The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 295

Abby paused, a sly, almost mischievous smile tugging at her lips.

“Ms. Pearce, let me give you some advice,” she said, the glint in her eyes unmistakable. “You really shouldn’t waste all your suspicion on women, you know? Men can be just as dangerous—maybe even more so.”

She shot Haynes a sideways glance. “You better watch out for yourself, Mr. O'Brien. Someone might take advantage of that pretty face of yours.”

Jasper knew exactly what Abby was insinuating, and his temper flared. He was ready to storm over, no longer concerned about keeping up appearances now that Stella and Haynes were divorced.

But before he could make a move, Haynes’s cool, clear voice cut through the tension like a splash of cold water. “Jasper,” he said, “what exactly do you think you’re doing?”

Jasper jabbed a finger at Abby, scowling. “This woman has a filthy mouth. She needs to be taught a lesson!”

Haynes’s expression twisted with disgust. “And you think hitting a woman is something to be proud of?”

Jasper froze, suddenly aware of the attention they were drawing. People had started to gather, some pulling out their phones to record the scene. After all, a shouting match on the steps of city hall was bound to attract a crowd—and plenty of speculation.

Chastened, Jasper backed down.

Meanwhile, Haynes turned to Stella, his tone suddenly serious. “Keen’s running a fever. Aren’t you going to check on him?”

Stella’s face remained impassive. “I’m not going back,” she replied flatly.

Haynes pressed on. “You’re really not going to assume any responsibility for your own child, just because we’re divorced?”

She met his gaze, unflinching. “If you want me to look after him, then give me full custody. If Keen lives with me, of course I’ll take care of him.”

Haynes fell silent, his expression clouded and unreadable.