Chapter 23

Sylvan's sister had walked away from the prestigious job she'd worked so hard to get, choosing instead to become an army medic without a second thought, even if it meant being disowned by the Leighs. Stella had always admired her courage, which was why the news of her death had hit so hard. "My sister only enlisted because her husband was in the army. Celeste is theirs. Shortly after what happened to him, Celeste was left in my care," Sylvan said. The weight of the truth stunned Stella. Her heart ached as she took in the sight of Celeste, comfortably nestled against Cindy in the hospital bed. Sylvan smiled and added, "Look how well Cindy's raised her. There's no need to feel sorry for Celeste. She's got an incredible mom now, and I'll be stepping in as her dad soon enough. Even though I suppose she's probably used to calling me 'uncle' by now." Stella shifted uncomfortably. Here she was, Sylvan's own family, oblivious to his relationship with Cindy, and even trying to help Arthur