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.

to get the words

got hurt saving me. Someone tried to kill me, and he... he took

so much blood. The doctors

on her words, guilt flooding her

snuck out to have fun. I even

me. He told me to stay home lately,

I just

back, trying to

fault. Please, don't

should

shadow of regret

who suggested you go to that escape

and Callie had known

but until recently,

had been

polite small talk.

months had they

become friends.

that they shared

escape

recommended a new

about. Callie had

to go with her

at the last

ended up joining a

strangers.

moment she stepped inside,

women alike-disappeared

call for help from the staff, but

silent.

she realized someone had been

wasn't part