The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Candida stood up. "They're upstairs. Let me take you to them."

"Thank you. I appreciate it."

She led Joshua up the staircase in search of Stella and Abby. On the way, Candida found herself sneaking glances at the man by her side. His looks, even by celebrity standards, were striking-almost unfairly so. But...

He didn't seem like the type who studied music. People in their field always carried a certain artistic presence, a subtle aura that set them apart from everyone else. Joshua, though, didn't have that. Not at all.

As they reached Stella's practice room, the sound of a violin drifted through the door-a gentle, evocative melody. It was another one of Stella's original pieces, Starlit Night, a song they'd chosen as the highlight for their next concert. Stella had been practicing it a lot lately.

Candida raised her hand to knock, but Joshua stopped her. "Let her finish. I'm in no rush."

She glanced at him, then quietly nodded.

Starlit Night reminded Joshua a little of Moonlight-both had a calm, soothing quality that seemed to cleanse the soul and settle the mind. Joshua was usually indifferent to most pieces, but this one surprised him. He found himself actually drawn in, listening closely. Stella's talent was undeniable-miles above Rachel's, honestly. No wonder Rachel's jealousy bordered on obsession; she simply couldn't stand being outshined.

In fact, Stella was even better than some of the professional violinists Joshua had invited to perform before. Rachel's accusations that Stella was just a beginner, copying others, were laughable. Even Joshua, who'd never studied music, could tell how skilled she was. Listening to her play was pure pleasure.

As the music faded and the piece ended, Joshua realized he wanted more. It was rare for him to care about anything other than Moonlight, but this... this was different.

Candida waited until the last note died away, then knocked and opened the door.

"Stella, there's a gentleman here about the job."

Stella and Abby both looked up—Joshua had arrived.

Abby grinned. "Joshua, do you play any of these instruments?"

Joshua shook his head. "I'm not sure. I don't remember."

།

"Well, why not try them out one by e. one?" Abby suggested. "Maybe you'll find something you're good at. We could really use another musician in our group."

Joshua's eyes wandered around the room, finally settling on the violin Stella still held.

"That violin is beautiful. May I try it?"

Before Stella could answer, Abby stepped in, protective. "I'm afraid that's not possible. That violin

belonged to Stella's mother. It's net

priceless, both in value and in

meaning. It's just come back from being restored, and Stella's performing with it at the concert. I hope you understand-it's just too precious to lend out."

Joshua didn't look offended. Instead, he nodded apologetically. "Of course. I'm sorry for asking. I didn't realize."

Abby found herself warming to him. He had a clear sense of boundaries, and was unfailingly polite-not the type to let good looks go to his head. He was calm and even-tempered, not the least bit difficult to be around. Someone like him, still piecing together his past, wouldn't be any trouble to keep around. noveldrama

Abby smiled at him. "If you'd like to try another violin, there are a few here. Help yourself."

But Joshua turned back to Stella. "Ms. Cameron, would you play 'Moonlight' for us? With that violin?"