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,

had a great

club, Mr. Joshua was the one

had even

disliked Marvin and, by extension, wasn't fond of Mr.

spent much time with Joshua, but he really liked

have a competition. But... I

don't want any grown-ups

to Joshua. "Thank you

smile. "After enjoying Ms. Cameron's delicious breakfast, helping

hefted the bag in

feel right

to stay at Stella's place for a few days, so she insisted on cooking instead of

early to

stopped by to drop something off for Abby,

Stella said nothing more.

group headed out, only to spot Haynes standing

"Dad? What are you

clouded and

spend one night at your mom's

to acknowledge your

frowned, about to speak,

are, it's