Chapter 1996

"Keegan?" Darcie's voice was tinged with uncertainty. She thought, 'It's unusual for Keegan to be with Jaylene so late.' "Why do you have Jaylene's phone?" she inquired. Stella, mimicking Keegan's voice, explained, "Jaylene had too much to drink. I brought her to my place to help sober her up. She didn't want to go home in this state, fearing you'd be angry." Darcie frowned, "Keegan, bringing Jaylene to your place is inappropriate. You're engaged to Stella, even if just in name. It looks bad. Send her home now." After a feigned pause, Stella replied, "I planned to, but Jaylene insisted on staying, not wanting to upset you while drunk. Don't worry; Aldor's here too. It won't affect Jaylene's reputation." Darcie was silent for a moment. Just as Stella thought she had been persuaded, Darcie said, "Turn on the video call. I want to see Jaylene." Stella, maintaining her composure, agreed, "Okay." The call ended, and Darcie's video call request soon came through on Jaylene's phone. S