The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

There were times when it just wasn't practical for Abby and Stella to take care of Foreman on their own-he was a grown man, after all.

Foreman seemed to sense their awkwardness and, to make things easier, hired two professional caregivers. Most of the daily tasks were handed over to them; Stella stuck to preparing his meals, insisting on cooking for him herself. When Stella was busy in the kitchen, Abby would step in and keep an eye on Foreman. That afternoon, Foreman's assistant dropped by with a work update.

Foreman had already been in the hospital for a week, and his business couldn't be neglected any longer. Seeing the assistant arrive, Abby took the hint and quietly excused herself. "I'll go check in on Star."

To make things easier for Stella, the hospital had set up a small kitchen nearby so she wouldn't have to run back and forth with Foreman's meals.

Once Abby left, the assistant first gave a routine report on company matters. When he finished, he glanced toward the door. Noticing the security guard standing watch outside, he lowered his voice. "Word from Neo-Vespera-there's talk that Mr. O'Brien might be regaining consciousness."

Foreman's brow furrowed. He responded without hesitation, "Tell the medical team to make sure Haynes stays under-whatever it takes. We need at least two more weeks."

Haynes's team had been handpicked by Foreman himself. The fact that Haynes was still unconscious was no accident.

The assistant continued, "Haynes's aide, Benson, seems to be suspicious. He's started tracking the movements of people close to Mr. O'Brien, especially Jasper. He hasn't connected the dots to Mr. Richards yet, but if Benson turns to Ms. Cameron for help and she brings Mr. Burton in, we could be exposed."

Foreman considered this, then nodded. "Two more weeks. We just need to stall for another two weeks."

started to leave, but Foreman stopped him.

if Haynes wakes up, he won't be able

a big name, but Foreman's own influence wasn't any less formidable-he just preferred to keep a low profile. Most people even Haynes and Jasper themselves,

smile played at Foreman's lips.

just as important to her

...

the hospital's small kitchen, Stella was simmering

let me give

looked over without surprise. "Foreman's assistant came to

work. "Star, making these herbal broths is exhausting. You barely get a break all day.

time, added a

to the

head.

don't mind.