The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Stella didn't react, her expression unreadable as she walked away.

Only when they'd left Haynes's line of sight did she finally break her silence and apologize.

"Joshua, I'm sorry you had to put up with that."

Joshua gave a small shrug. "Honestly, it's all part of the job. Ms. Murphy once told me, back when she was an agent, she dealt with far worse. Compared to her stories, today was nothing."

Stella glanced at him, a touch of admiration in her eyes. "You've got a great attitude."

He chuckled. "No one ever said making money was easy. And Ms. Cameron, you pay me well every month. I don't have much else going on, so I like to give it my best-prove I'm worth every penny."

Stella found herself genuinely appreciating Joshua's cheerful resilience.

"If he gives you any more trouble, you tell me right away," she said. "Don't worry, I won't let him push you around."

Joshua nodded. "Thank you, Ms. Cameron. I trust you."

They had just reached the riding arena when a burst of applause and excited voices rippled through the air.

"That was amazing! Haven't seen anyone shoot from horseback like that in ages!" "She's gorgeous. Is she some kind of celebrity?"

not a celebrity-she's the eldest daughter of the Williams family. Way out of your league, so don't

turned to see Aurora Williams astride a sleek chestnut horse, bow raised. In one smooth

Thwack!

Dead center.

round of gasps and cheers

lined up across

hair pulled simply back into a ponytail. Sunlight spilled across her face, giving her an

to her magnetic presence. It wasn't just the men—women, too, couldn't help but watch in

her delicate little face lit

"Auntie Aurora is incredible!"

Rachel stood in silence, her expression tight. Next to Aurora's dazzling display, Rachel felt like a withered leaf, utterly invisible. No one seemed to notice he presence at

was staggering. The gap between them felt

next to Stella, Rachel had never felt this overshadowed. But right

felt

shine, gifted in ways

by the envious, admiring, and adoring looks thrown her way. She'd

rhythmic beat

echoed across the

shot through the