Chapter 213
Jordan wanted Stella to stay home instead of going to the office, but she was just too ambitious–no matter what he said, she refused and insisted on going in.
Even though she could only stay at the company for about three hours, that was exactly what Stella wanted.
Jordan had no choice but to drive her to the office. He even made sure she stopped by the restroom before he finally felt comfortable enough to leave.
Of course, before heading out, he reminded Nola to keep an eye on Stella and take good care of her.
Watching Jordan finally leave, Stella gave Nola a helpless look and said, “See? He acts just like a nagging mom.”
Nola said with envy, “You and Mr. Erwin are relationship goals for so many of us. Stop showing off already.”
Stella looked exasperated. She asked, “Did I?”
Nola said, “Totally. You have no idea what it’s like being single. I used to be a proud single lady, and now I’m just a sad single dog.”
Stella laughed and said, “Nola, you’re wonderful. Don’t worry–if I know someone suitable, I’ll introduce you.”
“Alright, I’ll leave it to you,” Nola replied with a grin.
Nola was genuinely worried about Stella, so she just set up shop in Stella’s office.
Stella felt a headache coming on, but Nola just shrugged and said, “Mr. Erwin told me to watch over you, so I have to take it seriously.”
“Hey, I’m the one signing your paychecks,” Stella reminded her.
“Sorry, on this one, I only listen to Mr. Erwin,” Nola replied, totally unfazed.
Stella could only sigh in defeat.
With Nola working right there in her office, everything became so much more convenient for Stella–whatever she needed, Nola was on it in a
heartbeat.
Three hours flew by, and Stella didn’t even leave her desk once.
When it was time to leave, Nola suggested seeing her off, but Stella said, “It’s okay. I have a car–my driver will be here soon.”
“Let me at least walk you to your car,” Nola insisted.
Stella knew there was no changing Nola’s mind, so she just nodded in resignation. She said, “Alright, let’s go.”
Every step Stella took hurt like hell, but she forced herself to keep going. She thought, ‘I can handle this. I have been through worse; this is
nothing.‘
Nola offered, “Want me to give you a piggyback ride?”
Stella replied, “No, no, please don’t. I can walk by myself.”
Seeing how stubborn Stella was, Nola could only stick by her side, a little helpless but not about to leave her alone.
Thankfully, there was an elevator, so as long as Stella just stood still and didn’t have to move around, she’d be fine.
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As they walked out, they saw Leila standing right in front of them.
Leila shot Nola a glance, her brow furrowing as if trying to place her, but then she turned her attention back to Stella. She said, “I never thought you’d end up dating Jordan.”
Nola recognized Leila the moment she saw her. Seeing that Leila didn’t seem to notice her, Nola relaxed–nothing to worry about. She opened her mouth, wanting to defend Stella.
But Stella shot her a look that said, “Stop right there,” and Nola instantly clammed up.
“Whatever’s going on between me and Jordan is none of your business,” Stella replied coolly.
Leila said, “Oh, I think it is. I’m interested in your boyfriend, so why don’t you just hand him over?”
In these circles, Stella didn’t know a ton of people herself, but Anna had filled her in on all the drama. Girls like Leila were everywhere in this scene–it was simply Stella’s turn to be targeted today.
Stella snapped, “Who do you think you are? Why should I hand over my man to you?”
Leila patted Stella’s shoulder and said, “Seriously? You don’t even know who I am? Whatever, let me introduce myself. I’m Leila Díaz, and my dad is the mayor. I can give Jordan all kinds of favors, resources, and perks–can you compete with that?
“Stella, I did my homework on you. Three years ago, you got kidnapped and sold off to Middle–South Yaria. You managed to escape, but not before they stole your kidney.
“Then, when you tried to make it home, some so–called ‘good Samaritan‘ ended up dumping you in some Dusty Pines. You’re pretty tough, I’ll give you that–figured your way out all by yourself.
“But let’s be real, your health is a mess. Who knows how long you’ll even last? And your family? Sure, that supermarket business is keeping you afloat for now, but I heard Jordan’s been throwing a ton of cash your way.
“Your family’s business is hanging by a thread. It could collapse any day. Are you planning to drag Jordan down with you?”
She paused before adding in a confident tone, “But I’m not like you. Jordan’s got shaky roots in this city, and you know it better than anyone.
“If he’s with me, he becomes the mayor’s son–in–law. Being the mayor’s son–in–law is a big deal, you know?”
Stella didn’t reply.
Getting anxious, Nola started to think about messaging Jordan about this.
Leila might be super arrogant, but honestly, she wasn’t just talking nonsense.
Back when things were rough, Nola had thought about helping Stella out, but if she did, her family would drag her back in a heartbeat. But this time, if Leila tried to mess with Stella, Nola wouldn’t hesitate to step in.
Just as Nola was about to say something, Stella suddenly started laughing.
Stella then said, “You know, your offer does sound tempting, and your analysis is pretty sharp. Compared to you, I really can’t give Jordan
more. But do you think Jordan’s stupid?
“If he ever wanted you, why do you think he never even considered you before me?”
Nola’s eyes sparkled, and she thought, Yep, that’s my idol for you.’
Stella continued, “You think Jordan doesn’t know you are still single? Even if you’re living abroad, if he wanted to use you and your dad, he
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would’ve tracked you down overseas long ago. Why would he bother being with me instead?
“Sure, maybe he’s been with other women just to kill time, but with me? What else could it be but real love?”
Leila looked like she’d just been slapped in the face–it was probably the first time anyone had ever dared to talk back to her.
She shot back, “Who cares about true love? How much is that even worth? There’s a big project coming up for bidding, and if he’s with me, that project is as good as his.”
Stella replied, “You’re right, Ms. Diaz. No matter how you look at it, you’ve got the upper hand. But let me tell you–Jordan didn’t pick you because he knows you two would never last, let alone get married.
“Everyone knows how you operate: you’re with whoever catches your eye, and when you’re done, you kick them to the curb. Jordan’s not that kind of guy. He’s gotten where he is by relying on himself.
“Why would he want to bet everything on someone as unpredictable as you? Count on a mountain, it’ll crumble; count on people, they’ll bail. Just for one project? Not worth the risk.
“Of course, that’s just how I see it–but what do you think Jordan would say?”
Nola was totally in awe–Stella handled it like a pro, cool as ever, not even breaking a sweat. She was seriously unshakable.
Leila was so pissed that she was left completely speechless.
Stella added, “Honestly, Ms. Diaz, I think you’re just interested in Jordan on a whim. Why not set your sights on someone else? There are plenty of people out there who’d love to have your attention.
“And I seriously doubt that getting on your bad side is going to keep us from winning that project bid.”
AD
