The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 680

“Ms. Pearce, the exit’s that way—why are you running toward the stables?”

Rachel turned, meeting Stella’s eyes, which glinted with an amused, almost mocking smile.

“The riding arena’s up ahead. With rain coming down like this, it’s deserted by now. Or are you planning to go horseback riding in a storm?”

Rachel’s breath caught in her throat.

Watching the scene unfold, Simone shook her head faintly, her gaze toward Rachel edged with a hint of scorn.

Having grown up navigating the constant scheming within the Lerman family, Simone found Rachel’s little tricks laughably naïve.

Aurora, too, was no stranger to envy and rivalry among girls. She’d seen her share of subtle manipulations, and Rachel’s attempt hardly measured up.

The two of them stood quietly, saying nothing.

Keen wanted to speak up for Rachel, but seeing his mother’s stern expression—and his father equally silent—he swallowed back his words.

At that moment, Rachel felt like some unfortunate creature on display at the zoo, watched and judged by everyone.

Finally, Haynes spoke.

“Rachel, if you’d like to go home, then go ahead. Change into something dry first—I’ll have someone drive you.”

Rachel’s eyes flew wide, and fat tears rolled down her cheeks. She looked as helpless as a child who’d just been scolded, her voice trembling.

“Haynie…”

Before she could say more, Stella chimed in, “Didn’t you want to leave, Ms. Pearce? What’s wrong—changed your mind?”

She paused deliberately, then added, “Or… do you not even know where the exit is?”

With a wave, Stella signaled to a staff member.

“This lady seems to have lost her way. Would you please show her out?”

The attendant’s tone was professional and kind. “Of course.”