The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 1612

"That's why I need them to fight amongst themselves, so we can reap the benefits," Aurora said. "As for being used…"

She gave a careless smile. "Without Israel as their attack dog, they have no choice but to support me and give me enough capital to stand against Stella. Jonathan is willing to mentor me because he thinks a woman like me can't cause any real trouble. He believes that by giving me a position in The Williams Group, I'll willingly work for him and create value.

"But for now, I do need the opportunity they're giving me."

The Williams family's investment in Aurora was never just about marrying her off. They intended to squeeze every last drop of value from her. A marriage alliance was the lowest possible return.

Aurora's exceptional social skills had shown the family the value and benefits she could bring. That was why they had overruled objections and allowed her to work at The Williams Group.

As for familial affection… there was a little, but not much.

Of course, the same was true for Aurora.

She didn't mind being used, as long as she could get what she wanted. For her, it didn't matter whether Joshua came back or not; she wouldn't lose either way.

If Joshua returned and continued to help Stella, Stella would keep fighting the Williams family, and Aurora could sit back and watch them destroy each other. If Joshua didn't return, Stella's support would be weakened, leaving her isolated.

She could only profit by stirring the pot.

However…

Aurora's gaze suddenly deepened.

If Stella hadn't come back, her life would have been so much easier. She could have quickly established herself at The Williams Group with the help of Leonard and Sellers. Leonard wouldn't have lost an arm and his position wouldn't be unstable. Sellers wouldn't be too busy competing with Stella for market share to pay her any mind.

Before this, Aurora had never considered Stella a threat. But now, she suddenly realized the butterfly effect of Stella's return was terrifying.

After the meeting, Stella had been pulled aside by shareholders who supported Nora to discuss a project. By the time she was done, Joshua was gone.

He had just returned and had already helped her. It was only right that she treat him to a meal.

Stella stood up. "Lunch is on me."

Joshua didn't argue, but the smile in his eyes deepened.

Just as they stepped out of the office, Wilbur walked toward them.

"Stella, where would you like to go for lunch today?"

When Wilbur saw Joshua standing next to Stella, he was slightly taken aback. It wasn't that he was surprised to see an unfamiliar man with her. In the time he had worked for Stella, he had met Neville and Haynes, and even Foreman, whom Abby disliked, a few times. Right, and there was Leonard, who Abby claimed was their mortal enemy. Every time he saw Leonard, Wilbur would be on high alert, worried he might do something dangerous to Stella.