The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Chapter 447

He was just testing her limits.

If she gave even an inch, Haynes would push further, pressing her from every side.

Stella didn't waste another word. She reached into her bag and pulled out a stack of sheet music along with a small portable player.

"These are my original compositions," she said, placing them on the table. "Ms. Pearce, Mr. O'Brien, you can take a look and decide if you want to accept my offer."

Rachel took the sheets and leafed through them with practiced eyes.

It only took her a moment to glance up and meet Stella's gaze.

Rachel had studied music herself and wasn't half bad at it either.

She could tell, without question, whether the pieces were any good.

Stella went on, "I'm not going to use Star to stir up publicity for anyone— especially not with Ms. Pearce's current reputation. That's simply out of the question.

To be honest, Mr. O'Brien, whatever price you're offering, I could easily earn that much down the road. It's not exactly tempting."

She paused, then continued, "Of course, if you can offer me a number that's so high it'd be worth ruining my name for the rest of my life, maybe I'd consider it. But by my calculations, that price would have to be at least nine figures." Nine figures. No one in their right mind would agree to that.

Not Haynes, not even Jasper. Who would spend a hundred million just to secure

an exclusive composer for someone they cared about?

had that kind of money, he wouldn't spend it that

you like any

name to drum up

pressed play on the

melody floated out, filling

instant, the

Benson-who knew nothing about music-found themselves drawn in, quietly captivated by

the music played, but eventually,

features giving nothing away.

answering. "Ms. Cameron's music is

isn't just a talented composer-I need someone whose name will

Ms. Pearce, the last thing you need is

reputation behind you, the public still

his composure, his eyes flashing with

at Rachel's reputation—what exactly are you trying

tone and expression remained utterly calm, free from any personal

stating the facts. I have to make a living, too. Who wouldn't want

Pearce's

would you rather the rumor mill start churning out

perhaps" Stella's

her

her smile

"You plan on making