The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Afterwards, the remaining nine contestants posted a joint letter announcing their withdrawal from the

competition.

Their message was clear: if Stella didn't back down, they would quit, leaving her to compete alone—making

her the uncontested winner by default.

When Abby saw the news, she was livid.

"Star, can you believe this? They're ganging up on the organizers, trying to force you out. Their schemes are

so obvious, it's practically written all over their faces!"

All of them were seasoned professionals—they knew exactly where everyone's true abilities lay.

They were well aware of Stella's genuine talent, yet they still went out of their way to smear her name.

It was as if, by dragging Stella down, they could somehow gain an advantage for themselves.

But Stella just brushed it off. "What's the organizers' stance?"

Abby replied, "So far, they haven't caved in. They're talking to each contestant one by one, trying to calm

everyone down, and they've asked us to stand our ground, too.

They said this mess isn't our fault, and we shouldn't take the blame for it."

Stella was quietly touched by this.

"I honestly thought the organizers would fold under all the pressure and ask me to withdraw."

Abby rolled her eyes. "This competition used to have some serious corruption going on, and back then, nonenoveldrama

of the contestants ever protested like this.

Now that you're dominating—even beating the international competitors—they're acting like the world is

ending, desperate to kick you out.

They're just picking on someone they think is easy to push around.

The organizers are starting to suspect we might actually have a mole—someone bribed by the foreigners.

Usually, when things turn so one-sided, it's either real public outrage, or someone's stirring the pot for their

own gain.

The general audience might not know who's really talented, but you can bet the showrunners do.

Star, the organizers have a plan. For now, let's just tune out the noise."

Stella asked, "Any luck collecting evidence against Felipa and her rumors?"

Abby grinned. "We've got everything we need. Just waiting for the right moment to take her down."

Stella nodded. "Alright. Let's do that."

Just then, Joshua spoke up. "Ms. Cameron, didn't you say before that it wasn't the end of the world if you

skipped this competition?

With all this pressure from the media and other contestants, why keep pushing through?"

Stella answered, "As long as the organizers haven't given up on me, I have no reason to give up on the

competition."

Joshua studied her. "So, this contest does mean a lot to you—doesn't it?"

Stella replied, "No matter how

important it is, nothing matters more

than life itself. You just focus on

getting better. Don't let this stress

you out."

She then turned to Abby. "Abby, when's the next round?"

Abby said "Next week. But it's not

the ensemble round—those rules

changed, so contestants are getting

extra time to find new partners.

The following rounds have been moved up a bit.

By the way, Star, how's your hand? Will it be healed in time?"

Stella said, "A full recovery isn't likely, but I should be able to compete."

She allowed herself a faint smile.

"The ointment Keen sent is working wonders. My wound's healing surprisingly fast."

Abby chuckled. "Ever since your divorce, your Keen's really matured. He dropped off another jar of ointment

for you yesterday."

Something seemed to occur to

Stella. She took the ointment from

her bag and turned to Joshua.

"Joshua, this stuff really helps. Want

to give it a try?"

Joshua glanced at the ointment in her hand. "Sure."

The worst of Joshua's injuries were on his arm—the rest would just take time to heal.

As for the internal injuries, that would need time and careful recovery.

Stella had learned a bit about herbal remedies from Mr. Burton, so she could make some nourishing dishes to

help Joshua regain his strength.