The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 1159

The plan to intercept and steal Stella’s order was, of course, carried out in secret.

Stella understood exactly what was happening, but outsiders remained in the dark. Israel certainly wasn’t foolish enough to let the whole world know what was going on.

Jonathan rubbed his tired brow, sighing. “When Father and I heard that Stella’s company ran into trouble, we assumed it was her competitors pulling strings behind the scenes.”

Success attracts envy.

Stella had been acquiring shares and holding onto founder’s equity—naturally, plenty of people were eager to see her stumble.

Jonathan had always known trouble would catch up with Stella’s company sooner or later.

So when he saw the reports in the news, he wasn’t surprised, nor did he have any intention of stepping in to help. After all, this was just another test she’d have to face.

But what Jonathan hadn’t expected was that Israel would end up being the one going head-to-head with Stella.

Coleman frowned. “Jon, we can’t just let Israel’s company go under like this. Isn’t there something we can do to save it, or at least…” He paused, searching for the right words. “Make Stella give back what she took.”

Jonathan shot him a sideways glance. “If you managed to get your hands on a prize that big, would you willingly give it up?”

Sometimes Jonathan wondered if his two younger brothers could be any more naïve.

On the one hand, they assumed Stella had ulterior motives for returning to the Williams family. On the other, they demanded—bold as brass—that she hand over her spoils.

This time, Israel cut in directly. “You really think Stella has the brains for that?”

Jonathan ignored him, looking instead to Coleman. He’d already given up hope on Israel seeing reason.

Coleman said, “It’s not that Stella isn’t smart enough—it’s just that she isn’t that devious. Schemes like this aren’t for everyone. Look at Leonard’s twisted tricks—the three of us wouldn’t come up with half of what he’s done.”

Israel muttered, “Pointing fingers now won’t change anything. Jon, you have to talk to Father—ask him to help me. If I lose my company, I’ll lose my voice in the Williams Group for good.”