The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

She knew that if she wanted to reach the finish line, it would take twice as much effort as anyone else.

But for them, with all those advantages on their side, maybe they'd only need to give half as much to get there.

Stella hadn't expected Haynes to comfort her like this.

This was something she used to long for, something she'd never been able to get, no matter how hard she tried.

Even though she no longer loved Haynes, hearing those words still stirred something inside her that she couldn't quite suppress.

Softly, she said, "Thank you, Haynes."

Haynes studied her face, now noticeably thinner. "You used to tell me not to push myself too hard, to take care of my health. You should do the same now."

"I know," Stella replied quietly.

Just then, someone knocked gently at the office door.

A young man-handsome, impeccably dressed-walked in, carrying a stack of folders.

"Star, here's your schedule for next week. Take a look and let me know if there's anything you'd rather skip."

It was Joshua Gardner.

on the sofa, and flashed him a faint, almost mocking smile. "Mr. Richards's company is on the

were

Stella. "That's basically the situation on his end. If I hear anything else, I'll let

took the schedule from Joshua. "Thank you. I

a moment. "Star, I'm looking forward to working

linger, and after saying goodbye to Stella, he

she couldn't

cling-but be also wouldn't

for five long years, why couldn't he persist as

when Joshua's calm voice sounded

"What is

tonew

but his words were sharp. "There's something

all

only

O'Brien So why is it that when Leonard made his move, he

slightly as

asked, "Who are you,

feeling that the man before him was anything but