SCORNED EX WIFE Queen Of Ashes (Camille and Stefan)

Chapter 51

Camille turned to face him, found his eyes glinting with something that might have been admiration, might have been challenge, might have been something deeper neither of them was prepared to name. "The phoenix only rises through fire, Mr. Pierce," she replied quietly. "And fire is a dangerous element to play with."

His smile deepened, genuine amusement replacing careful social masks. "I've never feared burns, Ms. Kane. The most valuable things in life are often forged in flame."

Someone called for a photograph. The museum director, sensing promotional gold, encouraged them to stand together. Alexander placed his hand lightly at the small of her back, the gesture both possessive ar Flashes erupted around them. Tomorrow these images would appear in every social publication, generating exactly the kind of attention Victoria had warned against. Speculation. Interest. Questions about the r most powerful young billionaires.

"You planned this," Camille accused under her breath, maintaining her public smile.

"I seized an opportunity," he corrected. "There's a difference."

"Victoria won't be pleased."

"Victoria isn't here." His fingers pressed slightly against her back, surprisingly warm through the thin fabric of her gown. "And it's time you made decisions without her shadow over you."

The presumption should have angered her. Instead, something rebellious stirred inside her, the first independent choice since accepting Victoria's offer of transformation and revenge. Not a strategic business m destroying Rose and Stefan. Just a moment of genuine connection with someone who seemed to see through all her carefully constructed layers.

She smiled at him, not Victoria's

real.

trap. Refuse, and appear cold, ungracious, dampening

the evening. Accept, and create exactly the kind of public speculation Victoria had carefully avoided

her answer. "How could I refuse such a

him in silent permission. Alexander removed the necklace from its box and stepped

fingers brushed the nape

shiver down her spine. The weight of diamonds settled against her skin, cool

more magnificent

at various events, always perfect, always controlled, always slightly unreachable. This smile

Chapter 51

the event, spreading

a brief moment, they weren't tw Then the spell broke as the museum director approached, effusive with gratitude for Alexander's donation. Camille used the interruption to step away, one hand rising unconsciously to touch the fortune now add For the remainder of the evening, they circled each other like planets in separate but intersecting orbits. Never directly engaging again, but always aware of the other's location. Always feeling the pull of connec Near midnight, as

My security will

"I couldn't possibly..."

His voice carried no arrogance, just

it was made for

his lips nearly brushing her ear. "Besides, little phoenix, what better way to celebrate your victory today? While you dazzled

continued softly. "Your secrets remain safe