The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Chapter 103

Abby noticed the edge in Stella's voice and spoke softly, "Star, no matter how you slice it, Rachel took drastic measures because of what I said. Even though I'm your friend, it's not unreasonable for him to want some answers from me."

Abby, usually the fiery one in the group, was surprisingly calm this time.

"Rachel risked her life and ended up in the ER, going through all that pain. And here I am, just offering a simple apology. If you think about it, I'm getting off easy. It's like I'm coming out ahead."

She continued, "Don't blame Haynes for this. If it weren't for your influence, this whole thing wouldn't have blown over so easily."

Stella understood that Abby was correct, yet she couldn't shake off the heavy feeling in her chest. Glancing at the bruises on Abby's face, she asked, "But what about your injuries?"

"These weren't Haynes' doing. There's a reason for everything, and this isn't on him."

Abby looked at her intently. "Star, maybe this was Rachel's plan all along. Don't fall for it."

Stella didn't reply.

Just then, there was a soft knock on the door.

figure slowly made her way

you downstairs... and I heard Ms. Murphy got hurt,

to one of

Stella. "Congratulations, Ms.

to Rachel. "Was Abby kidnapped

you're implying..." Stella realized Rachel was going

with a steely determination. "It doesn't matter if you admit

influence or resources, found herself with no other option but to reach

police who came

her voice steady and firm. "It's convenient that you're here, Ms. Pearce. I was

seem fazed; instead, she smiled slightly.

there was another knock on the

uniformed officers stepped

"Are you Ms.

slightly. "Yes, that's

against you for kidnapping, Ms. Pearce. We need