The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Chapter 28

Now, the boy looked up at her, his eyes wide pools of innocence, and declared with childish voice, "You bumped into me, so you have to take responsibility."

Stella examined the little boy with concern. "Do you want me to take you to the hospital?"

He hesitated for a moment, then nodded slightly.

"Should we call your parents first?" Stella asked gently.

This time, the boy shook his head vigorously with an unmistakable look of defiance.

Stella's brow furrowed. Was this child avoiding his parents because of something troubling at home? Perhaps he was being mistreated.

Either way, a hospital visit seemed wise. She would have to alert the authorities if there were any serious injuries.

With these thoughts in mind, Stella spoke softly, "Alright, let me have a quick word with my friend, and then we'll head to the hospital."

noting how cold it felt, much like her

Stella remembered the nights spent at

everything she could to help, like

was her maternal instincts, but despite the disappointments with Keen, her heart ached for this little

boy looked surprised when Stella took his hand. Her touch was gentle and

the boy didn't resist and gave him a reassuring smile. But then, he suddenly looked down as if

leading him

catching her breath with a drink, having finished singing. When Stella returned, she waved, "Hey, Star!

light at the entrance was dim, and Abby could only see the outline of a child with

in the hallway. He seems off, so I'm taking

at the boy. "Wow! What

approached, reaching out as if to pinch the boy's cheek.

paused, then chuckled, "He's quite the

don't think he likes