The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

If Leonard really left by helicopter, then all their careful arrangements had been for nothing.

So much time had passed already-Leonard had probably made his escape.

The whole room fell silent, the atmosphere turning cold and heavy.

Foreman's thoughts drifted to Sellers, still locked up in the basement.

At least he still had Sellers in his grasp; he could vent his frustration on him for

now.

Foreman cleared his throat, breaking the tense quiet.

"I have some things to take care of. I'll head back first."

At that moment, everyone's attention was on Stella's injured hand and the news that Leonard had slipped away from Novaris. No one noticed Foreman quietly leave.

Even Haynes only gave him a cursory glance before looking away.

Neville spoke up, "Since Leonard's gotten away, let's put his case aside for now. Stella's treatment takes priority."

Abby finally pulled herself together, her voice trembling.

"Stella's supposed to compete the day after tomorrow, but now... I'm afraid..."

Everyone knew the truth: Stella would likely never compete again.

two matches away from clinching the championship. No one expected

tears from the

official statement soon-Stella's withdrawing from the

to cover anything up.

a moment,

admirer had not only kidnapped Stella but ruined

"All right.

Leonard to apologize,

Neville nodded in agreement.

dares to show his face, there's no way he'll get away this

exchanged a look-no need for words. For now, they

after all, head of the Lerman

to arrange and soon left Abby's hospital

Joshua remained, silent

looked at him,

you need

there, Stella

spoke. "How exactly did you

blacked out. I don't really

pressed further. "Where

hesitated. "It... it happened at

long enough for Joshua to recognize a lie when

push it. Instead,

said,

gone for