Chapter 373:

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Committing herself, Erin assured him, «Mr. Clark, please proceed with your affairs. I will ensure Mrs. Clark is well taken care of.»

Matthew leaned down, planting a tender kiss on Stella’s forehead. «I’ll head upstairs. If you need anything, Erin is here to assist you.»

Stella blushed, still unaccustomed to such public displays of affection. She gave a nonchalant nod in agreement.

Pleased with her reaction, Matthew offered Erin a few more words of encouragement before ascending the staircase.

Once Matthew was out of sight, Erin enthusiastically guided Stella to the sofa.

She glanced upstairs to ensure he was truly gone, then leaned in and whispered, «Mrs. Clark, what’s happening?» She was struggling to reconcile the unexpected change in Stella’s status.

Not knowing where to begin, Stella responded, «There was a misunderstanding earlier.»

Sensing Erin had more questions, she cut her off: «Erin, my wound is stinging. Could you get some ointment?»

Erin hurried to fetch the first-aid kit. Wounds must be taken care of as soon as possible.

She soaked a cotton swab in alcohol and gently dabbed it on Stella’s minor forehead injury, which was now slightly inflamed.

Erin asked, «With Mr. Clark by your side, how did you manage to get hurt? Who did this?»

«It was an accident.» Stella evaded, concocting a quick excuse.

As Erin finished bandaging the wound, Matthew returned downstairs.

Taking the hint, Erin grabbed the first-aid kit and discreetly exited the room.

Matthew handed Stella a bag and said, «Here are some fresh clothes. You should shower and change.»

Stella was about to decline when her eyes narrowed at a smudge on her knee.

R3ad th3 l4t3st 0n g4ln0v3ls.c0m

Hesitating briefly, she accepted the bag and thanked him.

«Take Mrs. Clark to the bathroom,» Matthew instructed Erin.

Stella felt reassured by Matthew’s discretion. Accompanied by Erin, she headed upstairs.

Upon entering the bathroom, Erin prepared the warm water for Stella. «Mrs. Clark, let me know if you need anything else.»

Then, Erin stepped out of the bathroom and closed the door softly behind her.

Stella surveyed the unfamiliar room. The bathroom was expansive, and the lighting was strikingly bright. Premium-branded toiletries were arranged meticulously, making an overt statement about luxury.

Inhaling deeply, Stella left her slippers at the door and ventured into the bathroom barefoot.

As her body submerged into the warm water, her lingering melancholy seemed to dissolve instantly.

The steam filled the room, and the warm water cascaded over her like liquid silk, enveloping her in comforting warmth. A sense of ease overcame her frigid body. With a contented sigh, Stella leaned back against the bathtub and gently closed her eyes.

After what felt like an eternity, she was roused by a soft knock on the door.

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