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

end of the day, no one had managed to surpass

second-highest score after Stella, but since she'd lost to her,

The others still had a chance to

the matches concluded, the host announced the results of the

a guess—who do you think is today's

judges guessed Stella, others picked Rachel, and a

contestants.

five believed Stella was

Three voted for Rachel.

each

suspense had built up, the host

winner for today's fan

of the competition, she had received one and

in just behind, with one point four

didn't even mention third place—it was simply too far

Rachel stared in disbelief.

What?!

was only a hundred

voting,

event ended, Rachel called

my votes? Why did I only barely

Joshua sounded utterly

unconcerned. "Stella was the

undisputed champion today. She's

win by-three million? Five mittion? Ten? The