The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 1278

No matter how much Simone resented Leonard's cruelty, she still depended on him.

If he had remained dead set against her and Joshua, she would have had few options. But with him and Aurora now at odds, the pressure from her family would lessen considerably.

A sliver of light pierced through the heavy gloom that had perpetually shrouded her heart.

"I'm glad you see it that way, brother," Simone said. "This all started because of Aurora. Now that you're no longer helping her and you've paid the price, I'm sure Joshua won't hold a grudge against you."

As he watched Simone's face light up with happiness, Leonard's mouth curved into a cold, humorless smile.

His conflict with Joshua was far from over; it was a battle to the death. Seeing Joshua now, so content, only strengthened his resolve to kill him. Why should Joshua have what he could never get? They were both creatures of the dark, crawling in the shadows. They belonged in hell together. Therefore, Joshua had to die.

"Isn't Rachel with you?" Leonard asked. "How is she?"

"Don't worry, brother," Simone said calmly. "I'll make sure she lives a long, long life. I won't let her die easily."

"Rachel has known Joshua for a long time. Haven't you managed to get any more information out of her?"

Simone's eyelashes fluttered. The subtle movement told Leonard she knew more than she was letting on.

His voice softened. "Simone, I've already investigated Joshua's background. There's no need to hide anything. If you have any other information, tell me. Maybe I can help you."

Leonard didn't argue. "True or not, as long as he's with Stella, our families' history will prevent you from getting any closer to him."

What Leonard said was true. With Stella in the picture, Joshua would always have to keep his distance, even if he wanted to get closer to Simone. And if his goal was to take over the Williams family, Simone couldn't risk jeopardizing his plans.

She looked at her brother. "Do you have an idea?"

"Joshua has an ex-wife, doesn't he?" Leonard said with a faint smile. "Find a way to bring her here. Let her fight with Stella. That way, Stella's attention will be focused on the ex-wife, and you can swoop in and reap the rewards."

Simone's eyes lit up. "That's a brilliant idea, but… getting her here won't be easy, will it?"