NovelOnlineStella was about to refuse, but Abby chimed in, "Con, Star, let's get out for a bit. Staying cooped up in your
room all day isn't good for you. You need sfresh air."
Abby had always been the restless type, and after so many days indoors, she was itching to get out.
Seeing the eager excitement in Abby's eyes, Stella finally gave in and nodded.
From that point on, Foreman took charge of their plans. He wanted to make sure Stella was safe at all times.
Sandford was famous for its many tourist attractions, and Foreman had made arrangements in advance to clear
out any unnecessary crowds. The result was that, apart from the three of them, the scenic spots were empty. But
being able to finally get out and wander around genuinely lifted Stella's spirits.
Abby, on the other hand, was in her element-she practically burst with energy, snapping picture after picture as
if she were documenting every step.
By the evening, after hours of exploring, they decided to head to dinner together.
The restaurant they chose was well-known as a romantic date spot, packed with couples enjoying the cozy
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtatmosphere.
While eating, Stella, Abby, and Foreman witnessed a proposal unfold right at the next table. Abby, a hopeless
romantic, was over the moon-she clapped and cheered along with the other guests, caught up in the excitement
of the moment.
When the newly-engaged woman turned to look around, her gaze landed on Stella and Foreman. Smiling warmly,
she crossed the room and offered her bouquet to Stella, passing on her happiness.
"You two make such a stunning couple," the woman said sincerely. "I wish you both a lifetof happiness
together."
It was true-Stella and Foreman easily stood out as the most striking pair in the room. They looked effortlessly
good together, a fact that didn't escape anyone's notice.
A flush of embarrassment crept onto Stella's face. She hurried to explain, "Oh, actually, we're not-"
But before she could finish, Foreman stepped in and accepted the bouquet with a charming smile. "Thank you,"
he replied smoothly.
The attention in the restaurant instantly shifted. The crowd, previously cheering for the newly-engaged couple,
now turned their eyes-and their teasing to Stella and Foreman.
"Give her a kiss!" someone shouted, and others quickly picked up the chant. Foreman knew Stella would be
mortified. With an easy laugh, he addressed the crowd, "My girlfriend's a little shy, so a hug will have to do."
He gently wrapped his arms around Stella, leaning in to whisper, "Just playing along no need to worry."
After a polite, gentlemanly hug, he let her go. The crowd cheered, offering their congratulations, but soon lost
interest and returned to their own celebrations.
Stella, still blushing, let the moment pass without further protest.
After dinner, Foreman suggested they go watch the fireworks, but Stella shook her head. "I'm pretty tired today,"
she said, "I'd rather head
back and rest. Maybe we can see
the fireworks another time.
Truthfully, Stella couldn't shake the awkwardness she felt around Foreman tonight. The whole evening had felt
uncomfortably like a date, and she was grateful for Abby's presence to break up the tension. Still, something
about this night felt different from any of their previous dinners together.
Foreman didn't press her when she wanted to leave. "No problem," he said. "I'll drive you both back to the
hotel."
When they pulled up to the entrance, Stella and Abby stepped out of the car. As Foreman got out as well Stella
stopped him. "You don't need to walk us in," she said. "We'be fine on our own."
Foreman shook his head. "Better safe than sorry. Besides, it's not far. And the wind's picking up-you two should
get inside."
He almost offered her his jacket, but held back; he knew Stella would never accept and would probably only pull
further away. That thought lingered, a shadow in his eyes.
But soon, things would be different-he was sure of it.
They crossed the lobby together, passing by a staff member in a crisp uniform coming from the other direction.
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