NovelEnglishChapter 221 Estrella watched with a smile as Isaac affectionately called Bryce “Dad” across the table. Her heart felt a touch of solace. Bryce’s care had indeed given Isaac the fatherly love he deserved.
At her side, Jesse turned to Estrella and said, “Bryce has truly earned the title ‘Dad’ with the attention he’s given Isaac.” “Yeah, Bryce has been a blessing these past few years,” Estrella agreed.
“If Jason had been half the man Bryce is, things might not have cto this point between you two,” Jesse remarked.
Estrella chuckled lightly. “The past is the past. | hardly remember it now.” The greatest punishment for someone or something isn't criticism. It's being forgotten.
Jesse was impressed at Estrella’s casual dismissal. “You really know how to let things go.” Estrella patted her friend's back. “People have to look forward. If Bryce and | can do it, so can you.
Estrella knew the facade Jesse maintained had hidden deep psychological scars from an event over a decade past, shadows that still lingered.
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“I'm learning from you,” Jesse said with a smile.
Estrella’s own smile brightened when her gaze returned to the two friends at the table.
Since her divorce from Jason, Estrella had felt lighter in spirit, thriving in her work more than ever. That afternoon, fresh from court and back at her law firm, a call cthrough from Serene, inviting Estrella for a lunchtrendezvous. Estrella agreed, grateful for Serene’s help in smoothing the way to a successful divorce.
In the cozy booth of a garden café, they sat opposite each other. Serene poured water with a smile, “I'm not sure if ‘congratulations’ is the right word.” Before Estrella could respond, Serene set the teapot aside and said gently, “I thought you might deny it, clinging to the years you've had with Jason. But it seems I've underestimated you. You're more free-spirited than | imagined.” Serene knew she couldn't do the same. She would likely have used the opportunity to try and mend the broken relationship.
Perhaps it was because Serene lacked the confidence to leave that she had never been looked upon highly by others.
Estrella picked at her light lunch with fork. “Life’s about more than just romance. Even if love is important, there's no need to hang onto a failing branch.” It was advice for Serene as much as a reminder to herself. After so many years, Serene still lingered by Jason's side. It was exhausting just to watch.
“I wish | could let go as easily as you,” Serene said with a rueful smile, then asked, “Estrella, do you think you'll ever regret it?” Estrella laughed, “I have my career and my son. There's nothing to regret. Besides, if there's one thing this world has plenty of, it's men.” There's always another one around the corner.
Seeing Estrellas indifference towards Jason, Serene added, “Jason must be kicking himself now. | used to think Jason had a strained relationship with you because he couldn't let go of Holly. Now it seems that's not the case.” If Jason had truly cared about Holly, he would have divorced Estrella long ago, making Holly his bride. But he hadn't.
Estrella looked up at Serene, “What others think doesn’t matter. What's important is what you want.” 1
Estrella was clear-headed, and Serene felt inferior in comparison.
“Estrella, you've achieved your goal .Will you still honor your promise to me?” Serene asked seriously. Their meeting was not just a social call.
Serene had a purpose in mind. As Estrella set down her fork, she inquired, “Jason and Holly are victims of that fire, but they never cared to uncover the truth.
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Why is it so important to you?”
Back in the hospital room, Serene had offered to help Estrella get divorced if she would hepl reveal the truth behind that fire, and to bring the perpetrator to justice. It was not just to help Serene ascend to Mrs.
Nelson's social standing. Serene knew deep down that she would never marry Jason, and never becMrs.
Nelson.
Upon hearing Estrella’s question, Serene stood up slowly from her moved-to the side of the table. As Estrella’s gaze followed her, Serene suddenly began to undress.
When Serene’s skin was exposed in front of her, Estrella’s right hand, holding the cup, couldn't help but tremble, causing the water in the cup to spill on herself.
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