The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

The next morning, Haynes was once again waiting outside Stella's apartment.

Last night, he'd already confirmed with Keen that Stella was taking her to the sports club today to practice shooting.

She wouldn't bring Marvin just the two of them.

Haynes, hoping for a chance to reconcile, wasn't about to let this golden opportunity slip by.

He'd stayed up late finishing his work, so he could arrive at her place extra early.

He hadn't told Keen about his plans.

Keen was too young to keep a secret; Haynes didn't want her to accidentally mention something and prompt Stella to change her mind.

Not long after, the apartment doors swung open and two figures—one tall, one small-stepped out.

It was Stella and Keen.

Relief softened Haynes's tense expression. He was just about to approach them when a third figure appeared in the doorway-a man, tall and composed, following close behind.

Haynes froze in place.

Stella and Keen didn't even notice him.

Keen glanced back and called, "Mr. Joshua, do you really know how to shoot?"

The man laughed. "Shooting and darts aren't so different. I've been practicing these past few days—shouldn't be a problem."

a while now, brightened. "Then I want to compete with you, Mr.

a great impression

the club, Mr. Joshua was the one who

had even given him his own

and, by extension, wasn't fond of

with Joshua, but he really

competition. But... I won't go easy on

"I don't want any grown-ups letting me

to Joshua. "Thank you for

Ms. Cameron's delicious breakfast,

bag in his

eat and run-wouldn't feel right not to

got to stay at Stella's place for a few days, so she

morning, Stella had woken up early to prepare a hearty breakfast for

for

Stella said nothing more.

spot Haynes standing off to the

stared in surprise. "Dad? What are

was clouded and harsh; his words,

I'm not welcome? You spend one night

want to

about to speak, but Joshua

no matter how upset you are, it's not right to take it