Chapter 395 The Eve of Parting
                    The interrogation room was dead silent, except for the echo of Debra's voice. The cops had wrapped up their reports and, following protocol, had detained her and Dash together. Their fate was now sealed, destined to face the consequences of the law.
After hearing that everything had been settled, Owen drove back to Harborvale overnight. Luckily, everything had gone off without a hitch, just as Sterling had planned.
Back in Harborvale, Owen headed straight to the Windsor Villa. He navigated the familiar hallways and arrived at Sterling's study. After a gentle knock and receiving permission, he entered.
Sterling was seated behind a large desk, pen in hand, reviewing a document. His face was stern and serious, his eyes reflecting an unyielding determination.
Owen approached the desk and respectfully bowed. "Mr. Windsor, it's done. Debra and Dash are in custody. It's only a matter of time before they're sentenced."
Sterling gave a slight nod, indicating he understood.
As Owen left, the study returned to its quiet state. Sterling continued to stare at the document, but he couldn't focus on it anymore.
Bella, I'll come for you soon.
The past few days of calm felt almost unreal to Bella. She had expected Dash and his daughter to be a constant source of trouble, but to her surprise, they had vanished from her life.
She hadn't received any news about Dash and Debra, as if they had disappeared completely. Even the lawsuit she had filed seemed to have vanished into thin air, adding to the strangeness of the situation.
Bella sat in the break room of her shop, holding a cup of coffee, her gaze empty as she stared out the window. She knew this peace wouldn't last long. She was well aware of Dash's cunning and Debra's ruthlessness; they wouldn't give up on revenge so easily.
Was she overthinking it? Bella wondered, but quickly shook her head, dismissing the thought. She knew Dash and Debra too well to believe they would let her off the hook so easily.
The thought made Bella anxious. She didn't want to speculate about Sterling's involvement or whether he had acted against Dash and Debra for her sake. She just wanted to live her life quietly, free from these troubles.
Half a month flew by, and Serafina had mastered the skills needed to make drinks. Her ability to learn and adapt impressed everyone.
Her youthful energy and enthusiasm were evident, not only did she learn quickly, but she also worked diligently, bringing a fresh vibe to the shop.
However, as Anna's departure approached, the atmosphere in the shop grew heavy.
The day before Anna left, the shop closed early, and everyone gathered for a simple farewell party.
The venue was Colin's shop, and he hosted the event. Unlike previous gatherings, this time there were fewer smiles and more reluctance.
At the dinner table, Anna raised her glass, her voice choked with emotion but her eyes resolute. "Everyone, take care of yourselves. Stick with Bella and don't let anyone push her around. I know that while I'm gone, you'll be Bella's strongest support."
She paused, looking deeply at each person present. Her gaze was filled with gratitude and trust, as if she was entrusting them with her responsibilities and hopes.
Isadora, speaking on behalf of everyone, said warmly, "Anna, don't worry. We'll be fine. Remember, no matter where you go, this will always be your home. Come back and visit us often. We'll always be here for you and miss you."
Anna's eyes welled up with tears as she tightly held Isadora's hand, nodding gratefully.
In this emotional atmosphere, Colin seemed out of place. He was used to a carefree lifestyle and found it hard to adapt to the sadness of farewells. So, he chose to remain silent, not offering any words.
Despite this, Colin was filled with joy. This farewell marked a new beginning for him. He was about to start a life with Anna, being with her every day, which brought him unprecedented happiness. In this farewell, he was the only one looking forward to the future with excitement.
His eyes sparkled with anticipation and joy, as if he could already see the beautiful life he would share with Anna. Though he didn't speak, his expression and eyes conveyed his feelings. In that moment, he seemed to forget the surrounding sadness, completely immersed in his own happiness.
"Colin, could you tone down your joy a bit?" Bella suddenly said coolly.
Everyone paused, then turned to look at Colin. Embarrassed, he quickly laughed nervously and took a sip of water.
Seeing this, everyone burst into laughter, and the atmosphere lightened up. Isadora teased, "Colin's just happy he gets to take Anna away. How could he not be?"
"Yeah, tonight's probably the happiest for Colin," Serafina added with a smile.
Anna blushed as they teased her.
After dinner, the lively and joyful atmosphere continued. Anna suggested, "Why don't we go to a karaoke bar? We can sing, chat, and have fun."
She chose karaoke over a bar, knowing that Isadora and Serafina, though outgoing and open to new experiences, might feel uncomfortable in the more open and noisy environment of a bar.
Bars, with their crowds, dim lights, and loud music, might not suit the more reserved nature of Isadora and Serafina, making it hard for them to relax and enjoy.
In contrast, a private karaoke room offered a more intimate and enclosed space, where they could sit with close friends and create a warm and free atmosphere.
Here, they could let go of their usual reservations, sing their hearts out, share stories and jokes, and find genuine responses to their laughter and tears in this small world.