple of years had hurt not just her, Stella, but also his peers.

Lost in thought, Stella was jolted back to reality as Susanna hung up and rejoined her. “Star, karma’s a real kicker, isn’t it?”

Stella couldn’t help but smirk. Seeing her so excited over gossip now, she wondered if she’d been worrying too much about her friend during her time in Portis City. But hearing her cry over the phone made it impossible not to worry!

Susanna whispered, “Ursula got kicked out of the Larkin family for good. Someone saw her sitting on a bench under a bridge last night. It seems Jaxon took everything back, and now she has nowhere to go.”

Thinking of Ursula on the streets, Susanna felt a rush of satisfaction. Stella’s lips curled into a grin.

Wasn’t this a fate worse than going to jail?

Chapter 535

Stella’s return to the Larkin family drove Ursula into a hysterical frenzy. She’d smile sweetly on the outside but was seething with resentment behind closed doors.

After causing so much havoc, did she really think fate would spare her?

There came the reckoning.

After all the effort she put into clawing her way up, Ursula ended up with nothing. Her health was failing, and it was doubtful she’d last long out there.

Stella remarked, “The Larkin family is at each other’s throats now. They can’t even spare a thought for her. Jaxon is taking all his frustrations out on her.”

So much for family loyalty, huh? It all ended up being a sham.

While she was in Portis City, Jaxon still prattled on about his sibling bond with Ursula. But now, Ursula was just a convenient punching bag for his wrath.

Susanna nodded, “Exactly. With Cloudia in jail, the Larkin Group going bankrupt, and Blaise struggling to support his other family, Jaxon is alone, and Ursula’s situation is particularly dire.”

Susanna couldn’t help but feel satisfied.

“And then there’s Yorick, who once saw Ursula as his dream girl. Well, now they’re a perfect match,” Susanna continued..

The Quarry family used to think Ursula wasn’t good enough for Yorick. Now, it was fitting. They were both down on their luck, so neither could look down on the other.

Stella took a sip from her mug. “The Quarry family used to have Yorick as their only heir, so Thane had no option but to tolerate him. Now there’s another son, there’s a choice.”

Susanna nodded vigorously. “Exactly! Thane must have been blind. Frost is way more capable than Yorick.”

Even if Frost was chosen to manage the Quarry Group, it wouldn’t have been Yorick.

But now, with someone to split the inheritance, Yorick’s left with nothing.

Downstairs, the gossip was flying fast and furious. Upstairs, Ronald sat beside Hull’s bed.

After hearing Hull’s confession, Ronald gave him an amused and perplexed look, especially when his gaze lingered below Hull’s waist.

With a chuckle, Ronald said, “You rascal…”

He suddenly found himself at a loss for words. After hearing Yvonne’s whispered suspicions about Hull’s manhood, Ronald wondered if there was truth to it.

Ronald raised an eyebrow. “Yours really felt something?”

Hull nodded. “Yeah, for the first time.”

Ronald asked, “Never before?”

Hull shook his head. “Nope.”

Ronald fell silent. So there was an issue before? And now Hull was implying that Susanna had somehow resolved it?

Barnaby was equally stunned. He always suspected Hull had a problem with that department, even if Silas didn’t buy it. And now, thanks to that petite woman, it was resolved.

Given the circumstances, Barnaby suddenly dropped to his knees with a solid thud before Ronald could respond. “Mr. Quinn, you can’t let that little one slip away.”

His sudden kneeling startled Ronald and Hull, and once they processed what happened, Hull’s face turned stormy.

Barnaby remained oblivious. He continued, “Mr. Quinn, listen, my boss’s issue was serious. Even the most attractive women couldn’t stir him. Now that he’s finally found someone who does, please help him and let her stay.”

Barnaby’s plea was heartfelt, and he wanted the best for Hull. But he couldn’t understand why Hull fell for someone as petite as Susanna.

Yes, that was right. Susanna looked clean and pretty, but she was so small. Standing beside his towering boss, she was a little one.

“Boss, isn’t she a bit too small? At least-“

Barnaby’s thoughts raced ahead. He was about to suggest Hull find someone with a more striking figure. But before he could finish, he noticed Hull’s darkening expression. Especially the way he was looking at him, as if he’d love nothing more than to throttle him.

“Boss, I mean, I just…”

“Mr. Quinn.” Barnaby’s brain went blank, and he turned to Ronald for help.

Ronald was idly playing with a cross necklace, a mysterious smile playing on his lips.

Chapter 536

“Looks like you haven’t done a great job training him over the years. It’s been ages, and he’s still got no backbone,” Ronald remarked with a dry chuckle.

