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.

watched her videos," Rena protested. "She doesn't seem like someone who's

follow her on social media. I've seen every

see online? With today's technology, even live performances can be tweaked by

his expression

you really believe someone who hasn't touched an instrument in five years could suddenly play at that level? And if she's really so impressive, why didn't the

the others turned to

true, sir?" Rena

Walden's face shifted ever so

how strong a person's ability, if their character was lacking, it was all for nothing. Someone like that would shine brightly for a moment, then burn

words gave him pause. Could Stella have cheated? It was hard to fake a live performance, if everything was carefully orchestrated in advance, it wasn't impossible. She could easily pretend to play with passion

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

given Stella's questionable