The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Chapter 8

Rachel's voice was light, and her expression was gentle, the picture of an innocent and charming woman. In contrast, she made Stella seem harsh, cold, and distant.

But Stella detected the challenge and mockery hidden in Rachel's words.

She looked up to catch the glint of triumph Rachel hadn't hidden from her eyes.

"Why is it so uncommon for Haynes to come home?" Stella shot back. "It's because you, Ms. Pearce, have taken up all his free time. Are you pretending not to know what's really happening?"

Rachel looked shocked as she grabbed Stella's hand and rushed to explain. "Ms. Cameron, please, that's not what I meant."

But Stella cut her off before she could finish. "If you're not playing dumb, it's just a lack of self-awareness, isn't it?"

Stella withdrew her hand and said, "Ms. Pearce, people who are oblivious to themselves are truly unbearable."

out a sudden gasp

tall figure stepped in,

"Rachel, are you okay?"

like she was the most wronged person in the world. "Haynes, I'm fine. Ms. Cameron didn't mean it. Please

gaze flickered, and he

voice turning cold. "Stella, apologize to

Stella would rush to say things like, "It wasn't me," "Let me explain," "I didn't

her side, always insisting she should

cold shoulder. He wouldn't answer her calls or reply to her messages. He treated her like she was invisible, wouldn't say a word

Keen joined in, leaving her feeling isolated. In the end, she would have to lower her head and

it, Stella let out a bitter laugh. "Why should I listen to you?

heard her wrong. "What