The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 1145

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.

He glanced at Haynes, who was sitting on the sofa, and flashed him a faint, almost mocking smile. “Mr. Richards’s company is on the brink of collapse, and yet Mr. O’Brien still has the leisure to sit here and drink tea?”

The words were calculated to provoke.

Haynes couldn’t be bothered to respond. Instead, he turned back to Stella. “That’s basically the situation on his end. If I hear anything else, I’ll let you know right away.”

Stella took the schedule from Joshua. “Thank you. I appreciate it.”

Haynes stood, his usually cool expression softened for just a moment. “Star, I’m looking forward to working with you.”

He didn’t linger, and after saying goodbye to Stella, he left the office.

Jealousy was part of it, but more than that, Haynes was wary.

Because up to now, he still hadn’t been able to find out who Joshua really was.

And if this man ever turned on them, Stella would be in danger.

But at this point, Haynes no longer had the right to drive him away.

Joshua, of course, picked up on the meaning behind his words. “Me? I’m just someone who wants to protect her.”

Haynes’s gaze was icy. “Whether you’re really protecting her or have something else in mind remains to be seen.”

Joshua gave a quiet, almost amused laugh. “You’re not wrong. I do have my own agenda when it comes to her.”

Haynes’s eyes narrowed further. “And what exactly do you want from her?”