She’s Done. He’s Breaking novel Chapter 6

**Chapter 6**

“Stelle, your dad and Jonathan are back!” Layla’s voice broke through the quiet of Stella’s room as she knocked gently on the door.

Without a second thought, Stella set aside the photo album that had captivated her attention and rose from her cozy spot. She stepped out into the hallway, her heart fluttering with anticipation. The moment she spotted Gary and Jonathan, a radiant smile illuminated her face. “Dad! Jonathan!” she exclaimed, her voice bright with joy.

Both Jonathan and Gary returned her enthusiasm with warm smiles, their eyes sparkling with affection.

“Stelle, we brought you some surprises! Come see if they make you smile,” Jonathan said with an infectious cheerfulness that made Stella’s heart swell.

With a bounce in her step, she hurried over to the coffee table where Jonathan had placed a variety of colorful packages. “Surprises? What did you bring?” she asked, her curiosity piqued.

Jonathan began unpacking the bags, revealing a beautifully branded jewelry box nestled among the items. He handed it to her with a flourish. “Open it up and take a look.”

Stella’s breath caught in her throat as she lifted the lid, revealing an exquisite gold bracelet that shimmered under the soft light. Her eyes sparkled with delight. “Thank you, Jonathan! It’s absolutely beautiful. I love it!”

Jonathan grinned, his hand affectionately ruffling her hair. “If it brings you joy, then that’s all that matters to me.”

He had also thoughtfully selected a matching gold bracelet for Layla, along with a luxurious set of skincare products for both women. Meanwhile, Gary had come bearing gifts of his own—an assortment of fine tea, a bottle of wine, and some delectable local delicacies.

The atmosphere in the room was warm and inviting, a cocoon of love and laughter. In moments like these, Stella felt a sense of belonging that was hard to find anywhere else.

“Stelle, when’s your due date?” Jonathan inquired, his brow furrowing slightly with genuine concern.

Stella glanced down at her prominent belly, a clear indication that she was well into her third trimester. “In two months,” she replied softly, a mix of excitement and nervousness bubbling within her.

Layla chuckled, her eyes twinkling with mischief. “This one’s definitely a girl,” she declared, her voice light.

Stella nodded, a smile creeping onto her lips. “Yes, a girl.”

Gary’s interest piqued. “Did you find out the baby’s gender?” he asked, his tone curious.

Layla’s expression shifted slightly, the hint of unease flickering in her eyes. “Yes, but this baby holds significant importance for Mrs. Somerton Senior.”

A wave of relief washed over Gary as he let out a deep sigh. “Good. As long as the baby is healthy, you and Tristan can work through your issues in time.”

Stella felt a heaviness settle in her chest as she looked down, her heart sinking. How could she possibly reveal to them that Tristan had brought up the topic of divorce?

She knew she couldn’t keep this from them forever. The decision to leave Sentella Bay and return home had been made, but she wanted to wait until after dinner to share the news.

—

Layla had outdone herself with a lavish dinner spread, the aroma wafting through the air and tantalizing their senses.

Jonathan had recently co-founded a tech company called Evecore Technologies with a few friends. Two years prior, Gary had provided the initial funding without hesitation, and now, Evecore was flourishing within the AI sector. Jonathan had just returned from a successful business trip, his energy palpable.

Meanwhile, Gary had been preoccupied with selling off Welleon Realty. Although the wedding gifts from the Somertons had offered a temporary reprieve, the current economic climate had rendered the business unsustainable.

As age and fatigue began to catch up with him, Gary had pinned his hopes on the success of Evecore Technologies. The company was gearing up for a funding round by the end of the year, coinciding perfectly with the sale of Welleon Realty. This would allow him to invest the proceeds into Jonathan’s burgeoning venture.

Gary had some exciting news to share as well—he was planning to propose to Layla.

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