The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

After listening, Candida frowned. "Honestly, the climate back home really does need to change."

It wasn't long before the results of the match between Stella and Rachel were announced.

Stella earned ten points.

Rachel... zero.

Even though the host and judges praised Rachel for her valiant effort, she still felt utterly humiliated.

She'd lost to Stella. Again.

Fortunately, she'd prepared herself before stepping onstage, so at least her dignity remained somewhat intact.

Rachel forced herself to smile gracefully. Turning to Stella, she said, "Ms. Cameron, congratulations on winning the first round."

Stella's own smile was impeccably polite. "Thank you, Ms. Pearce. We'll have another chance to compete soon. I hope you recover quickly, and that your hand heals well. Maybe next time, you'll take back the win."

This time, Stella scored ninety-nine points.

To beat her, Rachel would have to achieve a perfect score.

Even Antoney, the undeniable prodigy of the day, had only managed ninety-five.

Rachel's score didn't even come close.

Defeating Stella wasn't going to be easy.

After their display of polite rivalry, Stella and Rachel stepped down from the stage.

other contestants continued with

the day, no one

Stella, but since she'd lost to

tournament. The others still had a chance to catch up

the host announced the

guess—who do you think

others picked Rachel, and a couple chose

contestants.

the ten judges, five believed Stella was the

Three voted for Rachel.

two each

the suspense had built up, the host finally revealed

fan favorite

the end of the competition, she had received one and

Cameron came in just behind,

even mention third place—it was simply too far behind to be

Rachel stared in disbelief.

What?!

a hundred thousand

help Joshua promised with the voting,

as the event

help boost my votes? Why did I

Joshua sounded utterly

unconcerned. "Stella was the

undisputed champion today. She's

How much did you expect to win by-three million? Five mittion? Ten? The public isn't stupid, Ráchel. Beating her by