The Mocked Miss’s Hidden Crowns novel Chapter 2003

Stella sat in absolute silence, her hands balling into tight fists at her sides as the color drained from her face. All she could picture was Roger standing alone in the dead of night, staring up at her window.

"Get some rest, sweetie. I'll go fix you something to eat," Samantha said softly. She hated manipulating the girl's feelings, but she needed to force Stella to confront the reality of the situation.

Samantha headed downstairs. Roger had already prepared a tray of food and slipped away, clearly terrified that his presence would upset Stella.

"Those two," Samantha sighed, carrying the tray back upstairs.

It was a simple meal.

"Let me feed you," Samantha offered, blowing gently on a spoonful of rice. She smiled warmly. "Open up."

Stella had zero appetite, but when she recognized the distinctive way the egg fried rice was made, her fingers trembled. She parted her lips and took the bite.

Samantha let out a quiet breath of relief, patiently coaxing her to eat, handing her water, and wiping her mouth.

"I never had a daughter," Samantha said softly, her gaze locked on Stella. "So I've always looked at Charlotte, Shirley, and you as my own girls. You have to eat and get better, Stella."

"Every day you suffer, my heart breaks with yours."

As Stella chewed the rice, a massive lump formed in her throat. Silent tears spilled down her cheeks.

"Why are you crying?" Samantha panicked, pulling the girl into her arms. "Did I say something wrong?"

"Please..." Stella sobbed into Samantha's shoulder, overwhelmed by a maternal warmth she had never known. Her voice cracked. "Please don't be so good to me."

The kinder they were, the deeper her guilt ran.

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