Now They Want My Forgiveness - Chapter 257: Chapter 257

Monroe grasped her hand firmly. "Anna, I don't believe a word Stella said. Just remember: if you ever need anything, come to me. I'll always be here for you."
Anna's eyes brimmed with tears, their rims turning red. "Really?"
"Of course," Monroe said. "Let's visit your family after lunch, and I'll arrange for them to be transferred to a top hospital."
"But the cost. I can't let you do that," Anna protested weakly, lowering her head.
"Stop that," Monroe chided gently. "Helping you makes me happy. And you trusting me like this? That means everything."
A sob tore from Anna's throat.
Monroe froze, panic flickering across his face as her tears fell. "Anna, don't—" His voice cracked. "Please don't cry. It kills me to see you like this." Overwhelmed and unsure what else to do, he simply pulled her against his chest.
Anna's sobs intensified. "No one's been this kind to me in so long," she managed between ragged breaths. "Monroe, I never imagined you'd be so kind to me. I'm just so happy, so moved."
Monroe's chest ached. He stroked her back gently. "Anna, just trust me," he murmured into her hair. "You chose me. That means your happiness is my priority. No more worries. I'll be your support, your shelter."
Anna nodded against his shoulder. Then, peering over Monroe's arm, she flashed Stella a smile sharp with triumph and challenge.
Stella merely raised an eyebrow, turning to Jordan as their plates arrived. "Looks like someone really thinks she's all that," Stella remarked, her voice dripping with sarcasm.
"She's certainly wrapped Monroe tight," Jordan noted, his tone cool. "We can't deny her skill."
Stella had initially considered taking Anna down a peg herself, but seeing the situation unfold, she decided letting Monroe deal with her was the better play.
It meant she could sit back and enjoy the show, and the Hayes family wouldn't be able to pin any blame on her.
Anna and Monroe departed soon after the meal.
After a while, Stella's phone buzzed. It was said that Max and Andrew had been transferred. Stella disconnected after a terse, "Understood."
"As expected," Stella said, pocketing her phone. "They've got Max and Andrew. Next step, I'll have someone stake out the hospital. Emily would definitely go to see Max. The moment she shows her face, we'll have her detained."
Seeing her lay out her strategy put Jordan more at ease. "Just say the word if you need anything," he offered.
"Of course," Stella replied. "I don't have enough people. I'll need your men."
"It's my honor," Jordan said.
Perhaps it was their conversation that night, but Stella felt a distinct shift, a growing closeness between her and Jordan.
She'd never imagined a stranger could burst into her life and provide such an indescribable source of strength. Now, they were more than just partners; they'd become genuine friends.
After dinner, Jordan suggested a walk in the nearby square, and Stella readily agreed.
As they walked, Jordan adjusted his long stride to match her slower pace.
Stella broke the silence. "Jordan, have you met someone you have feelings for?"
"Yes," Jordan admitted.
Stella tilted her head, studying him. "Do I know her?"
His eyes held hers. "You do," Jordan confirmed.
Stella grew more curious, asking, "Is she pretty?"
Jordan's gaze lingered on Stella's face. "Incredibly."