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,

gaze sharpened, cold and cutting as

not very subtle," Haynes said, his tone icy. "If you're trying to

at-hinting that Haynes might

see anything wrong with what Joshua said. If you were willing to go after the people close to me once, you'd

"If you dare touch Joshua, I won't hesitate to make sure Ms. Pearce's concert never happens either And just SO you know, have plenty ofdition Rachel. With my reputation and

the picture of composure-couldn't hide

you lies? He's trying

"All I know

he'd practically dared him to act. Now,

the victim But Hayden

he said. Stella had already passed judgment on him