Chapter 154: What It Truly Means To Be Smart

Inside the café, Cecilia rose and approached Stella. Lowering her voice, she whispered, "Didn't you say you'd changed? Why do you still think I'd fall for your lies? I was aware of your tactics; I simply ignored them out of disdain. Be smarter next time."

Stella's usually pitiable expression darkened considerably. Cecilia left the café. Outside, she looked for Sven's car, but it was gone. A sigh of relief escaped her lips. She realized the current Nathaniel was profoundly different from the young man she once adored—he wouldn't overthink things and treated her well without question. Lost in thought, she drove away.

Stella had just left when a man seized her hand, pulling her into a secluded area. "I miss you so much, Stella," he said. Unshaven and with dark circles under his eyes, he looked haggard.

Stella tried to push him away. "Sean, how did you find me? How many times must I tell you I'm not returning to Lushtopia? If you care, go back alone. Don't stay in Tudela."

Sean's voice was filled with pain. "Is it because of Nathaniel? He's not sincere. If he loved you, why hasn't he married you?"

Stella shrugged indifferently. "So what? At least he provides what I desire."

Sean was stunned. "What can I provide you?"

"L..." Stella began, then finished, "Right now, nothing."

Sean shook his head, his grip tightening. "Even though my company failed, I can still compose music, write songs for you."

Stella scoffed. "I don't need your music. You've lost your talent. Admit it."

Tears welled in Sean's eyes. "How can you be so heartless? Would you be where you are without me? I need you!"

Noticing his anger, Stella adopted a more persuasive tone. "Sean, be mature. We all seek support. Look at you. You weren't this desolate when I left. Five years have passed, I've flourished, and you haven't grown. My continued conversation is a testament to my patience. Any other woman would have abandoned you long ago. You think I'm heartless?"

Sean became compliant. "Your absence devastated me."

Stella sighed. "But as a man, shouldn't you protect me? Am I to support you financially? You were here; you saw me bullied, yet you couldn't help."

After listening silently, Sean released her, his eyes filled with determination. "I can protect you!" He left.

Stella watched him go, her gaze fierce and icy as she touched the spot where he'd grabbed her. "Cecilia," she muttered, "didn't you think I wasn't smart enough? I'll show you what it truly means to be smart!"