The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 1212

Joshua nodded, a thoughtful expression on his face.

Just then, Stella's phone rang. It was Antoney. He had also watched the press conference and felt no sympathy for Stuart. In his view, the man got what he deserved, and Joshua had done nothing wrong.

"Star, that was a masterful performance," he said, laughing. "Even I was moved by your speech. Not only did Stuart die for nothing, but you've nailed the Gibson family to a pillar of shame. Their stock price plummeted the moment your conference ended. It looks like even the market is turning on them. I doubt Gibson will be bothering you again."

Antoney was glad he could help, even in a small way. He had felt useless for too long, standing by while Haynes mistreated her.

"I bet Shawn Pearce's father is watching this and thanking his lucky stars he agreed to your acquisition," he added. "Otherwise, his family would be the next one in the crosshairs."

"By the way," Antoney said, his tone shifting, "what has Abby been up to lately? I haven't heard from her in ages. I tried calling her the day before yesterday, but she didn't pick up, and she hasn't replied to my texts. Where is she?"

At the mention of Abby, a shadow of worry crossed Stella's face. "She might be at the Lerman estate. She managed to get a piece of intelligence to me a few days ago."

Antoney's voice sharpened. "She's on Leonard's home turf? If he finds her… she'll be in extreme danger."

"I know," Stella said. "That's why I'm planning to get her out."

As Abby was also his good friend, Antoney was all in. "Do you have a plan?"

"Yes. The last time Abby contacted me, she mentioned a major deal Leonard is involved in." She proceeded to explain the details. "I'm going to use that deal as a cover to rescue her."

Antoney relaxed. He had been worried Stella would blindly trust the intel. After all, how could Abby have so easily obtained such crucial information? It was highly likely to be bait.

"I'll handle the heist," he said. "You go for Abby." The robbery was more likely to turn violent, and he worried for her safety.

"Brother, we need to plan this carefully," Stella cautioned. "Robbing Leonard in Solmaris won't be easy. And his estate is a fortress. After he became head of the family, he had it redesigned to prevent assassination attempts. The hedges are high, and the grounds are a literal maze. I heard a hired killer once got lost in the garden and was captured. The estate is just as dangerous as the heist."

"I understand," Antoney said. "I'll have my people get a map of the Lerman estate right away."

After they hung up, Stella felt a sense of relief. With Joshua's situation handled, she could finally focus on Leonard.