Chapter 300

Charles Hart finally gave in—Stella Johnson had asked for Michael Anderson to stay and help take care of her. To be fair, Michael was indeed lending a hand. More help meant less trouble, but Charles couldn’t help the jealousy bubbling in his chest. After all, Michael had openly challenged him before. When Charles pushed the hospital room door open, still holding the insulated lunch container, he caught sight of Michael kneeling by the bed, patiently adjusting the tablet’s blue light filter for Stella. That set him off instantly. “Mr. Hart,” Michael greeted without looking up, his tone casual like he already knew who walked in. “Stella mentioned craving some traditional porridge, so I asked the kitchen to make some with lotus seed and lily bulb.” Stella glanced up briefly. Her eyes stopped on the container in Charles’s hand for just a second before turning back to the tablet. “Thanks. You always know what I like,” she said quietly. Charles felt like someone jammed a fist in his throat.