Caught off guard by Estelle’s insight, Cristofer was momentarily taken aback, his chest rising and falling rapidly.
However, his pride wouldn’t let him acknowledge any jealousy.
Regaining his composure, he replied with a smirk, “You’re overthinking things. I’m about to get married. Why would I be jealous of him? And when did I ever say that there was a woman I wanted to spend my life with? Why bring up such statements in front of my fiancée?”
Hearing his words, Estelle’s brows furrowed, ready to retort. But after a brief pause, she held back, choosing silence.
‘I haven’t been in Hadale for the past three years and knew nothing about Cristofer’s life during this period. Maybe he did have a girlfriend before and was about to get married to her, but something unforeseen broke them up.’
Turning her thoughts inward, she cast a brief look at Mila.
‘From what I’ve observed, Cristofer seems to merely put on an act of affection towards Miss Wilson. It appears they aren’t truly close or familiar with each other.’
‘Still, they are set to be married. I’m relieved Miss Wilson didn’t overhear my earlier comments; it might have upset her and strained their relationship.’
‘I talked without thinking just now.’
He noticed the changes in her. Estelle was noticeably slimmer than she had been three years ago. Her face had lost its color, and there were noticeable dark circles under her eyes.
Wanting to shift away from the awkwardness, he cleared his throat and changed the topic.
“I heard from Justin that he is not Mr. Mysterious. I misunderstood your relationship with him before.”
“I have told you many times that he is not Mr. Mysterious,” Estelle reiterated.
Estelle met Cristofer’s gaze, acknowledging her earlier comment. “I was mistaken. You never said those words.”
“I never did,” Cristofer responded, taking a deep breath as he looked at her more intently.
“Let’s leave the past behind. It’s time for both of us to move forward. Just ensure the children are well taken care of. If they aren’t happy and well with you, I’ll try to bring them back to my side.”
Estelle felt emotionally and physically drained, saying, “Let’s not discuss this further. Your fiancee is waiting for you. I need to go.”
Just as she approached the entrance of the wedding dress store, a loud clap of thunder resonated above.
“Boom! Boom! Boom!”
Thunder cracked in the sky, followed by torrential rain.
Hadale was near the sea. When it was in the rainy season, it always suddenly rained heavily.
Hearing the thunder, Estelle couldn’t help but shiver.
“Don’t be afraid, Star. I know you are afraid of thunder, so I came back quickly to accompany you. Don’t be afraid. I’m here with you.”
Mr. Mysterious’ words re-echoed in her mind, and she felt a dull pain in her heart.
For Estelle, parting ways with Cristofer felt like a sharp knife had instantly punctured her heart. But losing Mr. Mysterious was like a blunt knife slowly and repeatedly tearing at her heart, leaving it deeply scarred and damaged over time.
While the pain inflicted by Cristofer could be healed by Mr. Mysterious, the anguish brought about by Mr. Mysterious’s absence was incurable.
“Why are you crying?” Cristofer asked with a slight frown, his voice surprisingly gentle. “Are you that scared of thunder?”
Estelle shook her head and gently pushed him away. “No. I’m fine.”
“Then why are you crying? Is it because of the child’s condition?” Cristofer spat out, teeth clenched in anger. “How could Mr. Mysterious hide his medical history like that? He shouldn’t have had a child if he had a genetic liver condition. It’s a good thing he’s no longer around. Otherwise, you’d care for two patients in your old age.”
“Shut up!”
“You still defend him so fiercely?”
“Cristofer, enough!” Estelle snapped, wiping her tears and visibly holding back her anger. “Who are you to judge him like this? Of all people, you have the least right!”
“You…” Cristofer snorted, and his own anger flared. “So, it’s clear now. Your love for him was genuine, while our relationship means nothing to you, is that it?”
“I didn’t say that,” Estelle responded, turning away to avoid his gaze.
“Estelle, I know I hurt you in the past. I realized my mistakes and wanted to make amends. But by then, he was already by your side. You’re right, I have no right to judge him. After all, during your toughest times, it was he who stood by you, not me.”
Upon hearing this, tears welled up in Estelle’s eyes, cascading down her cheeks.
“Can we not discuss this any further? You’re getting married. The past should remain there. Look ahead and find your happiness.”
“You’re lecturing me now? It’s as if you’re the older one here,” Cristofer replied, trying to lighten the mood with a chuckle.
‘Elder? If I had got married to Mr. Mysterious, then I would have been Cristofer’s sister-in-law and his elder.’
Estelle then was amused by her thought.
When she turned her head, she saw Mila and Eva looking at them in surprise.
Mila was a mix of shock and anger, while Eva was left gaping in astonishment.
Estelle unclasped a bracelet from her wrist, a vibrant opal piece that shimmered in the light. She walked towards Mila and extended the bracelet, her voice trembling as she smiled. “Seeing as Cristofer claimed I’m the elder here, I suppose I should give you a wedding gift. I designed and made this bracelet myself. It’s not extravagant, but I hope you’ll like it. Miss Wilson, I wish you all the happiness.”
Mila hesitated, not reaching for the bracelet. Instead, she locked eyes with Estelle and inquired, “What’s the relationship between you and Cristofer?”
Suddenly, the atmosphere grew tense and awkward.
Estelle let out a small sigh and gently placed the bracelet into Mila’s hand. “Anyway, I genuinely hope for your happiness. Even though Cristofer and I are relatives, we won’t be crossing paths in the future. Miss Wilson, you can be at ease.”
As Mila held the bracelet, her gaze shifted between Cristofer and Estelle, her expression a mixture of bewilderment and suspicion.
At the moment, all Estelle thought about was leaving this place as soon as possible. She didn’t want to see Cristofer’s face anymore.
Taking a deep breath, she stated, a smile tugging on her lips, “You want me to try this dress on, right? No problem.”
Then she took the dress from the shop assistant and went straight into the fitting room.
The wedding dress had a simple and comfortable design. Estelle swiftly wore it, leaving her hair down, before stepping out.
“Wow!” Eva exclaimed. “You are so beautiful in this wedding dress!”