The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 406

“If you don’t know what’s good for you and let Haynie handle things, it won’t end nearly as well for you!”

“This is the first time I’ve seen someone try to steal from others and act so entitled,” Stella replied coolly. “But since you’ve made your position so clear, it’s not out of the question for me to let you take over the studio.”

Abby’s expression shifted. “Stella—”

A smug grin crept onto Jasper’s lips. “Glad you know your place.”

But Stella continued, “We signed a five-year lease on this place, and spent months renovating it. If you want me to hand it over, you’ll need to compensate me for the rent, the renovation expenses, and the penalty for breaking the contract.

“And you both know I have a concert coming up. If I have to find a new place, that’s going to disrupt rehearsals. I think it’s only fair you pay for the emotional distress too, don’t you?”

Jasper huffed impatiently. “Cut the crap—just give me a number.”

Stella pretended to consider, then said, “Since we’re at least acquaintances, I’ll keep it simple: ten million.”

Jasper looked like he’d been slapped. “How much?!”

“Ten million. That’s my price for the studio.”

Jasper exploded. “Stella, why don’t you just rob a bank?! You could buy the whole place for less than that!”

He’d expected Stella to ask for a lot, but this? She was out of her mind! Did she think ten million was pocket change?

Stella shrugged. “Then go buy the building. If you own it, no one would compete with you, right?”

Jasper was so furious he could barely see straight. “Fine, I’ll—”

But before he could finish, Foreman interrupted sharply. “Jasper, you’ve been bleeding money on pointless deals lately. You’re already in the red.”

Rachel glanced back at Stella, then silently followed him out.

Foreman gave Stella a polite nod before leaving too.

As soon as the door closed, Abby couldn’t help but spit out, “So the ones after our studio were Jasper and Rachel, those two rats!”

Stella nodded. “They’re the ones who tried to hire me as a composer, too.”

Abby rubbed her temples. “What is it with them? You’re divorced, but they just won’t stay out of your life.”

Just then, a gentle knock sounded at the office door.

A clear, pleasant female voice called from the hallway, “Excuse me, is this S&A Studio?”