The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 405

Abby chuckled, “Probably someone here for an interview.”

She turned, but the smile froze on her lips when she saw who had just entered the room.

The newcomers didn’t seem to notice Abby’s stare. Instead, they were busy surveying their surroundings.

“This place is nicely renovated,” Rachel said softly, her voice gentle. “It’s a bit out of the way, but the area’s so peaceful. And there’s a lake out back. It’s really quite lovely.”

Jasper grinned, brimming with pride. “Not worse than your last studio, right? The landlord told me this used to be a music studio, too. Should be just right for you.”

For the first time in days, Rachel finally smiled. “Then let’s go with this one.”

Ever since the incident at her old studio, Rachel hadn’t cracked a smile. But now, at last, she did, and seeing it filled Jasper with a sense of accomplishment he’d rarely felt before.

“Alright, I’ll go talk to the landlord—”

At that, Abby couldn’t hold back any longer.

“Hey! Who gave you permission to barge in here? Don’t you know it’s illegal to enter someone else’s property without asking?”

Jasper caught sight of Abby and Stella, his eyes widening in surprise.

“You two?!”

Arms crossed, Abby shot him a glare. “That’s my line. What are you even doing here?”

Jasper’s gaze wandered around the room and landed on Foreman, who stood quietly by the window.

His jaw dropped. “Foreman? What are you doing here?!”

Stella’s words didn’t seem to raise Jasper’s suspicion. After all, he’d just mentioned this idea to Foreman a few days ago.

Foreman shot Stella a subtle glance but said nothing.

After the initial surprise, Jasper quickly regained his composure. He looked straight at Stella, his tone icy. “We’re taking this studio. I’ll pay the penalty for breaking your lease, and you have three days to move out. Otherwise, don’t blame me for being unpleasant.”

Abby shot right back, her voice sharp. “Oh, really? Acting like you own the place! We’ve rented this studio for five years, spent months renovating it, and you think you can just waltz in and take it? Have you no shame?”

Jasper looked at her dismissively. “Didn’t I say? I’ll pay the penalty. With that much money, you can rent somewhere even better.”

Abby snorted. “If it’s so easy to find a better place, why don’t you go rent one? Why steal ours?”

Jasper replied with infuriating self-assurance, “Money can’t buy Rachel’s approval. You should feel honored she likes your studio. Hand it over now, and I’ll still pay your penalty.”