The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Chapter 577

Stella shook her head. "My brother and I have practiced together since we were kids. We're completely in sync."

Candida smiled. "Good, as long as there's no problem."

Abby, remembering the incident with the kidnapping, asked, "Star, did they ever catch that kidnapper?"

Stella replied, "Mr. Connolly said not yet.

He's been keeping an eye on things for me, even checked with the local police, but they haven't caught anyone either.

It's been so long now... I doubt they ever will."

Abby rolled her eyes. "Can you believe Rachel, trying to pin the whole kidnapping mess on you? She's got some nerve!

She's nowhere near as pretty as you, and her violin skills can't compare-she's not even close. I honestly don't get what Haynes sees in her."

Stella's tone was indifferent. "To each their own, I suppose. Everyone has their preferences."

After Abby grumbled a bit more about Rachel, the group let the subject drop, and no one brought up Rachel again.

went back to practicing

sofa, quietly watching her as she

her life miserable. But with the whole kidnapping ordeal-even though Stella had to know Rachel was involved-she didn't seem interested in stirring up more drama. She

the back-up plans he'd asked Lind to prepare were pointless. He'd been ready

first time, Joshua realized his efforts had

feeling frustrated,

couldn't help but wonder-was this woman really as innocent as she seemed, or was she

over for nearly two hours before finally stopping. She picked up her sheet music and pen, ready to make some revisions, when she happened to notice Joshua still sitting

"Joshua, you're still here?"

candid. "You play beautifully. I just wanted to listen a bit longer. Ms.

Stella replied, smiling. "It makes me happy that you

this piece? Is it one

days, while "helping out" in Stella's

l.ne

she practiced were

the piece that

was actually Stella's