The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

"There's no way I could ever buy tickets to Harry's concerts, no matter how much I tried. To actually see him perform here tonight-it's like something out of a

dream!"

"No matter what happens, just seeing Harry perform makes this whole trip worth

it!"

"Harry's a legend. There's no way Stella can win tonight."

"Honestly, even losing to Harry would be something to brag about."

The audience buzzed with excitement and chatter.

Even the judges wore expressions of admiration and awe, awarding Harry a perfect score one hundred out of one hundred.

Backstage, Antoney watched Harry and Rachel's performance, his face clouded with concern.

"If we lose this bet, Star, I'll take the fall for you," he said quietly.

Harry and Rachel had performed before them and scored a perfect ten, which only ramped up the pressure.

deep down, that his overall skills

certainly couldn't compete with

at him-he dreaded holding

Rachel with an unreadable calm. She showed no hint of panic or unease, as if their flawless performance

Antoney spoke, Stella finally

to lose?" she asked, her voice

hesitated. "But I'm just not as good as

replied, "why would

a deep breath. "I get it, Star. Don't worry-I

Harry several times throughout the competition, and every time, Harry had left

him. Some prodigies were simply on

of the auditorium, the host's post-performance interview with Harry and Rachel lasted longer than usual. Neither the judge nor the host

who could blame them? It was a rare chance to meet someone

in Novaris had come close to Harry's

still abuzz from seeing Harry in person. Even as the stage lights dimmed, a low hum of

glanced at

on

her