The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Chapter 516

After Stella and her group finished their performance, the four of them took the stage to take a bow.

Just as they were about to leave, the host signaled for Stella to stay.

Although she was confused, Stella didn't ask any questions right then and there.

The host smiled at the audience. "Today, we're celebrating Mr. Burton's seventieth birthday. Now, let's welcome the man of the hour!"

Karl helped Mr. Burton onto the stage, steadying him as he made his way up the steps. As they passed, Karl shot Stella a subtle glance before looking away.

Mr. Burton was dressed in a sharp suit, looking every bit the distinguished gentleman. He gave Stella a reassuring nod and a gentle smile before taking the microphone.

"Thank you all for taking time out of your busy lives to attend my birthday celebration," he began cordially, exchanging a few pleasantries with the crowd. Then, his tone shifted.

"I'm sure you've all noticed this young lady just now. Allow me to introduce her properly-her name is Stella, and she's my one and only apprentice. Today, I want to make it clear to everyone: just because Stella has no parents and no family to back her, doesn't mean anyone can take advantage of her. From this day forward, I am her family. And if anyone-anyone at all—tries to mess with her, don't blame me for not playing nice."

As he spoke, Mr. Burton glanced—almost casually—toward Jasper and Haynes, making his meaning unmistakable.

murmur rippled through

had withdrawn from public life years ago. Now, to see him reappear at such an important occasion, introducing Stella with such formality —it was clear just how much she meant to

girl? Was she his illegitimate daughter? His granddaughter? But even if she was family, wasn't this all a bit

he'd seen a ghost the moment Mr. Burton stepped onto the stage. But he wasn't the only one-Haynes and Rachel stood frozen, utterly

is that

some mistake, but who else could command such a gathering of the city's elite if

lit up with excitement. "Rachel, you know who Mr. Burton is?

say

grateful they showered him with priceless gifts. But, even more important than the treasures was the network he built by saving so many lives. That's how the Burton Group came

to be told how profitable that is. Everyone

just thirty years, the Burton Group had skyrocketed to the top,

among the country's

so rapid that

inevitable-but no one dared

their way.