Chapter 22
+25 BONUS
Chris had originally visited campus today to check on an old professor who once helped his family.
However, as he was leaving, he caught sight of Stellar rinsing a mop near the faculty housing.
A smirk tugged at his lips.
So, this was what she’d been reduced to–cleaning floors at the school after breaking things off with Percy.
He found it absurdly entertaining
Without hesitation, he snapped a photo and sent it straight to Percy with a message:
“Caught your ex working as a cleaner at the faculty apartments. Hasn’t she begged her way back to you yet?
Meanwhile, Percy, still fuming from their last encounter, was sitting with some friends, attempting to drown his frustration with drinks.
The message notification made him pause.
He opened it, and at the sight of the photo, a cold laugh escaped him.
“Serves her right,” he chuckled coldly.
So, it had all been a performance. Her defiant attitude at the restaurant, agreeing to attend his engagement, the bravado were all a show.
and
Watching Percy’s previously dark expression shift, one of lis friends leaned in. “What’s the good news, Percy? Feeling better? Should we celebrate by setting you up with someone new tonight?”
Percy shook his head, his voice calm but resolute. “Not tonight. I’ve got somewhere to be.”
Grabbing his keys, he strode out.
If Stellar thought she could keep up her charade, he was going to remind her just how far she’d fallen. He had to see this for himself and make sure she wouldn’t forget the lesson he had in store.
Stellar had no idea what was happening elsewhere. She spent the better part of her morning cleaning Victor’s home, mop in hand until every corner gleamed. The once–dusty space now radiated a sense of warmth and order.
Satisfied with her work, she noticed it was nearing lunchtime.
Without hesitation, she headed out to buy fresh ingredients, planning to cook for Victor
After all, left to his own devices, he’d either settle for cafeteria food or scrounge together whatever he had lying around. With his weak stomach, that wasn’t exactly ideal. Since she had the time today, she decided he deserved a proper, hearty meal.
In the kitchen, Stellar busied herself with chopping and stirring, her movements deft and practiced. Victor didn’t say a word but watched her from his seat, his sharp gaze softening with a mix of guilt and affection.
His prized student, those delicate hands once reserved for lab experiments and operating precision instruments, were now being used to cook.
And all because of that despicable man.
Victor’s jaw clenched. If he ever came face–to–face with the bastard who’d hurt her, he’d make him regret the day
Chapter 22
he was born.
+25 BONUS
Stellar, oblivious to her mentor’s inner turmoll, worked inquiet concentration. Her culinary skills were nothing short of exceptional–a talent she’d honed during her time with Percy. Back then, she took cooking classes just to cater to his tastes, hoping to win his approval.
But no matter how much effort she put in, Percy and his family never offered her a word of thanks. In fact, his parents had come to expect her to cook on demand, treating her as little more than hired help.
Looking back, she felt foolish for pouring her energy into people who hadn’t valued her. Still, cooking remained something she enjoyed–a way to unwind and express herself.
It wasn’t about him; it was about her.
Finally, she plated the dishes and set them on the table.
“Lunch is ready, Professor.”
The aroma wafting through the room was nothing short of houthwatering.
Victor didn’t need Stellar to call him. He was already rushing out, eyes lighting up at the sight of the delicious spread on the table.
“You young people are so extravagant, making so much food. How could anyone finish all this?” he muttered, pretending to grumble, though the gleam in his eyes betrayed his excitement
Stellar couldn’t help but laugh at his thinly veiled enthusiasm.
“It’s no trouble, Professor. If you enjoy it, I’ll cook for you every week. I’d love for you to taste more of my cooking.”
Victor let out a haughty little huff but didn’t hide the satisfaction on his face as he picked up his utensils, gesturing for Stellar to join him.
Just as she was about to sit down, her phone buzzed on the counter. It was an unfamiliar number.
Downstairs, Percy lounged against his car, the window rolled down, exuding an air of practiced patience. Any moment now, Stellar would emerge from the faculty housing, disheveled and defeated.
This time, he’d savor the chance to knock her down a peg, to remind her of her place.
After more than half an hour, she finally appeared, descending the stairs with an unhurried grace that caught him off guard.
