She’s Done. He’s Breaking novel Chapter 7

**Chapter 7**

That evening, Stella found herself nestled within the comforting walls of the Roberts residence. It was a sanctuary, a refuge that wrapped around her like a warm blanket. For the first time in what felt like ages, she drifted into a deep, peaceful slumber, free from the weight of her worries.

As dawn broke, the inviting aroma of breakfast wafted through the air, drawing Stella from her dreams. In the kitchen, Layla was busy at work, her hands skillfully preparing a hearty breakfast. She had lovingly crafted a warm bowl of soup specifically for Stella, along with a nutritious lunch packed neatly in a thermal container, ensuring that her daughter-in-law would be well-fed throughout her day at the office.

The night prior, Stella had gathered the courage to share her decision with the family: she intended to resign from her current position at the company and step into the role of Hayden’s assistant for a month. Initially, both Layla and Gary had expressed their concerns, urging her to prioritize her health and the well-being of her unborn child.

Yet, Stella remained resolute. Despite the slight heaviness she felt physically, she was otherwise in good spirits. The thought of engaging in simple tasks didn’t frighten her; in fact, she believed that immersing herself in a new routine was far better than succumbing to inertia. The silence of idleness only served to amplify her spiraling thoughts.

Eventually, Gary had relented, recognizing the determination in her eyes.

Stella felt an urge to assist Layla in the kitchen, but her mother-in-law gently refused. Respecting Layla’s wishes, Stella retreated to the living room, where she settled onto the couch, phone in hand. She began browsing the internet, searching for prenatal Pilates classes that might fit into her schedule.

As she scrolled through the pages, her expression shifted dramatically.

Her eyes landed on a post that made her heart drop—a collage of nine photos capturing a dinner gathering at an exclusive private club. The post was from Max Ashford, a friend of Tristan’s, whose account she had started following when she was still Tristan’s assistant.

The caption read, “Dinner night. More love to envy. When’s the wedding already?”

Among the photos, three showcased Tristan and Audrey together, their chemistry palpable. In the most striking image, Audrey leaned against Tristan, a coy smile on her lips, while he protectively draped his arm over her shoulder. The tenderness in his gaze sent a sharp pang through Stella’s heart, a reminder of the warmth that once existed between them.

Everyone within Tristan’s circle was well aware of his marital status, yet they had always looked down on Stella, deeming her unworthy. Max’s post felt like a calculated jab, a reminder of her perceived inadequacies.

A wave of anguish washed over Stella, constricting her chest and making it difficult to breathe. She closed her phone and stepped out onto the balcony, desperate to find solace in the fresh air. Instinctively, her hand rested on her burgeoning belly, a connection that brought her both comfort and sorrow.

The weight of her thoughts was suffocating. After the divorce, it was inevitable that Tristan would marry Audrey. They would undoubtedly start a family, and he would shower them with the love and affection she had once yearned for.

But what about her child? Would her baby ever experience the warmth of a father’s love?

“Stella, breakfast is ready!” Layla’s voice broke through her spiraling thoughts.

With a slow exhale, Stella wiped away the tears that had begun to form and made her way to the bathroom. By the time she returned, she had managed to compose herself, masking the turmoil within.

After they finished breakfast, Jonathan offered to drive Stella to the office.

As they cruised along the road, he couldn’t help but notice the unease etched across her features. “Stella, what’s bothering you?” he asked gently, concern lacing his voice.

She shook her head, unwilling to divulge her inner turmoil.

Jonathan’s tone turned firm yet caring. “Stella, now that you’re pregnant, it’s crucial that you don’t bottle up your feelings. It’s not just about you anymore; it’s about your baby too.”

Stella remained silent for a moment, contemplating his words. Finally, she spoke, her voice steady yet heavy. “It’s nothing… It’s just that Tristan is with someone else now. I’m struggling to come to terms with it, but I’ll manage. Please don’t worry about me.”

Though her voice was calm, Jonathan could sense the underlying pain. Unsure of how to comfort her, he simply offered, “Time heals everything. With patience, things will improve.”

Stella nodded softly, grateful for his support.

Upon arriving at Somerton Corporation, Stella took the thermal container from the car and stepped out.

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