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.

contestants continued with their

day, no one had managed

she'd lost to

of the round-robin tournament. The others still had

the matches concluded, the host announced the

take a guess—who do you think is today's fan

judges guessed Stella, others picked

contestants.

five believed Stella

Three voted for Rachel.

remaining two each

had built up,

for today's fan favorite is... Ms. Rachel

competition, she had received one and a

just behind, with one point four

place—it was simply too

Rachel stared in disbelief.

What?!

a hundred thousand votes

voting, that was all she'd managed to pull

the event ended,

boost my votes? Why did I only barely

Joshua sounded utterly

unconcerned. "Stella was the

undisputed champion today. She's

you in talent, looks, and charisma. How much did you expect to win by-three million? Five mittion? Ten?