Left Them Loved Myself (Stella Spencer) novel Chapter 54

Stella’s phone rang out. She glanced at the screen, silenced it, and slipped it back into her pocket.

Jeremy sitting across from her at the dining table, saw the whole thing. He asked, “Who was that? Why didn’t you pick up?”

It’s nothing Stella replied, not bothering to mention it was Irene calling. She was too exhausted, both physically and mentally, to deal with any more drama.

Jeremy nodded, dropping the subject. “It’s all settled for today. With those two pieces of jewelry, I’m sure anyone in the design team who doubted you will have nothing more to say

The two flawless jewelry pieces had silenced all the rumors about Stella.

“But until we find out who’s really behind the scenes, I’d advise you to stay cautious and watch the people around you,” Jeremy added.

Got it” Stella replied, then asked, “By the way, do you know Jessica Slater?”

Jessica Slater?” Jeremy raised his eyebrows, a bit surprised at the sudden mention. “I haven’t worked with her directly, but Ive heard a few things.

She’s well-liked in the department, gets along with almost everyone. The few who tried to bully her ended up quitting early because everyone else turned on them.”

Stella sneered. With Jessica’s personality, it was much more likely she was the one doing the bullying-and definitely not the

victim.

Jeremy caught her reaction and asked, “Stella, you know her? Got some bad blood between you two?”

Stella didn’t hide it and quickly told him about the situation Erica had shared, then said, “Jeremy, I’m pretty sure it’s Jessica who’s behind all the rumors and the new force you mentioned in the company.”

Jeremy didn’t doubt Stella, but he was taken aback, Jessica, the one everyone in the design department praised-he never expected she had a hidden side like that.

After a brief pause, Jeremy said, “Stella, don’t call her out just yet. Keep her close and pay attention. If anything blows up, you’ll be in a good position to deal with it.”

Stella grinned. “That’s exactly what I had in mind.”

“Smart move,” Jeremy replied, flashing a reassuring smile. “Anyway, leave it to me. I’ll take care of everything.”

“Alright,” Stella said.

Meanwhile, Ernest, who was sitting not far away, watched Stella and Jeremy talking and laughing. He couldn’t help but feel a pang of jealousy. It was oddly painful to see them like that.

“Ernest, the private room’s ready, Irene and Sylvia are already there. Let’s go,” Michael said as he approached, noticing Ernest’s distracted look. Following his gaze, he raised an eyebrow with a teasing grin. “Isn’t that your wife?”

Spotting Jeremy at the same table, Michael snickered. “And look, she’s there with Jeremy, all smiles. Is she playing hard to

get?

Ernest didn’t say a word.

Michael glanced at him, puzzled. Ernest’s usually cool and reserved face suddenly looked a little dark, and his eyes were

hard to read. “Ernest?”

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Ernest didn’t explain. He just glanced at Stella and Jeremy one last time before walking away.

“Strange guy,” Michael muttered, following him.

“I already gave her a call-if she doesn’t pick up, how is that my fault?” Irene shot a look at Simon and said, “Uncle Simon, if you want my mom here so bad, go get her yourself.”

come.”

If her mom joined them, Irene was sure it would kill the vibe-plus, she didn’t want Sylvia feeling upset about it.

“Irene, she’s your mom,” Simon said, hiding his smile as he ruffled her hair. He got up and went to get Stella himself.

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Chapter 54

Sylvia chimed in, “Come on, Irene. We saw your mom-how can you just pretend she’s not there?”

“But she always kills the mood,” Irene complained, pouting. Stella always told Irene what she couldn’t do, while Sylvia let her do whatever she wanted.

“Don’t worry,” Sylvia cooed softly, soothing her. “We’ll have fun late. After tonight, I’ll take you out wherever you want.”

“Really?” Irene’s eyes sparkled, lighting up with excitement.

Sylvia gave her a reassuring nod and a warm smile. “I promise. When have I ever let you down?”

“Ms. Jansen, you’re the best,” Irene flung her arms around Sylvia, then added playfully, “Alright-if you’ll take me out later, I’ll let Mom have tonight.”

“Look at you, Irene-such a sweetheart,” Sylvia chuckled, hugging her back.

Watching them, Michael teased, “Irene, since you love Ms. Jansen so much, maybe your dad should marry her and make her your real mom.”

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