The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Stella's expression relaxed. "Alright."

She turned her head, her gaze landing on Joshua, who stood quietly nearby.

They'd arrived together, after all-it would feel rude not to invite him along. But then again, it was Neville's birthday, and showing up with Joshua in tow felt awkward. The two barely knew each other.

Stella hesitated, uncertain, when Neville's deep, magnetic voice cut through the moment.

"Joshua, I'm taking Star out for dinner. I'll see her home myself tonight."

He didn't bother to hide the hint of finality in his words.

Joshua's tone was neutral, betraying nothing. "In that case, happy birthday, Mr. Connolly."

Neville twirled the keychain in his hand with a careless air. "Thanks. I have to say, getting a gift from Star herself on my birthday really does make it a good one."

Joshua's eyes flicked to the keychain dangling between Neville's fingers, and his own hand tightened at his side.

"Then I won't intrude on your celebration any longer," he said.

Neville gave a lopsided smile. "Come on, Star. Let's go."

Joshua and

away. He didn't move for a long time, his expression as calm and unreadable as ever. Yet Simone, for reasons she couldn't quite

"Joshua, I haven't properly thanked you for

words were cut short by

me. Helping you

flickered with uncertainty. "But...I can't remember what happened back then. What if

was cool and even. "If I made a

to relax when Joshua suddenly changed tack, his

person. Just matching a single earring isn't exactly proof. I should have

faltered.

Joshua went

went on,

"The

person I'm

never forget how moving it was.

lit up. "If you have time one of

She'd been practicing 'Moonlight'

violin