The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Chapter 473

Ordinarily, Stella had no right to make decisions on Lauretta's behalf.

But after so many years of friendship, they understood each other better than most.

By remaining silent, Lauretta had handed the choice over to her.

Back in their quartet days, Lauretta had always been the steady one-thoughtful, empathetic, never one to rush or push. If Stella spoke up, Lauretta would likely agree to be Rachel's special guest, simply out of loyalty.

Stella didn't want Lauretta to get dragged into a feud and risk retaliation from Haynes and his crowd. But if Stella disliked Rachel enough to refuse her request, Lauretta wouldn't help them either. The decision was entirely hers.

Stella frowned at the sound of her nickname-"Star"-and didn't bother hiding her irritation.

"Mr. O'Brien, do you all just enjoy taking what isn't yours? You steal my mother's keepsakes, you sabotage my meeting with Mr. Walden, you try to take over my studio. And now, you want to steal my guest performer?"

She shot Rachel a sharp look. "What's next? Does Ms. Pearce share some psychic link with me? Everything I value, she has to have for herself?"

Ms. Chapman was your guest. I only wanted to invite an old college

"Well, now you know. So, are you still planning to poach her

her gaze, hiding whatever flashed in her eyes. "Ms. Cameron, I'm not trying to steal anyone. As Mr. O'Brien

cold laugh, enunciating every word. "I asked Lauretta because she's my friend. What gives

it your money and power? Do you

me, how much

Does she

Haynes, her expression

shamelessness?"

eyes flickered, but he

open challenge. Why

into privilege-choose Stella over her

"Ms. Cameron, I know

hand on the table, cutting