The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

A flicker of recognition crossed Haynes's eyes-he remembered instantly.

"I told you, I wasn't the one behind that."

Stella gave a half-smile, her expression unreadable. "If you weren't responsible, why didn't you just say so at the time? Why insist on me handing over the studio before you'd even offer an explanation?"

Haynes had no answer.

The compensation he'd given Stella was hardly insignificant, but they both knew the truth: if Antoney hadn't gotten into trouble, Stella would never have given up the studio.

Now, overhearing Haynes and Joshua's conversation, it was no wonder Stella suspected Haynes was up to something again.

Joshua arched an eyebrow at that, then lowered his gaze, lashes sweeping down.

"I really don't know what I've done to upset Mr. O'Brien," he said quietly. "According to him, my working as your assistant is some kind of ploy. He even accused me of trying to seduce women for their money." He looked at Stella, and his voice grew softer. "Ms. Cameron, I know I've caused you a lot of trouble these past few weeks. Since Mr. O'Brien clearly doesn't want me around, maybe it's best if I leave before I become even more of a nuisance."

Joshua hesitated, glancing at Haynes, then continued, "With your concert coming up, Ms. Cameron, the last thing you need is more drama."

Haynes's gaze sharpened, cold and cutting as a blade as he stared Joshua down.

"You're not very subtle," Haynes said, his tone icy. "If you're trying to stir up trouble, you'll have to do better."

Of course, he could see what Joshua was getting at-hinting that Haynes might sabotage Stella's concert. Haynes understood the implication, and so did Stella.

She replied coolly, "I don't see anything wrong with what Joshua said. If you were willing to go after the people close to me once, you'd do it again. But this time, I won't let you threaten me. noveldrama

Her voice was almost calm, but there was steel underneath. "If you dare touch Joshua, I won't hesitate to make sure Ms. Pearce's concert never happens either And just SO you know, have plenty ofdition Rachel. With my reputation and reach, if that information gets out, she'll be finished."

For once, Haynes-usually the picture of composure-couldn't hide his anger.

"Stella, can't you see he's feeding you lies? He's trying to turn us against each other."

Stella's reply was cold and even. "All I know is, he's telling the truth."

Haynes wanted to tell her how arrogant Joshua had been moments earlier-how he'd practically dared him to act. Now, with Stella in the room loshua was suddenly playing knew

the victim But Hayden

wouldn't matter what he said. Stella had already passed judgment on him after what happened with Antoney.

Ignoring Haynes, Stella turned to Joshua, her tone softening. “Joshua, if there's nothing else, let's go."

She didn't bother demanding an apology from Haynes. Someone like him-so used to being in control-would never stoop to that. Frankly, she was done wasting even a glance on him.

Joshua didn't argue. He nodded once, quietly. "All right."

The two of them walked out together.

Watching them leave, Haynes frowned. "Star," he called after her.

Stella didn't so much as pause. She had no intention of listening to another word from him.

Haynes's voice rang out behind her, clear and cold. "Stella, you'll regret this."