Kristian tore his gaze away from Ste and approached Be affectionately.


    Taking her hand in his, he spoke softly.


    “We’ve been apart for too long.


    I’ve missed you terribly.N?velDrama.Org ? 2024.


    And Elizabeth mentioned your health concerns.


    I’m genuinely worried about you.


    ”


    Be’s expression soured at his presence.


    “Where’s the doctor?”


    Kristian blinked, his tone gentle as he exined, “I’ve arranged for him to stay at the hotel.


    It’ste, and he needs rest.


    I’ll have hime for an examination tomorrow.


    ”


    Be acquiesced, dismissing her health issues as trivial.


    “It’s nothing serious.


    You didn’t need to go through all this trouble.


    ”


    Kristian’s demeanor turned serious.


    “Your well-being is my priority.


    ”


    Be’s resolve softened under his earnest gaze.


    After their exchange, Kristian turned his attention to Ste, acknowledging her unexpected presence.


    “I didn’t anticipate guests at home today.


    Who is…”


    Be intervened, introducing Ste to Kristian.


    “This is Ste.


    I’ve mentioned her before; she’s the sessor of my studio.


    ”


    Turning to Ste, she said, “Ste, this is Kristian, my husband.


    ”


    Kristian greeted Ste graciously, “Ah, so you’re Ste.


    I’ve heard a lot about you.


    You’re quite promising for your age.


    ”


    Ste responded with equal politeness, “Thank you.


    It’s a pleasure to meet you.


    ”


    Observing their courteous exchange, Elizabeth grew increasingly impatient.


    Stepping between Be and Kristian, she grasped their hands, adopting a childish demeanor.


    “I waited forever to pick Dad and Tyron up from the airport.


    I’m starving.


    What’s for dinner?”


    Sensing Elizabeth’s not-so-subtle hint to leave, Ste gracefully epted the cue.


    She nodded subtly and remarked, “It’s gettingte.


    I should head home now.


    ”


    Be offered to apany her, but Ste declined with a smile.


    “No, thank you.


    Matthew is waiting for me outside.


    I can manage on my own.


    ”


    Elizabeth’s irritation was palpable, her nails digging into her flesh.


    Be conceded, “Very well, then.


    I won’t keep you any longer.


    ”


    Ste bid Be and Kristian farewell before turning and exiting the house.


    Elizabeth’s displeasure was palpable as she voiced her frustration.


    “What was that about? She bid farewell to you both and ignored mepletely? How rude!”


    Unfazed by Elizabeth’s outburst, Be remained silent, withdrawing her hand and retreating to her room as soon as Ste left.


    Dissatisfied with Be’s reaction, Elizabeth was about to speak up when Kristian gestured for her to calm down.


    Elizabeth begrudgingly subdued her anger despite her frustration, directing her me toward Ste.


    Unaware of Elizabeth’s thoughts, Ste exited the house to find Matthew’s car parked across the road.