Stella's POV

"You told him you found out where I live?" My voice came out more nervous than I meant it to, and I saw Elaine blink, surprised by my bluntness.

She shook her head quickly. "No, Stella. I didn't tell Damian. It wouldn't be right to let him come to your house without your approval first."

I let out a breath of relief, though my brow still creased.

"Then please, don't tell him. There's no need for this thank-you from him or from you. I would've done the same for anyone. The fact that I helped someone so powerful was just a coincidence. Accepting some kind of reward would make it seem like what I did wasn't genuine."

She looked at me with an almost sad, but understanding expression.

"I understand. I don't want to pressure you in any way, and I know you saved my life without expecting anything in return."

I glanced at the clock on the wall and realized it was already past the twins' dinnertime.

"Since you came all this way and brought the gifts, would you like