The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Chapter 684

Rena understood what Colby was getting at.

Disappointment flickered across her face. "So you're saying... all that skill she shows in her videos is nothing but clever editing?"

Colby gave a lopsided grin. "Exactly. Her so-called talent is just internet hype. People online love to inflate things."

Johnny frowned, clearly reluctant to accept it.

The three of them kept talking about Stella as they continued on their way.

None of them specialized in the violin, but as top musicians in the field, they were all competent with multiple instruments. Many of Mr. Walden's students were musical polymaths, and Stella was no exception-she'd passed her Grade 8 piano exam with ease. She hadn't kept up with advanced studies, but if she hadn't gotten married, reaching the top level would have been just a matter of time.

Rena and her friends were all skilled violinists. Their current status was partly due to talent, but also to genuine passion for music. Now that they had come to Neo- Vespera, they were eager to meet and exchange ideas with other accomplished violinists.

"She doesn't seem like someone

nodded. "I follow her on social media. I've seen every video she's

technology, even live performances can be tweaked by professionals. As for videos? Who knows if the audio's been fixed in post-production?

his expression

Stella barely finished middle school before spending five years as a housewife. Do you really believe someone who hasn't touched an instrument in five

and the others turned to Mr.

that true,

Walden's face shifted ever so

seen Stella perform. She was genuinely talented-perhaps even on par with Rachel. But in his mind, no matter how strong a person's ability, if their character was lacking, it was all for nothing. Someone like that would shine brightly

if everything was carefully orchestrated in advance,

the background. Her ex-husband was Haynes, and she had Mr. Burton's backing. With connections

it before, but given Stella's questionable character,