The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 251

Haynes was a storm of anger and disbelief.

How dare Stella confront him like this?!

With a calm demeanor, Stella picked up a disinfectant wipe from the table and nonchalantly cleaned her chin and wrist.

"Mr. O'Brien, why are you so upset?" she asked, her voice smooth and even. "Didn’t you used to negotiate with me just like this, using Keen as leverage?"

She tossed the wipe into the trash and offered Haynes a sardonic smile.

"Mr. O'Brien, you’re an excellent teacher. I merely learned from the best."

Remembering Stella's adamant refusal to apologize to Rachel, Haynes felt a lump form in his throat. He had, in fact, previously threatened her in that manner.

Noticing the shift in his expression, Stella softened her tone.

"Isn't the future of your brother and the life of your beloved more important than these material possessions?"

Haynes frowned, his voice firm. "I can't give you half of my estate."

Stella felt a cold satisfaction rise within her at his response.

Haynes's favoritism toward Rachel had always been blind, but only because she hadn't threatened his interests. Once it came down to business, Rachel wouldn't hold sway either.

Stella never really expected to walk away with half of Haynes's wealth. It was all a negotiation tactic—start high, then settle.

"Mr. O'Brien, I assume you don't want to split the company's shares with me. And transferring property is far too cumbersome."

"Here's my final offer: one billion," Stella stated confidently, meeting Haynes's gaze. "If you agree to this, I'll sign the waiver and persuade Mr. Burton to concoct the antidote for Jasper Wilkinson, curing Rachel's illness."

As if recalling something, she added, "I assure you, Rachel's condition will be completely cured, so Mr. O'Brien's money won't be wasted."