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.

able to

to kill me, and

was so much blood. The doctors said his injuries are

guilt flooding her voice. "It's all my fault. I

ignored his warnings and snuck out to have fun.

me. He told me to stay home

but I just

back, trying to

this isn't your fault. Please, don't blame

should

of regret passed over

was the one who suggested you go

had known each

but until

had been little

talk.

months had they

become friends.

discovered that they shared

escape

a

Callie

to go with

at

she ended up

strangers.

stepped inside, something felt

women alike-disappeared one by

instinct was to call for help from the staff,

silent.

had been

part of the