The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 265

Stella paused for a moment, her hand hovering over the box of cockroaches she was about to add to the collection.

"You never believed me when I said I wanted a divorce," she said calmly. "So, I went ahead and filed the papers. I told you last time, after the holidays, you'd hear from the court."

Haynes's voice was icy. "I've agreed to the divorce. Go withdraw the lawsuit immediately."

"I'm afraid I can't do that," Stella replied, her tone steady. "What if, after the cooling-off period, Mr. O'Brien decides to change his mind and delays the process further?"

"After all, Mr. O'Brien hasn't really given anything up yet. All I've done is sign a forgiveness letter for Jasper and provide Ms. Pearce with the first course of treatment."

Haynes's voice was as cold as ever. "But you don't seem worried about me backing out."

Stella was unperturbed. "Dealing with someone like Mr. O'Brien, it's wise to have a backup plan. Otherwise, who knows what might happen?"

Haynes had a sense of why Stella was so confident. "Even with Neville Connolly's help, do you think last time's incident will happen again?"

Last time, he had been caught off guard. He never expected Stella, who seemed as gentle as a rabbit, to make such a bold move. Had she really been contemplating divorce all along, without regard for the consequences?

The thought made his breath quicken slightly.

"Don't worry," Stella said. "I know that trick only works once. It won't be effective a second time."

Haynes's voice grew even colder. "Stella, do you really want to push things this far?"

At this point, not even Haynes could deceive himself any longer. If Stella didn't want a divorce, why hadn't she come back, and why hadn't she admitted any fault?

Not even Keen O'Brien was involved anymore.

Her gaze toward him had lost its warmth, its former tenderness, and affection.

Every action she took left no room for retreat.