After all, she needed him now, so Percy didn’t bother with pleasantries. Without looking back, he got into the car.Yvonne, still fuming over his earlier attitude, swallowed her anger for the sake of the project and followed him.On the drive back, her attention was drawn to a small angel figurine on the dashboard. The figurine held a little charm bag, its design cheerful and whimsical.But could this possibly belong to Percy? The thought made the answer obvious.Yvonne’s disdain was immediate.“Why would you keep such a cheap-looking figurine in your car?"You should have something like a gold-plated angel figurine or a rare vintage collectible—something that reflects sophistication and status."Percy glanced at the figurine and froze slightly.If he remembered correctly, Stellar had gone out of her way to get it for him from a church. She earnestly told him to keep it in the car to ensure his safety.For a moment, his mind wandered, recalling Stellar’s bright, joyful expression at t
Unbeknownst to her, across the street from her villa, Stephen had just returned home, enjoying his usual solitary routine. After spending some time in his study, he took a shower and waited for dinner to be delivered. During the lull, he stepped out onto his upstairs terrace for some fresh air. That was when he noticed the lights in the kitchen across the way and a petite, busy figure moving inside. Was that… Stellar? Recalling her behavior at school and now seeing her living in a villa, he couldn’t help but frown. What was she doing here? Wasn’t she the one who reportedly threw away her education for a man? And now that they’d supposedly broken up, was this villa his parting gift? Or had they never really ended things? Stephen’s displeasure deepened as he mulled it over. However, watching the two figures through the window, even from dozens of meters away, he could sense the warmth of their atmosphere. For the first time, the solitude he’d always enjoyed felt a little col
Shane’s admiration for Stellar deepened as he looked at her. “Miss Rivers, you’ve truly exceeded my expectations.” Not only was she beautiful, but she also possessed intelligence, talent, and an unshakable composure when dealing with seasoned veterans. It had been a long time since he’d encountered someone as intriguing as her. “Since you gave me this opportunity, Mr. Howe, I couldn’t let you down.” “There’s actually another client we need to visit,” Shane said, his tone thoughtful. “If we can secure a partnership with their company, this project could reach a whole new level. But that client is a tough one. I was ready to give up, but now, with you on board, I think it might just be possible.” Shane’s gaze lingered on her, his eyes filled with admiration. He was genuinely intrigued by her but confessing that outright might scare her off. Unaware of his thoughts, Stellar simply felt a bit embarrassed at his praise. “Mr. Howe, who is it? I can give it a try.”After all, th
No wonder Rivers Corporation reached out to him, offering to give up an additional five percent of the profits on their new project just to convince him to withdraw his investment from the Harlow family.They even made it clear that the withdrawal was specifically because of the Harlow family’s heiress. Moreover, they promised compensation with an even better project.At first, Zachary thought the Rivers Corporation was simply throwing its weight around. But seeing the pair in front of him and listening to Percy’s tone, he found those rumors he’d heard didn’t seem baseless anymore.His next words carried a distinct hint of mockery."What exactly do you mean by that, Mr. Grayson?" Percy asked, frowning slightly, sensing that the remark was not without intent.Zachary didn’t bother mincing words, his expression laced with disdain."I’ve heard, Mr. Moore, that for years, your company’s success has relied heavily on Miss Stellar Rivers’ talent and expertise to secure contracts. But now tha
He didn't believe anyone would dare take on such a task."No, we can't. But, Mr. Grayson... I believe there's no company in the entire industry that can—"Before he could finish, a crisp female voice suddenly rang out from behind."We can!"Percy looked up in shock, only to see Stellar approaching with graceful strides. Her red lips parted slightly as she effortlessly provided the explanation he had struggled to come up with regarding HY materials. She even pointed out the commonalities between HY and CM materials. Simply put, CM material was just an upgraded version of HY material."Give me a month, and I guarantee this material can be successfully upgraded!"As she spoke, Stellar cast a cold glance at Percy.She originally intended to come here just to test the waters, wondering how to tackle this difficult challenge. But she hadn’t expected that as soon as she reached the doorway, she would hear Percy’s words, giving her the perfect opportunity.If she remembered correctly, her
Hearing this, Stellar merely let out a soft chuckle. "Whether I have the ability to get into Professor Stone's research institute isn’t for you to decide."She cast a casual glance at Yvonne. "But if you really doubt me, Miss Harlow, why don’t you go ahead and answer Mr. Grayson’s question yourself?"A wave of humiliation and frustration surged through Yvonne. She was absolutely livid.But there was no way she could answer—she didn’t understand a single thing Stellar had just said. And with so many people watching, she couldn’t throw a tantrum either. She could only stand there, her face turning an embarrassing shade of red.Stellar didn’t spare her another glance. Instead, she refocused her unwavering gaze on Zachary."Mr. Grayson, just give me a chance. In one month, I’ll bring you the upgraded material."Zachary didn’t answer right away. Instead, something else caught his attention."You mentioned Professor Stone just now… Are you talking about Victor Stone from the Institute o
