The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Her natural talent was every bit as remarkable as her mother Nora's—perhaps even more so.

The piece she played, *Moonlight*, was notoriously difficult. It was a staple in competitions-many could perform it, but few could truly move their audience with

it.

Over the years, no matter who tried their hand at *Moonlight*, there always seemed to be something missing, a certain subtlety that set the original apart. Yet Stella's performance was astonishingly close to capturing that very essence.

Mr. Walden found himself genuinely surprised.

Oblivious to Mr. Walden's reaction, Mr. Burton chuckled and asked, "Walden, you know I'm no expert when it comes to music. Tell me, what do you think of this girl's violin playing?"

Mr. Walden snapped out of his thoughts. "She's impressive-undeniably talented, and skilled too."

Mr. Burton pressed further. "And how does she compare to your star pupil, Rachel?"

Mr. Walden hesitated, immediately sensing Mr. Burton's intention. He'd known the man long enough to read between the lines.

"Mr. Burton, is this the musical prodigy you wanted to introduce me to?"

But Mr. Burton only smiled, teasing, "There was the girl at the piano, the boy with the violin, and the younger child on violin as well. All three have talent. Why are you so sure I meant her?"

Mr. Walden gave a resigned smile. "Is this about taking on a new student? Did she come to you complaining because I turned her down?"

Mr. Burton raised his eyebrows, a knowing glint in his eyes. "Complaining? Walden, you've always been fair and impartial. Why make a snap judgment about someone you hardly know? That's never been your way. Unless someone's been whispering in your ear?"

Walden assumed Stella must have somehow crossed paths with Mr. Burton and asked him to intervene on her behalf. His expression soured slightly.

In his early days, he'd placed great importance on natural talent when choosing students. But he'd also learned that character mattered just as much. He'd met plenty of ambitious young people desperate for an opportunity, and even if he didn't accept them as students, he'd usually offer them guidance or help out of respect for their sincerity.

Stella, when he'd refused her before, had handled it with grace, leaving him with a rather good impression. But now, seeing her turn to Mr. Burton, Mr. Walden couldn't help but question her motives.

He'd heard she came from a modest background. Was she trying to use him to elevate her status, polish her reputation, and land herself a good marriage?

After a pause, Mr. Walden spoke. “I've already announced I won't be taking on any more students. If I go back on my word now—"

Before he could finish, Mr. Burton interrupted him with a hearty laugh. "Walden, this girl's my apprentice now, so don't get any ideas about recruiting her for yourself."

Mr. Walden stared at him, stunned. "What?"

Mr. Burton stroked his snowy beard and continued, "She's my student now. I invited you to enjoy the music, not to scout my apprentice.”

Mr. Walden could hardly believe it. "You took her on? But isn't she a violinist? You're a physician-"

Mr. Burton shot him a look, cutting

him off. "And who says a doctor

can't mentor a musician? This girlnoveldrama

lis

kind, talented, and has character. Not only am I taking her as my student, I'm considering her for my granddaughter-in-law!"

Kindness? Walden thought. That can be faked. And as for talent... How could someone with only a middle school education be considered exceptional?

But Mr. Walden wasn't one to speak ill of others behind their backs. Seeing how highly Mr. Burton valued her, he simply smiled politely and said nothing more.