Chapter 164

Stella changed into the dress Noah had given her—a deep midnight blue mermaid gown. Her skin was porcelain pale, and as she looked at her reflection, a small smile tugged at her lips. "If this is your performance, then I'll be right here watching." She murmured under her breath, grabbed her clutch, and walked out the door. Tonight, she was going all in—taking center stage and lighting up the room. Noah was already waiting in the hotel lobby. The moment he saw her in that dress, the corners of his mouth lifted slightly. "It suits you." The compliment was genuine. Stella smiled, confident and calm. "Thanks." The Carter Estate was ablaze with lights, luxury cars parked everywhere. As she stepped into the grand hall, her eyes instantly caught Charles standing under the massive crystal chandelier. He was in a classic black suit, and right beside him, Grace clung to his arm—elegant and radiant. The two of them looked painfully perfect together. "Looks like Mr. Hart's really leaning into the