Chapter 228

Stella nodded lightly. "Just couldn't sleep... What happened outside? Is everything okay?" Charles walked over and sat beside her. "Nothing major. Just some petty thieves trying to sneak in. My guys already took care of it." Stella's heart skipped a beat. Something felt off—could this have something to do with her escape plan? Had Charles found out? "Oh, that's good. You've been super busy lately, huh? Feels like I barely see you anymore," she said, trying to steer the conversation elsewhere and cover her nervousness. Charles looked at her, a flicker of guilt in his eyes. "Stella, I know I've been neglecting you lately. But it's only because I'm trying to make sure our future is secure. Once I settle things with the Carter family, everything will calm down." A cold laugh echoed in Stella's heart. A peaceful future? Whatever his version of 'peace' was, she knew for sure—it wasn't what she wanted. "I get it, Charles. I just... I hope you can pay more attention to me and the baby too. My