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

knew Mr. Burton had withdrawn from public life years ago.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

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

the stage. But he

stammer, "Is... is that really the founder

could command

eyes lit up with excitement. "Rachel, you know who

They say that when

doctors had given up on. Some of his patients came from the most powerful families, and they were so grateful they showered him with priceless

a pharmaceutical company-hardly anyone needs to be told how profitable that is. Everyone gets

years, the Burton Group had skyrocketed to the top, becoming

the country's

rise was so rapid

inevitable-but no

way. After