The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 1262

Stella's brow furrowed. She understood immediately where this was going. "Mr. Vance, are you suggesting I enter into a strategic marriage?"

As a former ally of Nora and a future stakeholder in Stella's success, Zane didn't mince words. "My daughter-in-law is from the Chapman family. Though she's not as famous as Lauretta Chapman, she's a proper heiress. The Vance and Chapman families have a very close partnership. My daughter-in-law has a brother, Sheffield Chapman, who recently divorced and is currently single. He's one of the most brilliant young men in the Chapman family, with a formidable reputation.

"I've made inquiries. Sheffield is mature, responsible, has no bad habits, and is free of scandals. His only flaw is a lack of romantic flair. His ex-wife was from the Burton family—it was also a business alliance. She couldn't stand his rigid, unexciting personality and chose to divorce him. They had no children, and the separation was amicable, with no disputes. The business partnerships between their families remain intact."

Zane took a sip of water. "Sheffield has an excellent mind for business and a high-ranking position in The Chapman Group. If you were to form an alliance with him, he would be a powerful asset."

Stella's mind stirred. She had been good friends with Lauretta in college and had met her cousin, Sheffield, a few times.

She knew of his reputation. He was young, accomplished, handsome, and had an impeccable character. She had a good impression of him.

Lauretta had once told her that Sheffield had been willing to defy his family to be with her. But his girlfriend hadn't been as resolute. When faced with a choice between Sheffield and money, she had chosen money. The heartbreak had sent Sheffield into a long period of depression. It was seeing this that had made Lauretta so cynical about love in their world.

Stella thought for a moment before replying, "Mr. Vance, the thing is… I already have a boyfriend."

"A boyfriend?" Zane's brow furrowed. "Don't tell me it's that bodyguard of yours, Joshua." He spoke with the earnestness of a concerned elder. "Star, date whoever you want for fun, but don't take it seriously. You know better than anyone that feelings can't be trusted. Since that's the case, shouldn't we focus on other things? I've already had someone sound out Sheffield. He has a very good impression of you and is willing to meet. It's just one meeting, not a proposal. Even if it doesn't lead to anything, there's no harm in making a new friend."