Hull just sighed.

Barnaby couldn’t help but twitch at the corners of his mouth. No backbone?

Wait a minute. Barnaby begged Ronald to take him in the first time they met. When Ronald refused, he had knelt right there before him. And despite that desperate plea, Ronald hadn’t budged. Why would he want to keep someone without a spine around?

Then, just as Hull was walking by, he paused and said, “From now on, you stick with me.”

That’s how Barnaby managed to stay. And that’s why Barnaby would risk his life for Hull every time since then.

Lowering his head, Barnaby mumbled, “I only wanted to convince you to let Ms. Tucker stay.”

Hull gritted his teeth. “Get out.”

Watching Barnaby’s pathetic display, Hull couldn’t reconcile this cowardly behavior with Barnaby’s combat prowess. When facing enemies, he was a different person. How could he kneel like that? Was he even a man?

Barnaby pleaded, “Boss-“

“Out.” Hull’s voice was a low, threatening growl.

Barnaby wanted to say more, but seeing Hull’s menacing look, he didn’t dare utter another word.

He slowly got to his feet and turned to Ronald, adding, “Mr. Quinn, please. My boss hasn’t been with a woman in years. You should-” Hull roared, “Get out!”

The longer he talked, the worse it got.

Hull wished he could seal Barnaby’s mouth shut himself.

This time, Barnaby finally took the hint, clamming up and slinking out of the room.

Hull noticed the cross necklace that had suddenly appeared in Ronald’s hand. He frowned, “When did you start liking those things, Ronald?”

Ronald, known for his skepticism, never cared for such superstitions. Upon hearing that, Ronald glanced at the necklace with a tender smile. “Stella bought it at the airport. What do you think?”

Hull was momentarily speechless. Who else but Stella could get Ronald to wear something symbolizing compassion?

“Yeah. Stella’s got a good eye,” Hull agreed.

If picked by Stella, it was perfect. There was no doubt about that.

He then asked, “Is this the first gift she gave you?”

Ronald shook his head. “Not really, but it’s the first time I saw her so invested in choosing something.”

Stella had given him things before, but he had never been there to see how she chose them. This time, he was there, witnessing her thoughtful selection.

Hull felt like the odd man out, feeling as if watching a sappy romance unfold.

Ronald descended the stairs, catching snippets of a lively

conversation between Stella and Susanna. To him, Susanna was in high spirits, gesturing wildly as she spoke.

Suddenly, a wave of discontent washed over him. Susanna had been crying over the phone, making Stella worried sick. Yet now, she seemed perfectly carefree.

Susanna said, “If things go south, the Quarry family could be like the Larkin family. Just watch. Imogen isn’t one to mess with. If Yorick can’t claim the Quarry family, she’ll destroy it rather than leave it to Thane’s illegitimate son.”

For years, Thane and Imogen seemed rock solid.

And now? A son older than Yorick and Frost shows up out of nowhere. What a slap in the face, right?

Stella nodded. “Yeah. It could get messier than the Larkin family.”

The Larkin family was a mess, with Cloudia having no real standing against Blaise. So in any confrontation, Cloudia barely had a chance to fight back.

But Imogen was another story. She had a lot of influence in both the company and the family. If it came to a showdown, it would be far more dramatic than anything the Larkin Group had seen.

As Susanna was about to add something, Ronald’s voice cut in. “Star, it’s time to go.”

Both Stella and Susanna turned to look at him.

Stella asked, “Did Hull agree to let Susie go with us?”

Susanna perked up at this. “Wait. I need to check with Hull about my mom.”

Barnaby had mentioned something earlier, but before she could follow up, Ronald had arrived.

“Hold on a sec,” Susanna said before bolting upstairs, her footsteps echoing in the hallway.

Chapter 537

Stella had been trying to get some news about Lacey for a while now, and she figured if there was anything to know, Ronald would have the scoop.

Shifting her gaze from the stairs, she approached Ronald, “So, what did Hull say?”

Ronald had come himself to pick her up; surely Hull couldn’t keep Susanna any longer.

When Stella thought she could finally take Susanna home without a hitch, Ronald’s deep voice interrupted her. “He’s quite fond of Susanna.

Stella blinked. “What?”

What was that supposed to mean? Fond of Susanna? Like in the way she was thinking?

Wait a minute. Seriously? Fond of Susanna?

Hull? The same Hull who had seen every gorgeous, leggy woman out there with stunning figures? And now he’s saying he’s into Susanna?

