NovelEnglishJoshua couldn't help glancing at her. "Aren't you passionate about the violin? Doesn't this matter to you?"
Stella's voice was calm and measured.
"There are many forms of passion. Competing isn't the only way to prove it.
This time, it really was my fault. Felipa got caught up in the mess because of me. If the organizers decide to
disqualify me, | don't have much to argue.
For me, competitions are just one way to grow, not the only one. | don't have to participate at all costs."
The competition was important, sure, but not so important that she'd sacrifice everything for it.
And compared to someone's life, it barely even registered.
Joshua was quiet for a while before he finally said, "You missed the competition to save me. I'll set the record
straight for you."
But Stella shook her head. "No matter what | say now, those people looking for trouble will always find
something to twist.
You're my assistant-anyone could claim we staged the whole thing. There's no point."
Joshua studied her. "So you're not planning to explain yourself?"
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“I will, just not right away. The best tis when people have already decided not to believe a word | say. That's
when I'll speak up."
The realization dawned on Joshua, and an odd little smile tugged at the corner of his mouth.
"Not a bad strategy."
Stella knew she was in the wrong for missing the competition. If Felipa was just looking to ride her coattails for
sfame, Stella wouldn't have cared. But if Felipa tried to ruin her reputation, that was a different story.
Play the fgame? Stella could play it, too.
Whatever attention Felipa managed to steal from her-Stella would make sure she gave it all back, one way or
another.
Lowering her gaze, Stella said, "Focus on getting better for now. If you need anything, just letknow."
Joshua replied, "You still haven't answered my question from before."
Stella remembered what he'd asked right before they wheeled her into the ER. "Weren't you scared, just now?"
She answered honestly. "Of course
was.
tin the moment, ed
to get you out, fast.
really thinking about it-ey
To be honest, if | had to make the choice all over again, I'm not sure I'd have the courage to do it again."
Joshua smiled faintly. "Either way, | owe you my thanks for saving my life."
Stella shook her head. "You don't have to thank me. If you hadn't stayed so calm-and shielded me
fat last blow-I'd be the d
one
lying here in this hospital bed.
Maybe | wouldn't even be able to compete in the next round, or hold any more concerts.
So, really, you don't oweanything."
Joshua understood. "Alright. Got it."
Stella asked, "Could you lendyour house key? | want to pick up a few things for you."
Joshua tossed her the key. "Thanks. | appreciate it."
Not long after Stella left, a young man with an unremarkable face entered the hospital room.
"Sir," he said respectfully, "the medical team has arrived. From now on, our people will be overseeing your
treatment."
Joshua asked, “Did you find out who caused the accident?"
"Karl," the man answered.
Joshua's tone was flat. "There's something | need you to take care of."
"Just say the word."
Joshua's eyes drifted to the news playing on the television. His voice was almost careless. "Since Karl's so
desperate to ruin himself, let's make it official. Out him to the world."
A smirk played on his lips. "Make sure it's streamed live. | want everyone to see
just how much he loves men."
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