Chapter 311 Reality
Bella had always thought that when Sterling found out she was planning to leave, he would react like he had in the past—going nuts trying to stop her, controlling her every move, and forcing her to stay by his side. That fear had always hung over her, making her hesitate even when she finally decided to go.
But reality turned out to be way different than she expected. Sterling's reaction was surprising; he didn't beg her to stay or have any meltdown. Instead, he accepted her decision with a calmness that left her feeling a mix of surprise, relief, and a bit of sadness.
At least this way, she could find the courage to say a few words to him, rather than missing the chance to communicate amidst endless arguments and struggles. Bella knew this meeting might be their last chance, the final opportunity for her to express her feelings and thoughts.
Taking a deep breath, Bella tried to keep her voice steady and firm. "Sterling, it doesn't matter anymore. To me, you're already a stranger."
Sterling looked at her, a flicker of complex emotions in his eyes. He nodded, his voice low and gentle. "Bella, I get it. I can't change the past, but I promise that from now on, I'll respect your choices and give you the freedom and space you need."
Hearing Sterling's words, Bella's heart trembled slightly, but she said nothing more. She turned and slowly walked downstairs, her hand gently tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear, a gesture that carried a touch of unintentional elegance and fragility.
Once downstairs, Bella spoke again. "I only took my things." Her voice was soft yet firm, with a barely noticeable tremor. "I've left everything that belongs to you on the bed. The memories that belong to you or to both of us, I tried not to take any of them. I hope they stay here. I won't take what isn't mine."
She paused, searching for the right words to express her next thought. Taking a deep breath, she continued, "Please take care of Sunny with Zoey. I know you might not like it, but consider it a part of me left here for now. If I come back someday, can you return it to me? Or, if you prefer, you can keep it."
Sterling listened quietly, a flicker of complex emotions in his eyes. He hadn't expected Bella to be so considerate about these small details. He nodded gently, his voice low and tender. "I'll take good care of Sunny. It's a part of us too. As for the other things, keep them. Consider them a gift from me, whether you come back or not, they belong to you."
Bella's heart ached at his words. She glanced at Sterling, a fleeting look, but his face made her heart race.
"Thank you, Sterling," she said softly, her voice choked with emotion. "I'll always remember this place, remember everything we had. No matter where I go in the future, I'll wish you well and hope you find your happiness."
With that, Bella turned and walked towards the door, her steps firm and composed. She knew this departure was not just a physical move but a rebirth of her soul.
Sterling nodded slightly, saying nothing, but his deep eyes, though calm on the surface, hid a storm of emotions. He kept his composure, knowing Bella needed a calm and rational farewell, not a chaotic argument or plea.
Sterling gently placed her luggage in the trunk of his car, each movement steady and strong. Then he turned to Bella, his voice low and resolute. "Let me drive you."
This offer was both a sign of respect for her and a way to control his own emotions. He understood he could no longer keep her bound to him as before. She needed freedom and time to find her happiness. All he could do was silently accompany her on this final journey.
Bella looked at Sterling, a flicker of complex emotions in her eyes. She hadn't expected him to offer to drive her, which surprised and touched her,.
Bella didn't refuse. She nodded gently, her voice choked with emotion. "Okay, thank you."
They walked to the car together, not speaking a word. But in that silence, there was an unspoken understanding and deep affection. They knew this was their last time together in this way, and they cherished the peace and calm of the moment.
As the car slowly drove out of The Windsor Villa, Bella looked at the scenery outside the window, her heart a mix of emotions. She didn't know what the future held, but she knew this farewell was a reality she had to face.
Sterling focused on driving, his gaze steady and composed. He knew that although sending Bella away filled him with sorrow and pain, it was what she needed most right now.
Bella's heart was a whirlwind of emotions. She wanted to refuse Sterling's offer to drive her, fearing that his kindness would make it harder for her to let go. Yet, deep down, a voice told her this was the last time she would feel his warmth, a warmth she had longed for all her life. How could she easily give it up now that she was about to lose it?
She sat in the car, looking out the window, her thoughts racing. Sterling's kindness was like the autumn sunlight—warm but fleeting. She wanted to hold onto it but feared getting burned.
Zoey and Owen stood at the gate with Sunny in their arms, their eyes filled with reluctance and blessings. Sunny seemed to sense the farewell atmosphere, squirming uneasily and whimpering softly.
Bella's tears finally fell uncontrollably. She quickly wiped them away, but the more she wiped, the more they flowed. She didn't want Sterling to see her crying, didn't want him to worry. So she turned her head, pretending to look at the scenery, swallowing her tears silently.
On a deserted stretch of road, she reached her hand out the window, feeling the autumn breeze. Under the autumn wind, leaves fell from the trees, fluttering briefly in the air before landing on the ground. This scene reminded Bella of life—short and fragile, full of countless unknowns and changes.
Watching the falling leaves, Bella felt a surge of inexplicable emotion. She didn't know what her future held, didn't know if she would ever experience such kindness again. But she knew this farewell was a reality she had to face.
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