The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 756

The flickering light from the television screen cast deep shadows over Karl’s face, making his features appear almost spectral—sinister and cold as a ghost.

He stared at the woman being interviewed, his lips curling slowly into a twisted smile.

“Stella, I won’t let you get away with this.”

. . .

After the solo competition came the ensemble round.

This was where teamwork was truly put to the test—not just individual skill, but the ability to blend, to anticipate and support one another. In international competitions, ensemble scores carried the most weight. No one could afford to be a lone wolf; working together was the only way to win.

Partners were assigned at random.

Stella’s partner turned out to be Felipa, a girl in her early twenties with a natural gift for music and a spark in her eyes. Still, Felipa was green; to make it to the finals, she’d need more experience under her belt.

Joshua drove Stella to the venue, the city rolling by outside as she sat in the passenger seat with her eyes closed, quietly gathering herself for the competition ahead. Even though today’s round posed little real challenge for her, Stella knew better than to let her guard down—especially with Rachel in the mix, always scheming, always eager to trip up the competition.

The car was cloaked in an uneasy silence.

Suddenly, Joshua spoke. “Ms. Cameron, today’s event is an ensemble. If your partner isn’t up to par, could it drag down your score?”

Stella leaned back, eyes still closed and voice steady. “No. In ensembles, it’s all about synergy. Not everyone is at the same level—if it were just about raw ability, there’d be no point in having a team event.”

Joshua nodded. “I see.”

Just then, his expression shifted—tightening with concern. “Ms. Cameron, we might have a problem.”

Stella’s eyes snapped open. “What’s going on?”

Joshua checked the rearview mirror, gaze sharpening. “We’re being followed.”