Stella wasn’t buying it. She shot Ronald a glare. “Are you pulling my leg?”

Previously, they had suspected Susanna had ties with a shady group called Black Gate, and now he was saying Hull liked her?

Hull had to be bluffing! Either Ronald was trying to trick her, or Hull was fooling Ronald, or they were both in on it together.

But convincing Stella that this was the truth? Not a chance.

Before Ronald could respond, Stella declared, “I’m not that gullible. I’m telling you, I’m taking Susie with me today.”

Stella wasn’t having it. Did she look easy to fool? Or had Ronald fallen for Hull’s tricks? The latter seemed unlikely, as Hull wouldn’t dare deceive Ronald. So, they must be in cahoots.

“Star,” Ronald sighed.

Stella said firmly, “I don’t care. I’m taking Susie with me. You heard her. She’s scared out of her wits around Hull.”

The thought of Susanna crying over the phone, sounding so helpless, made Stella all the more determined not to leave her behind.

Ronald rubbed his temples, feeling a headache coming on.

Meanwhile, in the room upstairs, Susanna was grappling with Hull’s words. “I told you, I have nothing to do with this Black Gate nonsense. You can’t keep me here for that.”

Yes, she was being held. Panic gripped her.

Stella had tried to take her away, yet he had flat-out refused. Who else could get her out of Hull’s clutches if Stella couldn’t?

Hull’s eyes narrowed slightly. “Until we get to the bottom of this, you can’t leave.”

“I’ve told you I’m not involved,” Susanna protested,

Hull gave her a long, introspective look. “We’re not exactly on trusting terms.”

Susanna was exasperated.

“And your mother…” Hull began, catching Susanna’s full attention.

Her ears perked up at the mention of her mother, but Hull paused, leaving Susanna hanging.

“What about my mom?” she pressed, anxiety tightening her chest. Hull redirected, “First, you need to send Stella home.”

Susanna was shocked. What did sending Star away have to do with her mom? Still, the mention of her mother had her eyes wide with hope.

Hull must have news. Otherwise, why would he have Barnaby fetch her?

Seeing Hull keeping mum, Susanna grew more desperate. “Where is she?”

No one knew how much she had agonized over the last few days and how terrifying it was to be around Hull’s world while worrying about her mother’s safety. The whole situation had erupted out of nowhere, and she was still in the dark about what had transpired.

But whatever it was that made Tania rush her to Ferrowland, her mother was unreachable.

It didn’t take a genius to figure out something bad had happened. Finally, Susanna got a lead.

Susanna took a deep breath. “Mr. Miguel.”

Hull’s gaze shifted away. “Send Stella home first.”

His voice was low but firm, making it clear that Susanna wasn’t leaving.

Feeling cornered, Susanna paced the room, but seeing Hull’s stubbornness, she relented and headed for the door. “I’ll go now.”

Regardless of anything else, her mother’s whereabouts were paramount. She needed to know, and if enduring Hull’s presence was the price, she’d pay it.

Downstairs, Stella sulked on the couch, her face turned away, arms crossed defiantly.

Ronald tried to appease her, “Susanna can’t leave today. Go home with me.”

“No way,” Stella huffed.

Ronald rubbed his forehead in frustration.

Before he could continue, Susanna’s voice came from the stairs,

“Star, you should go home.”

Chapter 538

When Stella heard Susanna’s voice, she lifted her head. “Huh?”

“Oh, just go back. Everything’s fine here,” Susanna insisted.

Stella couldn’t believe her ears. Wasn’t this the same person who had been calling her multiple times a day, crying her eyes out? And now she was saying everything was fine?

“Did Hull threaten you?” Stella asked, her voice laced with concern.

“What? No, it’s not that. I can’t really explain it right now, but you should head back,” Susanna replied, sounding a bit flustered.

“I’ll call you if anything happens, okay? Now go on, shoo!” Susanna added, trying to sound reassuring.

Stella was still in disbelief. Was this really the same Susie who had sobbed on the phone, begging Stella to return and take her away? And now she was telling her to leave?

As Susanna turned to walk away, Stella called out, “Wait.”

Susanna turned back, looking a bit puzzled.

“Are you sure you don’t want to come with me?” Stella asked again.

Susanna nodded firmly. “Yeah, I’m sure.”

Stella was baffled. “So Hull isn’t threatening you?”

Susanna shook her head. “Nope.”

Stella was at a loss for words. This was quite the turnaround. Just moments ago, Susanna clung to her, crying and pleading not to be left behind.

Susanna rubbed her hands together nervously. “Just go back for now, okay?”

