Cross My Tigress Face the Wrath

The man had a neat crop of short hair, his lips pressed into a thin line, and his eyes seemed to speak volumes.

His rebellious and proud demeanor was a stark contrast to Ronald's stern nature, making him a memorable figure in Stella's mind.

She had only met him three times, and the fourth encounter was the devastating news of his death, that shattered Yvonne's heart.

Ronald said, "It might not be him."

Stella replied, "I hope for a miracle."

Her heart ached for Yvonne, for the deep emotions she had poured into that man.

Ronald fiddled with her slightly cold hands. "Are you cold?"

"I'm not cold," she insisted.

Without another word, Ronald fetched a fuzzy cardigan. Knowing Stella disliked heavy layers in winter, preferring her arms free, her wardrobe was full of various cozy cardigans.

Stella protested, "I'm really not cold."

"Just be good," Ronald said with a tender voice, and Stella reluctantly slipped it on.

...

As the snow piled up outside, Stella indulged in her favorite winter pastime: cooking a hearty meal. The pot on the table bubbled merrily. Even without the usual spicy kick, Stella found the meal thoroughly satisfying. Ronald busied himself with the cooking.

eat too,"

Ronald asked,

"It's warm," Stella replied.

"Are you cold?"

the snow outside, eating like this just

"You and your

are Finley and Hull?" Stella asked, noticing their

replied. "As for Hull, I

to Finley and Skye.

She was startled too.

Mist Bay earlier. Who would dare to mess with Ronald at a time like this? "Scared? I only asked Idris to kick her out of Portis City," Ronald

Stella blinked.

her out of Portis City?

"No, wait, that's not right. Are you planning to have Idris beat up

should be gentler

an eyebrow. "Skye's

standing next

She might not look it, but

a few bruises," Ronald

it a

was a sun worshipper,

rays at

was deep, not quite tropical but still