The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Chapter 171

Deanna's nails dug into her palms, her entire body trembling with the effort to stay still. Every fiber of her wanted to lunge at Stella-to wipe that infuriating calm off her face with one sharp slap. But the crowd's eyes were on them, and dignity was the only weapon she had left.

Having weathered many storms in life, Deanna took a few deep breaths to calm herself down. She knew that if today's events got out, her reputation would be in tatters. All thanks to Stella, the troublemaker!

"Stella," Deanna began, her voice sharp and cutting, "Keen has worked so hard for this competition. Even if you weren't invited to accompany him, did you really have to go and ruin it for him? Besides, you don't have a rich family background, nor do you have a fancy degree. We can't just stand there on stage with Keen, can we?"

Her words were like daggers, laying bare Stella's lack of pedigree and education, with zero concern for tact.

earn their place-provided they brought undeniable brilliance to the table. Without it? Well, the whispers followed. In their world,

their world, everyone was constantly comparing themselves to others, with intricate hierarchies of disdain. The elite looked down on those from different social standings. Those with prestigious backgrounds sneered at mere

their eyes assessing Stella with newfound contempt. Was she really just a pretty face with no substance? How did she even become a part of the O'Brien family? Rumor had it she married Haynes because she was pregnant. Could it be she

have at least one redeeming feature. Yet, the picture painted was that of a dramatic soap opera

for me to continue in the competition. She ruined my dress, so it's only fair she compensates me with a new one," Stella continued. "And who told you I have no education or

Stella's audacity to speak to her like

eyes on them. "If