The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

A flicker of recognition crossed Haynes's eyes-he remembered instantly.

"I told you, I wasn't the one behind that."

Stella gave a half-smile, her expression unreadable. "If you weren't responsible, why didn't you just say so at the time? Why insist on me handing over the studio before you'd even offer an explanation?"

Haynes had no answer.

The compensation he'd given Stella was hardly insignificant, but they both knew the truth: if Antoney hadn't gotten into trouble, Stella would never have given up the studio.

Now, overhearing Haynes and Joshua's conversation, it was no wonder Stella suspected Haynes was up to something again.

Joshua arched an eyebrow at that, then lowered his gaze, lashes sweeping down.

"I really don't know what I've done to upset Mr. O'Brien," he said quietly. "According to him, my working as your assistant is some kind of ploy. He even accused me of trying to seduce women for their money." He looked at Stella, and his voice grew softer. "Ms. Cameron, I know I've caused you a lot of trouble these past few weeks. Since Mr. O'Brien clearly doesn't want me around, maybe it's best if I leave before I become even more of a nuisance."

glancing at Haynes, then continued, "With your concert coming up, Ms. Cameron, the last thing you

as a blade

said, his tone icy. "If you're

he could see what Joshua was getting at-hinting that Haynes might sabotage

replied coolly, "I don't see anything wrong with what Joshua said. If you were willing to go after the people close to me once, you'd do it again. But

dare touch Joshua, I won't hesitate to make sure Ms. Pearce's concert never happens either

once, Haynes-usually the picture

you see he's feeding you lies? He's trying to turn us

was cold and even. "All I know is, he's

earlier-how he'd practically dared him to act. Now, with Stella in the room loshua was suddenly playing

the victim But Hayden

said. Stella had already passed judgment on