Chapter 188

Amidst the rising murmurs, a man, not usually one for gossip, leaned in and whispered, "Who is it?"

The woman who had spoken earlier looked incredulous. "Are you serious? I already said it's a big shot from Seldvale. It was practically spelled out. Since you peeled my eggs, I'll tell you… it's Stephan!"

Stephan, a powerful figure controlling a global economic lifeline, commanded awe and admiration. He was a distant, almost mythical, presence to most.

The man stammered, "Is that true? But I heard Mr. Russell never shows interest in women…"

"Your definition of 'uninterested' doesn't mean he's not involved in clandestine affairs."

The crowd nodded, the logic undeniable. They then shifted to discussing Abbie's beauty, each exclaiming, "She's stunning!" Her current appearance eclipsed her previous prettiness; wealth, it seemed, had truly transformed her. "Being nurtured by wealth" was no exaggeration.

"Abbie's offline event is in Khogend, and I heard two more are coming up. Let's go! Maybe we can get an autograph or a photo!"

Felicia, gently stroking Cloud's sleeping head, remained quiet, listening. But Stephan's unpredictable temper troubled her. Were the rumors true? Did he spend lavishly on women's favors?

A thought struck her. Could his repeated attempts to contact her after the herbal medicine incident stem from… a relationship? Perhaps he couldn't explain his actions to the actress, fueling his anger. It was possible.

Should she give Cloud to him? The question lingered unanswered as the bus returned to school.

Meanwhile, at the Russell estate high in the mountains, Stephan listened to his subordinate's report, a faint smile playing on his lips.

"Mr. Russell, Ms. Fuller has returned to school, bringing the little white dog."

"I see."

Her defiance at the hospital still stung. She'd actually asked, "Do adults still have to take responsibility for this?"

He snorted. Felicia's return of Cloud clearly indicated she knew of his fondness for it and intended to give it to him. He would forgive her.

In a good mood, he instructed, "Have her come see me when she arrives."

His subordinate, suppressing the urge to ask how he knew she'd come, and even more the urge to comment on his sudden shift from gloom to almost happiness over a mere dog, merely replied, "Understood, Mr. Russell."