The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Stella opened her inbox and, just as she expected, found Neville's meticulously annotated report waiting for her.

He'd thoroughly analyzed the three companies she'd singled out, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses in detail. Even the other firms she'd dismissed

received careful scrutiny; Neville had listed their pros and cons as well.

The language was clear and approachable, free of jargon-a thoughtful gesture, considering she was just starting out in this field.

It was obvious how much care he'd put into it.

Not much time had passed since she'd first reached out for his help. Neville must have dropped everything the moment he got her call, just to do this for her.

A gentle warmth bloomed in Stella's chest. "Mr. Connolly, thank you so much for this."

Neville's deep, smooth voice suddenly softened, almost teasing.

"Star, we've known each other for quite a while now-wouldn't you say we're pretty good friends? You call Foreman Richards by his first name, and you never hesitate to call Joshua just 'Joshua.' But me? You've always stuck with 'Mr. Connolly.' Are you really so formal with me, Star? Are we still strangers?"

Stella hesitated. "I guess I just got used to it. It's a habit."

paused, then said softly, "So... should I call

"Yes. From

smiled too. "Alright. Thank

to, so

over his paperwork at some point. Now, he sat perfectly still, watching Stella with that dark, fathomless gaze of his eyes so deep they reminded her of an ancient well, their intensity carrying a strange,

froze on her lips, and a sudden tension prickled

"Joshua? Is something wrong?"

hiding whatever emotion had

cooler than

Joshua had already returned

minutes later, Joshua finished reviewing

been absorbed in Neville's analysis, oblivious to everything else—including the fact

to you?" Joshua asked suddenly. Startled, Stella glanced up to find him looking down at her

regaining her composure,

cool. "His recommendation isn't wrong, but it's too conservative. No company, no

a year