The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 510

If Mr. Walden had seen her step onto that stage, he’d probably thank his lucky stars he’d never taken her on as a student… What a relief! Ha!

But just as the laughter died away, the dim lights brightened once more.

Stella appeared, poised and graceful in the center of the stage.

A soft glow bathed her, making her shine like the brightest star in the midnight sky.

Haynes narrowed his eyes slightly.

Was it just his imagination, or did it feel as if, for a split second, the entire room was holding its breath?

Keen whispered in awe, “Mom… That’s really Mom!”

Deanna wrinkled her nose and sneered. “You can dress up a barnyard hen, but it’ll never be a swan.”

Callie O'Brien couldn’t help but sigh, “Is it just me, or is Stella getting more and more beautiful lately?”

Rachel’s expression soured.

Jasper, meanwhile, felt as though every word was a slap to his face—his cheeks burned painfully.

Elsewhere, Katrina Greene squeezed Lauretta Chapman’s hand, her excitement barely contained.

“Star! It’s really Star! It’s been ages since I’ve seen her perform!”

Wendy Burke chimed in, “I thought for sure Star wasn’t going to show tonight. Turns out, she’s the grand finale.”

Lauretta looked up at Stella, who seemed gilded in gold beneath the lights, her eyes shining with nostalgia.

“This is when Star is at her most beautiful…”

…

Mr. Walden had received a special invitation to sit beside Mr. Burton.

Years ago, Mr. Burton’s wife had been a great lover of music, which had led to a friendship of sorts between the two men.

Given Mr. Walden’s seniority and reputation, it wasn’t at all out of place for him to be seated next to Mr. Burton.

When Antoney and Candida performed, Mr. Walden had been quietly impressed—Mr. Burton had truly managed to invite some remarkable talent tonight.