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?"

of the Williams family. Way out of your league, so don't do

see Aurora Williams astride a sleek chestnut horse, bow raised. In one smooth motion, Aurora loosed an arrow at

Thwack!

Dead center.

gasps

five targets lined up across from Aurora

in crisp riding attire, her long hair pulled simply back into a ponytail. Sunlight spilled across her face, giving her an ethereal glow-she looked like a goddess out of an old legend, fierce

crowd had gathered along the rails, drawn to her magnetic presence. It wasn't

O'Brien clapped with all her might, her delicate little face

"Auntie Aurora is incredible!"

Rachel felt like a withered leaf,

difference was staggering. The gap between them felt like worlds

felt this

felt this

gifted in ways others

and adoring looks thrown her way. She'd clearly seen it all before, her

rhythmic beat

across

arrows shot through