The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Benson felt a wave of relief when he saw that Stella wasn't hesitating or refusing

at such a critical moment.

With Haynes' condition still uncertain, there was a mountain of things left for him

to handle. He didn't have the time or energy to coax Stella any further.

He was just about to hang up when Stella's voice stopped him.

"Benson, if anything happens, keep me updated."

"Of course, Ms. Cameron. Don't worry. If there's any news about Mr. O'Brien, I'll

let you know right away."

Stella didn't insist on coming to the hospital, and Benson didn't invite her either.

After all, if the assassin had managed to attack Haynes, there was no reason to

think Stella would be any safer. Her rushing over now would only put her in more

danger.

At Neo-Vespera Medical Center, just outside the operating room.

Callie stood by the doors, her face ghostly pale.

Footsteps echoed down the empty corridor.

She turned, and the moment she saw the tall, refined man approaching, her eyes

lit up with hope. It was as if, finally, her anchor had arrived to steady her.

"Foreman!" Her voice trembled, her eyes red and swollen from crying for so long.

all over, barely able to get the words out. "Foreman,

saving me. Someone tried to kill me, and he... he took the

much blood. The

choked on her words, guilt flooding her voice. "It's all

his warnings and snuck out to have fun. I even managed to

told me to

but I just couldn't help

back, trying to comfort

your fault. Please, don't blame

it should

shadow of regret passed over

who suggested

had known each

but until

had been little

polite small talk. Only

months

become friends.

discovered that

for escape rooms,

recommended a

about. Callie

with her

all canceled at the

ended up joining

strangers.

moment she stepped

and women alike-disappeared

help from the staff, but the walkie-talkie

silent.

had been tailing her-a shadowy

part of the