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.

outside as she sat in the passenger seat with her eyes closed, quietly gathering herself for the competition ahead. Even though today's round posed little real challenge for her, Stella knew better than to let

car was cloaked in an

"Ms. Cameron, today's event is an ensemble. If your partner isn't up to par,

it's all about synergy. Not everyone is at the same

Joshua nodded. "I see."

shifted-tightening with concern. "Ms. Cameron, we

open.

the rearview mirror, gaze sharpening. "We're being

seat and saw them-several unmarked cars, trailing

not giving anything away. "They don't

they might try to box What do you want

road to the

"There's a side road up ahead. Take

"Understood."

Cameron, they're still on us. And..." He glanced at the road ahead, where

cold weight settled in Stella's