The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Chapter 743

Joshua nodded honestly. "Yeah, I'm a little scared."

Haynes' voice dripped with contempt. "I thought you had some guts, but it seems you're not much after all."

But Joshua had a remarkably strong mind. He didn't feel the least bit ashamed by Haynes' taunt.

He replied evenly, "It's a competition-there's always a winner and a loser, and there are always stakes. I can't just agree to your terms, Mr. O'Brien. What if you ask for something I simply can't deliver? I'd be digging my own grave.

After all, I don't have your power or influence, Mr. O'Brien. I can't afford to lose like you can."

Haynes said, "The terms are simple. You can manage it, and you can handle the loss."

His gaze locked on Joshua, every word deliberate.

"If you lose, you leave Novaris and never show your face in front of Stella again."

Joshua asked, "And if I win?"

Haynes answered coolly, "Name your price."

Joshua's lips curled into a faint smile. "Mr. O'Brien, what do you take Ms.

Cameron for? She's not your property, nor is she some prize to be wagered in a

bet.

you think you're being

even ask her

but

had some

win? Or did he simply believe he could grant any wish Joshua might

Stella's lashes fluttered. He was surprisingly skilled-maybe not

five years of marriage, Haynes didn't really know her. But maybe

sense of irony

with work, never talked to her about his interests,

accept. Call me

you

herself agrees I'm

Stella couldn't

long ago, Joshua had won first prize and,

earrings worth

but see him in a

impasse, if Haynes ignored Stella and insisted

he said nothing more. Instead, he called Keen over

had no intention

around, Haynes had every reason to

quickly got

just ask Haynes to leave in front of

simply ignored

hold the bow, Stella took the chance to return the earrings