The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 480

Stella glanced at the tear-streaked face of the pianist, then looked in the direction Haynes had walked off, a bitter smirk curling at the edge of her lips.

Someone had been dismissed on a whim, over a baseless accusation, with no regard for all the work she’d put in. Just like that—gone. A textbook scare tactic, she mused. A warning for the rest of them.

If that poor pianist was the sacrificial lamb, then Stella supposed she was next in line.

Not long after, her phone buzzed. It was Jasper, summoning her to discuss the performance arrangements.

…

The venue was nothing short of palatial, with Haynes sparing no expense to secure it for Rachel. The opulence inside was almost expected, but even the grounds were breathtaking. In the back garden, a natural lake shimmered in the afternoon light, and the air was laced with the gentle perfume of blooming flowers.

Stella found Rachel and Haynes standing together on a small bridge, taking in the distant scenery. Rachel gestured toward the water, chatting animatedly.

Jasper spotted Stella first. His voice dripped with sarcasm. “Well, look who finally graced us with her presence—Ms. Cameron, the star, too dignified to ask for a chance, just waiting for everyone else to beg her to perform.”

Stella shot him a cool glance. “I just saw Ms. Pearce get hurt. For a moment, I thought today’s rehearsal might be canceled.”

Rachel turned around with a practiced smile. “It’s just a bump on the knee, nothing serious. I could keep rehearsing without a problem. Haynes is just making a fuss over nothing.”

Stella heard the message loud and clear. Rachel might as well have said, “See how much Haynes cares about me?”

They’d already agreed on the details, so there was nothing to argue about. With Haynes standing there, Rachel played her part perfectly. “That sounds great.”

The two women began to discuss the music, Rachel tossing out a few technical questions—clearly trying to trip Stella up. But Stella fielded every one with ease, even countering with a few sharp questions of her own, leaving Rachel momentarily speechless.

Rachel could only give up on trying to make things difficult.

All the while, Haynes’s gaze never left Stella. He’d never seen her like this before—completely absorbed in her work, a different kind of intensity from the dazzling presence she had on stage. He’d always known she was beautiful, but maybe he’d grown numb to it over time, or maybe he’d never truly appreciated her talent.

But now, watching her in her element, he couldn’t help but feel she was even more striking than before.