Chapter 63

Stephanie nodded. “But Chris has no idea. He won't succeed in buying it from the owner. Both he and Olivia will be the laughingstock.”

Everyone knew Chris desired Whispering Bay but had never secured it. Now, acquiring it for Olivia, he intended to fully leverage his wealth and influence. Public attention was piqued; failure would be embarrassing. Olivia had publicized the news to motivate Chris, but her eagerness bordered on foolishness; she hadn't considered the consequences of his failure.

Ella was curious. “Why are you so sure they can’t get it?” She anticipated their humiliation, yet Chris seemed confident. “I heard he’s willing to pay thrice the market price. What if the owner relents?”

“She won’t,” Stephanie stated firmly.

“How do you know?”

“Because the manor is mine.” Stephanie saw no need to conceal this from Ella; it would inevitably be discovered.

Ella fell silent. After a moment, she stammered, “I must have misheard. What did you say? Are you joking?” The Hart family’s lack of concern for her made the idea seem impossible. Shallow Bay Area was exorbitantly expensive. While Stephanie’s studio generated millions annually, even ten such studios wouldn't suffice to purchase a home there.

“Stefi, I can’t believe you hid this from me! I thought you were a poor girl with little family support!” Ella exclaimed. The Harts' cancellation of Stephanie’s card had led Ella to believe Stephanie was destitute; the opposite proved true.

“It’s a long story,” Stephanie chuckled.

“Does it involve your adoptive family? If so, they seem to care a great deal about you.” The answer was immediate.

“Yes,” Stephanie confirmed.

Chapter 68

“As expected. Then you’ll never be reduced to a pauper. I’m not worrying about you anymore.” Ella declared happily. Since Stephanie’s adoptive family had purchased her a home in Shallow Bay Area, they must deeply love her. Their love and protection would ensure Stephanie's happiness and safety.

Their conversation ended only when Sebastian entered. He was freshly bathed, clad in his nightgown. His bare thighs were muscular, water dripping from his wet hair.

“Who are you talking to?” Sebastian asked, displeasure evident in his tone. He had requested she sleep. Seeing the untouched milk, his brow furrowed.

“It’s Ella,” she replied. “I’m going to sleep.”

She climbed into bed and reached for the milk. Sebastian stopped her. “It’s cold. I’ll have it warmed up.”

Stephanie wanted to refuse; she wasn't a child. But Sebastian had already left with the glass. Shortly after, a servant arrived with the heated milk. Stephanie drank it and went to sleep.