Stella, deliberately maintaining a stoic expression, remarked, “You assuredyou wouldn't sustain any
injuries...”
Her voice trembled with emotion as tears gradually pooled in her eyes.
Matthew rushed to embrace her, repeatedly expressing regret.
“| apologize.
| acknowledge my mistake.
This marks the end of my recklessness.
| give you my word.
Under his reassurance, Stella gradually regained her composure.
“Where is Flossie?”
Matthew said, “She’s safe, with Colin.
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Stella murmured an assent quietly and remained silent thereafter.
That night, Matthew remained in the hospital for observation, with his wound unable to tolerate exposure to
water.
Stella fetched a basin of water to assist him in cleaning his body, discreetly checking for any additional
concealed wounds.
Despite her careful and gentle gestures, she harbored constant anger, convinced he had exerted immense effort
to recover, only to be injured again.
Sensing her ire, Matthew extended a sincere apology.
“I've endeavored to shield myself.
Please, don’t be upset.
Observing her continued reluctance to engage, Matthew feigned discomfort with a muted groan.
Stella halted abruptly, her concern palpable.
“What's the matter? Are you in pain?”
Capitalizing on her concern, Matthew enveloped her with his uninjured arm.
“I'm alright, darling.
Can we talk? Please?”
Stella discerned the trap she had unwittingly entered.
Swiftly withdrawing from his grasp, she asserted, “Don’t touch me.
You've broken your vow.
Her actions were deliberate; she aimed to impart a lesson to Matthew, warning him not to risk his life again.
Matthew refused to release her, intensifying his grip, while Stella covertly applied greater force.
During his struggle, Matthew was suddenly overcby dizziness, prompting him to decisively loosen his grip.
In an abrupt turn of events, Stella sensed an odd sensation as the grip slackened.
Noticing Matthew's ailing appearance, she provided support and inquired, “What's amiss? Are you feeling
unwell? I'll summon the doctor...”
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Matthew gently grasped her hand, momentarily calming himself before softly stating, “I'm alright.
It's likely just lingering effects from when my head took a blow last time.
It's inconsequential.
Concern etched across her features, Stella suggested, “Let’s schedule a thorough examination tomorrow.
Though tempted to decline, Matthew's resolve weakened under Stella's gaze, which lingered on the scar marking
his chest from Benny's shot at the wedding.
The scar was still very clear.
“Well, I'm getting dressed now,” Matthew remarked nonchalantly, donning his attire as though oblivious to
Stella's scrutiny Stella’s voice, strained and hoarse, conveyed her concern.
“The doctor warned that your heart was nearly harmed.
I'm truly fearful of a recurrence.
If you lapse into a coma once more, I'm at a loss for what actions to take.
Matthew assured Stella, “The issue with Benny has been resolved.
I vow it shall not recur.