4. The Jealous Sister

Chapter Four

At the club, the music throbbed through the packed space, and the crowd danced under flashing lights.

Declan's phone vibrated, pulling him away from the festivities. He glanced at the screen and saw that it was an emergency business call from Europe, it was concerning some stocks and investments deals so he had to pick.

Excusing himself with a quick nod to Stella, he stepped outside into the quieter night air.

Meanwhile, Denver, Clara’s boyfriend, leaned closer to Stella, a sly smile playing on his lips. He has always wanted Stella for himself before Clara seduced him and blackmailed him into dating her.

He couldn’t resist how beautiful and sexy she looked even though she got married. He couldn’t resist her and he always had a boner just by staring at her beauty.

“Just a taste of her before that her bastard nobody husband comes back “ Denver thought to himself thinking he can get away with anything since the club is busy with people just getting drunk and not paying attention.

He held out a glass of red wine to her. "Hey beautiful, You look like you could use a drink," he suggested, his eyes flickering with a hint of something more than casual interest.

Stella glanced at the glass, then at Denver, hesitating. She wasn't much of a drinker, especially not red wine, which she found too heavy.

But Denver persisted, pushing the glass closer. "Come on, it's just a drink. To celebrate your wedding, right?"

Reluctantly, Stella took the glass, her fingers brushing against his and this made him excited and even more horny.

Denver watched her closely, a little too closely. Stella noticed and felt uncomfortable under his gaze.

Clara, noticing from across the room, smirked and whispered to a friend, "Watch this, Stella will embarrass herself tonight in front of a lot of people."

She was aware of Denver's interest in her sister Stella and even though she is irritated and jealous of her sister , she saw this as an opportunity to use Denver’s lust and cause some drama for Stella.

Denver didn't stop at one glass. As soon as Stella's was half-empty, he was there with a refill, this time with a flute of champagne.

"Why not try this one too? It's a celebration, after all,you’re the bride so you should be happy" he urged, his voice smooth.

Stella looked at the champagne, then at the wine. She didn't want either, really, but felt cornered and under pressure.

With Declan outside, she felt even more isolated amidst the noise and the crowd. She reached for the champagne, her hand shaking slightly.

Stella felt uneasy. The alcohol in her hands suddenly felt heavier than before. She looked around, hoping to see Declan, but he was still outside.

Taking a small sip from the wine, she tried to pace herself.

Clara smirked from her spot by the bar. Her plan was simple: get Stella drunk enough to make a fool of herself and disgrace the family so that she won’t be considered as the better sister and legitimate heir to the family company.

She wanted to show everyone that Stella, the ever-perfect sister, could lose control too and act foolish. Clara wanted the company shares and inheritance all to be under her control and not Stella. Clara wants to be able to afford all the latest Birkin bags , sports cars and diamond earrings that’s trending on social media and among celebrities.

As Stella reluctantly prepared to take another sip, her head started to spin slightly from the loud music and the heat of the crowd. She didn't enjoy the sensation of the alcohol on her lips.

Just then, Declan entered the club. He was a sharp man so he immediately noticed the situation from afar. Stella looked uncomfortable and surrounded by glasses of string wine. His steps quickened as he approached, his expression darkening.

Reaching Stella, Declan didn't hesitate. He took the glasses from her hands and set them down on a nearby table.

"That's enough," he said firmly, his voice calm but assertive.

Denver stepped back, surprised by Declan's sudden interference. "Just having a bit of fun,stay away from her and our circle of old money. I knew her before a bloody nobody like you came out of nowhere and married her" he muttered, trying to justify himself.

Declan turned to Stella, concerned in his eyes. "Are you okay?" he asked, checking her face for any sign of distress.

Stella nodded, relieved. "Yes, just feeling a bit tipsy. I really didn't really want those drinks," she admitted, her voice low.

Clara became furious that her plan had been ruined and she stormed towards Stella and Declan.

"What's the big deal, Declan? Can't Stella handle a few drinks? We are here to party, why can’t you allow her to take her wine in peace !” she snapped, her tone accusatory.

Declan faced Clara, his stance protective in front of Stella. "The big deal is her comfort and safety is what matters to me.That's my priority and besides she is my wife and my duty is to protect her “ he stated, his look stern.

Clara scoffed, rolling her eyes. "Whatever," she huffed, turning on her heel and walking away, angry that her plans failed while she took a long sip from the wine she was taking.

Stella looked at Declan, gratitude mixed with surprise. "Thank you for standing up for me but this doesn’t change anything or the way I feel about you, I don’t like you or this marriage so keep your distance from me because I still feel like you took disadvantage of me or maybe you tried to rape me that night " she said ,her voice sounding so heartbroken.