Trading My Ex for His Uncle (Nyla) novel Chapter 1353

After placing Valarie on the couch, Stefan stepped out of the private room to answer the call.

Michelle sneered. "Stefan, tomorrow is the deadline for your mother's medical bill, and you haven't made any progress.

"Looks like you really don't care about the money. Or… have you gotten close to Valarie and don't need it anymore?

"What a pity. Valarie still doesn't know you have ulterior motives. Do you want me to help tell her?"

Stefan lowered his head, his eyes dark with emotion. "I'll send the photos in a bit."

He hung up without hesitation.

Slipping his phone back into his pocket, he didn't return to the private room immediately. Instead, he leaned against the wall and lit a cigarette.

The swirling smoke obscured his features, making it impossible to read his expression.

It felt like his entire life had been shrouded in darkness since birth. No matter how hard he fought, he could never break free.

His phone buzzed with a new message from Michelle.

Michelle: [Stefan, your mother is in a VIP ward, and her daily medical and hospital expenses cost thousands. Even if you sold your blood or kidney, you wouldn't be able to afford it. I'm just asking you to take a few bed photos with Valarie. You're not even losing out. Stop dragging your feet. Don't tell me you've actually fallen for her? Let me remind you—know your place. A woman like Valarie would never fall for a worthless nobody like you.]

Stefan read the message, then expressionlessly deleted it. He stubbed out his cigarette and turned back toward the private room.

By the time he returned, Valarie had already finished another bottle of alcohol.

Hearing the door open, she lifted her head slowly. When she saw him, she smiled. "You're back!"

Stefan paused for a moment, then quickly walked over to her. "Veevee, it's really late now. Let me take you home."

Valarie blinked, processing his words. After a long moment, she nodded and reached out a hand to him. "Okay, help me up."

Staring at her delicate hand, Stefan swallowed hard before reaching out to take it. Once he helped her up, he realized she could barely stand and was practically hanging on him.

Without hesitation, he picked her up and carried her out.

As they passed through the lively crowd and stepped outside, the chilly night air hit them.