Her tone was resolute, even if her eyes betrayed a hint of uncertainty. Stella didn’t believe her, but Susanna didn’t say a word, nor would she leave with her.

As Susanna started to head back to Hull’s room, Stella stopped her again, “Wait.”

Susanna turned again, her patience wearing thin.

“Listen, from now on, don’t get involved with anything related to Hull. Just… do nothing, okay?”

Susanna hesitated, then nodded. “Okay.”

“I mean it, Susie. Don’t lift a finger. Not even to pour a glass of water, Stella insisted.

Susanna’s lips twitched in a wry smile, then she nodded more vigorously. “Got it.”

Stella was right, after all. There was no need to be overly helpful or involved. Just because Hull had helped her out once in Portis City didn’t mean she had to play housekeeper. There were plenty of ways to repay kindness without overextending herself.

With that, Susanna returned to Hull’s room.

Ronald took Stella’s hand. “Let’s go.”

After that, he gently pulled her toward the door.

Stella mumbled, “Do you think Hull threatened Susie? I mean, did he?” Ronald turned to her with a soft, affectionate smile. “With you here, who would dare threaten her?”

Stella paused, considering. “True. Even if it’s Hull himself, he’d have to show some respect.”

But something wasn’t adding up. “When I told Hull I was taking Susie, he flat out refused.”

Ronald led Stella out of the house and into their car, not bothering to answer her question further. Instead, he pulled her into his lap as they settled into the back seat.

“Hey, what are you doing? Let me sit by myself,” Stella protested, squirming a bit.

Ronald brushed off her complaint with a gentle chuckle. “The medical team is ready. We’ll do a check-up first, okay?”

Stella glanced down. “But I’m hungry.”

It was already midday. Stella had planned to pick up Susanna and head straight back to the Quinn family, but things hadn’t gone as

planned, and she hadn’t even had a bite to eat.

Hearing the plaintive tone in her voice, Ronald laughed. “Fine, let’s eat first.”

“Home-cooked meal?” she asked.

“Yeah, home-cooked,” Ronald confirmed.

They were close enough now, and homemade food sounded just perfect.

Their car glided smoothly along the familiar road. As they drove past the palm trees lining the street, even the scent in the air felt nostalgically familiar.

Half an hour later, they reached a hill on the city’s outskirts. As they wound their way up, the entire skyline of Ferrowland came into view.

It was Stella’s favorite spot whenever she went out, especially at night when the city lights spread out below like a twinkling blanket.

Leaning against the car window, Stella felt Ronald wrap his arms around her again.

“What are you daydreaming about?” he teased.

“I’m planning where to eat over the next few days,” she retorted with a playful grin.

“Ha!” Ronald laughed softly, indulging her. Her appetite had returned now that they were back.

“You little rascal. If we find out you’re pregnant, you won’t be able to eat out all the time,” Ronald chided gently, planting a kiss on the back of her neck.

The touch tickled, and Stella squirmed, ending up nestled against Ronald’s chest.

Their eyes met, and Stella’s gaze was so tender it made Ronald’s heart melt. He leaned in, capturing her lips with his own.

Stella clung to his shirt, feeling a bit flustered. “Stop…”

Chapter 539

As the car wound its way up the hill, Stella couldn’t help but feel butterflies in her stomach. She was almost home, and there was a good chance she’d have to face a big scene once she got there.

Even though things had been fine when she was in Portis City, the thought of confronting her mother, Lottie, made her nervous.

Sensing her tension, Ronald chuckled softly, “Nervous, are you?”

Stella quickly turned her head away, trying to sound nonchalant. “No, not at all.”

The car reached the top of the hill, and the first thing that came into view was the expansive horse ranch. Not far away, the grandiose Quinn family manor stood, its towers seemingly touching the sky. It was a sight that filled anyone with awe and admiration.

The Quinn family held a prominent position in Ferrowland, just like their castle commanded the landscape.

As the convoy approached, the electronic gates recognized them and slowly swung open, revealing a line of security personnel in black uniforms. It was a testament to the exclusivity of the Quinn family, an impenetrable fortress to most.

After another five minutes, they finally arrived at the mansion’s entrance. The butler, accompanied by a row of maids, stood waiting respectfully. As the car stopped, the butler stepped forward to open the door.

“Welcome home,” he greeted with a bow.

Ronald exited first, extending his hand toward Stella. She placed her hand in his large, warm one, and he effortlessly helped her out of the car.

Usually composed, the butler couldn’t hide the emotion in his eyes upon seeing Stella.

“Miss Stella, you’ve finally come home. It hasn’t felt the same without you around these past few years,” he said, his voice thick with emotion.

