The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 1260

"Just because of a few unflattering photos? Surely not," his nephew, Sherman Burton, said skeptically.

"The photos themselves aren't the final nail in the coffin," Sellers replied coolly. "But think about the pattern. First, The Lerman Group's stock plummets after that disastrous livestream. Then, Lerman Manor is destroyed, and his shipments are hijacked. Now, he's sinking deeper and deeper… Do you see any sign of a comeback?"

Sherman fell silent. Anyone with a bit of sense could see that Leonard was in serious trouble. He studied his uncle's expression and asked cautiously, "Uncle, how did Leonard get into such a mess? Who do you think is behind all this?"

Sellers's eyes were dark and knowing. "It's simple. Pinpoint the moment his troubles began, and you'll find the person responsible."

Sherman thought back, and his face suddenly paled. "Stella? That's impossible. How could she have the power to take down Leonard?"

"She doesn't," Sellers said coldly. "But the person behind her does."

Sherman thought of Joshua, feeling even more bewildered. "Uncle, are you saying Joshua is helping her? But why? Is it possible he's actually interested in her?" Sherman found the idea laughable. "No way. A divorced woman with a child? Please. Besides her looks, how could she possibly compare to Aurora?"

"His true motive in helping Stella take down Leonard is likely the Lerman family itself," Sellers theorized. "I've been thinking about it. The conflict between Stella and Leonard only escalated after Joshua appeared. He probably fanned the flames himself. It's far easier for him to control Stella than it would be to control Aurora."

Sellers and Sherman analyzed Joshua's motives, both convinced that he had a hidden agenda.

Sherman glanced at his uncle. "With Joshua in the picture, going after Stella won't be easy," he said quietly. "Maybe… we should just let it go?"

…

Back at Stella's office at The Williams Group, she had just received official notice. The probationary period for her and Aurora was being cut short; they were both being offered positions within the company. Stella knew this wasn't about acknowledging her abilities. It was a move by the Williams men to bring her under their control.

But she wasn't afraid. She hadn't returned to the Williams family for a warm reunion.

Shortly after the announcement, there was a knock on her door. It was Zane Vance, one of Nora's staunchest supporters on the board of directors.

Zane was one of the original executives who had stood by Nora's side and had been one of the most vocal opponents of Aurora joining the company.