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.

almost mocking smile. "Mr. Richards's company is on the brink of collapse, and yet Mr. O'Brien still has the leisure

were calculated to

"That's basically the situation on his end.

took the schedule from Joshua. "Thank you.

just a moment. "Star, I'm looking

linger, and after saying goodbye

well enough to understand she couldn't stand men who clung and pestered

also wouldn't

hold onto a marriage for five long years, why couldn't he persist

when Joshua's calm

"What is

tonew

mild, but his words were sharp.

By all rights,

only

you-because of your friendship, MO O'Brien So why is it that when Leonard

eyes narrowed slightly as he studied

he asked, "Who are

man before him was anything but a simple assistant