Chapter 635

In the lounge area, as more people crowded around the food, Sofia grew more worried that something might happen to Stephanie, especially since she was in a delicate state. She urged, “Stay here while I get you something to eat.” Before she could mention that she wasn’t allowed to eat more, Sofia hurried off. Alone on the sofa, Stephanie adjusted her coat. Even though the indoor temperature was comfortable, she felt cold since her pregnancy began. She still wore the scarf that Sebastian had taken off just moments ago. A server approached and offered her water, to which she replied gratefully, “Thank you.”

“Would you like something to eat? The food station is over there,” the server said.

“No, thank you,” Stephanie replied.

“You’re welcome,” the server said respectfully.

Stephanie glanced at the water in her hand. She contemplated for a moment before setting it down. She pulled out her phone and saw a message.

Ella: [Stefi, remember when I proposed to Lorenzo? He never agreed, so why does he want me now? Does that mean he’s only after my body and has no intention of committing?]

Stephanie was taken aback. This added to the confusion already swirling in her mind. Since Lorenzo and Ella lived together, Stephanie couldn’t help but wonder what had happened between them.

Stephanie: [I don’t think Lorenzo is after your body.]

Ella: [Why?]

Stephanie: [Don’t ask me. I don’t know.] The truth could be hurtful; silence seemed better.

Ella pressed on: [Are you implying that my figure isn’t appealing?]

Stephanie didn’t say that, but Ella wouldn’t let up. Feeling overwhelmed, Stephanie finally sent: [Compared to the women Lorenzo has met, yes.]

Ella went silent. As Stephanie wondered whether to say more, she overheard two women talking about her.

Sable said, “Why would Lottie support Stephanie’s relationship with Sebastian? Stephanie was raised by her and is basically her daughter; it’s surprising that she would allow this.”

Stephanie’s expression darkened. Recalling Chris’s words on the phone, she recognized the truth in his warning. Even in the more accepting Fiorenza, their relationship could not easily find acceptance.

Lucinda said, “Honestly, Stephanie might be Lottie’s love child.”

Sable gasped, shocked.

Lucinda added, “Otherwise, why would Lottie back such a union? Now I’m starting to doubt the truth about her husband’s death three years ago.”

Sable said, “The Murphy family was eager to see Mireille marry Sebastian. Mireille has admired him since high school, and now Stephanie has swooped in.”

Lucinda said, “Maybe Stephanie is Lottie’s legitimate daughter, and Sebastian is the love child. Lottie is very fond of Stephanie—she even picked her up from school.”

Sable said, “Silas must be pitiable. Back when he was alive, there were already whispers about Lottie and her lover.”

In the sparsely populated corner, their words grew bolder. Stephanie slowly put her phone into her bag and took the glass of water. As Stephanie moved toward them, the two women, engrossed in their gossip, remained unaware of her presence. When Sofia arrived with food, she saw Stephanie pour the glass of water over Sable’s head. Sofia realized Stefi was anything but fragile.