Stella smiled sweetly, “It’s good to see you, Harlan.”

Harlan, in his fifties, returned her smile warmly. “Come on in. Your mother’s waiting.”

Ronald adjusted her coat, despite her protests, “I’m not cold.”

The climate in Ferrowland was milder than the chillier Portis City.

Ronald held her hand as they walked inside.

The maids greeted them warmly along the way, genuinely pleased to see Stella back. She had always been kind to the staff, earning their affection. Of course, there were a few who weren’t as fond of her, viewing her as an outsider. But due to Ronald and the Quinn family’s protective stance, they kept their opinions to themselves. Even those bribed by outside influences to cause trouble for Stella didn’t last long before Ronald or Mrs. Quinn kicked them out.

As they finally approached the living quarters where Lottie spent most of her time, Stella smelled the mouthwatering aroma of food, which instantly triggered her appetite.

Lottie’s voice floated over, “I hope Star still likes these dishes. Ronald mentioned her tastes might’ve changed in Portis City.”

“Anything you prepare, ma’am, I’m sure she’ll love. No matter where you go, there’s nothing like a home-cooked meal,” Mabel, Lottie’s trusted companion, reassured her.

Lottie nodded, a touch of pride in her voice. “You’re right. Home is always best. I can’t believe the nerve of those people in Portis City, putting my Star through such an ordeal. I would never let anything happen to her.”

Mabel chimed in, “But ma’am, you and Mr. Quinn took care of them, didn’t you? They won’t dare try anything again.”

Chapter 540

“But I’m still mad.”

“Yes, yes. Our poor Miss Star sure had a rough time out there,” Mabel said, her voice full of sympathy.

Lottie said, “Exactly. Thank goodness that sharp little mind of hers didn’t fall for any of those knuckleheads outside. She’s got quite the discerning eye.”

Mabel agreed, “Of course! Ronald’s been treating Star like a treasure all these years. No way she’d be interested in anyone else.”

Hearing this, Lottie seemed to relax a bit.

“Ronald’s effort wasn’t in vain after all,” she added.

They were chatting away in the familiar Ferrowland language.

On the way back, Stella had been worried about how to face Lottie regarding her situation with Ronald. But the conversation between Lottie and Mabel made her worries vanish.

Ronald glanced at her. “Feeling less nervous now?”

Stella nodded. “Yeah, much better.”

With Lottie’s words in mind, what was there to worry about? All she needed to do was apologize and be a bit humble.

This was the Quinn family-Stella’s vision of home. Ever since she was little, no matter what mistakes she made, she believed everything could be fixed with a sincere apology.

It was unlike the Larkin family in Portis City, where everything was so complicated. At first, Stella was baffled by their convoluted ways, but she eventually realized that their concept of family was… quite different.

Lottie and Mabel continued chatting, “Will Star like this? What about this one?”

After being apart for years, Lottie was anxious, consulting Mabel on everything, worried that Stella might not like any of it.

Before Mabel could respond, Stella’s voice sounded, “I love them all.”

Lottie was facing away from the door. Upon hearing Stella’s voice, her body stiffened slightly.

Stella expected her to turn around instantly, and she was ready to run into her arms. But the anticipated warm welcome didn’t come.

Lottie remained with her back to Stella, and a pang of anxiety hit Stella again. Then, she noticed Lottie’s shoulders were shaking.

Stella’s heart clenched. She stepped forward slowly. “Mom.”

Lottie still didn’t turn around. As Stella drew nearer, she could see more clearly how Lottie’s shoulders trembled.

This time, Stella didn’t hesitate. She closed the distance in a few strides, wrapping her arms around Lottie from behind.

“Mom, I’m back.” Her voice was soft, tugging at the heartstrings.

Lottie turned around then, pulling Stella into a tight embrace. “You little brat! Do I have to send someone to fetch you home because you forgot the way?”

There was a hint of reproach in her voice.

Lottie was tall. And Ronald had perfectly inherited her and Mr. Quinn’s excellent genes. So, Stella always felt small in front of Ronald, and so did Lottie. She was a little taller than before, reaching up to Lottie’s neck this time.

Hearing Lottie’s gentle chiding, Stella nuzzled against her neck. “Please don’t be mad, Mom. It’s my fault.”

“Hmph, I’m not forgiving you if you don’t explain everything today.”

Stella was stunned.

Lottie continued, “And did you call someone else ‘Mom’?”

Stella’s lips twitched.

Someone else? Did she mean Cloudia?

“I swear, I didn’t.”

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