Chapter 639

Stephanie said, “I don’t want it.” She was not lacking in money.

Amber asked, “Is it too filthy for you?”

“Not at all,” Stephanie replied. She knew Amber was the one in greater need.

Amber insisted, “If you don’t find it objectionable, take it; I intended this for you.”

After receiving money from Tyler, Amber had set aside this portion for Stephanie, planning to give it to her while they were still in Long Harbor. However, unexpected circumstances had prevented her from doing so. Now that they were both in Fiorenza, it felt like the perfect opportunity.

Stephanie frowned. “Why would you do this for me?” Her interactions with Amber had been quite minimal, and their conversations even more so.

Amber’s mind drifted to an unpleasant night where she had feared being assaulted by a group of thugs, only to have a stray beer bottle shatter nearby, scattering them. A warm coat had been draped over her, carrying an inviting scent.

Without uttering a word, Amber stepped forward, pressing the card into Stephanie’s palm. Before Stephanie could react, Amber turned away to leave, prompting Stephanie to pursue her.

Upon glancing at Amber’s figure, Stephanie could discern a profound sadness.

Sofia emerged and called out, “Stefi.”

Stephanie turned, recognizing Sofia approaching. Sofia inquired, “Why have you come out? What if you encountered mean girls again?”

While Sofia had found Stephanie’s earlier display commendable, her concern remained. To the Giovanni family, Stephanie was perceived as a delicate flower. Such a fragile being was better kept close, as they worried about her being bullied outside.

Stephanie said, “What’s there to fear? I could easily fight back; besides, after all that happened inside, who would even think me a target anymore?”

The commotion had been quite significant, especially with Sable and Lucinda being ruthlessly expelled. Ultimately, Stephanie had garnered a modicum of attention that evening.

By morning, rumors would surely circulate that she was truly cherished by the Giovanni family.

Sebastian stepped out, and upon seeing him, Sofia called out, “Sebastian.”

Stephanie turned as well, locking eyes with Sebastian. He drew her into an embrace and said, “Time to go home.”

As they strolled a few steps, Mireille called out to Sebastian from behind, “Sebastian.”

Both paused. Mireille approached and said, “You should consider my father’s proposal; after all, it would benefit Stephanie as well.”

Mireille had harbored feelings for Sebastian since high school. Stephanie was aware of this, as Mireille had approached her as well. However, those occasions were rare, as subsequent encounters seemed to be prevented by Sebastian.

Stephanie looked at Sebastian, catching a hint of danger in his intense gaze. He said, “If you hadn’t shown up and mentioned Stephanie, I might have considered it. But now there’s no need.”

With a chill in his voice, the depth of his pupils sharpened into something more cutting. Mireille’s expression darkened at his statement. Sebastian wrapped his arm around Stephanie and walked away.

Mireille’s gaze followed him, then shifted to Stephanie nestled in his embrace. A flicker of malice crossed her eyes.

Sofia approached from a distance, positioning herself beside Mireille, and scoffed, “How foolish of your family to think they could elevate their status by marrying you off.”

Mireille’s breath quickened as she turned to Sofia. “You are aware of Stephanie’s position in Long Harbor; the Giovanni family doesn’t appear to be particularly astute either.”

Sofia understood her implication. If the Giovanni family faced a scenario akin to three years prior, Stephanie would be of no assistance whatsoever.

With a scoff, she replied, “Only an inept man would sacrifice his marriage for family honor; you really think Sebastian is that kind?”