Chapter 149: He Gave In

Nathaniel looked up. “Why did she come by?”

Cecelia handed him the blank check Elena had given her. “She gave me this and wanted me to leave you.”

Nathaniel stared at the check. “You agreed?”

Cecelia shook her head. “No. We had an agreement. How could I leave now? I wouldn't be able to save Eli, or give birth to the triplets.” She handed him the check. “Here. Take it back.”

Nathaniel glanced at the check, then tossed it in the trash. He looked at Cecelia, noticing her allergic reaction. His gaze was deep and thoughtful. “You made the right choice. Even if you’d filled it out, I wouldn’t have cashed it.” He was determined she wouldn't think she could leave.

Cecelia clenched her fists.

After wiping his hands with a warm handkerchief, Nathaniel stood before her, pointing to the red spots on her neck. “Have you applied the medicine?” His unpredictable shifts between indifference and concern made Cecelia uneasy.

“Yes,” she replied, stepping away.

Nathaniel was about to approach her when the doorbell rang. Who could be visiting at this hour?

The unusual atmosphere prompted Cecelia to rise immediately and head for the door, dodging past Nathaniel. “I’ll get it.”

Stella stood in the doorway, a light-colored slip dress billowing gently in the midsummer night air. Unshed tears filled her eyes. Upon seeing Cecelia, she said softly, “I’m looking for Nathaniel.”

It was easy to see why both Nathaniel and Zachary found her wistful allure captivating.

Cecelia looked back to find Nathaniel already approaching. At the sight of him, Stella wept uncontrollably. “Nathaniel.”

Nathaniel frowned, puzzled by her late-night visit.

Unmindful of Cecelia's presence, Stella rushed to Nathaniel, tears streaming down her face. “Nathaniel, that man came back after you left… He wanted to take me away, but I refused. He tried to drag me to the edge of the building. I was terrified…” She lifted her arm, revealing bruises.

“Where’s the bodyguard?” Nathaniel asked, pulling out his phone.

Stella explained, “I was going to bed; I didn't see him come in. The bodyguards didn't notice.”

Nathaniel, frustrated by the sight of her bruises, said, “I’ll take you to the hospital.”

Stella shook her head vehemently. “Nathaniel, I can’t go anywhere. Please, let me stay here tonight. I don't want him to find me.”

Cecelia quickly understood—Stella had a stalker.

“I’ll arrange a hotel for you,” Nathaniel offered.

Before he could call, Stella grabbed his hand. “Nathaniel, you promised to give me anything I ask for. We’re not married, but I want to stay here, just for tonight. Please, I’m scared…” Tears streamed down her face.

Nathaniel rarely bent to the needs of others. Yet, that night, he gave in. “All right.”