The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

The flickering light from the television screen cast deep shadows over Karl's face, making his features appear almost spectral-sinister and cold as a ghost.

He stared at the woman being interviewed, his lips curling slowly into a twisted

smile.

"Stella, I won't let you get away with this."

After the solo competition came the ensemble round.

This was where teamwork was truly put to the test—not just individual skill, but the ability to blend, to anticipate and support one another. In international

competitions, ensemble scores carried the most weight. No one could afford to be a lone wolf; working together was the only way to win.

Partners were assigned at random.

Stella's partner turned out to be Felipa, a girl in her early twenties with a natural gift for music and a spark in her eyes. Still, Felipa was green; to make it to the finals, she'd need more experience under her belt.

with her eyes closed, quietly gathering herself for the competition ahead. Even though today's round posed little real

car was cloaked in

If your partner isn't

In ensembles, it's all about synergy. Not everyone is at the same level-if it were just about raw ability, there'd be no point

Joshua nodded. "I see."

expression shifted-tightening with concern. "Ms. Cameron, we might have

snapped open.

rearview mirror,

and saw them-several unmarked

not giving anything away.

on, they might try to box What do you want

only road to the competition

for a moment. "There's a side road up ahead. Take

"Understood."

"Ms. Cameron, they're still on us. And..." He glanced at the road ahead, where more cars appeared, blocking their

settled in