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

of them walk away. He didn't move for a long time, his expression as

I haven't properly

cut short by

you was the least

"But...I can't remember what

answer was cool and even. "If I made a mistake, that's on me, not

when Joshua suddenly changed

entirely possible I've got the wrong person. Just matching a single earring isn't

faltered.

Joshua went

went on,

"The

person I'm

for my rescuer-she played the violin beautifully. She performed 'Moonlight' that night, and I'll never forget how

up. "If you have time one of these days,

She'd been practicing 'Moonlight'

The violin was second