Percy snapped out of his thoughts, but his mind kept replaying the image of Stellar standing her ground, confident and unyielding. His eyes narrowed slightly. Was she trying to destroy what she couldn’t have? Or was this just another way to get his attention? Did she really think she was that important? The thought made him scoff. With a smirk, he wrapped an arm around Yvonne’s waist and strode up to Stellar, arrogance radiating from his every step. "Stellar, have you had enough of this little game of playing hard to get? No matter how much you try to fight me for this project or force your presence in front of me, I won’t spare you a second glance. I already have Yvonne. All your efforts are pointless." He deliberately provoked her, waiting to see some sign of hurt, resentment, or even jealousy in her eyes. But Stellar merely cast him an indifferent glance before responding in a tone devoid of emotion. "Is that so? Then I wish you both a lifetime of happiness and a
Raymond was momentarily surprised."Sir, your headaches are back? But you haven’t had a single episode since Miss Rivers made that custom aromatherapy blend for you. How is that possible…?"Percy froze. "Stellar made an aromatherapy blend? What are you talking about?"Raymond hesitated for a moment before answering. "The scent she used to infuse into your clothes every day. “Oh, and there was also some in your car—it was hidden inside the charm that came with the lucky cat figurine she gave you. “Miss Rivers blended the fragrance herself, and none of us knew the exact formula."Percy’s head snapped up.Since Stellar left, the household staff had been handling his clothes. The familiar scent had disappeared, replaced by something different.And his car…His gaze flicked to the dashboard. The spot where the small good luck charm had once sat was now occupied by a tacky golden saint statue—something Yvonne insisted on replacing it with after throwing the original one away.Raymond kept
Stellar couldn’t help but laugh at the sight of her. “You know, that’s not how you looked when you were out charming guys. Back then, you were fearless. But when you were in front of your idol, you acted like some lovestruck teenager.”If she didn’t know for a fact Suzy had only dated guys all these years, she might’ve thought her best friend had a thing for women.Suzy gave a helpless smile. “Actually, when I was little, I was really withdrawn. I didn’t talk much, hated going out. “My parents were so worried they thought I might be on the spectrum and even took me to the hospital. “Turned out there was nothing wrong with me, but they still didn’t know how to help.“So I stayed home all the time, just watching TV and DVDs. One day, I saw a film where an actress played several completely different roles in one movie...”That was the moment her world lit up. She wanted that kind of life too—vivid and ever-changing, like the characters on screen who seemed to live a hundred different
Everyone turned to stare at Tori, whose face had gone completely pale.This time, Stellar didn’t even need to speak. Suzy stepped up, unleashing her full acting skills. Her eyes reddened, her expression full of hurt."Miss Palmer, what did I ever do to you? Ever since you debuted, you’ve been competing with me for roles. "You even had your brother pretend to be the author behind my best friend’s work—when 'Star Luna' was Stellar’s pen name all along!"Her voice trembled as a tear slipped down her cheek.In that moment, she looked like a fragile girl completely blindsided—so vulnerable it tugged at everyone’s heartstrings."Oh my god, Miss Walsh is really the victim here! I heard her former agent even betrayed her and went to work for Tori!""She’s known to be kind and well-liked in the industry. How could anyone treat her like this?""I knew that guy Eddie was a fraud! Some people online actually believed him. It’s obvious now! ‘Star Luna’ is clearly Miss Rivers—only a woman could wr
With Stellar’s skills, she was more than capable of defending herself.But since she was only there to accompany Suzy to meet her idol, she didn’t want to stir up any trouble for her.Just as the situation began spiraling out of control, Julianne, who was in the middle of signing autographs for fans, noticed the commotion and stepped through the crowd."What’s going on here?" The fans lit up with excitement at the sight of her. "Juli, someone tried to cut the line!""It was those two women…"Someone quickly pointed in the direction of Stellar and Suzy.Suzy swallowed hard, her nerves taking over. At that moment, her voice felt stuck in her throat. She didn’t have her usual fire, and no words of defense came to mind.Thankfully, Stellar stayed calm. "This is just a misunderstanding..."But before she could properly explain, Julianne’s face lit up with excitement. "Wait, aren’t you the renowned artist ‘Sole Light’? And also a legend in the aerospace field?"She had recognized Stellar,
