The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Felipa's motives weren't hard to figure out.

But using someone else's misfortune for personal gain-that was something Stella could never accept.

The more Abby thought about it, the angrier she became. "Back when you were rehearsing, you helped her so much-even gave her one of your own violins. She never once thanked you, and now she turns around and stabs you in the back! How can someone be so shameless?"

Felipa didn't come from a wealthy family; the violin she used was a cheap, worn- out model that couldn't do justice to her talent. Stella had noticed Felipa's potential—and her genuine love for music. Since they'd become partners, Stella decided to help her out, choosing a violin that actually suited Felipa's playing style.

But in the end, Felipa bit the hand that fed her.

Stella asked quietly, "Have you been able to get in touch with the organizers?"

Abby nodded. "Yes, I've already spoken to them and explained everything that's happened."

"What did they say?"

"They promised to clarify things for us as soon as possible. An official statement will carry a lot more weight than anything we say ourselves. Still, with how fast rumors spread online, there's no telling whether people will actually believe it."

Stella shrugged. "It doesn't matter. I'm not in this for popularity or attention. Abby, don't let what others say get to you."

Abby sighed and nodded. "I know."

She already felt sorry enough for Stella—she just didn't want any more mud slung her way. But life rarely went the way she hoped.

After chatting a while longer, Abby got up to leave. She still had to handle the online fallout; plenty of trolls were twisting the story, trying to force Stella out of the competition. Abby had no intention of backing down-she was ready to fight them every step of the way.noveldrama

Stella headed back to the hospital room. To her surprise, Joshua was already awake.

She hurried over. "Joshua, you're awake. How do you feel? Are you in any pain?" His voice was still rough from sleep. "I'm fine."

Stella immediately poured him a glass of water. "Here, have some water first."

Joshua took the cup. “Thanks.” He finished it quickly.

Stella accepted the empty cup from him. "Would you like some more?"

He shook his head. "No, I'm good." Looking at her, he added, "I heard everything just now."

Stella glanced at the TV mounted on the wall. Felipa was still on-screen,

sobbing for the cameras,

surrounded by sympathetic

reporters and a growing chorus of

voices condemning Stella,

Stella looked away, calm and unbothered. "It's just public opinion. I'm not going to let it get to me."

Joshua's gaze dropped to her bandaged hand. "You hurt your hand."

Stella replied, "It's nothing serious.

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go see. Burton later and get something for it. By the time the finals come around, I'll be back to normal."

Her injury wasn't severe, but it could still have an impact on her performance. Thankfully, she was skilled enough that even hurt, she could still win.

Joshua hesitated, then asked, "Do you think you can beat Rachel?" Stella smiled, her confidence unwavering. "Of course."

Not even a hint of doubt in her answer.

эле

Joshua's eyes lingered on the rolling news headlines on the television. "If you hadn't saved me, you wouldn't have gotten hurt. Your chances in the competition wouldn't be affected. You're at the top of your game right now-a lot of the other contestants are jealous. They might band together and pressure the organizers to disqualify you."

Stella's eyes flickered with surprise. She hadn't expected Joshua to be so perceptive.

But she just shrugged, unfazed. "If it comes to that, then so be it."