She’s Done. He’s Breaking novel Chapter 37

**Chapter 37**

“She left already. I can’t fathom what she’s up to. It’s not like anyone did anything to her,” Lily lamented, her voice tinged with frustration as she vented about Stella.

Tristan’s expression tightened slightly at her words, but he chose silence over a response. Instead, he stepped outside, the door closing behind him with a soft click.

Stella had arrived at the Somerton residence long before Tristan did. The parking lot was a spectacle of luxury vehicles, each one a testament to the family’s wealth, and every member of the Somerton clan seemed to be present, contributing to the bustling atmosphere.

As Stella stepped out of her car, she unexpectedly collided with Theodore. Their eyes met, and a smile broke across his face, illuminating the moment. It had been a while since they last saw each other, and the familiarity felt comforting.

Theodore’s gaze traveled down to her belly, and a teasing smile danced on his lips. “Your belly looks even rounder than before! But I must say, your face has slimmed down. You look lovely,” he remarked, genuine admiration in his tone.

Stella felt warmth bloom in her chest at his compliment. It was rare for anyone to say something so kind, and Theodore had a knack for making her feel good about herself. “And you, my friend, are looking quite dapper yourself,” she replied, a playful glint in her eyes.

“Really? You think so? I believe so too!” Theodore grinned, their laughter mingling in the air as they exchanged knowing glances.

“Alright, let’s head inside,” he said, gesturing toward the entrance.

Stella felt a flutter of nerves as they approached the house. The thought of stepping into a family gathering where she felt like an outsider was daunting. But with Theodore by her side, her anxiety began to dissipate, replaced by a sense of comfort.

As they entered the living room, the ambiance wrapped around them like a warm blanket. The room was alive with the sounds of children’s laughter and the joyful chatter of women, creating a harmonious symphony that filled the space.

Eloise, spotting them from across the room, waved them over with an inviting smile.

Stella and Theodore made their way toward the group of women, and Theodore greeted each of them with warm familiarity, while Stella offered polite nods and smiles, feeling a mixture of acceptance and trepidation.

“Why are you here alone?” Eloise inquired, her brow furrowing slightly as she looked at Stella. “Where’s Tristan?”

“He was caught up with something urgent. I thought I’d come by myself first,” Stella explained, her voice steady despite the slight unease she felt under Eloise’s scrutinizing gaze.

Tristan’s voice was rich with affection as he replied, “Hey there, little guys!” He had brought gifts back from his business trip, and the boys practically bounced with joy as he handed them their presents, their laughter echoing through the room.

Stella watched the scene unfold, a bittersweet smile gracing her lips. She couldn’t help but wonder if Tristan would show the same tenderness to the child growing inside her once she brought her into the world. The thought sent a ripple of uncertainty through her, and she quickly averted her gaze, not wanting to dwell on such heavy emotions.

No one around her noticed the flicker of worry and loneliness hidden in her eyes.

Theodore, however, caught a glimpse of Stella’s expression as he observed Tristan’s interactions with Jamie and Joshua. A flicker of concern crossed his face, but he quickly masked it, not wanting to draw attention to her unease.

Just then, the housekeeper entered the living room, announcing that dinner was served. Eloise promptly instructed the maids to gather everyone in the dining room.

As the family settled around the dining table, Stella found herself sitting next to Tristan, with Theodore beside her. It was a rare occasion for the Somerton family to share a meal together, and the atmosphere buzzed with chatter and laughter, the kind that came from shared history and deep connections.

Conversations flowed freely, touching on everyday topics, but Stella noticed that no one brought up the baby in her belly. The absence of that subject felt like a void, yet Theodore remained the only one who engaged her in conversation, his presence a comforting anchor amidst the whirlwind of family dynamics.