The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Chapter 157

As soon as Stella got into the car, Haynes noticed she was staring off into space, not bothering to buckle her seatbelt. He asked quietly, "What's up?"

Stella didn't respond, her gaze fixed intently on something.

Following her line of sight, Haynes saw the little reserved parking sign right in front of Stella and his eyes darkened slightly.

Suddenly, he leaned over, his tall frame casting a shadow. Stella instinctively backed away, frowning, but Haynes simply reached over to buckle her seatbelt. "Always buckle up," he said in his low, clear voice, close to her ear.

Rachel, sitting in the backseat, watched the scene with a fleeting expression of irritation but quickly forced a smile. "Even in the front seat, you've got to wear your seatbelt, Ms. Cameron. Look how attentive Haynie is."

Stella felt a cynical laugh bubble up inside her.

things be in plain

Stella retorted. "Ms. Pearce, your standards are a bit low, aren't

play the part of a good friend, continued chatting

when I call, no matter what they're doing. Someone who'd automatically have my back if I messed up, and if someone else won't forgive me, they'd make them feel bad for being unsympathetic and petty. Someone who, if I wanted something didn't matter whose it was—would make sure I got it, even if it belonged to someone else. And if I shed a few tears, looking all helpless, they'd be so heartbroken they'd lose all reason and completely take my side. And one more

strained. Even if she played

of

sounded an awful lot like Marvin,

does everyone side with someone just because

favor those who matter more

his chest. "So, was Mom already

losing something important washed

a serious tone, "Stella, you shouldn't say such things-it sets a bad example