He Never Noticed Me Until I Loved Someone Else novel Chapter 296

Perhaps it was her lack of security that made her default to retreating and pushing others away.

Realizing this only made Sebastian's heart ache more for Stella. It also strengthened his resolve to protect and cherish her properly.

After confirming the meeting time for the following day, Stella had someone book a flight for that very evening.

That afternoon, while Stella was prepping documents in her office, her phone rang.

She glanced at the screen—it was Jasper.

Remembering what Jarrod had mentioned the night before about Jasper wanting to grab dinner and go shopping, Stella picked up the phone and got straight to the point.

"Jasper, I'm really sorry, but I have to go on a business trip for the next couple of days. I won't have time to hang out."

Jasper sounded visibly disappointed. "Aw, what awful timing! I was planning to take you to try this amazing new Highland Bistro that just opened."

Stella softened her tone. "How about we go together as soon as I get back?"

Still a bit bummed, Jasper asked, "Where are you going for your trip?"

When Stella told him she was heading to Ashford, his entire demeanor flipped instantly!

"Stella! There's a massive three-day comic expo happening in Ashford right now! I've been dying to go, but my mom wouldn't let me travel alone!"

Jasper practically vibrated with excitement. "This is perfect! Now I can just go with you! Send me your flight info—I'm going to tell my mom and book my ticket right now!"

Stella was about to tell him no, reminding him she was going for work and wouldn't have time to babysit him.

But Jasper had already hung up in his rush.

Stella: "..."

Jasper worked insanely fast. Within minutes, Stella received a call from Eleanor.

Hearing that Stella was indeed traveling to Ashford, her aunt sounded relieved. She asked Stella to keep an eye on Jasper and told her to come by the main estate for dinner once they returned.

She leaned over to Stella. "Stella, if your brother-in-law is this perfect, your husband must be a total catch!"

"It's just such a shame for Sebastian... He's an amazing guy, and he clearly adores you. If he finds out you're married, it'll break his heart!"

Stella: "..."

By the time their flight landed in Ashford, it was already quite late. The three of them checked into their hotel together.

The next morning, Stella got ready and headed out with Joey to meet the client, while Jasper happily threw on his backpack and headed straight to the expo.

After a long day of negotiations, Stella and the client successfully pinned down the framework for a partnership.

In the afternoon, Joey had personal matters to attend to and caught a flight back to Royal Oaks. Stella, having promised to keep an eye on Jasper, stayed behind in Ashford.

Since Jasper was wrapping up for the day, Stella headed over to the expo center to find him.

Just as she reached the perimeter and pulled out her phone to call him, she spotted two incredibly familiar figures up ahead!