Female Novel
Chapter 1986
Chapter 1986
Stella fought back her laughter, carefully avoiding Jaylene's gaze to maintain her composure. She found herself torn betweenamusement at Keegan's straightforwardness and bemusement at Jaylene's naivety.
Having been a frequent visitor to the Kane residence, Stella was well aware of Keegan's deep affection for Coco. A wiserapproach for Jaylene would have been to endear herself to Coco, as winning the child's heart was as crucial as winning overKeegan and his family. Competing with a child was, in Stella's eyes, a futile effort.
Stella eyed Jaylene's carefully chosen attire, deducing her preference for Joplonese cuisine. Jaylene's self-consciousness wasapparent. She always strived to present her best self to Keegan. Yet, Stella knew that perfection was not the key to a lastingrelationship. It was about embracing each other’s strengths and accepting their weaknesses.
Keegan, who is experienced in dealing with various personalities, would likely be unimpressed with insincerity.
Meanwhile, Spencer was attentive, especially to Coco. He skillfully sliced the tender cuts of meat for her and Stella, servinghimself and Keegan last. Keegan, usually reserved, was surprisingly engaged in business discussions with Spencer, creating acongenial atmosphere, much to Jaylene's chagrin.
Jaylene had intended to stir jealousy in Keegan’s heart by inviting Stella and Spencer, but Spencer's flawless manners thwartedher plans.
After a moment, Jaylene put down her utensils and remarked, "Mr. Graham, your care for others is admirable, particularly in howyou select the finest cuts for Stella."novelbin
Continuing to slice the meat, Spencer replied casually, "I was taught to always prioritize women. Mr. Kane also seems to holdthis value, as evident in his thoughtful order of Joplonese cuisine for you. It's fundamental etiquette, isn't it, Ms. Saun?" 1
Jaylene, caught off guard, managed a strained smile, ‘This man is quite blunt with his words."
Attempting to regain control, Jaylene said with a forced smile, "| was wondering if your attentiveness toward Stella stemmed fromlingering feelings."
Spencer glanced at Stella, a playful glint in his eyes, "Oh, the feelings are there, but sadly unreciprocated. I'm always ready towhisk her away, but she's fixated on her amnesiac ex. I'm just biding my time, waiting for her to grow tired of him or for him to lether go. So, | stay prepared."
Keegan's irritation was evident, faced with Spencer's public flirtation with Stella. Bound by his amnesiac persona, he remainedsilent.
Caught off guard, Stella nearly choked on her drink. She shot Spencer a sharp glare, "If you can't speak sensibly, you better stayquiet!"
Spencer clicked his tongue in response, "Tough crowd. You should appreciate having a high-caliber backup like me."
Jaylene observed with satisfaction. Keegan's shifting focus seemed to confirm her belief that his feelings for Stella had faded.
Noticing Stella's sullen expression, she felt even more confident in her speculation. She watched as Stella, in a bold move,called out to the waiter, ‘Two bottles of white liquor, please!"
Keegan's frown deepened, his eyes filled with questions as he looked at Stella.Ignoring his gaze, Stella turned toward Jaylene, offering him a look that hinted at an unspoken strategy.
Keegan, still silent, watched the unfolding scene, his thoughts unreadable.