The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Of course. Why hadn't she thought of that?

All Stella could do was play "Moonlight," over and over again.

She probably just picked that one piece, practiced it obsessively, and learned to imitate it by rote.

That made sense. How could Stella, a woman who'd spent five years as a

housewife, possess some extraordinary gift for music?

And as for Lauretta and the others, boasting that Stella was a member of the Neo- Vespera University Hall of Fame...

Rachel gave a dismissive little laugh.

Most likely, it was all because of Mr. Burton. Who would dare refuse him anything?

The moment Mr. Burton spoke, no one would say otherwise.

She'd really believed Stella had some real talent. Now, it was clear she was nothing special after all.

Rachel comforted herself with these thoughts, stubbornly refusing to admit that Stella might actually surpass her.

her pride, and gradually felt

find him lost in thought, his expression

was elsewhere-caught up on the woman playing violin in the garden that

said, “I could always try to compose something of my own and imitate it

steady. "Are you thinking the person playing violin in

was better to lay things out

mocking smile. "I do have my doubts... After

have the

been desperate to find her. All his

in the garden

even found witnesses who confirmed she'd been

he confronted her, she admitted

there still be

really be such

I was the one you're looking for. If you don't believe me, then..so be it. Thank you, for everything you've done for me

ver

head and moved to brush past

curled into a soft, easy

I just... I worry. What if you're searching for

'what if."" Joshua's dark eyes flashed with a cold, dangerous glint. "The only 'what if' is that