The Heiress With Seven Secret Identies (Stella Shaw) novel Chapter 161

Chapter 161 Hidden Spite

“I saw a friend,” Frederick said.

Kenneth didn’t think much of it and followed Iris.

“Your brother is so cold,” Iris commented.

“You know him well,” Kenneth replied.

‘We went on a blind date, remember?” Iris laughed.

Kenneth nodded slightly. Frederick had told the family Iris was too chatty–though she’d suited Kenneth. Their mother had pushed Frederick to give it another try, but it never worked out.

Elias and Stella sat in a corner, chatting and eating. Stella felt an unfriendly gaze on her and turned around nstinctively.

She froze for a second. It’s her.

Elias, who is that girl?” she asked.

Elias followed her gaze. “Which one?”

The one in the red strapless gown,” Stella said.

Elias glanced over. “I don’t know her,” he said, tucking a strand of her hair behind her ear and looking at her gently. “Why? What’s wrong?”

She looks like she hates me, but I’ve never met her,” Stella frowned.

Seraphina held a glass of red wine and walked slowly toward them, swaying her hips.

Elias, long time no see,” she greeted.

Elias frowned slightly. He had a vague idea who this woman was. He only nodded faintly in response.

Seraphina’s heart filled with disappointment. She turned to Stella, forcing a polite smile.

‘Hello, I’m Seraphina. And you are?”

‘She’s my girlfriend—the future lady of the Cross family,” Elias said firmly, squeezing Stella’s hand.

He figured if she had any sense, she’d give up.

Tears blurred Seraphina’s eyes, but she fought them back.

Henever got close to girls before–I was the only one allowed near him as a child.

When did everything change? He’s even gentle now–but not with me.

She took a deep breath as she saw Aaron and Arthur walking over. Aaron didn’t want anyone interrupting

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12:46 pm PEM.

Chapter 161 Hidden Spite

his son’s date, and Arthur worried there might be trouble involving Seraphina.

+5 Pearls

“I’m sorry, Mr. Cross–I forgot to bring your gift,” Seraphina said, her smile composed. “Tonight, I’d like to paint a picture for you on the spot. Would that be okay?”

“Sure,” Aaron agreed quickly. As long as she didn’t disturb Elias and Stella, he didn’t care what she did.

Seraphina smiled faintly. Elias‘ mother had loved painting. She’d created a piece at Aaron’s birthday banquet years ago–a happy moment Seraphina had been lucky enough to witness.

She hoped this would jog their memories, reminding Elias of their shared past.

“Miss Thorne is going to paint on the spot?”

“Is she trying to recreate the famous moment when Mrs. Cross and Mr. Cross showed their affection?”

“This is Mr. Cross‘ birthday banquet–painting here feels inappropriate,” one guest whispered.

‘I heard Miss Thorne likes Mr. Elias Cross. Maybe she’s desperate? Trying to bring back old memories,” another said.

‘From the looks of it, Mr. Aaron Cross is very satisfied with Stella,” someone commented.

‘Mrs. Cross was a master of traditional painting–everyone was looking forward to her works. Miss Thorne is just a painting student. If she wants to showcase her skills, she should hold an exhibition. This is someone else’s birthday party.”

‘Mr. Aaron Cross didn’t say anything, so let’s just watch. I have a feeling there’s going to be drama tonight.”

Seraphina stood on the stage, with everyone’s eyes on her. She spread out paper, looked up, and smiled- ner gaze on Stella filled with pride.

Music started playing, and she began to dance while holding a paintbrush.

Stella remained calm, swirling her red wine and looking back at Seraphina with her beautiful eyes.

I think I know why she hates me,” Stella said, smiling and turning to Elias. “She likes you.”

I only like you,” Elias said firmly.

Stella’s lips curved upward involuntarily. “Were you two childhood sweethearts?”

“We barely knew each other. I just remember her existence,” Elias replied, never taking his eyes off Stella as he handed her a piece of cake.

Stella ate elegantly, glancing in Seraphina’s direction occasionally.

While everyone’s attention was on Seraphina, only the servants were busy attending to the guests.

Seraphina loved being the center of attention–her only disappointment was that the man she cared about didn’t spare her a single glance.

12:46 pm P W

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