Chapter 5: An Unexpected Proposal

Noel remained inside his car long after Stella disappeared into Maple Manor. He couldn't understand why he had followed her. When he saw her smiling while walking beside Eric, an unfamiliar frustration settled deep inside his chest. He told himself it was because Eric was his uncle and because Stella had always chased after him. Seeing her suddenly give up made him feel strangely unsettled.

Meanwhile, inside the manor, Stella sat in the elegant living room while the family doctor carefully treated the small wound on her forehead. 'Fortunately, the cut isn't deep,' the doctor said with a smile. 'It will heal in a few days.' Stella thanked him politely. She noticed Eric had remained nearby the entire time, quietly reviewing documents but occasionally looking toward her to ensure everything was fine.

After the doctor left, Eric poured Stella a cup of warm tea. 'You don't have to force yourself to be strong,' he said calmly. 'If someone hurts you in the future, tell me.' Stella looked at him in surprise. Those simple words carried more warmth than everything Noel had ever said to her during their entire marriage in her previous life.

She lowered her eyes and softly replied, 'Thank you, Mr. Chilton.' Eric gently shook his head. 'We're engaged now. You can call me Eric when we're alone.' Stella hesitated for a moment before quietly saying, 'Alright... Eric.' Hearing his name leave her lips, Eric's usually cold expression softened ever so slightly.

The next morning, news of Stella's engagement spread throughout River City. Social media exploded with discussions about the Judd heiress marrying Eric Chilton instead of Noel. Business circles, high society, and even entertainment reporters were shocked. Nobody had expected the most influential man in the Chilton family to suddenly announce his engagement.

At the Chilton Group headquarters, Noel angrily threw a newspaper onto his desk. The front page displayed a large headline: 'ERIC CHILTON TO MARRY STELLA JUDD.' He stared at the article before marching directly toward the executive floor. He didn't believe his uncle would make such an important decision without a reason.

Eric was calmly reviewing contracts when Noel entered without knocking. 'Uncle,' Noel said coldly, 'why are you doing this?' Eric didn't even look up from the documents. 'Doing what?' Noel pointed toward the newspaper. 'Marrying Stella. She has loved me for years. She's only doing this to make me jealous.'

Eric finally looked at him. His sharp gaze made Noel instinctively straighten his posture. 'Do you believe the entire world revolves around you?' Eric asked calmly. Noel frowned. 'Then why would she suddenly choose you?' Eric closed the file before answering, 'That question should be directed to yourself, not to me.'

Those simple words left Noel speechless. Before he could argue further, Eric added, 'Stella is now my fiancée. From today onward, I expect you to treat her with the respect she deserves. If I hear you've embarrassed or bullied her again, there will be consequences.' His voice remained calm, but the warning was unmistakable.

Noel left the office with an ugly expression. For the first time in years, he felt completely powerless in front of his uncle. At the same time, Stella stood in front of the mirror inside a famous bridal boutique as designers measured her wedding dress. Looking at her reflection, she smiled faintly. This life was already changing. She had no intention of turning back, no matter what Noel did next.