Stella gave a slight nod, her gaze steady as she met his eyes. "She invited me to her place once, but I was with Jake Varley at the time, so it didn't work out."

Lucien's dark eyes remained fixed on her, his sharp gaze piercing as if trying to see through her facade.

Stella's expression was unreadable, giving away nothing.

"Lucien, you got here so quickly," she murmured.

His tone was indifferent. "I happened to be nearby on business. Thought I'd stop by and ask."

"I'm really sorry. I don't know Jenna's current address, or I would've told you." Stella pressed her lips together, regret flashing across her face.

The corner of Lucien's mouth lifted slightly. "It's fine. Get some rest. I'll take my leave."

"Take care," Stella said politely.

From start to finish, Lucien never once glanced at Sylvia.

They had spent four years together, day in and day out. Had all that time meant nothing to him?

Just because she helped Jenna once, was she now his sworn enemy?

Four years of companionship couldn't compare to someone he'd only met twice.

This man truly had no heart.

Sylvia had initially felt sad about the breakup. After all, four years was a long time—even a pet would've grown on her.

But seeing Lucien's attitude today made everything painfully clear.

She had been the only one who ever cared.

The last remnants of lingering affection vanished in that moment.

"Your face looks pale," Stella said, noticing Sylvia's dimmed expression.

Sylvia casually peeled a banana. "I'm fine. Want some?"

"No, thanks."

Stella sighed, seeing right through her sister's act. "Did you fall for Lucien?"

Sylvia laughed lightly. "Don't be ridiculous. How could I?"

"Lucien has looks, status—everything. You spent four years with him. Who would believe you didn't develop feelings?"

"This time, I'm not lying," Sylvia insisted firmly. "I don't like him."

Stella grew serious. "Anyone but him. It's good that you're apart now. Don't see him again."

Lucien hadn't even spared her a glance. Why would she humiliate herself further?

They were from different worlds to begin with. Maybe this separation was fate.

......

A week later, Milo's summer break finally began.

Jenna let him rest at home for two days while she deep-cleaned the apartment. On the third morning, she took him to the hospital.

She had carefully chosen this facility, renowned for its expertise in treating congenital heart disease.

To ensure accurate test results, Jenna made sure Milo went without breakfast.

Registration, paperwork, waiting—by the time they finished the series of examinations, most of the day had passed.

Heart surgery carried immense risks. Milo's condition had to be flawless before they could proceed.