She’s Done. He’s Breaking novel Chapter 13

**Chapter 13**

Stella and Layla made their way back to the Roberts residence, the atmosphere thick with unspoken thoughts. As Stella stepped inside, she felt the familiar weight of her emotions pressing down on her. She hurriedly changed into a fresh outfit, opting for something that felt lighter, yet no matter how she styled her hair or applied her makeup, she couldn’t shake the feeling of being bulky and plain. Still, she glanced in the mirror and noted the subtle refreshment in her appearance, a small victory in a sea of insecurities.

As the clock struck five, the familiar sound of a car pulling into the driveway announced Jonathan’s arrival. He was prompt as always, and Stella felt a flicker of gratitude as he offered to drive her to Orchard Sonata, a restaurant celebrated for its exquisite Justician cuisine.

The restaurant stood alone, its traditional architectural style a stark contrast to the modern chaos of the surrounding district. It was nestled in a quiet corner, a hidden gem that exuded elegance and sophistication, making it a popular choice for the city’s elite. Stella felt a twinge of excitement; perhaps this evening would be different.

“Jonathan, you really don’t have to stay. You can head home if you want,” Stella suggested, trying to sound casual.

Jonathan smiled, his eyes warm. “I’ll be just a call away if you need anything,” he reassured her.

“Alright then,” she replied, feeling a mixture of relief and apprehension as she stepped into the restaurant.

Once inside, Stella took a moment to gather her thoughts. She dialed Hayden’s number, her heart racing slightly as she awaited his response. Upon learning that they were still en route, she felt a wave of impatience wash over her. After confirming her reservation, the staff ushered her to the private room that Hayden had thoughtfully booked. They served her a refreshing juice and a selection of pastries, their delicate presentation a small comfort as she waited.

The minutes ticked by slowly, and Stella found herself lost in thought. About twenty minutes later, the door swung open, and in walked Hayden, accompanied by Emil Mikelson and his assistant. Emil, though in his fifties, possessed a timeless grace, moving with an air of refined confidence that instantly commanded respect.

Stella stood to greet Emil, her heart fluttering slightly as she noticed his polite handshake. His eyes briefly flickered to her belly, and he offered a warm smile, encouraging her to take a seat.

As they settled in, a waiter approached with the menus, and the atmosphere shifted into a more relaxed tone. Hayden, with a glimmer of pride in his eyes, turned to Stella. “Why don’t you recommend some dishes to Emil? I know you have a knack for this.”

Stella felt a swell of confidence. Having aced the Inggrish Language Test with an advanced score, she was more than capable of conversing with Emil. In fact, her fluency extended to five languages, including Chenaian, Grandelean, Ferano, and Jesmian. During her travels with Tristan on business trips, she had often played the role of interpreter, a skill she had honed over the years.

As the group perused the menu, they engaged in light conversation about Justicia’s vibrant local culture and its culinary delights. The dialogue naturally flowed into more professional topics, including the academic exchange they had attended that day. Stella listened intently, contributing her thoughts at just the right moments, eager to make a good impression.

Emil, clearly impressed, turned to Hayden. “Your student is remarkable! I’m looking forward to welcoming her at Brookfield University.”

Hayden beamed with pride, “I have no doubt she will excel under your guidance.”

As the conversation continued, glasses were raised in a toast. The others sipped on fine wine while Stella opted for her juice, the sweetness of it contrasting with the richness of the moment. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, each laugh and shared anecdote weaving a tapestry of camaraderie.

Suddenly, Hayden’s phone vibrated, breaking the pleasant rhythm of the evening. He glanced at the screen, his expression shifting slightly. “Excuse me, I need to take this call,” he said, his tone apologetic.

Emil nodded, understanding. As Hayden stepped out of the private room, Stella felt a mix of anticipation and unease. She glanced around the room, her mind wandering as she waited.

Meanwhile, in the hallway, Hayden stood ready to take the call, but his attention was soon diverted. He noticed a couple approaching—Tristan and Audrey, their fingers intertwined, a picture of intimacy that made his heart sink.

Audrey, ever the provocateur, tightened her grip on Tristan’s arm upon spotting Hayden. She lifted her chin slightly, a silent challenge lingering in the air. Yet, Hayden remained unfazed, his gaze steady and unwavering.

Tristan extended his hand first. “Mr. Jenkins,” he greeted, his tone cordial yet laced with an underlying tension.

Hayden reciprocated the handshake, his demeanor professional. “Mr. Somerton, fancy meeting you here.”

As they exchanged pleasantries, Tristan complimented Hayden on his analysis from the day’s forum. “It was quite thought-provoking,” he remarked, his voice smooth.

“Thank you, you’re too kind,” Hayden replied, a polite smile gracing his lips.

Audrey chimed in, her curiosity piqued. “Are you dining here with Professor Mikelson?” she asked, her tone light but her eyes sharp.

“You seem well-informed, Mr. Somerton,” Hayden said, his gaze fixed on Tristan.

Audrey, feeling ignored, interjected, “Tris, is this Mr. Jenkins from Rover Capital, the person you mentioned to my brother before?”

“Yes,” Tristan replied, his voice steady.

Audrey turned her attention to Hayden. “I’ve heard so much about you, Mr. Jenkins. It’s a pleasure to finally meet you,” she said, her smile bright but scrutinizing.

“I’m pleased to meet you as well,” Hayden responded, his tone polite yet distant. He offered a brief handshake, his demeanor revealing little of the turmoil beneath.

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