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."

Neville chuckled and interjected, "Miss Lerman, whatever are you saying? Joshua's always the first to lend a

Miss Lerman. Joshua's always helping others. That's

stiffened ever so

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

The more he

and pulled out a pair that would fit her perfectly.

and sat back down on

"Thank you."

when Joshua knelt in front of her and gently began to remove

Stella reflexively tried to pull her foot away. "I

but firmly, "Don't move. Your ankle's swollen. You don't want it

holding her foot-his grip gentle but unwavering, making it clear

to make a scene, so she forced

far away, Simone

unfold, unable to tear

moment, Joshua looked every

to his princess.

moment Joshua had saved

leave to get back to

mix of

up