The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Stella turned her head to see Joshua striding over, a bag in hand.

His steps faltered for just a moment when he noticed Neville sitting beside her.

"Mr. Connolly."

Neville gave a polite nod, his gaze shifting to Simone, who had followed behind. A gentle smile appeared on his lips.

"Star and I were just talking about you. She waited quite a while but didn't see you return-started worrying something might have happened and was about to look for you. I told her you were probably helping someone in need, so she didn't have to worry. That's when she finally relaxed."

Joshua's dark eyes narrowed slightly as he looked at Stella.

"Someone blocked my way and pulled a knife. That's what caused the delay."

Stella's expression tightened the moment she heard about the knife.

She hurried to ask, "Are you hurt?"

Joshua's eyes, deep and luminous, softened. Whatever darkness had shadowed his heart seemed to lift.

"I'm fine. You don't need to worry."

At that moment, Simone, who'd been silent, finally spoke up. "Ms. Cameron, Joshua was late because he stayed to help me. Please don't blame him."

Joshua's always the

agreement. "You really don't need to worry, Miss Lerman. Joshua's always helping others. That's

stiffened

just a few words, Neville and Stella had turned Joshua's rescue into an act of general goodwill-like he'd have done the same for

try to explain further. The more he said, the more forced

reached into the bag and pulled out a pair that would fit

and sat back down

"Thank you."

settled when Joshua knelt in front of her

tried to pull her foot away. "I

Your

he was already holding her foot-his grip gentle but unwavering, making it clear he wouldn't take no for

make a scene,

away,

unable to tear

In that moment, Joshua looked every bit

to his princess.

the moment Joshua had saved her, he'd been in

leave to get back to

mix of feelings

up