The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Queenie didn't look the least bit offended; instead, a sly smile curled on her lips.

"My, Ms. Cameron, you and your bodyguard seem to have quite the close

relationship. Not only does he get to weigh in on family matters, he even feels free to butt into conversations with others."

Joshua caught her meaning instantly.

His tone was calm, almost indifferent. "Funny. You were awfully blunt a moment ago, grilling someone about their divorce as if you pride yourself on being straightforward. But when it comes to mocking others, suddenly you get all passive-aggressive, as if everyone's too dense to catch on."

He met her gaze, voice sharpening. "Whatever's between us is none of your business, Ms. Burton. You'd do well to mind your own affairs. Before you start judging others, maybe ask yourself if you're even qualified."

Queenie's smile froze on her face.

She'd heard from Aurora that Joshua could be difficult, but she hadn't expected him to be so direct-more so than herself, even. The sting of his words was impossible to ignore. If he weren't the head of the Gardner family, she would never have tolerated his insolence this long.

But so what if he was? She wasn't afraid of him.

Queenie's lips, replaced by a steely coldness in

one ever taught you that the most basic manners are to keep your mouth shut

deserve them. Life's hard enough—I see no reason to be polite to people

locked eyes with her, his gaze pitch black

keep away anyone who might wish her harm. Ms. Burton, the things you said to

watchlist of potential threats to Star. Next time you see us,

fury. She bit down her anger, spun on

weren't good, it wasn't because I want to get back together with Haynes It's because

loved-Rachel-is pregnant." s

away, ignoring Queenie completely. She

and said, "Let's go."

"Of course," he answered.

watched them walk away, a

Pregnant? Rachel is pregnant?

exposed for who she really was? Haynes should despise her by now. So