On the other end of the line, Sherry gaped. Following a pause of ten seconds, she formally greeted, “Mr. Conrad. I've become Stella's new pal. Sofia Cooper is my name.”

"Really?" Clarence asked indifferently.

“Indeed, in all seriousness. Good to meet you, Mr. Conrad. Haha. I promise not to bother you again." Sherry spoke what she had to say and quickly hung up the phone.

A few beeps signaled the conclusion of the call. Then there was a complete stillness in the room. Stella has never before hoped she could just disappear from this world. The man had sunken, black eyes that were as cold as a pool.

She pulled...