Just then, the woman turned around, revealing only her eyes, and Stellar immediately recognized her.It was that same actress, Tori, who had bullied Suzy before."What are the odds," Suzy muttered, clearly irritated.Tori also looked startled the moment she saw them.The memory of finding out that Stellar was Zayden’s senior still made her furious.She originally planned to use Zayden to deal with Stellar.But in the end, not only did the plan fail, Zayden even broke up with her because of it.No matter how much she begged, it was useless.He even gave her a harsh warning.Just thinking about the cold look in Zayden’s eyes and the pressure he gave off sent chills down her spine.Even though she was seething inside, all she could do now was quietly back off and give her seat back to Stellar and Suzy.Seeing that she knew her place, Suzy didn’t bother to engage with her.But watching Stellar and Suzy chatting and laughing up front, relaxed and carefree, filled Tori with resentment.There
"Leave her to me," a deep voice sounded above her."Got it, Senior," Lilian said with a mischievous grin before slipping away.Stellar nestled into his chest, her cheeks flushed, eyes shut tight. She looked thoroughly drunk.Stephen looked down and caught a glimpse of her calm, obedient face, and a softness bloomed in his gaze, warm enough to melt.He reached out and gently tapped her nose, his voice laced with affection. “Drinking this much without me around? Weren’t you worried someone might steal you away, you little tipsy kitten?”The tips of her ears turned red. Her lashes fluttered, and her cheeks puffed up slightly in protest.Stephen chuckled under his breath. She looked so irresistibly cute he couldn’t help but pinch one of those round cheeks.It felt so soft like marshmallow, and he suddenly got the urge to take a bite.His eyes darkened, gaze fixed on the defenseless woman in his arms. After a moment, he murmured, "Stellar… I want to kiss you."Her cheeks turned even redd
"Go ahead," Lucien said, giving her his full attention.“I'm a bit understaffed on this research project. I was thinking of bringing in my old team. We've collaborated for a long time, and they’d be a big help. Mind if I do that?”She then gave him a rundown of the research details.Lucien nodded with a smile. "Of course. Honestly, you don’t need to explain so much. I trust your judgment."Her heart stirred a little. She couldn’t quite figure out why he had such unquestioning faith in her.But since her goal was achieved, she didn’t press the matter."Alright, I’ll notify them soon."She gave a polite nod and quickly left the room.Lucien watched her back with keen interest, a thoughtful glint flickering in his eyes.…After work, Stellar shared the news in their team group chat, making sure to get everyone’s agreement first.She hadn’t expected a reply to come through in less than thirty seconds.Lilian was the first: “Of course I’m in! Stellar, you’re the best—thinking of us the mome
Over the years, you changed your identity and deliberately cut ties with them to avoid being found out, living a glamorous life on your own. “If the truth gets out and everyone finds out about your background and what kind of person you really are, do you think you'll still have a place in this circle? “When that happens, my grandfather will be the first to kick you out of the family!”With those biting words, Christopher’s expression darkened, and he was left speechless.“So I suggest you know your place. Do as you’re told and stay out of things that don’t concern you. Otherwise…” Joy’s tone was sharp, thick with threat.Under pressure, Christopher finally kept quiet. Even though he was deeply unhappy with how Joy handled things, he had no choice but to turn around and leave silently.Just as he walked out, a slow round of applause came from the doorway.Joy looked up and saw a laid-back man strolling in.“Joy, you’re really getting good at this. Taming Christopher like that is like
After a round of brief introductions, everyone quickly dove into the project work.With hardly anyone dragging their feet, progress was smooth. For Stellar, things moved along efficiently. After completing the initial stage of her research, she quickly identified a direction for the next phase and decided to use a critical piece of lab equipment for the upcoming experiment.She headed to the relevant department to file a request.“Sorry, Miss Rivers, that high-grade instrument has already been reserved. We only have one available,” the staff member informed her.It didn’t come as a complete surprise.After all, it was a top-tier device, rare even on the international level. It was the world-class equipment and elite talent that drew her to this institute in the first place.“No worries,” she replied. “I’ll go check in with the lab and see if I can borrow it for a bit.”With that, she made her way to the lab and knocked on the door.“Well, well, look who it is. Isn’t this the one and
"If you dare bother us again, I’ll take you to court, and have you thrown in jail."Her words made the man freeze. He looked ready to fall to his knees. "Yes, yes—thank you, Miss Rivers! Thank you! We promise, we won’t cause any more trouble."In the end, the IOU was signed, and Cheryl, reluctantly parting with her precious savings, handed over twenty thousand dollars. Her son matched it with another twenty thousand, and only then did the family leave, utterly humiliated.Once the door shut behind them, Martha turned to her granddaughter with a heartbroken look."Stellar, I’m so sorry. This was all my fault. I never should’ve invited them over. You spent months working on that data, and now it’s gone... You let them off lightly, didn’t you? For my sake?"But Stellar just grinned, mischief twinkling in her eyes. "Grandma, you’re giving me too much credit. That file? It’s all in my head."As she spoke, she sat down, opened her laptop, and her fingers flew over the keyboard. Less than f