Matthew’s gaze fixed on Betsey, his tone stern and commanding. “If you have evidence, take it to the police. Creating chaos here won’t bring justice for Robin.”
Leona glared at him, defiant. “What are you trying to do? Silence us? If Stella’s innocent, why are you so afraid of us showing up? The case hasn’t progressed, and Stella’s still free. Are you interfering with the investigation?”
Matthew didn’t dignify her accusations with a response. Instead, he delivered a cold warning. “Behave yourselves and stay in Seamarsh until the investigation concludes. If you continue causing trouble, I’ll make sure you’re sent back to Osemery.”
With a nod from Matthew, Fernando signaled a group of imposing bodyguards to step forward.
Leona, seeing the tall and strong men behind him, gritted her teeth.
She shot Stella a pointed look and sneered, “Well, you really hit the jackpot with your husband. Let’s see how Matthew stands by you once the truth surfaces.”
With that, Leona turned and left.
Betsey spat at Stella before storming off in a fit of rage.
After their departure, the butler approached Stella, his face etched with guilt. “I deeply apologize, Mrs. Clark. It’s entirely my failure for not being vigilant enough to prevent outsiders from entering and causing you harm.”
His eyes scanned her bruised face, concern evident. “Should we tend to your bruise immediately?”
Before Stella could respond, Lucia gestured dismissively, instructing the butler to fetch a first aid kit, and then turned her attention to Stella. Her tone softened as she said, “Don’t take it to heart, dear. They’re just overcome with grief.”
Stella’s stomach twisted uncomfortably as she guided Lucia back to the living room.
A wave of nausea washed over her, prompting her to request a glass of water from a nearby servant. Only after sipping it slowly did the queasiness begin to subside.
Stella met Matthew’s steady gaze and asked, “Any updates on the investigation?”
Matthew’s response was measured. “It hasn’t changed much. The police have scrutinized everyone Robin interacted with and found nothing suspicious. The primary tension still centers around..”
He trailed off, not saying her name, but the implication hung heavy in the air.
Stella let out a dry laugh, her tone tinged with bitterness. “It seems like the Wheeler family and I are just not meant to get along.”
At that moment, the butler returned with the first aid kit.
Matthew was the first to notice the butler approaching, giving a slight nod to signal him to bring the kit forward.
The butler quickly stepped forward, handing the kit to Matthew with urgency.
Lucia clutched Stella’s hand tightly, her lips quivering as if she had countless comforting words to offer, but she held back, unsure of what to say.
She had witnessed the relentless attacks from the Wheeler family over the past few weeks, and it weighed heavily on her heart.
Finally, she spoke softly. “Stella, tend to your wound first. The police are doing their best with the case, and worrying won’t change anything.”
Stella watched Matthew take out the ointment from the kit, her expression resolute as she gently halted his movements.