The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 423

Stella felt her cheeks burn with shame at Mr. Walden’s words.

There was nothing she could say to defend herself.

She took a deep breath, trying to steady her voice. “You’re right… All of this is my fault. I gave up too easily, and only then did I realize how wrong I was. Mr. Walden, I promise you—I won’t walk away so lightly ever again. Please… would you consider giving me another chance?”

Mr. Walden’s expression was unreadable, his tone measured. “Ms. Cameron, I already gave you that chance. You’re the one who let it slip through your fingers. This isn’t the kind of place where you can just come and go as you please—show up when you feel like it, and turn your back when you don’t.”

He paused, and Stella’s heart clenched. “You gave me a chance?” she echoed, her voice barely above a whisper. “When was that?”

Mr. Walden looked at her with piercing eyes. “Not long ago. I saw something special in you, so I reached out and asked to meet.”

He glanced at Haynes, who stood awkwardly nearby.

“Your husband met with me in your place. He told me you were too busy with the O’Briens, and turned down my invitation.”

Stella whipped around to face Haynes, disbelief flickering in her eyes. “You met with Mr. Walden for me?”

Haynes’ gaze darted away, unable to meet hers.

She didn’t need a confession. Haynes had turned Mr. Walden down on her behalf—without ever telling her.

But now was not the time to argue. She forced herself to swallow her anger and turned back to Mr. Walden. “I’m so sorry. I had no idea. If you’d only—”