Cross My Tigress Face the Wrath (Stella) novel Chapter 217

Ronald shot Finley a look, one that spoke volumes without uttering a single word.

Finley rubbed his hands together for warmth and shot back, "You pushed and huffed, and I barely know the girl. Don't pin this on me."

That shove from Ronald, though, could almost be considered merciful by Finley’s standards.

But he knew better. With Vivian Warner likely plotting her next move and Stella being targeted, Ronald wouldn’t let it slide so easily.

But truly, it wasn't his circus, not his monkeys.

Ronald quizzed. "Weren't you two arriving together?"

"Yeah, we came together, but barely know each other. Met just the once. Star, you got beef with her?"

The memory of their previous encounter, nearly escalated to blows, hung heavy between them. It was clear there were unresolved issues.

Stella confessed, "She's Ursula's bestie."

That made Finley's lips twitch involuntarily. No wonder. That explained everything.

Ursula's problem with Stella was evident — she feared Stella might overshadow her in the Larkin family’s eyes. With that mindset, smearing Stella's name was practically a given. Anyone associated with her was bound to take a dislike to Stella.

Even the Larkin parents were brainwashed by Ursula, so what's a best friend in comparison?

Finley muttered, "Had I known her connection to Ursula, I'd have steered clear."

Who would want to get on Ronald's bad side?

Noticing Ronald's gaze, he shifted the subject, "Mr. Patel has arrived. Are you going to meet him?"

"Idris and Yates are on it."

"Oh."

So, he was here solely for Stella's spa day?

Recalling today's task, Finley glanced at Stella. "Haven't been keeping up with your acupuncture these past years, have you?"

Stella merely hummed in response.