Return Of The Real Heiress: Secrets And Masks novel Chapter 585

Chapter 585

The sudden appearance of Stella seemed like nothing more than an insignificant interruption. The three of them–Cherise, Claire, and Xenia–continued their shopping, picking out the things they liked.

Once they were back in the car, Claire finally spoke up about the encounter with Stella in the boutique. “That Stella… she’s managed to keep herself looking pretty good over the years, smooth skin and all.”

Xenia, who was driving, turned her head in surprise. “Wait, Claire, you actually know her? So, were you just trying to brush her off for Cherise back there?”

Claire nodded. “Yeah. I heard her voice while I was in the fitting room and realized Cherise was turning her down.

Cherise usually doesn’t refuse people, so if she turned her down, it’s because she didn’t like her. That’s why things went the way they did.”

Cherise, sitting beside Claire, smiled softly after hearing this. It wasn’t for any particular reason–she just felt a warm, reassuring sense of protectiveness from her mother, which made her secretly happy.

Xenia, who was in the front seat, gave Claire a thumbs–up. “Claire, you’re amazing. I didn’t realize you had such strong fighting skills!

And about Stella, you said she’s looking good, smooth skin and all. Please, Claire, you’re in a whole different league. Just look at all that collagen in your face–I’m jealous.

And you’ve had two kids, while she’s never even been married. Seriously, there’s no comparison.”

Everyone loves a compliment, and Claire couldn’t help but smile at Xenia’s words. “I just love how young people like you can see right through everything.”

*****

At the same time, Stella and Lydia were sitting in the car. After the incident in the boutique, Stella no longer looked as relaxed as when they first arrived.

“Aunt Stella, did you not find anything you liked? Or is it because of what happened in the store that’s putting you in a bad mood?” Lydia glanced at Stella before speaking.

Stella pursed her lips when she heard Lydia’s question. “You were standing right there, you know what happened.”

It’s strange how people often don’t show their best side to their own family. Stella seemed to be subtly blaming Lydia for not helping her earlier.

Lydia noticed the displeasure on her face and replied, “I heard Cherise call her ‘Mom.‘ So that’s her mom. They really do look alike. I always thought Cherise was like me, without a mom. Looks like she’s way luckier than I am.”

Stella found that interesting too. “Come to think of it, it’s strange. Everyone knew Claire died from a gunshot wound during the Astamia battle. How is she still alive? Could it have just been a misunderstanding back then? I don’t get it.”

Stella furrowed her brows, clearly puzzled.

But after a few seconds, it seemed like something clicked in her mind. She turned to Lydia, her voice slightly excited. “Your dad should know something about this. You should ask him next time.”

Lydia was confused. She propped her chin up and asked, “Why would my dad know?”

Realizing she had said something she probably shouldn’t, Stella hesitated for a moment. After thinking for a bit, she cleare her throat twice before answering, “Lydia, you’re old enough now, and since your mom passed away when you were born, tell you.